Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Unveiled

Adding a second screen to your setup can truly elevate your digital experience. The added screen real estate is incredibly beneficial, and once you get accustomed to it, reverting 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 my top pick, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or the best value for money option like the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing monitors to help you make an informed choice and enjoy the benefits of a second screen more quickly.

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 typical gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched for on-the-go work or gaming. Even the best laptops still have compact screens, and smartphones are less than ideal for work or multitasking. Adding an extra display can significantly enhance your productivity and enjoyment. 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

1Experience gaming 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 a portable monitor can pack all the features needed for a quality gaming setup 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 easy viewing from any angle.

This monitor is tailored for gaming, offering a 240Hz refresh rate for improved motion clarity and lower input latency. Asus has also focused on response time, providing 3ms responsiveness compared to 6ms or higher found on other models like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync (Variable Refresh Rate), you're guaranteed buttery smooth gameplay without any tearing.

It's not just about gaming; it's about gaming on the go. The XG17AHPE offers excellent portability features, including two USB Type-C ports—one for video input and one for quick charging its substantial 7,800mAh battery. It also features speakers for on-the-go audio, though they're clearer than most portable monitors I've tested, a dedicated gaming headset will enhance your audio experience.

While the focus is on gaming, and you're paying a premium for that, it's also an excellent second screen for your laptop or PC. With 17.3 inches of screen space, it's spacious enough for watching videos, browsing the web, or even working. The built-in battery is handy, eliminating the need for extra cables. Running the display at a productivity and entertainment-focused 60Hz rather than its native high 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 features for various use cases.

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 an affordable 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: When I first saw the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I assumed it would be like many others in its price range. I was wrong. For around $100, it offers impressive features and has left me genuinely impressed.

This monitor has 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 accurate colors, though the color temperature can be a bit cool, so I recommend checking the settings menu.

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

Connectivity is not an issue either. This monitor supports USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI and comes with all 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 travel, it comes with a folio cover to protect the screen.

With 300 nits of peak brightness, it's noticeably brighter than many monitors in its price range. While I wouldn't recommend it for outdoor use, several users have reported using it successfully outdoors and find its brightness impressive.

At this price, there's usually a caveat. Here, it's the speakers, which aren't great. They lack volume and have a tinny quality common in gaming laptops. I'd recommend using this monitor with headphones if you need audio. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is an excellent budget choice that proves "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 even 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 is known for developing elegant, high-quality products that are simple to use and easy to carry.

One of the highlights of this monitor is how close it comes to offering a full desktop monitor experience, largely due to its magnetic folding stand, which 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 standout feature is its screen. 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 needing post-purchase calibration. It also features an accelerometer, automatically switching between portrait and landscape modes.

The Espresso 17 Pro doesn't come cheap, but among all the portable monitors I've tested, it feels the most premium. From the unboxing experience to the design's fit and finish, it exudes a sense of boutique quality and durability. It emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing performance.

There are a couple of critiques, however. It doesn't come with a case, which it should at this price point. If you're a gamer, it's not the best fit, as it's locked to 60Hz and can't take full advantage of consoles like the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5. It also has a 9ms response time, which might lead to ghosting, though I didn't notice it during gameplay. The Espresso 17 Pro is 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 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 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 renowned for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED packs this technology into a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor. This portable monitor is designed for professional quality. Its Pantone-validated display ensures your work meets industry standards, whether you're editing photos, videos, or creating digital art. At $399, it's not the cheapest, but it offers exceptional value.

Its 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers similar, if not better, brightness at 400 nits of peak output. The OLED panel provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range. Its color coverage is excellent, including 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. It can receive both power and video through one port, supporting passthrough charging to power your laptop simultaneously. It also features a micro HDMI port for compatibility with a wide range of Windows and Mac computers.

It's highly portable, weighing only 2.2lbs and folding down to 0.8 inches thick. You can easily carry it alongside your laptop without feeling weighed down.

Overall, the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an outstanding monitor at a great price, ideal for creative professionals looking to enhance their on-the-go productivity.

5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Best Portable Monitor for Artists

### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0A sharp 16-inch display with pen support, 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 spending thousands, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the obvious choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-notch, proving its enduring value to the digital art community.

The Cintiq's appeal lies in its display and pen experience. It features 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 offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is fully customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser.

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

The only downside is its price. Since its 2021 release, competition has increased. However, its quality, reliability, and feature set remain unmatched, making it a fantastic choice for any artist.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

While portable monitors may not have all the features of a full desktop monitor, they offer numerous benefits. Sometimes, the cheapest or simplest option might suffice, but other factors might better meet your specific needs. Here are key considerations:

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

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

Brightness: Many affordable portable monitors have middling brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits may suffice, but for a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be wary of lesser-known brands that may overstate their brightness on platforms like Amazon.

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

Overall, these are the most important features to consider when choosing a portable monitor. Always read reviews to understand lesser-known qualities like picture customization options, which can be limited on budget displays. Also, check if the monitor comes with a protective sleeve or case, and factor this into your budget if it doesn't.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Portable monitors benefit almost anyone. Travelers and remote workers who use laptops or tablets will appreciate the productivity boost from an additional compact screen that easily fits into a bag. They're also useful for presentations, and those with limited desk space can opt for a portable monitor over a larger desktop one. Even users of gaming phones or handheld gaming PCs might want a larger, high-refresh-rate screen for gaming on the go.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are typically smaller than full-size displays due to their need for portability. The best size depends on your intended use and desired portability. A smaller screen might be enough for a second window, while a larger one is beneficial for digital art and detailed work.

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. Higher-performance models cost more, but expect to pay between $100 and $300.