Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Unveiled

Adding a second screen to your setup can be a liberating experience. The additional screen real estate is genuinely beneficial, and once you get accustomed to it, it's hard to go back to a single screen. Choosing the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be challenging due to the vast array of options available. Whether you're seeking the best all-arounder like my top pick, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or the best bang for your buck, such as the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing monitors to help you spend less time shopping and more time enjoying the second-screen life.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Portable Monitors:

### Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

1See it at Amazon### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0See it at AmazonSee it at Arzopa### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0See it at AmazonSee it at Espresso Displays### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0See it at Amazon### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0See it at AmazonPortable monitors may not offer the large screen size of typical gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched for those looking to work or game on the go. Even the best laptops have compact screens, and smartphones are not ideal for work or multitasking. Adding an extra display can make a significant difference. After extensive research and testing, I can confidently recommend these as the best portable monitors for 2025.

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1. Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

Best Portable Gaming Monitor

### Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

1Game on the go with this 17.3-inch portable monitor featuring a 240Hz refresh rate in 1080p with Nvidia G-Sync compatibility and low input lag. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size17.3-inchResolution1920 x 1080Aspect ratio16:9Brightness300-nitRefresh rate240HzConnectivity2 x USB Type-C (1 x video, 1 x PD fast charging), 1 x Micro HDMI, 1 x Headphone JackWeight2.34lbPROS1080p/240Hz refresh rateQuick charging batteryCONSBuilt-in speakers could sound betterIt's hard to believe that any portable monitor can come packed with all the features needed for a quality gaming setup from anywhere, but the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE might just be that. Like some of our favorite gaming monitors, this portable option boasts a 240Hz refresh rate with Nvidia G-Sync compatibility and low input lag, ensuring smooth, tear-free gameplay. You also get a bright 17.3-inch 1080p display featuring an IPS panel for easy viewing from any angle.

This display is custom-tuned for gaming. Its 240Hz refresh rate enhances motion clarity and reduces input latency. Asus has also focused on response time, offering 3ms compared to 6ms or higher found on others like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync (Variable Refresh Rate) support, you can enjoy buttery smooth gameplay without any tearing.

It's not just about gaming; it's about gaming on the go. The XG17AHPE offers portability with two USB Type-C ports—one for video input and one for quick charging its 7,800mAh battery. It also features speakers, though they could be better, making it suitable for gaming or watching YouTube videos on the go. A dedicated gaming headset, however, will provide an improved audio experience.

While clearly focused on gaming, and yes, you're paying a premium for it, the XG17AHPE also serves as an excellent second screen for your laptop or PC. With 17.3 inches of screen real estate, it's spacious enough for watching videos, browsing the web, or working. The built-in battery is handy, eliminating the need for extra cables. Running the display at a productivity and entertainment-centered 60Hz instead of its native rapid refresh rate extends battery life significantly, allowing for a full workday of intermittent use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an outstanding portable monitor packed with useful features, no matter your use case.

2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz

Best Budget Portable Monitor

### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0This affordable gaming monitor offers a high refresh rate and bright picture at a low price. See it at AmazonSee it at ArzopaProduct SpecificationsScreen size16.1-inchResolution1920 x 1080Aspect ratio16:9Brightness300-nitRefresh rate144HzConnectivity1 x USB-C, 1 x USB Type-A, 1 x Mini HDMI, 1 x Headphone JackWeight1.7lbPROSGood brightness for indoor gamingHigh refresh rate with FreeSync VRRGood connectivity optionsCONSWeak speakersI have a confession to make: when I first looked at the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I assumed it would be like the many other budget monitors out there. It's anything but. For around $100, it offers a lot for a little and has definitely impressed me.

This monitor features a standard 1080p resolution on a 16.1-inch screen. It comes with an IPS panel for rich color reproduction and slightly better than average contrast with a 1200:1 ratio. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, ensuring everything looks as expected, whether used with a laptop or a console, though the color temperature is a bit cool, so I recommend visiting the settings menu.

More than most monitors on this list, you might want to use it with a console more powerful than the Nintendo Switch, like the Steam Deck or Asus ROG Ally, or even your PS5 or Xbox. That's because it can run up to 144Hz, more than doubling the refresh rate of many competing monitors and lowering input latency for more responsive gameplay.

