Are portable monitors really worth buying?

For those who want the flexibility of a dual-screen setup without the limitations of a large, traditional monitor, portable monitors have become a popular and go-to choice. These lightweight, thin displays fold neatly into your backpack or can be carried around like a laptop, making them ideal for travel or tight workspaces. And even though they are smaller and less powerful than full-sized desktop monitors, portable displays come with a multitude of benefits that can greatly improve your productivity or entertainment on the go. 

So, in this guide, we’ll take a look at what portable monitors are and weigh their benefits and drawbacks to help you decide if it is the right fit for you.

What is a portable monitor?

Portable monitors are, as the name suggests, displays designed for portability and can be easily carried around with you, thanks to their built-in stands or covers that fold up.

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Often no bigger than a tablet, these connect to your laptop or desktop via USB-C or HDMI/mini-HDMI ports and are ideal for business travellers, gamers, or anyone needing an extra screen on the go. Most portable monitors offer Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, with some higher-end models even available in sharper resolutions like 2K or even 4K.

Benefits of portable monitor

Portable monitors come with a bunch of advantages that make them a great choice for anyone looking for an additional display, including:

1. Increased productivity:

Portable monitors make it easier for you to multitask by expanding your screen space, thus allowing you to work on a project on one screen and have your email open on the other. As a result, you won’t need to repeatedly switch between windows and tabs.

2. Easy to set up and use:

Setting up a portable monitor is usually pretty simple, requiring little to no time, minimal cables, and no complex installation procedures. Most models use a single USB-C or HDMI connection for both power and display, which makes them ready to use in a matter of minutes.

3. Portability and flexibility:

Portability and flexibility are the main selling points of a portable monitor. Unlike traditional monitors that are bulky and stationary, these lightweight displays can be easily carried around in a backpack, which makes them perfect for business travellers who need a second screen on the go or gamers who want a bigger display during trips.

4. Multi-device compatibility:

Portable monitors are compatible with a wide range of devices and can easily connect to laptops, desktops, tablets, and even gaming consoles using various ports like USB-C or HDMI. This allows you to use them for various purposes, from presentations and video editing to extended gaming sessions.

Are portable monitors worth it?

Like most things in tech, the answer to whether portable monitors are worth it or not depends upon your needs and how you plan to use them. Unmatched portability, ease of setup and operation, and the flexibility to set up a dual-monitor workstation practically anywhere are just a few of the special benefits that come with portable displays.

Even those with limited desk space at home can benefit from a portable monitor’s ability to expand their screen real estate without a bulky permanent setup. However, before deciding to buy a portable monitor, there are a few more things to think about. 

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Portable monitors are usually priced a bit higher than traditional monitors of similar size due to the added features that make them portable. Models with built-in batteries may have a shorter battery life, while the screen size and resolution might not be as impressive as what you’d find in a traditional monitor. Furthermore, using a smaller screen for extended periods can also lead to ergonomic challenges and in certain cases strain your eyes. In the end, the decision boils down to individual needs. 

If portability and the ability to have an extra screen wherever you go are essential, then a portable monitor can be a fantastic investment. But if you’re looking for a larger screen, higher resolution, affordability, and already have a dedicated workspace, a traditional monitor might be a better fit.