Key Points
- Portable monitors have become essential tech gadgets for productivity aficionados, digital nomads, and remote workers.
- The best portable monitors according to Reddit users include the ASUS M168B, Lenovo ThinkVision M14, Asus ZenScreen MB16AC, Viotek GFV22CB, Oculus Quest 2, LG Gram +view 16MQ70, XEBEC Tri-Screen 2, Dell C1422H, iPad Air/Pro, Viewsonic TD1655, and KYY Portable Monitor 15.6.
- These portable monitors cater to various needs, such as versatility, business travel, gaming, and creative work.
- The Reddit community has played a significant role in shaping the portable monitor market through their discussions and recommendations.
The digital workspace is ever-evolving, and portable monitors have become essential tech gadgets for productivity aficionados, digital nomads, and remote workers alike. Reddit, the hub for all things interesting and niche, has become a popular destination for tech enthusiasts to discuss and recommend the best portable monitors. After scouring various Reddit threads, we’ve compiled this list of 12 top portable monitors according to the Reddit community, so let’s dive in.
Reddit’s Recommended Portable Monitors
Before we dive into the list of Reddit’s top recommended portable monitors, we have a quick disclaimer to make. You may notice that many of the models presented here are relatively recent. This is mainly because of rapid advancements in display technology. The portable monitor world is ever-evolving, so we will continuously see newer (and larger) models being released that outshine their predecessors in terms of performance, features, and compatibility options.
©Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com
Older models that were once the crown jewels may no longer hold up to the current standards, as highlighted in various Reddit discussions. With that said, this roundup seeks to capture the best portable monitors according to Reddit users, keeping in mind their real-world experiences, preferences, and needs.
Best Overall: ASUS M168B
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 2560*1600 pixels
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Color: 100% DCI-P3
- Warranty: 3 years
- Ports: USB-C (x2), HDMI, headphone jack
This 15.6-inch portable monitor has become a hit among remote workers. Recommended in this Reddit thread, the ASUS M168b offers a quick setup and 1366 x 768 pixel resolution. With its dual USB-A and USB-C connectivity, this monitor ensures versatility for different devices. Its low power consumption and affordable price tag make it ideal for long hours of work from home or in cafes.
Best for Business Travelers: Lenovo ThinkVision M14
- 14" FHD 1920 x 1080 IPS
- Brightness: 300 nits
- Response time: 6 ms
- 60 Hz refresh
- Ports: 2 x USB-C
Compact and versatile, the Lenovo M14 is the business traveler’s dream. This portable monitor boasts a 14-inch display and 1920 x 1080 resolution. The device is highly portable thanks to only weighing 1.3 pounds. The USB-C connectivity makes it perfect for working with modern laptops. In addition, its ergonomic tilt stand combined with the anti-glare screen makes it very attractive to travelers.
Most Versatile: Asus ZenScreen MB16AC
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels
- Warranty: 3 years
- Refresh rate: 60Hz
- Features ASUS' technology for eye care (including a filter for blue light)
Asus ZenScreen MB16AC is the jack-of-all-trades among the portable monitors in this list. With its 15.6-inch IPS display and 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, it’s known for high quality. Users will gain excellent color reproduction and viewing angles with this device. The Asus ZenScreen is universally adaptable thanks to having both USB-C and USB-A compatibility. Finally, it has a sleek design and rotatable display, making it easy to use horizontally and vertically.
Best for Gaming: Viotek GFV22CB
- Size: 22 inches
- Refresh rate: 144Hz
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels
- Response time: 5ms
- Supports FreeSync from AMD and G-SYNC from NVIDIA
When it comes to gaming, the Viotek GFV22CB is Reddit’s top pick. This device was highlighted in a thread from r/digitalnomad. Its 22-inch monitor offers a full HD 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution with a whopping 144Hz refresh rate. This makes it ideal for gamers on the go, because the FreeSync technology ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay.
Best for VR: Oculus Quest 2
- Storage: 256GB
- Resolution: 1832*1920 pixels
- Includes anti-slip grip covers for the controllers
- Features Oculus' system for hand tracking
Yes, you read that right — the Oculus Quest 2 is a portable monitor alternative for the VR enthusiasts. The headset offers an immersive 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye, making it a different kind of “monitor” for specialized needs like architectural visualization or 3D design work. With its wireless capabilities and a robust library of VR content, it’s a unique and versatile tool for both leisure and professional applications.
