Top 5 Portable Monitors of 2025 Revealed

Adding a second screen to your setup can be a transformative experience. The additional screen space is incredibly useful, and once you get accustomed to it, going back to a single screen can feel limiting. Choosing the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be challenging 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, such as the Arzopa Z1FC, my years of testing monitors ensure you can 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 might not match the large screen size of typical gaming monitors, but their convenience is unmatched when you need to work or game on the go. Even the best laptops have compact screens, and smartphones aren't ideal for work or multitasking. Adding an extra display can make a significant difference. After extensive research and testing, I can confidently recommend these as the best portable monitors in 2025.

Looking for discounts? Check out our guide to the best gaming monitor deals right now.

1. Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

Best Portable Gaming Monitor

### Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE

1Game on the go with this 17.3-inch portable monitor featuring a 240Hz refresh rate in 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 betterIt’s hard to believe that a portable monitor can offer all the features needed for a quality gaming setup from 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. It features a bright 17.3-inch 1080p display with an IPS panel for easy viewing from any angle.

This display is custom-tuned for gaming, with a 240Hz refresh rate for improved motion clarity and lower input latency. Asus has focused on response time, offering 3ms responsiveness compared to the 6ms or higher found on others like the Espresso 17 Pro. Its support for Adaptive Sync (Variable Refresh Rate) ensures buttery smooth gameplay free of tearing.

It's not just about gaming; it's about 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 features speakers, though a dedicated gaming headset will enhance your audio experience.

While primarily designed for gaming, 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 working. The built-in battery is handy, reducing the need for extra cables. Running the display at a productivity-focused 60Hz extends battery life, making it suitable for a full workday of intermittent use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an outstanding portable monitor packed with useful features for any use case.

2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz

Best Budget Portable Monitor

### Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

0This affordable gaming monitor offers a high refresh rate and bright picture at a low 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 speakersWhen I first looked at the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I assumed it would be similar to the many other budget monitors available. However, it offers a lot for a little and has genuinely impressed me.

This monitor features a standard 1080p resolution but an expanded 16.1-inch screen size. 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 visuals whether used with a laptop or console, though the color temperature is a bit cool.

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

Connectivity is well-covered with USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI and includes all necessary cables. It also features a USB Type-A port for connecting accessories. For portability, it comes with a folio cover to protect the screen.

At 300 nits of peak brightness, it's brighter than many competitors, and users have reported satisfactory outdoor use. The main caveat at this price is the speakers, which aren't great. They lack volume and have a tinny quality. For audio, I recommend using headphones. Overall, the Arzopa Z1FC is a great budget pick that proves "affordable" doesn't 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 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 has earned a reputation for developing elegant, high-quality products that are easy to use and carry.

What I loved about this monitor is how closely it mimics a full computer monitor experience, thanks in part to its magnetic folding stand with 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 real highlight, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space and offering 450 nits of brightness at 4K resolution for a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. It's ideal for creative work without the need for post-purchase calibration. It also features an accelerometer for automatic switching between portrait and landscape modes.

The Espresso 17 Pro feels premium, from unboxing to its design and finish. It's built around simplicity without compromising quality. However, it doesn't come with a case, which is a notable omission at this price point. For gamers, it's not ideal due to its 60Hz refresh rate and 9ms response time, which may cause ghosting. Nonetheless, it's 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 offering 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 known for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED delivers this technology in a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD monitor. This portable monitor is designed for professional quality. Its Pantone-validated display ensures your photo and video edits and digital art are industry-standard and ready for submission. At $399, it offers great value.

The 15.6-inch screen matches most laptops' screen real estate and offers similar brightness at 400 nits. With an OLED panel, it provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wider dynamic range. Its color coverage includes 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. While limited to 60Hz, it still performs well for gaming due to its high-quality screen.

It's well-equipped beyond the display, featuring two USB-C ports on its versatile folding stand. It supports both power and video through one port, and passthrough charging for your laptop. It also has a micro HDMI port for compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Macs.

At just 2.2lbs and 0.8 inches thick when folded, it's highly portable and can easily fit into a bag alongside a laptop. The ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an excellent choice for creative professionals looking to enhance their 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 that's 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 breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the obvious choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-notch, and it has solidified its place as a staple in the digital art community.

The appeal of the Cintiq 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 on paper. The pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and is fully customizable with integrated buttons and an eraser.

The Cintiq Pro enhances your workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and supports multi-touch and gesture controls for easy navigation. The main drawback is its price, as competition has grown since its 2021 release. However, it's still hard to find anything that matches its quality, reliability, and feature set, making it a fantastic choice for artists.

How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for You

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

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 easily into a backpack. The most common size is 15.6 inches, striking a balance between size and portability. For smaller spaces like airplanes, a 12.5- or 14-inch screen might be more suitable. While portable monitors are lighter than laptops, weight is still a consideration.

Resolution: Pay attention to the screen. Most monitors on our list offer 1080p resolution with an IPS panel. For gaming or digital art, a higher resolution may be necessary. Standard 60Hz refresh rates are common, but for gaming, 120Hz or 144Hz panels offer a better experience.

Brightness: Budget-friendly monitors often have lower brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits may be sufficient, but for a vibrant viewing experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of lesser-known brands that might 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, verify that 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 support both power and video through a single connection.

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

Portable Monitor FAQ

Who are portable monitors for?

Almost anyone can benefit from a portable monitor. Travelers and remote workers will appreciate the productivity boost from an extra screen that easily fits into a bag. They're also handy for presentations, and those with limited desk space can opt for a portable monitor over a larger desktop one. Even gaming phone or handheld gaming PC users might want a bigger screen with a speedy refresh rate for gaming on the go.

What size portable monitor should I buy?

Portable monitors are generally smaller than full-size displays for PCs, designed for easy transport. The ideal size depends on your use and desired portability. For displaying a second window, a smaller screen might suffice. For digital art, more screen real estate helps with 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 monitors cost more, typically ranging from $100 to $300.