For digital nomads, remote workers, and anyone needing a second screen on the go, a Travel Computer Monitor is an indispensable tool. These portable displays enhance productivity by extending your laptop screen real estate, making multitasking easier and more efficient, no matter where you are. This guide reviews some of the top contenders in the travel computer monitor market, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you choose the best one for your needs.
ViewSonic VG1656-2K: High Resolution on the Go
The ViewSonic VG1656-2K offers a step up in resolution for those who need sharper visuals. Similar in design to touchscreen models but without the touch functionality, this monitor boasts excellent color accuracy and impressive brightness, reaching 396 nits in tests. Its 2K resolution provides a noticeable improvement in screen clarity, particularly useful for tasks requiring detailed visuals or for users who prefer better scaling. However, at a higher price point, the 2K resolution might not be necessary for all users, especially when compared to more affordable 1080p options that still offer great portability and functionality. If you prioritize resolution for crisper images and enhanced scaling in your travel monitor, the ViewSonic VG1656-2K is a strong contender, albeit at a premium price.
Pluggable USB-C Portable Monitor: Feature-Rich but Falls Short on Image Quality
The Pluggable USB-C Portable Monitor initially presents itself as a viable option, but testing reveals significant drawbacks in image quality, specifically in contrast and color accuracy. Its contrast ratio measured significantly below the ideal threshold for IPS displays. Despite its shortcomings in display performance, this monitor offers appealing features such as 100W pass-through charging, allowing for efficient laptop charging, and an additional USB-C port with high-speed data throughput. These extra connectivity options could be advantageous for users who need to power devices or transfer data while on the move. However, for those prioritizing visual fidelity in a travel computer monitor, the Pluggable’s compromised image quality might outweigh its extra features.
Espresso Displays 15: Firmware Issues Raise Concerns
The Espresso Displays 15 encountered a critical issue during testing: the screen would go black without power connected through a specific USB-C port. According to Espresso, this was attributed to a firmware issue affecting review units. While the company acknowledged the problem, it’s difficult to recommend this monitor until further testing can be conducted on a corrected unit. Reliability is paramount for a travel computer monitor, and this initial issue raises concerns about the device’s performance out of the box. Potential buyers should await further reviews confirming the resolution of these firmware problems before considering the Espresso Displays 15 for their portable display needs.
Ricoh 150 & 150BW: Premium Features at a Premium Price
Ricoh’s foray into portable monitors with the 150 and 150BW models showcases innovation with features like OLED touchscreen displays and wireless video capabilities (150BW). Their slim design and integrated kickstand add to their portability appeal. However, these premium features come at a steep cost. The Ricoh 150 and 150BW are significantly more expensive than many competitors, pushing them into a price range that is hard to justify for a travel monitor. While the OLED display and wireless functionality are attractive, the high price makes them less competitive unless these features are deemed absolutely essential and budget is not a primary concern. For most users, more affordable options can provide sufficient performance for travel needs.
AOC 16T3EA: Contrast Issues and Limited Stand
The AOC 16T3EA reveals a common issue found in budget monitors: a drop in contrast ratio at maximum brightness. This can impact image quality, particularly in bright environments. Additionally, its stand is described as somewhat limiting in terms of adjustability and viewing angles. While AOC is often associated with value-oriented displays, the 16T3EA’s performance and stand design might not be ideal for travelers seeking a reliable and versatile portable monitor. Users looking for budget options may find better overall value in other models that offer more consistent performance and better ergonomics for on-the-go use.
Arzopa S1 Table & Z1C: Inconsistencies and Compromises
The Arzopa S1 Table had initial quality control issues with a high-pitched whine, although the replacement unit resolved this problem. However, concerns about the case stand’s stability remain, as it has been reported to collapse when bumped. The Arzopa Z1C, while similar to a top-rated pick from the same brand, exhibits lower color accuracy, indicating a compromise in display quality. Arzopa offers generally affordable portable monitors, but these models highlight potential inconsistencies in quality and design that travelers should be aware of. While budget-friendly, it’s important to weigh these potential drawbacks against the need for reliable performance during travel.
