Best portable monitors for travel are a must-have for digital nomads, business professionals, and gamers who want to stay productive or entertained on the move. Whether you’re working remotely from a cafe, giving a presentation, or playing games on your console, portable monitors offer flexibility and convenience.
In this detailed guide, we explore the best portable monitors for travel that combine portability, performance, and smart design. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You Need the Best Portable Monitors for Travel
When you’re constantly moving, having an extra screen can significantly improve your efficiency. The best portable monitors for travel allow you to multitask, extend your laptop display, or enjoy movies on a bigger screen wherever you are.
These monitors are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them perfect for travel. They are compatible with various devices like laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, and more.
1. ViewSonic VA1655 – Compact and Versatile Travel Monitor
Overview
The ViewSonic VA1655 is one of the best portable monitors for travel with its 16-inch Full HD IPS display. It’s designed to overcome one-screen limitations outside the office.
Key Features
- Display: 16-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Connectivity: Dual USB-C ports (one supports 60W charging), Mini HDMI, 3.5mm audio out
- Weight: 680 grams
- Thickness: 9.85 mm
- Stand: Adjustable and foldable kickstand
- Compatibility: Supports Windows, Android, Chrome OS, macOS, iOS, and iPadOS
Why It’s Great for Travel
The ViewSonic VA1655 is compact and highly portable. It easily connects to laptops, tablets, and smartphones with a single USB-C cable. The lightweight plastic case and foldable stand make it easy to carry and set up anywhere.
Additionally, its pivot-able display supports different viewing angles, making it perfect for presentations and remote work setups. The plug-and-play feature means no complex installation.
2. ARZOPA 15.6″ FHD Portable Monitor – Ultra-Slim and Stylish
Overview
The ARZOPA 15.6″ portable monitor is another top choice in the list of best portable monitors for travel. Its ultra-slim design and high-quality build make it a standout option.
Key Features
- Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS screen
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini HDMI
- Weight: 1.6 lbs (approx. 725 grams)
- Thickness: 0.35 inches
- Stand: Built-in adjustable kickstand
- Compatibility: Laptops, PCs, MacBooks, smartphones, Xbox, PS4, PS5
Why It’s Great for Travel
The ARZOPA portable monitor is thin, lightweight, and perfect for carrying in your backpack. It supports multiple display modes such as duplicate, extend, or second screen, making multitasking seamless.
Thanks to its wide compatibility, you can connect it to almost any device without installing drivers. The ARZOPA monitor is also great for console gaming, offering an improved gaming experience on the go.
Its 178° wide viewing angle and eye-care IPS screen provide crisp visuals while reducing eye strain during long sessions.
3. ZEBRONICS Pixigo A16 – Budget-Friendly and Feature-Packed
Overview
The ZEBRONICS Pixigo A16 is a budget-friendly yet powerful contender among the best portable monitors for travel. It offers great features without compromising on portability.
Key Features
- Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Connectivity: USB-C DP, Mini HDMI, headphone jack
- Weight: Lightweight design
- Stand: 180° adjustable stand, wall-mountable
- Special Features: Anti-glare coating, built-in speakers, 300 nits brightness
Why It’s Great for Travel
The ZEBRONICS Pixigo A16 is perfect for travelers who need a lightweight and easy-to-use display. Its anti-glare screen ensures comfortable viewing even in bright environments.
The monitor’s wall-mountable design provides a clutter-free workspace, and the built-in speakers eliminate the need for external audio devices.
It supports laptops, phones, and gaming consoles, making it a versatile choice for business and leisure.
How to Choose the Best Portable Monitor for Travel
1. Size and Weight
When selecting the best portable monitors for travel, prioritize compact size and lightweight designs. Monitors under 1.5 kg are ideal for frequent travelers.
2. Connectivity Options
Ensure your portable monitor has versatile ports like USB-C and HDMI. USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode is especially convenient for single-cable use.
3. Display Quality
Full HD resolution with IPS technology provides sharp, vivid visuals and wide viewing angles. Look for eye-care features to reduce eye strain.
4. Build Quality
Durable materials and adjustable stands enhance portability and ease of setup. Foldable stands and slim profiles are a big plus.
Benefits of Using Portable Monitors for Travel
- Improved Productivity: Multitask efficiently with dual-screen setups.
- Entertainment Anywhere: Enjoy movies and games on a larger screen.
- Enhanced Presentations: Share your screen easily during meetings.
- Compact and Easy to Carry: Most portable monitors fit into standard laptop bags.
Final Thoughts on the Best Portable Monitors for Travel
Choosing the best portable monitors for travel can significantly improve your work and entertainment experience while on the move. Whether you pick the feature-rich ViewSonic VA1655, the stylish ARZOPA 15.6″, or the budget-friendly ZEBRONICS Pixigo A16, all three offer excellent performance, portability, and versatility.
Investing in a good portable monitor means more screen space, improved efficiency, and a better travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are portable monitors worth it for travel?
Yes, portable monitors are worth it if you need additional screen space for multitasking, presentations, or entertainment while traveling. They are compact, easy to carry, and simple to set up.
2. Can I use a portable monitor with my smartphone?
Yes, many of the best portable monitors for travel support smartphones, provided your phone has USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode compatibility.
3. Do portable monitors need external power?
Some portable monitors draw power directly from the connected device through USB-C, while others may need external power sources, especially if they have higher brightness settings.
4. What size is best for a travel monitor?
Portable monitors ranging from 15.6 inches to 16 inches are ideal for travel due to their balance between screen size and portability.
5. Are portable monitors compatible with gaming consoles?
Yes, most portable monitors support gaming consoles like Xbox, PS4, and PS5 via HDMI or USB-C connections, making them perfect for gaming on the go.