Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Unveiled

Adding a second screen to your setup can truly transform your digital experience. The extra screen real estate not only boosts productivity but also enhances your enjoyment once you get accustomed to it. Choosing the perfect portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be daunting due to the vast array of options available. Whether you're after the best all-around performer like the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or seeking great value with the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing monitors to help you find the ideal second screen solution quickly and efficiently.

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 for on-the-go work or gaming is unparalleled. Even the best laptops have limited screen space, and smartphones aren't ideal for work or multitasking. A secondary display can significantly enhance your experience. After thorough research and testing, I'm confident these are the top 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, boasting a 240Hz refresh rate in 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 betterThe Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is a game-changer for portable gaming. It packs all the essential features for a high-quality gaming setup, wherever you are. With a 240Hz refresh rate, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and low input lag, you're guaranteed smooth, tear-free gameplay. The 17.3-inch 1080p IPS panel ensures vibrant visuals from any angle.

This monitor is tailored for gaming, offering enhanced motion clarity and reduced input latency thanks to its 240Hz refresh rate and a swift 3ms response time. It supports Adaptive Sync for a seamless gaming experience without tearing. Its portability is unmatched, featuring two USB Type-C ports for video and quick charging of its 7,800mAh battery, along with built-in speakers for on-the-go audio, though a dedicated gaming headset would enhance the experience further.

Beyond gaming, the XG17AHPE serves as an excellent secondary screen for your laptop or PC. Its 17.3-inch display is spacious enough for various tasks, and the built-in battery eliminates the need for extra cables. Using it at 60Hz for productivity extends battery life, making it suitable for a full workday.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is a versatile portable monitor that excels in both gaming and everyday use.

2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz

Best Budget Portable Monitor

### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0This budget-friendly gaming monitor delivers a high refresh rate and bright display 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 speakersThe Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor surprised me with its performance, especially considering its budget-friendly price. It features a 16.1-inch 1080p IPS panel with a 1200:1 contrast ratio and 100% sRGB color coverage, ensuring rich colors and decent contrast. While the color temperature is slightly cool, the settings menu allows for adjustments.

This monitor is ideal for use with more powerful consoles like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, PS5, or Xbox, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate, which significantly reduces input latency for responsive gameplay. Connectivity is robust, with USB Type-C, mini-HDMI, and a USB Type-A port for accessories. The included folio cover adds to its portability.

With a peak brightness of 300 nits, it's brighter than many competitors in its price range, making it suitable for indoor use and even some outdoor settings. The only downside is the weak speakers, which are better replaced with headphones for a better audio experience. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC offers impressive value without compromising on performance.

3. Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0This monitor offers a true 4K experience on the go with an elegant design and 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 choice for those seeking a full 4K experience on the go. Its elegant design and high-quality construction are reminiscent of Apple products, offering a seamless setup with a single USB-C cable and a magnetic folding stand that adjusts for height and tilt.

The 17.3-inch display boasts 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, 450 nits of brightness, and a crisp 4K resolution, making it ideal for creative professionals. Its accelerometer allows for automatic orientation switching between portrait and landscape modes. While it's a premium product, the Espresso 17 Pro lacks a carrying case, which might be a consideration at this price point. It's not optimized for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate and 9ms response time, but it excels in other areas.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0Experience the benefits of OLED with this 15.6-inch display, offering a 100,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 400 nits of brightness for deep blacks and vivid colors. 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 is a standout choice for professionals seeking OLED quality in a portable monitor. Its Pantone-validated display ensures industry-standard color accuracy, perfect for photo and video editing or digital art. The 15.6-inch OLED panel offers infinite contrast and a wide dynamic range, with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and 400 nits of brightness.

While its 60Hz refresh rate isn't ideal for gaming, the high-quality screen still performs well for casual play. The monitor's connectivity options are excellent, with two USB-C ports supporting both power and video, and passthrough charging for your laptop. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it highly portable, fitting easily into a bag alongside your laptop.

The ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is a top choice for creatives needing a high-quality portable monitor at a competitive price.

5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Best Portable Monitor for Artists

### Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

0This 16-inch display with pen support is perfect for digital artists seeking a high-quality portable solution. 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 affordableThe Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 remains a top choice for digital artists, offering a 4K resolution screen with up to 98% Adobe RGB color gamut support. Its etched glass surface provides a tactile feel similar to drawing on paper, while the pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and customizable buttons.

The Cintiq Pro enhances workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and supports multi-touch and gesture controls. Although it's pricier than some competitors, its quality, reliability, and feature set make it a valuable investment for artists.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

Portable monitors offer numerous benefits despite not having all the features of a full desktop monitor. Here are key factors to consider when choosing the right one for you:

Size: The size of the monitor should balance your needs with portability. Our picks range from 13 to 17 inches, with 15.6 inches being a common size that offers a good middle ground. Consider your use case and the space you'll have when traveling. Larger monitors often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can fit easily into a backpack.

Resolution: Most portable monitors feature a 1080p resolution with an IPS panel, suitable for general use. For gaming or digital art, consider higher resolutions and refresh rates like 120Hz or 144Hz for a smoother experience.

Brightness: For indoor use, 250 nits may suffice, but for a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of lesser-known brands that might overstate their brightness.

Connectivity: Ensure the monitor's connectivity options match your devices. USB-C is common and versatile, but confirm your laptop supports video output through this port. Some monitors may require additional cables for power and video.

Always read reviews to understand lesser-known features like picture customization options and whether a protective case is included or needed.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Portable monitors are beneficial for a wide range of users, including travelers, remote workers, presenters, and those with limited desk space. They're also great for gaming phone or handheld gaming PC users looking for a larger, high-refresh-rate screen on the go.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

The ideal size depends on your intended use and desired portability. Smaller screens are suitable for displaying secondary windows, while larger ones are better for detailed work like digital art.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors range in price, with many affordable options under $200. Higher-performance models can cost between $100 and $300, offering better brightness and additional features.