Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can truly enhance your digital experience. The additional space is incredibly useful, and once you get accustomed to it, reverting to a single screen can feel limiting. Selecting the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be daunting due to the vast array of choices available. Whether you're seeking a versatile all-arounder like my top recommendation, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or the best value option, such as the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years evaluating 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 typical gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched for working or gaming on the go. Even the best laptops have compact screens, and smartphones aren't ideal for work or multitasking. An extra display can significantly enhance your productivity. After thorough research and testing, I can confidently recommend these as the best portable monitors in 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, boasting a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p resolution, 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 be improvedIt's astonishing to find a portable monitor that packs all the features needed for a quality gaming setup, yet the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE does just that. This portable option offers a 240Hz refresh rate with Nvidia G-Sync compatibility and low input lag, ensuring smooth, tear-free gameplay. Its 17.3-inch 1080p display features an IPS panel for excellent viewing angles, making it ideal for gaming on the go.

This monitor is tailored for gaming, with its 240Hz refresh rate delivering improved motion clarity and reduced input latency. Asus prioritizes response time, providing a 3ms responsiveness compared to the 6ms or higher found on competitors like the Espresso Pro 17. The support for Adaptive Sync (Variable Refresh Rate) ensures buttery smooth gameplay without tearing.

Beyond gaming, its portability is a major advantage. With two USB Type-C ports—one for video input and one for quick charging its 7,800mAh battery—and built-in speakers, it's perfect for use anywhere. While the speakers are decent, a dedicated gaming headset will offer a better audio experience.

Though primarily designed for gaming, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE also excels as a secondary screen for your laptop or PC. Its 17.3-inch screen is spacious enough for various tasks, from watching videos to browsing the web or working. The built-in battery eliminates the need for extra cables, and running it at 60Hz extends battery life for a full day of intermittent use.

Overall, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is a standout portable monitor, offering versatile features for any use case.

2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz

Best Budget Portable Monitor

### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0Enjoy a high refresh rate and bright picture at an affordable price with this gaming monitor. 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 similar to other budget monitors. However, it exceeded my expectations. For around $100, it offers impressive features.

The monitor sports a standard 1080p resolution on a 16.1-inch screen with an IPS panel for vibrant color reproduction and slightly better contrast at a 1200:1 ratio. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, ensuring accurate colors, though the color temperature may be a bit cool, so adjusting the settings is advisable.

It's particularly suited for gaming with devices like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, or even a PS5 or Xbox, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate, which significantly reduces input latency for more responsive gameplay.

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

With 300 nits of peak brightness, it's brighter than many competitors at this price point, and users have praised its outdoor usability. The only minor drawback is the speakers, which lack volume and clarity. However, the Arzopa Z1FC remains an excellent budget choice, proving that affordability doesn't mean compromise.

3. Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0Experience the elegance of a true monitor with this 4K portable display, which offers superior performance 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, high-performance portable monitor designed for those needing a full 4K experience on the go. This Australian-made product is known for its elegant design and high-quality performance.

One of its standout features is its ability to offer a near-desktop monitor experience, thanks to its magnetic folding stand that allows for height and tilt adjustments. Setup is effortless, requiring only a high-bandwidth USB-C cable to connect to your device.

The screen is the highlight, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space and offering 450 nits of brightness at 4K resolution for a crisp, vivid, and accurate viewing experience. It's perfect for creative professionals who need accurate color without post-purchase calibration. An accelerometer enables automatic switching between portrait and landscape modes.

While the Espresso 17 Pro is premium-priced, its unboxing experience and build quality reflect its boutique nature. However, it lacks a carrying case, which might be a consideration at this price. It's not ideal for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate and 9ms response time, but it's a top choice for those seeking a 4K portable monitor.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0Enjoy deep blacks and vibrant colors with this 15.6-inch OLED display, boasting an impressive 100,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 400 nits of brightness. 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 ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED brings the high contrast and brightness of OLED technology to a lightweight, slim full HD portable monitor. This monitor is tailored for professional use, with Pantone validation ensuring industry-standard color accuracy for photo and video editing or digital art.

Its 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' real estate and offers 400 nits of peak brightness. The OLED panel delivers infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. While it runs at 60Hz, its high-quality screen still supports gaming.

The monitor's connectivity is versatile, featuring two USB-C ports on its folding stand for power and video, and it supports passthrough charging. A micro HDMI port ensures compatibility with a range of devices, including Macs.

With a weight of only 2.2lbs and a thickness of 0.8 inches when folded, it's highly portable. The ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an excellent choice for creative professionals seeking a high-quality portable monitor.

5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Best Portable Monitor for Artists

### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0Enhance your digital art with this sharp 16-inch 4K display and pen support. 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 looking to elevate their work without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the clear choice. Despite being a few years old, its performance remains top-notch, and it has solidified its place as a favorite among digital artists.

The Cintiq Pro's appeal lies in its display and pen experience, featuring a bright 4K screen with wide color gamut support (up to 98% of Adobe RGB). Its etched glass surface 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 monitor enhances workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and supports multi-touch and gesture control for easy navigation. While its price is a consideration due to increased competition, its quality, reliability, and feature set make it a top pick for artists.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

Portable monitors may not have all the features of a full desktop monitor, but they offer significant advantages. The cheapest or simplest option might suffice, but other factors could better meet your specific needs. Here are key considerations:

Size: Size matters when choosing a portable monitor. Our selections range from 13 to 17 inches, balancing usability and portability. Consider your intended use and the space you need, as well as how portable you want the display to be. 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 suitable for most users. For smaller spaces like airplanes, a 12.5- or 14-inch screen might be more appropriate. Keep weight in mind, as even portable monitors can vary significantly.

Resolution: The screen's resolution is crucial. Most of our picks offer 1080p resolution with an IPS panel. For gaming or digital art, a higher resolution and refresh rate (120Hz or 144Hz) might be beneficial.

Brightness: Affordable monitors often have moderate brightness, suitable for indoor use at around 250 nits. For a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of exaggerated claims from lesser-known brands.

Connectivity: Ensure the monitor is compatible with your devices. All our recommendations feature USB-C connectivity, which is versatile and provides power. Confirm your laptop can output video through USB-C, as older models might require HDMI or micro HDMI. Some monitors need an additional USB cable for power, while others use a single connection for both.

Always read reviews to understand lesser-known qualities like picture customization options, which may be limited on budget models. Also, consider whether the monitor comes with a protective sleeve or folio case; if not, budget for one.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Portable monitors are beneficial for almost anyone. Travelers and remote workers can boost productivity with an extra screen that easily fits in a bag. They're also great for presentations and ideal for those with limited desk space who need more screen real estate. Gamers using phones or handheld PCs can benefit from a larger, faster screen for spotting enemies.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are generally smaller than desktop displays for easy transport. Choose a size based on your needs and desired portability. Smaller screens are sufficient for displaying a second window, while larger ones are better for detailed work like digital art.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors vary in price, with many available under $200. Budget models may lack brightness and advanced features, while higher-performance options typically cost between $100 and $300.