For your convenience, we have compiled a list of the top five external laptop monitors available in stores. These bestselling monitors make multitasking a breeze. We have included some, portable as well as not-so-portable options, in this list. Let us dive right in!
1. Cocopar 15.6″ USB-C Portable Monitor
Imagine an ultra-thin, lightweight, single-cable, portable, and excellent-quality monitor that you can take with you everywhere. Well, Cooper has turned your imagination into reality with this laptop-attachable monitor that can increase your productivity like a breeze. Powered by a USB-C cable, this portable monitor can come with you on trips and anywhere else you may go.
Its build is solid and seems very resilient to everyday wear-and-tear. At 1080p resolution, the screen does not glitch at all. The colors are vibrant and sharp, providing a vivid picture. The built-in speakers are even louder than we expected. There are two different ways to connect your laptop to this monitor: either use an HDMI to mini HDMI cable, or a type C to type C port link.
The package also includes an ultra-thin folding case that you can use as a monitor stand. It fits perfectly over the screen, just like an iPad flip cover. During work hours, you can even use the monitor in portrait mode to read emails and documents. The cover easily snaps on and off for whichever working preference you may have. This monitor also has tiny rubber stands to stop it from skidding on your desk.
If you are a regular traveler and need something portable yet functional, Cooper’s 15″ external monitor is the most versatile option available. The price is not too high, either!
Buy Here: Amazon
2. LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W
With the LG 27UD88-W, witness a stunning 4K UHD IPS display that can be paired with any 4K laptop for an extra-large 27″ screen. Plus, this model is VESA-compatible, which means you can use your own VESA mount if you do not like the included mount.
Aesthetically, the LG 27UD88-W looks very attractive and modern, with virtually no bezel. The matte screen is fine-looking and is good for glare. There is a USB-C port on this device to connect it to your laptop. Additional USB ports also come in handy for additional connections. You can use your extendable keyboard with this device and leave it plugged in without any problem. But, you cannot control the brightness or volume of this device using Mac keyboards, which can be inconvenient for Mac users.
With a single cable, you can plug your laptop in to charge, and the device will carry those 4k visuals to the screen. Initially, we were concerned about its 60-watt charging capacity drawing too much power. However, the machine only draws power depending on your work. If you are doing something that is extremely power-intensive, such as rendering 3D all day.
Overall, this model is a perfect monitor for anyone who wants the simplicity of a USB-C pass-through and a display quality that is 4K-capable. However, the large size of this monitor makes it somwhat hard to move places. So, consider this model only for a permanent home or work setup.
Buy Here: Amazon
3. ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6″ Portable
Taking the third spot is the Asus ZenScreen 15.6″ Portable monitor. This device provides a full-HD IPS display that you can connect to your laptop via a USB-C connection. Because this device has a 16-9 aspect ratio, it is quite wide, so we do not recommend this display for on-the-go work. For at-home or travel use on a desk, though, this model is worth a shot.
This monitor powers up without drawing too many watts and connects easily without. This device is plug-and-play, which removes the hassle of connecting many different wires to power up. The screen is slick, light, and sexy, and the monitor is as thin as most tablets you find on the market. The screen resolution is great, as well. The picture provided by this device is pretty crisp, though we wish it were slightly brighter, but that is just a personal preference.
This model has a dual-screen cover and stand. When you are using it as a stand, the device folds only vertically and settles back at an angle of approximately 30 degrees. While this is not ideal for a stable setup, there is no noticeable wobble to the device. Still, we would advise using this monitor on a flat surface.
All in all, the Asus Zenscreen is a great second work screen. Yes, this model is portable, but it is not portable enough for an evening haul to the coffee shop. As for the cost, this device is the lowest-priced monitor on the list. So, decide yourself!
Buy Here: Amazon
4. Lenovo ThinkVision M14
The Lenovo Think Vision M14 mobile display is a 14″ screen for boosting on-the-go productivity. Weighing just 570 g, this model has an ergonomic design and is compatible with any laptop that supports a USB-C connection.
