Whether you’re a busy professional on the move, a passionate gamer, or a creative graphic designer, having a second monitor can change your life. Imagine being able to work on a presentation while watching a tutorial video at the same time or gaming with an expanded field of view! Portable monitors are here to help make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Portable Monitors for 2025
Quick Summary: Whether you’re a traveling exec, a gamer, or a graphic designer, a portable second monitor can add an extra dimension to your work or play.
| Monitor | Size | Resolution | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ViewSonic VG1655 | 15.6 inches | 1920 x 1080 | Built-in stand, double USB-C ports | $199 |
| Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE | 15.6 inches | 1920 x 1080 | High refresh rate, built-in battery | $349 |
| ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED | 15.6 inches | 3840 x 2160 | High brightness, USB-C with power delivery | $499 |
| NexiGo NG17FGQ | 17.3 inches | 1920 x 1080 | 300Hz refresh rate, FreeSync support | $399 |
| Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT) | 15.6 inches | 1920 x 1080 | Touchscreen, built-in battery | $349.99 |
| Lenovo ThinkVision M14d | 14 inches | 2560 x 1600 | High color fidelity, lightweight | $249 |
| Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW | 15.6 inches | 1920 x 1080 | OLED display, touch sensitivity | $599 |
| Acer SpatialLabs View ASV15-1B | 15.6 inches | 3840 x 2160 | Glasses-free 3D, built-in battery | $1,099 |
| espresso Display (15 inch) | 15 inches | 1920 x 1080 | Thin design, excellent sRGB coverage | $299 |
Let’s dive into the exciting world of portable monitors and discover the top picks for 2025!
Why Consider a Portable Monitor?
Versatility for All Uses
Portable monitors are not just for one type of user. Imagine:
- Traveling Executives: You can set up your portable monitor anywhere—like in a hotel room or coffee shop—turning any space into a mini-office.
- Gamers: Want to take your gaming on the go? A portable monitor lets you set up a gaming station wherever you are.
- Creative Professionals: With a second screen, you can easily manage your design work, making it easier to edit images and videos.
Enhancing Your Productivity
Having a second screen increases your productivity. Studies show that dual-monitor setups can boost efficiency by up to 30%. You can refer to documents, chat with coworkers, and keep your main work area organized.
Compact and Lightweight
Today’s portable monitors are designed to be lightweight and slim, making them easy to carry around. Most can fit in your backpack without adding much weight.
Top Picks for Portable Monitors in 2025
Let’s explore some of the best portable monitors available this year, tailored to different needs and preferences.
1. ViewSonic VG1655: Best Portable Monitor for General Use
Key Features:
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 1080p (Full HD)
- Ports: Two USB-C ports and mini HDMI
- Stand: Built-in, fold-out stand
The ViewSonic VG1655 is an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly monitor. It features a solid brightness level and contrast ratio, ideal for everyday tasks like browsing the web or creating documents. It’s lightweight, making it a great travel companion.
2. Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE: Best Portable Monitor for Gaming and Media Watching
Key Features:
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Refresh Rate: High refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- Nvidia G-Sync Compatible
- Built-in Battery: Yes
For gamers, the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE is an exceptional portable monitor. With a high refresh rate and low input lag, you can enjoy fast-paced games without interruptions. It also has built-in speakers, making it a well-rounded entertainment device.
3. ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED: Best for Creative Professionals
Key Features:
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- OLED Screen: For stunning color and contrast
- Connectivity: Two USB-C ports
This monitor shines with its OLED technology, providing breathtaking visuals that are perfect for graphic design and video editing. It’s pricier than other models, but it’s worth it for professionals who need top-notch quality.
4. NexiGo NG17FGQ: Best High-Refresh-Rate Portable Monitor for Esports
Key Features:
- Size: 17.3 inches
- Refresh Rate: 300Hz
- AMD FreeSync Support
- Resolution: Full HD
For serious esports gamers, the NexiGo NG17FGQ is a must-have. Its ultra-high refresh rate ensures that fast movements are smooth and clear, which is essential for competitive gaming.
5. Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT): Best Portable Monitor with Touch Input
Key Features:
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Built-in Battery: Yes
- Price: Around $349.99
The Asus ZenScreen Touch stands out with its touch functionality, allowing for more interactive use. This is great for presentations or creative work where you want to use a stylus or your fingers.
6. Lenovo ThinkVision M14d: Best Portable Monitor for Taller-Screen Laptops
Key Features:
- Size: 14 inches
- Resolution: 2.2K
- Weight: Very light
If you have a taller laptop screen (16:10 aspect ratio), the Lenovo ThinkVision M14d is a fantastic match. It’s portable, bright, and delivers high color accuracy, making it perfect for photo editing or presentations.
7. Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW: Premium Features
Key Features:
- OLED Screen: Yes
- Touch Sensitivity: Yes
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Yes
For those who want the best tech has to offer, the Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW is a luxury choice. It features high-end specs, including an OLED screen and wireless capabilities, making it an outstanding option for tech enthusiasts.
8. Acer SpatialLabs View ASV15-1B: Best for Glasses-Free 3D
Key Features:
- Size: 15.6 inches
- 3D Capability: Yes, no glasses needed
- Resolution: 4K
The Acer SpatialLabs View is ideal for those interested in 3D content. Whether you’re gaming or watching movies, this monitor allows an immersive experience without the hassle of wearing glasses.
9. espresso Display (15 inch): Best for Presenters
Key Features:
- Size: 15 inches
- Design: Thin, stylish frame
- Touchscreen: Yes
For presenters, the espresso Display is not only functional but also stylish, making it a great showpiece. While it doesn’t come with a stand, its exceptional image quality will leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Features to Look for in a Portable Monitor
When shopping for the best portable monitor, consider the following features to ensure you make the right choice:
1. Screen Size and Resolution
Most portable monitors range from 12 to 17 inches. A 1080p resolution is standard, but if you need sharper images, consider a 4K monitor.
2. Weight and Portability
Look for a monitor that’s lightweight and easy to carry. Ideally, it should fit comfortably in your backpack.
3. Connectivity Options
Ensure the monitor has enough ports for your devices—USB-C is becoming the standard, but HDMI is still common.
4. Brightness and Color Accuracy
For outdoor use or bright environments, a monitor with higher brightness (measured in nits) will perform better. Check reviews for color accuracy, especially if you’re working with graphics.
5. Battery Life
If you’re on the go, having a monitor with long battery life can be a game-changer.
6. Stand and Adjustability
A good adjustable stand is essential for finding the right angle whether you’re sitting at a desk or standing in a meeting.
A Closer Look at Some Top Picks
ViewSonic VG1655: Why We Picked It
The ViewSonic VG1655 is an affordable portable monitor that doesn’t skimp on features. With its built-in stand and good brightness, it’s perfect for business tasks. It’s also an excellent option for students who need to take notes while watching lectures.
Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE: A Gamer’s Paradise
Gamers will appreciate the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE for its low input lag and high-refresh rate. It’s like having a mini gaming setup wherever you go!
ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED: The Creative’s Choice
Creative professionals can’t go wrong with the ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED. The OLED screen offers vibrant colors and deep contrasts, making it ideal for editing photos and videos. If you’re a graphic designer, this monitor will elevate your work.
NexiGo NG17FGQ: A Competitive Edge
Hardcore gamers will love the NexiGo NG17FGQ. With its 300Hz refresh rate, it delivers the smoothest gaming experience possible, letting you stay competitive in fast-paced games.
Asus ZenScreen Touch: Touch and Go
The Asus ZenScreen Touch is perfect for those who love to interact with their screens—whether for presentations or creative tasks, it’s a joy to use.
Lenovo ThinkVision M14d: Travel-Friendly
For frequent travelers, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14d is an excellent choice. Its lightweight design and solid performance make it a great companion.
Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW: Luxury Tech
If budget isn’t a concern, the Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW offers premium features, making it a standout choice for tech-savvy users.
Acer SpatialLabs View ASV15-1B: 3D Fun
The Acer SpatialLabs View adds a fun twist to your viewing experience with its glasses-free 3D capability, making it a great choice for gamers and movie lovers alike.
espresso Display: The Stylish Option
For those who want a sleek design without sacrificing quality, the espresso Display is an attractive option that delivers impressive visuals.
Conclusion: Ready to Find Your Perfect Portable Monitor?
With so many amazing options available, finding the right portable monitor for your needs can be a fun adventure! Whether you choose the cost-effective ViewSonic VG1655 or the high-end Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW, you’re sure to enhance your work and play experience.
Portable monitors are more than just a convenience—they’re a valuable tool that can help you stay productive, organized, and entertained, no matter where you are. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your perfect portable monitor and take your digital experience to the next level!
Shopping Tips:
- Research: Read reviews and comparisons.
- Budget: Set a budget and stick to it.
- Warranty: Check for a warranty to protect your purchase.
Now that you know what to look for, dive into the world of portable monitors and find the one that suits your lifestyle best! Happy shopping!
