Looking to boost your remote work setup? We tested 20 portable monitors across all price points. From the budget-friendly Arzopa Z3FC to the dual-screen Asus ZenScreen Duo, find the perfect second screen for your laptop.
Portable monitors have become essential for remote workers, offering extra screen real estate without sacrificing mobility. We evaluated 20 models from major brands and lesser-known manufacturers, ranging from $70 to nearly $700. Here are our top picks across four categories.
Best Overall Portable Monitor
The Arzopa Z3FC is our top choice for most users. This 16.1-inch display costs just $136 but packs a 2560x1440 resolution, a blazing 180 Hz refresh rate, and excellent brightness. It covers 99% of the sRGB color space with an average color accuracy of 1.10. Weighing only 1.64 pounds, it's one of the lightest in its class. Connection options include mini-HDMI and two USB-C ports, and it draws just 13 watts, so no external power is needed when connected via USB.
Also consider: Espresso Lite 15 ($249) — features a unique magnetic stand that allows flexible positioning and hovers above your laptop. It draws only 5 watts and offers incredible color gamut.
Best Portable Monitor with Touch
The ViewSonic TD1656-2K is ideal for those who need touch functionality. It boasts a 16-inch 2560x1600 display with exceptional brightness and rich contrast. Color accuracy is outstanding at 0.79 average, with 99% sRGB coverage. The touch screen works well with fingers or the included stylus. At $380, it's affordable for a touchscreen portable monitor. However, it weighs 2.92 pounds and the case-stand combo is tricky to fold.
Also consider: Espresso Pro 15 ($748) — offers a stunning 15.6-inch 4K display with 10-bit color and incredible brightness. The magnetic stand is versatile but adds weight.
Best Multiscreen Portable Monitor
The Asus ZenScreen Duo features two 14-inch 1920x1200 OLED panels connected by a hinge. It deploys easily with a single USB-C cable and draws only 13 watts total. The panels can be used vertically or horizontally, and each can connect to a separate source. It delivers 100% sRGB coverage and dazzling brightness. At $599, it's pricey but weighs just 2.28 pounds. Some early Windows driver issues have been resolved, though the hinge can be slightly wobbly in upright mode.
Also consider: KYY X90G Quad Portable Monitor ($479) — a three-panel 17.3-inch display that turns your laptop into a four-screen setup. It weighs 6.4 pounds, so it's best for desk use. Xebec Tri-Screen 3 ($699) — clips onto your laptop with a spring-loaded design and runs without external power.
Key Points
- Arzopa Z3FC: Best overall, 16.1-inch, 2560x1440, 180Hz, $136, 1.64 lbs
- ViewSonic TD1656-2K: Best touch, 16-inch, 2560x1600, $380, 2.92 lbs
- Asus ZenScreen Duo: Best dual-screen, two 14-inch OLED panels, $599, 2.28 lbs
- All monitors tested for brightness, color accuracy, and portability