You are on a business trip, and your laptop screen feels cramped. Or you are a gamer who wants a second display for your console. A portable monitor can solve that. In this guide, we reviewed four popular models ranging from budget-friendly to feature-rich. Whether you need a travel companion or a productivity booster, we have you covered. For more product comparisons, check out our espresso machine reviews.
Pros
- Affordable price point for a portable monitor with solid features.
- Wide device compatibility via USB-C and HDMI ports.
- Lightweight and slim design makes it easy to carry anywhere.
- Smart cover provides protection and acts as a convenient stand.
- IPS panel ensures good color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
Cons
- Requires device to support USB-C DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4 for full functionality.
- HDMI port located on the left side may be inconvenient for some cable management setups.
- No touch functionality or high refresh rate, limiting appeal for competitive gamers.
The ForHelp 15.6 inch portable monitor is a budget-friendly solution for anyone needing a second screen on the go. It targets professionals, students, and casual gamers who want to extend their workspace or enjoy console gaming on a portable display. With USB-C and HDMI connectivity, it works with a wide range of devices from laptops to gaming consoles.
Standout features include a full HD IPS panel that delivers vibrant colors and wide 178° viewing angles. The matte screen reduces glare and blue light, making it comfortable for extended use. The monitor supports HDR mode for enhanced contrast and brightness, and its built-in speakers add to the immersive experience for movies and games.
Design-wise, the monitor is impressively thin at 0.3 inches and weighs only 1.52 pounds, making it easy to slip into a bag. The aluminum alloy body feels premium, and the included PU leather smart cover offers protection while doubling as a stand with two adjustable viewing angles. However, the HDMI port is on the left side, which may require some cable routing adjustments.
One drawback is that the monitor requires your device to support USB-C DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4 for single-cable connectivity. Without that, you may need an adapter. Additionally, the 60Hz refresh rate and lack of touch input mean it is not ideal for high-speed gaming or interactive tasks. Some users may find the brightness adequate but not exceptionally high for outdoor use.
Overall, the ForHelp portable monitor offers excellent value for its price. It provides a reliable, portable second screen for productivity and casual entertainment. If you need a lightweight, versatile monitor without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and thin, easy to slip into a laptop bag.
- Single USB-C cable simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter.
- Good color accuracy with 85% sRGB for photo editing and content creation.
- Includes a protective smart cover stand that doubles as a case.
- VESA mount compatibility adds flexibility for permanent setups.
Cons
- Brightness is not specified, may be average for indoor use but not ideal for very bright environments.
- Requires a device with USB-C video output (Thunderbolt 3/4 or DP Alt Mode) for single-cable operation; otherwise, HDMI and external power are needed.
- No built-in battery, so it must draw power from the connected device or a separate power source.
The cocopar 15.6-inch portable monitor is a sleek and versatile second screen designed for professionals, remote workers, and gamers who need extra display real estate on the go. With a 1080P IPS panel that covers 85% of the sRGB color space, it delivers sharp and reasonably accurate colors for productivity tasks, presentations, and light content creation. The 60Hz refresh rate is standard for a portable monitor, suitable for office work and casual gaming.
One of its standout features is the plug-and-play USB-C functionality. A single cable provides both power and video signal, making setup effortless. The monitor also supports power pass-through, so you can charge your laptop while using the display. However, this requires a device with Thunderbolt 3/4 or USB-C DP Alt Mode. For older devices, the included HDMI port works with a separate power source. The monitor also has built-in speakers, which are adequate for alerts and casual video calls but lack depth for immersive media.
Design and build quality are impressive for the price. At just 4mm thick at its slimmest point and weighing only 1.5 pounds without the cover, it is one of the more portable options available. The magnetic smart stand case is a thoughtful addition, offering protection and multiple viewing angles in both landscape and portrait orientations. The VESA mount holes add further versatility, allowing you to attach it to a monitor arm or desk stand for a permanent dual-screen setup.
Potential drawbacks include the lack of a stated brightness rating, which means it may struggle in direct sunlight or very bright rooms. Additionally, the monitor does not have a built-in battery, so it always relies on an external power source or the host device. Some users may find the color accuracy slightly below professional-grade monitors, but for general use and most work tasks, it performs well.
Overall, the cocopar portable monitor offers excellent value for anyone seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use second screen. Its combination of USB-C connectivity, VESA mountability, and the included smart cover make it a strong contender for travelers, remote workers, and gamers alike. If you need a reliable travel monitor that doesn't break the bank, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Vibrant IPS display with HDR support
- Convenient plug-and-play with single USB-C cable
- Lightweight and portable with protective smart cover
- Versatile connectivity (laptops, phones, PS5, Xbox, Switch)
- Adjustable display modes for productivity or gaming
Cons
- Requires USB-C with DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3; not compatible with all devices
- Glossy screen may cause reflections in bright environments
- No built-in battery, relies on connected device power
The MNN 15.6-inch portable monitor is a versatile external display designed for professionals, students, and gamers who need a second screen on the go. Its compact form factor and lightweight build make it easy to carry in a laptop bag.
Equipped with a Full HD IPS panel and HDR support, the monitor delivers crisp visuals and accurate colors from wide viewing angles. The dual USB-C ports allow seamless plug-and-play connectivity with a single cable, supporting laptops, smartphones, and gaming consoles like the PS5 and Switch.
