Buying a Portable Monitor: What Should You Look For?

Looking to buy a portable monitor? A second screen you can take anywhere keeps you just as productive on the road as at home. But what should you look for? In this buying guide, we walk through the key points so you can choose the right model.

Why Choose a Portable Monitor?

A portable monitor (also known as a second screen) connects to your laptop, phone, or tablet with a single cable. It's ideal for:

• working from home or flexible workspaces without a permanent extra screen;
• working on the go, whether on the train, in a café, or at a hotel;
• presentations and collaboration on location;
• more overview for spreadsheets, code, or video editing.

What Should You Look For When Buying a Portable Monitor?

Screen Quality and Resolution

For text and spreadsheets, Full HD is often enough, but 2K or 4K delivers a sharper image and more working space. Look for an IPS panel for accurate colors and wide viewing angles. If you work with photo or video, opt for high resolution and color accuracy.

Size and Weight

A 13-inch monitor is light and compact enough for your bag, while a 16-inch model offers more working space for a full dual-screen setup. Pay attention to weight if you carry the screen with you every day.

Connections (USB-C and HDMI)

The most convenient option is USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode: a single cable for both video and power. Check whether your laptop supports this. A Mini-HDMI connection is a handy backup for devices that don't send a video signal over USB-C.

Power and Passthrough

With USB-C Power Delivery (passthrough), you can charge your laptop while the monitor draws power through the same cable. That way, you only need one power source on the go.

Stand and Ease of Use

A built-in stand or magnetic design saves a lot of hassle. Plug-and-play operation without drivers makes it simple to use on any laptop.

Which Portable Monitor Suits You?

At Remodius, you'll find a complete range of portable monitors:

• The Portable Monitor 13 inch is light and compact, ideal for life on the go.
• The Portable Monitor 16 inch offers maximum working space for a dual-screen setup.
• Looking for something premium with 4K or 120Hz? Check out the SOTSU FlipAction monitors, which click magnetically onto the back of your laptop.

Buying a Portable Monitor at Remodius

• Plug-and-play via USB-C, compatible with most laptops and MacBooks.
• Free, fast shipping from the Netherlands.
• 2-year warranty and service from the Netherlands.
• Expert advice on choosing the right model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a portable monitor work with my laptop?
Yes, via USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode (most modern laptops and MacBooks) or via HDMI. One cable is usually all you need.

Which size portable monitor should I buy?
13 inch is the lightest option for travel; 16 inch offers more working space for a dual-screen setup.

Do I need a power outlet?
Not always. With USB-C passthrough, your laptop or a power bank can supply power; a model with its own power supply also works.