Best for Creative Professionals: LG Gram +view 16MQ70
- 16-inch 2,560 x 1,600
- DCI-P3 color gamut
- 16:10 aspect ratio
- USB Type-C
The LG Gram +view 16MQ70 is the go-to option for creative professionals. It offers a sizable 16-inch display with stunning 4K resolution and HDR support. With an expansive color gamut and superb color accuracy, this monitor is perfect for intricate photo and video editing tasks. Its sleek design and lightweight form factor make it easy to carry, so creative freedom is available wherever you go.
Best Multi-Screen Setup: XEBEC Tri-Screen 2
- Size: 10.1 inches (x2)
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels (x2)
- Compatible laptop sizes: 12 to 17 inches
- Refresh rate: 60Hz
If you’re seeking a multi-screen setup, look no further than the XEBEC Tri-screen 2. As recommended in this thread by r/ExperiencedDevs, the XEBEC provides three screens to augment your laptop’s display, creating a portable, comprehensive workspace. This setup is particularly useful for coders, digital artists, and financial analysts who require multiple windows open for efficient multitasking.
Best for Quality and Brand Trust: Dell C1422H
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels
- Brightness: 300nits
- Response time: 6ms
- Size: 14 inches
The Dell C1422H is a reliable choice for those who prefer established brands. This 14-inch portable monitor boasts an impressive 1080p resolution. It offers a slim profile and high-quality display with both USB-C and HDMI connectivity. With its robust stand, this portable monitor is built to last. Its intuitive interface and versatile compatibility make it a standout choice for those who prioritize quality from a big brand.
Best Multi-Functional: iPad Air / Pro
- Brilliant 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color
- M2 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- 10MP ultra wide back camera, and LiDAR scanner for immersive AR
- 12MP ultra-wide front camera with center stage
- Wi-Fi 6E
The iPad Air and Pro models are ubiquitous recommendations in multiple Reddit threads. With screen sizes ranging from 10.9 to 12.9 inches and Retina displays, they offer vibrant visuals and versatile functionality. They can double as both tablets and monitors. Additionally, they’re able to support the Apple Pencil and various keyboard accessories. This makes them perfect for a variety of tasks, such as note-taking, design work, and multitasking.
Best for Touchscreen: Viewsonic TD1655
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels
- Supports touch control
- Ports: USB-C
The Viewsonic TD1655 is lauded for its touchscreen capabilities. This 10-point multi-touch 15.6-inch screen offers a full HD resolution. The screen is easy to navigate and adds an interactive edge to your setup. The portable monitor also features intuitive stylus support, built-in speakers, and versatile connectivity options. This includes USB-C and mini HDMI, further enhancing its appeal to those requiring tactile engagement.
Best Budget Option: KYY Portable Monitor 15.6
- Screen: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 1920*1080 pixels
- Ports: 2 x USB-C, mini HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Includes built-in speakers
Last but not least, found in the r/workfromhome subreddit, the KYY Portable Monitor offers a 15.6-inch display and is a wallet-friendly option. It was endorsed by Reddit users on the same thread that brought us the ASUS M168b, and its 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution doesn’t skimp on quality. It comes with USB-C and mini HDMI ports, making it versatile and affordable.
Conclusion
As technology evolves and remote work becomes more commonplace, the demand for portable monitors has skyrocketed. The Reddit community — an eclectic mix of tech aficionados, gamers, and everyday users — has been instrumental in shaping the portable monitor market through their discussions and recommendations. The above list encapsulates a variety of needs, from professional usage and business travel to gaming and creative work. Whether you prioritize screen resolution, connectivity options, or brand trust, there’s likely a Reddit-approved portable monitor for you.
Remember, this list is not a one-size-fits-all but rather a curated compilation based on real-world experiences and preferences shared on Reddit. Always consider your unique needs and how they align with the features of these recommended models. Technology is ever-changing, so stay tuned to Reddit threads for the most current advice and suggestions. Happy shopping!
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com.