Despite its ultra-portable design, the visuals feel great on the FHD (1920 x 1080 resolution) IPS display of this device, and the brightness of the display is good. While the bezels are not the same height, you can line them up if you want to. The design is quite ergonomic for lengthy work sessions, and you can control the viewing angle according to your preferences. You can also adjust the monitor’s height thanks to its adjustable foot.
There are several ports available on either side for computer accessories. These ports sit flush with the display surface so that the monitor aligns well with your laptop display. This feature is one thing we particularly love about this model.
This device offers a 45 W passthrough, which should be enough if your laptop only has one USB-C port or if you are using a phone. The included polyester case does its job, but we believe a more robust housing would have better suited this excellent external monitor.
Buy Here: Amazon
5. AOC 24B2XH
The AOC 24B2XH is a 1080p 24″ matte panel that comes equipped with IPS technology. Throw in multiple-input feature, a low price, and the fact it has negligible bezels, and you get quite the dual screen with this device.
Despite its economical price, this model has a premium style about it. There are no frames on its three sides, and the profile is very sleek in comparison. This model is labeled as 60 Hz, but it can go up to 75 Hz, making it an excellent second monitor for your needs. However, if you’re a pro gamer, you should go for the better 144 Hz option.
The setup is easy, and the monitor stays in position once you are done. A VESA compatible design further expands the mounting options, allowing you to hoist this device on your wall or leave it on your workbench. The base feels rather plastic, and it is also taller than other monitors. So, if you are using this monitor on your desk, make sure the device does not get caught in a breeze, as it is rather top-heavy.
Though you need a dedicated cable to connect it with a laptop, the quality and class of this model, at such a low cost is hard to ignore.
Buy Here: Amazon
Buyer’s Guide
It is recommended to consider the following features before heading out to purchase an external laptop monitor to ensure that you choose the model that best suits your needs.
Size
The size of the device matters, depending on your use. For a general home or office setup, go with a monitor that has the same size (and resolution) as your laptop. Such second monitors are more portable. You can put them in the same backpack as your laptop without any second thoughts. However, if you are a gamer, video editor, or graphics designer, a bigger monitor with better resolution will better suit your needs.
Screen
Evaluate the screen. What are the model’s brightness range, color gamut resolution, and panel technology? Dual monitor screens tend to be dimmer than their desktop counterparts at their max brightness levels, with luminance ranging from 230 to 300 nits. The native resolution of these panels ranges from 1,366 x 768 pixels to 3,200 x 1,800 pixels (QHD+). We further recommend IPS panels over VA or TN because they offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles.
Stand
Different portable monitors utilize different types of stands. Most models use a thin, yet stiff, plastic board as a stand. You can attach the screen to this stand type via hinges. Other frames are foldable and double as display protective covers when not in use. Yet others still have multiple grooves, and you can alter the monitor’s tilt by placing the base in a different position. A few monitor models use the laptop itself as support. These get fastened to the side, and you can slide or swing the additional monitor out for use. If you are going for a bigger, less portable second monitor, make sure that it supports the VESA mount to get more flexibility and ergonomics.
Power
To keep the number of wires to a bare minimum, make sure that your external monitor supports USB-C connectivity. This way, you can transfer both data and power through a solo USB cable. The latest external monitors come equipped with USB-C functionality. Be sure to check whether the model you are considering supports both transfers simultaneously because some earlier generations of USB-C ports do not allow simultaneous data and power transfer. Thunderbolt 3 ports should work fine for this.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are tackling your workload on the go, or just pivoting among rooms as you work from home, the right laptop external monitor will make multitasking a breeze. All the models listed above are bestsellers, so choose the model that best fits your needs and budget. If you are still unsure, check our Buyer’s Guide for some extra help. We wish you all the best. Thank you for sticking with this article. Until next time!
Think we missed a great external monitor? Let us know in the usual place!
