Portable monitors are thin external screens, mostly between 14 and 17.3 inches, that connect to a laptop, phone or games console over USB-C or HDMI. They suit people who work away from a desk, travel often or want a second screen at home. Our range has over 60 models, including ASUS, BLACKVIEW, Acer and Extralink.
How to choose a portable monitor
Size. Most models in our range are 15.6 or 14 inches. A 15.6-inch screen matches a typical laptop and works best as a second display, while a 14-inch one slips into a bag more easily. The 16 and 17.3-inch models give more room for spreadsheets and several windows, but they are heavier. Screens of 27 and 31.5 inches are closer to desktop monitors than travel companions.
Resolution and panel. Full HD (1920 x 1080) is the most common and is sharp enough at 14 to 15.6 inches. 16:10 models such as 1920 x 1200 show more lines of text, which helps with documents and coding. 2560 x 1600 and 4K suit photo editing, though they draw more power from the source device. Most models use an IPS panel with wide viewing angles, and a few have OLED for deeper blacks.
Connection and power. Most portable monitors run from a single USB-C cable that carries both video and power. The USB-C port on your laptop or phone must support video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt), so check its specification first. If it does not, you will need an HDMI cable and a separate power source.
Refresh rate. 60 Hz is the most common value and is fine for office work and video. Some models offer 75, 100, 144 or 155 Hz, which gamers and anyone who likes smooth scrolling will notice. The connected device has to support the higher rate as well.
Brands we carry
- ASUS: the largest share of our range, known for its ZenScreen series of portable monitors built for working on the move.
- BLACKVIEW: better known for rugged phones and tablets, so its screens tend to be aimed at travellers.
- Acer: offers portable monitors alongside a broad line-up of computers and desktop displays.
- Espresso Displays: specialises in touch-enabled portable screens, popular with Mac users.
- Verbatim: mostly known for storage media, with displays that extend its range of computer accessories.
- HP, Dell: both are known for business-oriented monitors suited to office use.
- Extralink: a Polish company known for networking equipment.
Also in our range: AOC, EKLEER and MRDISC.
Portable monitor FAQ
How do I connect a portable monitor to a laptop?
Usually one USB-C cable is enough, provided the laptop's USB-C port supports video output. If it does not, use an HDMI cable and power the monitor separately through a USB port or charger. Check your laptop's port specification before buying.
What size of portable monitor should I choose?
A 15.6-inch model is the most common choice because it matches a standard laptop screen. A 14-inch monitor is lighter and fits a bag more easily. If you work with large spreadsheets, consider a 16 or 17.3-inch screen.
Can I use a portable monitor with a phone or games console?
Yes, with some conditions. A console normally connects over HDMI, and the monitor needs its own power. A phone must support video output over USB-C, which not every model does, so check the phone's specification.
Is Full HD enough on a portable monitor?
Yes, Full HD (1920 x 1080) is enough for documents, browsing and video on a 14 to 15.6-inch screen. A 16:10 resolution such as 1920 x 1200 gives more working space, while 4K or 2560 x 1600 makes sense for photo and video editing. Higher resolutions also drain the battery of the connected device faster.
