Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can be a liberating experience. The additional screen real estate is genuinely useful, and once you get accustomed to it, going back to a single screen feels limiting. Choosing the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be daunting due to the vast array of options available. Whether you're seeking a versatile all-arounder like the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE or a cost-effective solution like the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing monitors to help you find the perfect fit for 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 screen size of traditional gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched for working or gaming on the go. Even the best laptops have compact screens, and smartphones are not ideal for work or multitasking. An extra display can significantly enhance your productivity. After extensive research and testing, I can confidently recommend these as the top portable monitors for 2025.

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1. Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

Best Portable Gaming Monitor

### Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

1Enjoy 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 be improvedIt's hard to believe that a portable monitor can offer all the features needed for a high-quality gaming setup anywhere, but the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE does just that. Like some of the best 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 uses an IPS panel, allowing for easy viewing from any angle.

This monitor is tailored for gaming, with a 240Hz refresh rate that enhances motion clarity and reduces input latency. Asus has focused on response time, offering 3ms responsiveness, significantly better than the 6ms or more found on competitors like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync support, you can expect buttery smooth gameplay without any tearing.

It's not just about gaming; it's about gaming on the go. 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 for audio on the go, though a dedicated gaming headset would provide a better sound experience.

While it's primarily geared towards gaming, it also serves well as a secondary screen for your laptop or PC. With 17.3 inches of screen space, it's ideal for watching videos, browsing the web, or working. The built-in battery eliminates the need for extra cables, and using it at a 60Hz refresh rate for productivity and entertainment extends battery life significantly, allowing for a full day of use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an exceptional portable monitor, packed with features that cater to various needs.

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 speakersWhen I first encountered the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I expected it to be just another budget option. However, it stands out by offering significant value for its price. For around $100, it provides a lot, leaving me impressed.

The monitor features a standard 1080p resolution with a 16.1-inch IPS panel for rich color reproduction and a slightly 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, though the color temperature is a bit cool, so adjusting settings might be necessary.

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

Connectivity is robust, supporting USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI and including all necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for accessories and comes with a folio cover for protection during travel.

At 300 nits of peak brightness, it's brighter than many monitors at this price point, and user feedback suggests it's usable outdoors. The only minor downside is the speakers, which are not great in terms of volume and quality. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is an excellent budget choice that proves affordable doesn't mean bland.

3. Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0Offering an elegant, true monitor experience, this display looks great and performs even better, with 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, high-performance portable monitor for those who need a full 4K experience on the go. Originating from Australia, Espresso is known for its elegant, user-friendly, and high-quality products.

What 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 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 star here, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, with 450 nits of brightness and 4K resolution for a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. It's ideal for creative work without the need for post-purchase calibration. The display also features an accelerometer for automatic orientation switching between portrait and landscape modes.

The Espresso 17 Pro feels premium from unboxing to its fit and finish, offering a boutique feel and durability. While it's on the pricier side, it's worth it for the quality and simplicity it provides.

However, there are a few drawbacks. It doesn't come with a case, which is disappointing at this price point. For gamers, it's not ideal due to its 60Hz refresh rate and 9ms response time, which might cause ghosting. Despite these minor issues, the Espresso 17 Pro is a standout 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 offers 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 delivers these qualities in a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor. This portable monitor is designed for professional use, with its Pantone-validated display ensuring industry-standard color accuracy for photo and video editing and digital art creation. At $399, it offers excellent value for its features.

The 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers similar, if not better, brightness at 400 nits. The OLED panel provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range, with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. While it runs at 60Hz, it's still suitable for gaming due to its high-quality screen.

It's well-equipped beyond the display, featuring two USB-C ports on its folding stand for both power and video input, as well as passthrough charging. It also includes a micro HDMI port for broad compatibility with Windows and Mac devices.

Its portability is another advantage, weighing only 2.2lbs and folding down to 0.8 inches thick, making it easy to carry alongside a laptop.

Overall, the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an outstanding monitor at a competitive price, perfect for creative professionals 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, ideal 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 gamutCONSMore affordable options availableIf you're a digital artist looking to elevate your craft without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the clear choice. Although a few years old, its performance remains top-notch, cementing its place as a favorite among digital artists.

The Cintiq's appeal lies in its display and pen experience, featuring a bright 4K screen with up to 98% Adobe RGB color gamut support. Its etched 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.

The Cintiq Pro enhances workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and supports multi-touch and gesture control for easy navigation.

Its main drawback is the price, with newer competitors offering similar features at a lower cost. However, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16's quality, reliability, and feature set make it a top choice for artists.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

While portable monitors may not match the features of full-fledged desktop monitors, they offer significant benefits. Sometimes, the cheapest or simplest option suffices, but other factors may better suit your needs. Here are key considerations:

Size: Size matters. Our selections range from 13 to 17 inches, and choosing the right size involves balancing usage needs with portability. Larger displays often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can fit easily in a backpack. The common size is 15.6 inches, a good compromise between size and portability. For smaller spaces like airplanes, consider a 12.5- or 14-inch screen. Although portable monitors are lighter than laptops, weight is still a factor to consider.

Resolution: Pay attention to the screen's resolution. Most monitors on our list offer 1080p with an IPS panel. For gaming or digital art, higher resolutions may be necessary. While most portable monitors run at 60Hz, gaming can benefit from 120Hz or 144Hz panels.

Brightness: Budget monitors often have lower brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits is usually sufficient, but for a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of exaggerated brightness claims from lesser-known brands on platforms like Amazon.

Connectivity: Ensure the monitor is compatible with your devices. All our picks offer USB-C connectivity, but verify that your laptop can output video through this port. Older laptops may require HDMI or micro HDMI, which might necessitate additional cables for power.

When considering a portable monitor, read reviews to understand lesser-known qualities like picture customization options, which can be limited on budget models. Also, note whether the monitor includes a protective sleeve or case; if not, factor this 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 an extra screen that easily fits in a bag. They're also useful for presentations and for those with limited desk space who want more screen real estate. Gaming phone or handheld gaming PC users can enjoy a larger, high-refresh-rate screen for better gameplay.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are typically smaller than full-size displays for portability. The ideal size depends on your intended use and desired portability. A smaller screen may suffice for displaying a second window, while larger screens are better for detailed work like digital art.

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, while higher-performance options typically cost between $100 and $300.