You won't need to worry about connectivity either. This monitor supports USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI and includes all the necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for connecting a controller or other accessory. When it's time to pack up or take it on the go, it comes with a folio cover to protect the screen.

At 300 nits of peak brightness, it's noticeably brighter than many other monitors in its price range. While I wouldn't recommend it for most portable monitors, at least one fan reports easily using it outdoors, and many others have shared how impressive they find it. That's a testament to the "extra" Arzopa has included in this display.

At this price, there's almost always a caveat. Here, it's minor: the speakers aren't great. They don't get loud enough and have a tinny quality. I would definitely use this monitor with headphones if audio is needed. But overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is a great budget pick that shows "affordable" doesn't have to mean "bland."

3. Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0Elegantly offering a true monitor experience, this display looks great and performs better while also offering an incredibly simple setup. See it at AmazonSee it at Espresso DisplaysProduct SpecificationsScreen size17.3-inchResolution3840 x 2160Aspect ratio16:9Brightness450-nitRefresh rate60HzConnectivity2 x USB Type-CWeight2.4 poundsPROSCrisp 4K resolutionBright and vibrantExcellent included standSimple setup, elegant designCONSNo included caseThe Espresso 17 Pro is a premium high-performance portable monitor for anyone needing a full 4K experience on the go. Hailing from Australia, Espresso has built its reputation on developing elegant, Apple-esque products that are simple to use, easy to carry, and consistently high quality.

One thing I loved about this monitor when testing it is how close it gets to offering a full computer monitor experience. This is largely because it comes with a magnetic folding stand that offers both height and tilt adjustments. It can connect to your laptop or computer with a single high-bandwidth USB-C cable, making setup as simple as unfolding the stand, attaching the display, and plugging it in.

The real selling point is its screen. It's incredible. It covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, and with 450 nits of brightness and 4K resolution, it offers a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. You could easily use this display for creative work without worrying about calibration. It also features an accelerometer and can automatically switch between portrait and landscape modes by simply rotating it.

The Espresso 17 Pro doesn't come cheap, but across all the portable monitors I've tested, it feels the most premium. From the unboxing experience to the fit and finish of its design, there's a sense that you're getting something boutique and built to last. It's all about simplicity without sacrificing quality.

With that praise in mind, there are a couple of critiques. It doesn't come with a case, which it should at this price. If you're a gamer, it's not the best fit. While it will work for gaming, it's locked to 60Hz, so it can't take full advantage of your Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5. It also features a 9ms response time, so ghosting is possible, though I didn't perceive any in actual gameplay. The Espresso 17 Pro is truly a standout pick in the 4K market.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0Grab this 15.6-inch OLED display offering an impressive 100,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 400 nits of brightness for deep blacks and easy viewing. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size15.6-inchResolution1920 x 1080 Aspect ratio16:9Brightness400-nitRefresh rate60HzConnectivity 2 x USB Type-C, 1 x Micro HDMI, 1 x Headphone JackWeight2.2lbPROSImpressive contrastExcellent color performanceGreat connectivity and passthrough chargingPantone validatedCONSLimited to 60HzThe best OLED monitors are known for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED packs that technology into a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor. This portable monitor is all about professional quality. Its display is Pantone-validated, so you can edit photos, videos, and create digital art knowing that your work will meet industry standards. At $399, this monitor isn't the cheapest, but considering everything it offers, it's a great value.

Sticking with the screen, its 15.6-inch span matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers similar, if not better, brightness at 400 nits of peak output. Because it uses an OLED panel, it provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range. Its color coverage is fantastic, including 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. It only runs at 60Hz, so it doesn't feel as fluid as a dedicated gaming monitor, but it can still work well for gaming due to its high-quality screen.

It's well-equipped beyond the display too. It comes with two USB-C ports on its versatile folding stand. It can receive both power and video through one of these ports, allowing for a single-cable connection, but it also supports passthrough charging, so you can power your laptop simultaneously. It also features a micro HDMI port for easy compatibility with a wide range of Windows computers and supports Mac.

If all of that weren't enough, it's also very portable, weighing only 2.2lbs and folding down to 0.8 inches in thickness. You can easily slide this into a bag alongside a laptop without feeling weighed down or cramped for space.

All in all, the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is a killer monitor at a very good price. It should be at the top of your list if you are a creative professional looking to enhance your productivity on the go.