The monitor features a matte black finish and an ultra-slim profile of just 0.3 inches. It comes with a durable PU leather smart cover that protects the screen and doubles as a stand, enabling both landscape and portrait orientations.
One limitation is that the monitor relies on the connected device for power, so it may drain the battery of laptops or phones during extended use. Additionally, the glossy screen can produce glare in brightly lit environments, which may be distracting for some users.
Overall, the MNN portable monitor offers excellent value for its price, combining a high-quality display with versatile connectivity in a travel-friendly package. It is a great choice for anyone looking to boost productivity or enjoy mobile gaming on a larger screen.
Screen Size: 15.6 inches
Resolution: 1920x1080 Full HD
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Panel Type: IPS
Connectivity: 2x USB-C, 1x Mini HDMI
Dimensions: 14.48 x 8.85 x 0.3 inches
Weight: 1.53 pounds
Features: HDR support, blue light reduction, smart cover
Pros
- Dual HDMI ports support 4K resolution, perfect for multi-monitor setups.
- 85W Power Delivery pass-through charging keeps your laptop charged without extra adapters.
- Includes Ethernet, USB-A, and SD card slots for versatile connectivity.
- Compact and portable design fits easily into a laptop bag.
- Anker's 18-month warranty and reliable build quality.
Cons
- On macOS, both external monitors display identical content (mirror only), not extend.
- No USB-C data port; only one USB-C port is used for PD charging input.
- Not compatible with Linux systems.
The Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 USB-C Hub is a versatile docking station designed to add essential ports to modern laptops with USB-C connectivity. It's an excellent choice for professionals and students who need to connect multiple monitors, Ethernet, and SD cards without carrying a bulky dock. The hub supports Windows 10/11 and ChromeOS, while Mac users should note the dual monitor limitation.
Standout features include dual HDMI ports that deliver 4K@60Hz to a single display or 4K@30Hz to two displays. This allows for efficient multitasking and a more immersive viewing experience. The 85W Power Delivery pass-through charging is a game-changer, as it keeps your laptop powered during heavy use without needing a separate charger. The integrated Gigabit Ethernet port ensures stable internet connectivity, a must for video calls and large file transfers.
Design-wise, the hub is compact and lightweight, measuring just 4.6 x 2.0 x 0.7 inches and weighing 0.2 pounds. Its gray finish and minimalist look blend well with most laptops. The ports are well-spaced, reducing interference when connecting multiple cables. Anker's build quality is evident, and the included 18-month warranty adds confidence.
One drawback is that on macOS, the dual HDMI outputs only mirror the display, not extend it, which limits multi-monitor functionality for Mac users. Additionally, there is no USB-C data port, so you lose one USB-C port for charging. The hub is also not compatible with Linux, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, the Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 USB-C Hub offers excellent value for Windows users seeking a portable, affordable docking solution. Its dual 4K display support, fast charging, and reliable connectivity make it a strong contender in the compact hub market. For Mac users, consider if mirroring meets your needs. If not, look for a hub that supports extended displays on macOS.
Buying Guide
Display Quality
Look for a 1080p resolution, IPS panel, and good color accuracy. The cocopar model offers 85% sRGB and HDR support, making images vivid. The ForHelp and MNN monitors also provide full HD with wide viewing angles. If you edit photos, a higher color gamut matters.
Connectivity
All four monitors feature USB-C and HDMI ports. The cocopar and MNN have two full-featured USB-C ports, allowing plug-and-play with compatible laptops and phones. The ForHelp and Anyuse include a mini HDMI port. Ensure your device supports USB-C DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3 for single-cable use.
Portability
Weight and thickness vary. The Anyuse is the lightest at 1.37 lbs, while the cocopar is slightly heavier but includes a magnetic cover. All come with a smart cover that doubles as a stand. For travel, a slim profile and protective case are essential. Read our portable refrigerator reviews for more travel gear.
Compatibility
Check if the monitor works with your devices. These models support laptops, MacBooks, phones, PS4/5, Xbox, and Switch. The cocopar and MNN explicitly mention VESA mount compatibility for desk setups. If you use a phone, verify it supports video output via USB-C.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing these four portable monitors, we recommend the cocopar Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P FHD 60Hz for its superior color accuracy and VESA mount option, ideal for professionals. For budget-conscious users, the ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor,1080P USB-C HDMI offers solid performance at a lower cost, perfect for casual use and travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a portable monitor with my phone?
Yes, if your phone supports USB-C video output (e.g., Samsung DeX or newer iPhones). All four monitors work with compatible phones via a USB-C cable. Check your phone’s specifications before purchasing.
Do I need a separate power source for these monitors?
Most portable monitors can be powered directly by your laptop via USB-C if the laptop provides enough power. Some models also support power pass-through. For devices with limited output, you may need an external power bank or USB wall charger.
Are portable monitors good for gaming?
Yes, especially for console gaming on the go. These monitors feature 60Hz refresh rates and low input lag. The cocopar and MNN models include HDR mode for enhanced visuals. They work well with PS5, Xbox, and Switch. For more gaming accessories, browse our electronics category.
How do I set up a portable monitor as a second screen?
Simply connect the monitor to your laptop via HDMI or USB-C. On Windows, press Win+P to choose extend or duplicate mode. On Mac, go to System Preferences > Displays. Most monitors are plug-and-play with no drivers needed.
