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Remote working demands more screen real estate to run multiple apps efficiently. Discover how these portable monitors can transform your work-from-anywhere experience and boost your productivity.
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A portable monitor can help remote workers level up video conferences and presentations. Photo: Amazon.sg
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22 Sep 2024 05:32PM
(Updated: 22 Sep 2024 05:49PM)
Working on a laptop at your favourite cafe may be the ultimate remote-work dream. That would be true if you’re writing your Next Great Novel. But if you’re squinting over an OpEx spreadsheet on a 13-inch laptop screen, you may start questioning your life’s tech choices.
Call it the conundrum of the remoter worker. Small laptops are easy to carry but their small screens can limit productivity. More screen space makes it easier to run multiple apps or perform more demanding tasks without a fixed desktop setup. We’ve highlighted some top portable monitors that can transform your work-from-anywhere experience and boost your productivity.
CONTENTS
- UPERFECT 15.6-inch portable IPS HDR monitor
- ViewSonic VA1655 15.6 Inch Portable IPS Monitor
- ASUS ZenScreen MB166C 15.6-inch Portable USB Monitor
- Lenovo L15 Portable Monitor, 15.6-inch Display
- LG Gram 16-inch Portable IPS USB-C Monitor
- Asus ZenScreen portable OLED monitor
- Teamgee 15.6-inch IPS Dual Screen Extender
UPERFECT 15.6-inch portable IPS HDR monitor (S$152.99; Usual Price: S$199.99)
HDR (high dynamic range) support, a 178° viewing angle, full-HD (1,920 x 1,080) resolution, Eye Care technology – this 15.6-inch monitor offers a lot for the money. It features two USB-C ports, a standard HDMI port and micro-USB port for legacy devices. Dual speakers and integrated cover and stand offer added versatility. It’s also compatible with standard VESA mounts so it can be attached to monitor arms or stands.
- Weight: 635g
- Thickness: 10.1mm
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: HDR support, dual speakers, eye care display, USB-C and HDMI connectivity
- Cons: No built-in battery, Stand functionality could be improved
- Best for: Content creators and video editors working remotely
ViewSonic VA1655 15.6 Inch Portable IPS Monitor (S$157.97; Usual Price: S$176.87)
This 15.6-inch full-HD portable IPS monitor with a 60Hz refresh rate, ideal for business use. With USB-C connectivity, it reduces cable clutter by allowing fast data, audio, and video transfer and even 60W charging over a single cable. It features two USB-C ports, one mini HDMI port, dual integrated speakers and a 3.5mm audio jack. It includes a protective sleeve, built-in stand for portrait and landscape modes, and supports laptops, PCs and Apple/Mac devices.
- Weight: 680g
- Thickness: 17.8mm
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: Mobile ergonomics, USB-C and HDMI ports, built-in stand with tilt, bright display with good contrast
- Cons: Some colors may appear dull in photos/videos
- Best for: Remote workers who need versatile connectivity options
ASUS ZenScreen MB166C 15.6-inch Portable USB Monitor (S$169; Usual Price: S$183.87)
Weighing 780g, this slim 15.6-inch full HD anti-glare IPS display is ideal for on-the-go use. It has a 16:9 aspect ratio, 178° viewing angles, and 250cd/m2 brightness. The USB Type-C connector ensures easy compatibility with devices. ASUS Eye Care technology, certified by TÜV Rheinland, reduces eye strain. For Windows users, the monitor automatically switches between landscape and portrait modes via DisplayWidget app. A 1/4-inch threaded hole at the rear of the monitor lets users attach the monitor to a tripod. It includes a foldable sleeve for versatility.
- Weight: 0.78kg
- Thickness: 11.8mm
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: Full HD IPS display, USB-C connectivity, Tripod mountable, Slim and lightweight design
- Cons: Only USB-C port (no HDMI), No built-in battery
- Best for: Digital nomads who prioritise portability
Lenovo’s L15 monitor includes a sturdy base that allows the full-HD panel to be tilted from flat up to 90° and is also height adjustable. It has two USB-C ports with a 60hz refresh rate for smooth visuals that help reduce eye strain. It can be connected to compatible laptops and phones and supports simultaneous power pass-through, which uses one cable to power two devices with video out. The 250-nit screen uses low blue light technology for comfortable all day use. It works well in most conditions although it may not be suited for outdoor use or a very glary workspace.