5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Best Portable Monitor for Artists

### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0A sharp 16-inch display with pen support that's perfect for creatives. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size16-inchResolution3840 x 2160Aspect ratio16:9Brightness300-nitRefresh rate60HzConnectivity1 x USB-C, 1 x USB Type-A, 1 x HDMI, EMR StylusWeight3.3lbPROS4K resolutionEtched glass screenWide color gamutCONSCompeting options are more affordableIf you're a digital artist ready to elevate your craft without spending thousands on a monitor, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the obvious choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-of-the-line, and its time in the field has only solidified its status as a mainstay in the digital art community.

The appeal of the Cintiq lies in its display and pen experience. It uses a bright 4K resolution screen with wide color gamut support (up to 98% of Adobe RGB). Its etched screen provides a tactile feel similar to drawing with pencil and paper. The pen itself features 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is fully customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser on the opposite end.

The Cintiq Pro can also enhance your workflow with its eight programmable Express Keys that can be mapped to different commands in Wacom's software. The display supports multi-touch and gesture control for easy navigation and control of your PC.

The only downside is its price. Since its release in 2021, competition has increased. However, it's still hard to find anything that matches its quality, reliability, and feature set, making it a fantastic pick for any artist.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

Though they might not have all the features of a full-fledged desktop monitor, portable monitors still offer plenty of benefits. Sometimes, the cheapest or simplest option might work, but other factors might better meet your specific needs. Here are key factors to consider:

Size: Size matters. Our picks range from 13 inches up to 17 inches, but choosing the right size is a balance. Consider what you will use the monitor for and how much space you need, then compare that to how portable the display needs to be. Larger displays often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can slide into a backpack or messenger bag alongside your laptop. The most common size is 15.6 inches, which strikes a balance between size and portability that should work for most. However, if you plan to use the screen in smaller spaces like on a plane, a 12.5- or 14-inch screen might be a better fit. Though portable monitors are lighter than most laptops, you may still want to consider weight.

Resolution: It’s important to pay attention to the screen itself. Most of the monitors on our list offer the standard 1080p resolution with an IPS panel. If you plan to use the display alongside a gaming laptop or for digital art, a higher resolution might be necessary. Most portable monitors come with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, but for gaming, a better experience can often be had with a 120Hz or 144Hz panel.

Brightness: Many portable monitors on the more affordable end of the pricing spectrum offer middling brightness at best. For standard indoor use, 250 nits will often suffice. But for a more vibrant and engaging viewing experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of lesser-known brands that may overstate their brightness on platforms like Amazon.

Connectivity: This may be the most important feature. Ensure that the monitor you purchase will work with the devices you intend to use it with. All our picks offer the relatively universal USB-C connection, which is both speedy and provides power. However, you must also ensure that your laptop can output video through its USB Type-C port. Older laptops may have the connection but not be compatible, requiring other methods like HDMI or micro HDMI. Depending on the monitor, you may need a second USB cable to power the display, while others can receive both power and video through a single connection.

Overall, those are some of the most important features on a portable monitor to note. However, I always encourage people to read reviews of any portable monitor they're considering. It can be difficult to get a read on lesser-remarked qualities like picture customization options, which are typically limited on low-cost displays. Also, note whether the monitor comes with a sleeve or folio case to protect it in transit. If it doesn't, this is a wise additional purchase to factor into your budget.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Almost anyone can benefit from a portable monitor. Travelers and remote workers who are used to just a laptop or tablet will appreciate the productivity boost from the compact extra screen that easily slides into a bag. These monitors are also handy for giving presentations, while those with limited desk space who want more screen real estate can opt for a portable option over a typical desktop monitor. Even gaming phone or handheld gaming PC users might want a bigger screen with a speedy refresh rate to take on the go, making it easier to spot enemies.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

As a rule, portable monitors tend to be smaller than full-size displays for your PC. They're designed to fit in a bag or be easily carried. The size that works best for you will depend on your intended use and desired portability. If you're just looking to display a second window, a smaller screen will likely suffice. If you need a monitor for digital art, more screen real estate will be helpful for examining or drafting fine details.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors vary widely in price, though many can be found for under $200. Keep in mind that lower-cost portable monitors may lack brightness and additional features like high refresh rates and advanced picture settings. Higher performance portable monitors cost more, but generally, you should expect to pay between $100-300.