Asus ZenScreen MB166CR: Frustrating Stand Design
The Asus ZenScreen MB166CR aims to be a budget-friendly portable monitor, but its key flaw lies in its screw-on kickstand. This stand design is described as frustrating and cumbersome to use. Adjusting the viewing angle requires loosening and tightening a screw, a process that is both time-consuming and inconvenient, especially for travelers who need quick setup and adjustments on the go. Ease of use is a crucial factor for travel accessories, and the ZenScreen MB166CR’s stand design detracts significantly from its portability and practicality. Users should consider whether they are willing to tolerate this stand issue for a lower price point.
Espresso Displays 17 Pro: Bulky but Feature-Rich for Creative Professionals
Targeting creative professionals, the Espresso Displays 17 Pro boasts a large 17-inch 4K touchscreen display with excellent color accuracy, covering 97% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. It also offers touchscreen and stylus functionality for Mac users, features typically found in much more expensive pen displays. However, its bulkiness and weight are significant drawbacks for a travel monitor. The monitor itself, combined with its Pro Stand, weighs over 4 pounds, excluding the laptop and power adapters. Furthermore, the lack of physical buttons and reliance on software for settings adjustments might not appeal to all users. While ideal for creatives needing a color-accurate and feature-rich portable display, its size and weight make it less suitable for frequent travel compared to smaller, lighter options.
ViewSonic VX1655 & VX1655-4K: Varied Performance within the Brand
The ViewSonic VX1655 shows weaker sharpness compared to other tested monitors, and its contrast ratio drops in sRGB mode. In contrast, the ViewSonic VX1655-4K stands out as a competitive 4K option with good color accuracy and high brightness. While the OLED version is considered superior overall, the VX1655-4K remains a worthy alternative, especially for those who prefer a matte screen coating over the glossy finish of OLED displays. ViewSonic’s range demonstrates varied performance levels, with the VX1655-4K offering a significant upgrade in resolution and brightness compared to the standard VX1655. For travel, the VX1655-4K provides a balance of visual quality and portability, though users should consider if the 4K resolution is necessary for their typical use cases while traveling.
HP E14 G4 & Dell C1422H: Compact but Pricey 14-inch Options
The HP E14 G4 and Dell C1422H are both compact 14-inch portable monitors with 1080p resolution. The HP E14 G4 offers a sturdy stand and basic image settings, but it is more expensive than larger and equally capable alternatives. The Dell C1422H is very similar in performance to the HP model but with fewer settings and is considered somewhat outdated. While their smaller size might appeal to travelers prioritizing extreme portability, their higher price for their features and image quality makes them less competitive. For most users, 15.6-inch monitors often provide a better balance of screen real estate and portability at a similar or lower price point.
Lenovo ThinkVision M14d: High Resolution, High Price
The Lenovo ThinkVision M14d features a sharp 2240×1400 resolution in a 14-inch display. It’s a visually appealing monitor, but its high price tag makes it hard to recommend. At the reviewed price, the resolution and IPS display technology do not fully justify the cost, especially compared to other monitors offering similar or better performance at a lower price. While the higher resolution is a plus, travelers seeking value for money can find more competitive options in the market that offer a better balance of features and price for their portable display needs.
Asus ZenScreen Go MB16AWP: Wireless Connectivity with Limitations
The Asus ZenScreen Go MB16AWP stands out with wireless connectivity and an internal battery, allowing it to connect to phones and act as a larger screen wirelessly. However, testing revealed limitations with streaming services restricting wireless video streaming to external devices. While wireless connectivity worked well for extending Windows displays, the premium price for the battery and wireless features may not be worthwhile for most users given these restrictions. Unless wireless phone connectivity or a completely cable-free setup for Windows is a primary requirement, the added cost of the ZenScreen Go MB16AWP might not justify its limited wireless functionality for typical travel computer monitor usage.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Travel Computer Monitor
Selecting the best travel computer monitor depends largely on individual needs and priorities. While some models offer higher resolution or specialized features, factors like portability, image quality, and price are crucial for travel use. Consider your primary use cases – whether it’s for basic productivity, creative work, or entertainment – and weigh the pros and cons of each monitor to find the ideal travel companion to enhance your on-the-go workstation. Explore our top recommendations and find the ideal travel computer monitor to boost your productivity wherever you are.