- Weight: 860g
- Thickness: 16.3mm (including base), 6mm (screen)
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: Tilt and heigh adjustable stand, low-blue light display, USB-C pass through
- Cons: May not be suited for outdoor use or glary workspace
- Best for: Multi-device users who need a highly adjustable screen for collaborative work
This portable monitor’s anti-glare WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) panel with DCI-P3 99 per cent colour accuracy make it suited for more demanding applications like editing photos or working on layouts. It has two USB-C ports that support simultaneous power pass-through. Its adjustable +view cover can tilt the monitor from 105° to 120° and supports horizontal and vertical orientations.
- Weight: 670g (920g with folio)
- Thickness: 8.1mm
- Resolution: 2,560 x 1,600
- Pros: WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) panel with DCI-P3 99 per cent colour accuracy, USB-C pass through
- Cons: Two USB-C ports – no legacy ports for older devices
- Best for: Multi-device users who need a high resolution screen for photo and video editing
This monitor is slightly pricy but that’s largely down to its 13.3-inch OLED panel. It delivers vivid visuals with its 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and 100 per cent DCI-P3 colour gamut. It offers good HDR performance and a 1ms response time. The versatile ASUS Smart Case and integral tripod socket provide flexible viewing angles. Connectivity is handled by one Mini HDMI and three USB-C ports. A proximity sensor dims the display when not in use, conserving power and preventing image burn-in.
- Weight: 490g (without stand)
- Thickness: 8.9mm
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: OLED panel, 100 per cent DCI-P3 colour gamut
- Cons: Small size not suitable for more demanding applications
- Best for: Multi-device users who need a high quality OLED display
Teamgee 15.6-inch IPS Dual Screen Extender (S$641.20)
Chope tables like a champion with this dual-screen laptop monitor extension. Its secure clamp holder fits most laptop sizes and can be detached for single-screen use. It offers wide compatibility with one HDMI and two USB-C ports, making it a good solution for efficient multitasking expansion. It offers 235° of rotation for the optimum viewing angle.
- Size: 15.6 inches
- Thickness: 8.9mm
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Pros: One HDMI and two USB-C & HDMI ports, twin displays
- Cons: Twin-monitor setup is useful but may be too bulky for some users
- Best for: Programmers, traders, users who need multiple apps open
WHY BUY A PORTABLE MONITOR FOR REMOTE WORK?
Portable monitors can aid multitasking, boost productivity and make it easier to perform more demanding tasks remotely.
Boost productivity with multi-app workflows
The additional screen space makes multitasking easier, especially if you need to use several applications simultaneously.
Work from anywhere: Home, cafes, co-working spaces
You may be tired of listening to the office gym bro wax lyrical about a new superset he’s mastered. Or you may be stuck on a proposal. Sometimes, a change of environment – with some help from an external monitor – can inspire creativity or help you focus on getting the job done without compromising productivity.
Level up your video conferencing and presentations
Two screens help you keep your video call on one monitor and presentation notes and documents open on the other. This makes it easier to stay organised and focused. You can manage your presentation and monitor chat messages simultanesouly.
Achieve better work-life balance with efficient screen management
This sounds like a stretch but hear me out. Portable monitors offer the screen real-estate of a desktop setup with the flexibility to work anywhere.
| Feature |
Why it’s crucial |
| Size | Balances screen space and portability |
| Resolution | At least full HD (1,920×1,080) |
| Compatibility | Does it work with different devices and operating systems? |
| Weight | Easy to carry between workspaces |
| Blue light filter | Reduces eye strain |
Portable monitor FAQs
What is the best portable monitor for laptops?
This depends on your priorities. For instance, if you need an external monitor with a higher resolution, the LG Gram 16’s 2,560 x 1,600 resolution could be ideal. If you want the quality of an OLED panel, the Asus Zenscreen MQ13AH could be your best bet. ViewSonic’s VA1655 is often touted for its USB-C, HDMI and audio ports and compatibility with a variety of devices.
Can I use a portable monitor with my smartphone?
Look for monitors that support USB-C connectivity or wireless display options. For instance, many Android devices can take full advantage of a portable monitor for an expanded mobile workspace or entertainment setup.
Are portable monitors worth it for remote work?
Absolutely. Portable monitors can significantly boost productivity for remote workers by:
- Enabling efficient multi-tasking with a dual screen portable monitor setup
- Providing flexibility to work from various locations
- Enhancing video conferencing and presentation capabilities
- Improving ergonomics and reducing eye strain compared to working on a small laptop screen
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