Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can truly transform your computing experience. The extra screen real estate is incredibly beneficial, and once you adapt to it, reverting to a single screen can feel limiting. Choosing the perfect portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be daunting due to the plethora of options available. Whether you're after a versatile all-arounder like my top pick, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or seeking the best value for money with the Arzopa Z1FC, my years of testing monitors ensure you can 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 expansive size of typical gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched when you need to work or game on the go. Even the best laptops still have compact screens, and smartphones are not ideal for work or multitasking. An additional display can make a significant difference. After thorough 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

1Experience gaming on the go with this 17.3-inch portable monitor featuring a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p, 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 challenging to believe that a portable monitor can pack all the features needed for a quality gaming setup from anywhere, but the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE does just 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. The 17.3-inch 1080p display features an IPS panel for excellent viewing from any angle.

This monitor is custom-tuned for gaming, with a 240Hz refresh rate for improved motion clarity and lower input latency. Asus has focused on response time, offering 3ms responsiveness compared to 6ms or higher found on others like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync (Variable Refresh Rate) support, your gameplay will be buttery smooth and free of any tearing.

It's not just for gaming; it's for gaming on the go. The XG17AHPE includes two USB Type-C ports, one for video input and one for quick charging its 7,800mAh battery. It also features speakers, though a dedicated gaming headset will enhance your audio experience.

While designed with gaming in mind, it's also an excellent secondary screen for your laptop or PC. With 17.3 inches of screen real estate, it's spacious enough for videos, web browsing, or work. The built-in battery saves on extra cables, and using it at a productivity-friendly 60Hz extends battery life significantly, allowing for a full workday of use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an outstanding portable monitor packed with features for any 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 picture at a low cost. 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 to admit, when I first looked at the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I assumed it would be similar to the many other budget monitors around this price point. 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 uses 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 colors look just as expected, though the color temperature is a bit cool, so adjusting settings may be necessary.

It's particularly suited for use with devices like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, or even your PS5 or Xbox, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate, which more than doubles the refresh rate of many competing monitors and reduces input latency for more responsive gameplay.

Connectivity is robust, supporting USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI, and includes all necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for connecting accessories and comes with a folio cover for protection on the go.

At 300 nits of peak brightness, it's noticeably brighter than many other monitors in this price range, making it suitable for indoor gaming. The speakers, however, are not great, lacking volume and delivering a tinny sound. Using headphones is recommended. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is an excellent budget pick, proving that "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, performs better, and offers 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, user-friendly, and high-quality products.

One of the things I loved about this monitor during testing is how closely it mimics a full computer 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 simple as unfolding the stand, attaching the display, and plugging it in.

The screen is the real star here. It covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, and with 450 nits of brightness and 4K resolution, it delivers a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. It's ideal for creative work without the need for post-purchase calibration. The accelerometer allows for automatic switching between portrait and landscape modes, adding to its versatility.

The Espresso 17 Pro doesn't come cheap, but it feels the most premium of all the portable monitors I've tested. From unboxing to its fit and finish, it exudes a boutique quality built to last. It's all about simplicity without compromise.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks. It doesn't come with a case, which is a miss at this price point. Gamers might find it less ideal as it's locked to 60Hz and has a 9ms response time, which can lead to ghosting, though I didn't notice it during gameplay. The Espresso 17 Pro is truly a standout choice in the 4K market.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0Experience this 15.6-inch OLED display with 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 1080Aspect ratio16:9Brightness400-nitRefresh rate60HzConnectivity2 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 renowned for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED brings that technology into a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor. This portable monitor is designed for professional quality, with its Pantone-validated display ensuring your photo, video, and digital art edits meet industry standards. At $399, it's not the cheapest option, but its value is clear.

The 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers brightness up to 400 nits. The OLED panel delivers infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range. Its color coverage is excellent, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. While it runs at 60Hz, making it less fluid than dedicated gaming monitors, it's still suitable for gaming due to its high-quality screen.

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

At only 2.2lbs and 0.8 inches thick when folded, it's highly portable, easily fitting into a bag alongside a laptop without feeling cumbersome.

Overall, the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is a top-notch monitor at a competitive price, ideal for creative professionals looking to enhance their 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 looking to elevate your craft without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the obvious choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-tier and has solidified its place in the digital art community.

The Cintiq's appeal lies in its display and pen experience. It features a bright 4K resolution screen with support for up to 98% of Adobe RGB. The etched glass screen provides a tactile feel similar to drawing on paper. The pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser.

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

The main downside is its price, with newer competition offering more affordable options. However, its quality, reliability, and feature set make it a fantastic choice for artists.

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 offer numerous benefits. While the cheapest or simplest option might suffice, other factors may better meet your specific needs. Here are key factors to consider:

Size: Size matters. Our picks range from 13 inches to 17 inches. Choose based on your use case and desired portability. Larger displays often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can fit inside a backpack or messenger bag next to your laptop. The most common size is 15.6 inches, striking a balance between size and portability. For tighter spaces like airplanes, consider a 12.5- or 14-inch screen. Though portable monitors are lighter than most laptops, weight is still a factor to consider.

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

Brightness: Many budget-friendly portable monitors offer mediocre brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits is often sufficient, but for a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be wary of lesser-known brands that might overstate their brightness on Amazon.

Connectivity: This is crucial. Ensure the monitor works with your devices. All our picks offer USB-C connectivity, which is both speedy and provides power. However, verify that your laptop can output video through its USB-C port. Older laptops might require HDMI or micro HDMI, and some monitors may need a second USB cable for power, while others can use a single connection for both power and video.

Overall, these are the most important features to consider when choosing a portable monitor. Always read reviews to understand lesser-remarked qualities like picture customization options, which are often limited on budget displays. Also, check if the monitor comes with a protective sleeve or folio case; if not, factor this into your budget.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Almost anyone can benefit from a portable monitor. Travelers and remote workers who typically use just a laptop or tablet will appreciate the productivity boost from an additional compact screen that easily fits into a bag. These monitors are also useful for presentations, and those with limited desk space can opt for a portable monitor over a traditional desktop monitor. Even users of gaming phones or handheld gaming PCs might want a larger screen with a fast refresh rate for gaming on the go.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are typically smaller than full-size PC displays, designed for portability. The best size for you depends on your intended use and desired level of portability. For displaying a second window, a smaller screen may suffice. For digital art, more screen real estate is beneficial for examining and drafting fine details.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors vary widely in price, with many available for under $200. Budget models may lack brightness and advanced features like high refresh rates and extensive picture settings. Higher-performance portable monitors cost more, with a typical range of $100 to $300.