Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can transform your digital experience, offering extra real estate that once you get used to, you'll never want to go without. Choosing the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can feel daunting due to the vast array of options available. Whether you're seeking the top all-around performer like my top pick, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or the best value option, such as the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing monitors to help you spend less time shopping and more time enjoying the benefits of a second screen.

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 match the size of traditional gaming monitors, but their convenience is unparalleled for working or gaming on the go. Even the best laptops have limited screen space, and smartphones aren't ideal for multitasking. Adding an extra display can significantly enhance your productivity. After thorough research and testing, I can confidently recommend these as the best portable monitors available in 2025.

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1. Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

Best Portable Gaming Monitor

### Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

1Elevate your gaming on the go with this 17.3-inch portable monitor, boasting a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and minimal 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 a portable monitor can pack all the features needed for a top-notch gaming setup anywhere, but the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE does just that. Like some of the best gaming monitors, it features a 240Hz refresh rate with Nvidia G-Sync compatibility and low input lag, ensuring smooth, tear-free gameplay. Its 17.3-inch 1080p IPS panel is bright and viewable from any angle.

Designed specifically for gaming, its 240Hz refresh rate delivers superior motion clarity and reduced input latency. Asus has fine-tuned the response time to a swift 3ms, compared to 6ms or more on competitors like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync support, you'll enjoy seamless gameplay without any tearing.

But it's not just about gaming; it's about gaming anywhere. The XG17AHPE is designed for portability, featuring two USB Type-C ports—one for video input and one for quick charging its 7,800mAh battery. It also includes speakers, though for a superior audio experience, consider using a gaming headset.

While it's primarily geared towards gaming, it also excels as a secondary screen for your laptop or PC. With 17.3 inches of screen space, it's ideal for videos, web browsing, or work. The built-in battery means fewer cables, and using it at 60Hz for productivity or entertainment extends battery life, allowing for a full day of intermittent use.

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

2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz

Best Budget Portable Monitor

### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0This budget-friendly gaming monitor offers a high refresh rate and bright display 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 must admit, when I first looked at the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I expected it to be just another budget option. However, it exceeded my expectations. Priced around $100, it offers impressive features for the cost.

This monitor features a 1080p resolution on a 16.1-inch screen with an IPS panel, providing vibrant colors and a better-than-average contrast ratio of 1200:1. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, ensuring accurate colors whether used with a laptop or console. However, the color temperature is slightly cool, so I recommend tweaking the settings.

Its 144Hz refresh rate makes it particularly appealing for use with more powerful consoles like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, PS5, or Xbox, offering responsive gameplay and lower input latency.

Connectivity is not an issue, with support for USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI, and it includes all necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for connecting a controller or other accessories. The included folio cover makes it easy to take on the go.

With a peak brightness of 300 nits, it's brighter than many competitors in its price range, and users have reported using it successfully outdoors. The only minor drawback is the quality of the built-in speakers, which are not loud enough and have a tinny sound. I recommend using headphones for audio. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is an excellent budget choice, proving that affordable doesn't mean bland.

3. Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0This monitor offers a true 4K experience on the go, with stunning visuals and a 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 portable monitor designed for those who need a full 4K experience on the go. Originating from Australia, Espresso is known for its elegant, high-quality products that are easy to use and carry.

What I loved about this monitor during testing is how closely it mimics a full desktop monitor experience, thanks to its magnetic folding stand that offers both height and tilt adjustments. It connects to your laptop or computer with a single high-bandwidth USB-C cable, making setup as easy as unfolding the stand, attaching the display, and plugging it in.

The screen is the real star here, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space with 450 nits of brightness and a 4K resolution, ensuring a crisp, vibrant, and accurate viewing experience. It's perfect for creative work without needing post-purchase calibration. Additionally, it features an accelerometer that automatically switches between portrait and landscape modes based on its orientation.

While the Espresso 17 Pro commands a premium price, it feels like a boutique product built to last. However, it lacks an included case, which feels like a miss at this price point. It's also not the best choice for gamers due to its 60Hz refresh rate and 9ms response time, which might lead to ghosting. Nonetheless, it's a standout option in the 4K portable monitor market.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0This 15.6-inch OLED display boasts a 100,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 400 nits of brightness, offering deep blacks and vivid 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 60HzOLED monitors are renowned for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED brings these qualities to a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD portable monitor. This monitor is designed for professionals, with a Pantone-validated display that ensures your photo and video edits or digital art are industry-standard.

The 15.6-inch screen offers ample space and matches the brightness of many larger monitors at 400 nits. With its OLED panel, it provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range, along with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. While it runs at 60Hz, it's still suitable for gaming due to its high-quality screen.

Beyond its display, it's well-equipped with two USB-C ports on its versatile folding stand, supporting both power and video through a single cable, as well as passthrough charging. It also includes a micro HDMI port for compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Windows and Mac computers.

At just 2.2lbs and 0.8 inches thick when folded, it's highly portable, fitting easily into a bag alongside your laptop. The ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an excellent choice for creative professionals looking to boost productivity on the go.

5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Best Portable Monitor for Artists

### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0This 16-inch display with pen support is ideal for creatives looking to enhance their digital art. 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 affordableFor digital artists seeking to elevate their work without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is a clear choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-tier, and it's a staple in the digital art community.

The Cintiq's appeal lies in its 4K display and pen experience. It features a bright screen with wide color gamut support (up to 98% Adobe RGB) and an etched glass surface that mimics the feel of drawing on paper. The pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser.

It also enhances workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and supports multi-touch and gesture control for easy navigation. The main drawback is its price, as competition has increased since its 2021 release. However, its quality, reliability, and feature set make it a top pick for artists.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

While portable monitors may not have all the features of desktop monitors, they offer significant advantages. The cheapest or simplest option might suffice for some, but other factors can better meet your specific needs. Here are key considerations:

Size: Size is crucial. Our picks range from 13 to 17 inches. Consider your intended use and the portability you need. Larger displays often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can fit inside a backpack. The most common size, 15.6 inches, strikes a balance between size and portability. For tight spaces like airplanes, consider 12.5- or 14-inch screens. Weight is also a factor, though portable monitors are generally lighter than laptops.

Resolution: Pay attention to the screen's resolution. Most of our recommendations feature 1080p with an IPS panel. For gaming or digital art, a higher resolution might be necessary. Many portable monitors offer a standard 60Hz refresh rate, but for gaming, a 120Hz or 144Hz panel can enhance the experience.

Brightness: Budget-friendly monitors often have lower brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits may suffice, but for a vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be wary of lesser-known brands that might overstate brightness on platforms like Amazon.

Connectivity: Ensure the monitor works with your devices. All our picks include USB-C connectivity, which is fast and provides power. Verify that your laptop supports video output through USB-C, as older models might not. Some monitors may require an additional USB cable for power if using HDMI or micro HDMI.

Overall, these are essential features to consider. I recommend reading reviews to understand less obvious aspects like picture customization options, which are often limited on budget displays. Also, check if the monitor comes with a protective case; if not, factor one into your budget.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Portable monitors benefit a wide range of users. Travelers and remote workers can boost productivity with the extra screen space that easily fits into a bag. They're ideal for presentations, offering additional screen real estate in limited desk spaces, and for gaming phone or handheld gaming PC users who want a larger, high-refresh-rate screen on the go.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are typically smaller than desktop displays for portability. The right size depends on your use and desired portability. For basic multitasking, a smaller screen may be enough, while digital artists might prefer larger screens for detailed work.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors vary in price, with many available under $200. Budget options may lack brightness and advanced features. High-performance models cost more, typically ranging from $100 to $300.