Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can truly transform your digital experience. The extra screen space is incredibly 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 my top pick, the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE, or the best value option like the Arzopa Z1FC, I've spent years testing 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 traditional gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched for working or gaming on the go. Even the best laptops still have compact screens, and smartphones are not ideal for work or multitasking. An additional 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

1Enhance your 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 betterThe Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is a remarkable portable monitor that packs all the essentials for a top-notch gaming experience, no matter where you are. Similar to some of the best gaming monitors, it offers 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, allowing for excellent viewing angles.

This monitor is tailored for gaming with its high 240Hz refresh rate, providing enhanced motion clarity and reduced input latency. Asus has focused on response time, offering a swift 3ms compared to the 6ms or higher found on competitors like the Espresso 17 Pro. With Adaptive Sync support, you're guaranteed smooth, tear-free gameplay.

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 has built-in speakers, though for a better audio experience, a dedicated gaming headset is recommended.

While it's primarily designed for gaming, it also serves well as a secondary screen for your laptop or PC. The 17.3-inch screen size is ample for watching videos, browsing the web, or working. The battery life extends significantly when used at a standard 60Hz for productivity or entertainment, offering up to a full workday of use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an exceptional portable monitor that delivers a versatile and feature-rich experience for all your 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 speakersThe Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor surprised me with its performance, especially for its price point of around $100. It features a 1080p resolution on a 16.1-inch IPS panel, offering rich color reproduction and a slightly better-than-average contrast ratio of 1200:1. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, ensuring accurate color representation, though the color temperature is a bit cool, so adjusting the settings is advisable.

This monitor is ideal for use with devices like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, or even your PS5 or Xbox, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate, which significantly reduces input latency for more responsive gameplay.

Connectivity is not an issue with this monitor. It supports USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI and comes with all necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for connecting accessories and includes a folio cover for protection during transport.

At 300 nits of peak brightness, it outperforms many monitors in its price range. Users have reported its suitability for outdoor use, which is a testament to its quality.

The main drawback is the weak speakers, which lack volume and have a tinny sound. For better audio, using headphones is recommended. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is an excellent budget option that proves affordability doesn't compromise quality.

3. Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

Best 4K Portable Monitor

### Espresso Displays Espresso 17 Pro

0Experience a true monitor experience with this elegant display that offers stunning visuals and easy 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 portable monitor designed for those needing a full 4K experience on the go. Hailing from Australia, Espresso is known for its elegant, user-friendly, and high-quality products.

What impressed me most about this monitor is how closely it replicates the experience of a full desktop monitor. It comes with a magnetic folding stand that allows for both height and tilt adjustments. Connecting to your laptop or computer is as simple as unfolding the stand, attaching the display, and plugging in a single high-bandwidth USB-C cable.

The standout feature is its screen. It covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, boasts 450 nits of brightness, and offers a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. It's perfect for creative work without needing post-purchase calibration. The monitor also features an accelerometer, enabling automatic switching between portrait and landscape modes.

While the Espresso 17 Pro is on the pricier side, its premium feel and quality justify the cost. From the unboxing to the design's fit and finish, it feels like a boutique product built to last. It emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing performance.

There are a few minor drawbacks. It doesn't come with a protective case, which should be included at this price point. It's also not ideal for gaming, being limited to a 60Hz refresh rate and a 9ms response time, which may cause ghosting. Nonetheless, the Espresso 17 Pro is an outstanding choice for 4K enthusiasts.

4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

Best Portable OLED Monitor

### ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED

0Enjoy 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 vivid 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 ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor that brings OLED technology's high contrast and brightness to a portable form. It's tailored for professionals, with its Pantone-validated display ensuring industry-standard color accuracy for photo and video editing and digital art creation. Priced at $399, it offers exceptional value for its features.

The 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers up to 400 nits of brightness. The OLED panel provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Although limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, it still performs well for gaming thanks to its high-quality screen.

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

Its portability is a significant 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 excellent choice for creative professionals seeking enhanced 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, 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 affordableFor digital artists looking to elevate their craft without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the clear choice. Despite being a few years old, its performance remains top-tier, cementing its status as a staple in 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). The etched screen provides a tactile feel similar to drawing on paper. The pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is fully customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser.

Enhancing your workflow, the Cintiq Pro includes eight programmable Express Keys for mapping to various commands in Wacom's software. The display also supports multi-touch and gesture controls for easy navigation.

The main drawback is its price, as newer competition has emerged since its 2021 release. However, its quality, reliability, and feature set remain unmatched, making it an excellent choice 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. While the cheapest or simplest options might suffice, other factors can 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. Consider your intended use and required screen space versus portability. Larger monitors often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones can fit easily in a backpack. The most common size, 15.6 inches, strikes a balance between size and portability. For tighter spaces like airplanes, consider a 12.5- or 14-inch screen. Weight is another factor to consider, though portable monitors are generally lighter than laptops.

Resolution: Pay attention to the screen's resolution. Most of our picks offer a standard 1080p resolution with an IPS panel. Higher resolutions are beneficial for gaming or digital art. Most portable monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, but for gaming, a 120Hz or 144Hz panel can enhance the experience.

Brightness: Affordable portable monitors often have moderate brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits may suffice, but for a more vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be wary of exaggerated brightness claims from lesser-known brands.

Connectivity: Ensure the monitor is compatible with your devices. All our picks feature USB-C connectivity, which is fast and can supply power. Confirm that your laptop can output video via USB-C, as older models may require HDMI or micro HDMI. Some monitors need a separate USB cable for power, while others can use a single cable for both power and video.

These are crucial features to consider when selecting a portable monitor. Always read reviews to understand lesser-known qualities like picture customization options, which are often limited on budget models. Also, check if the monitor comes with a protective sleeve or case, as this should be factored into your budget if not included.

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Portable monitors are beneficial for almost anyone. Travelers and remote workers will appreciate the productivity boost from an additional compact screen that easily fits in 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 enjoy a larger, faster-refresh-rate screen for better gameplay.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are typically smaller than full-size displays, designed for easy transport. The ideal size depends on your use case and desired portability. For displaying a second window, a smaller screen might suffice. For digital art, more screen space is helpful for detailed work.

How much do portable monitors cost?

Portable monitors range 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, typically between $100 and $300.