Finding The Right Portable Monitor for Laptop: What You Need to Know
In a hybrid workplace where projects often extend beyond the confines of one’s office, having a portable monitor for your laptop can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a professional on the go, an at-home worker needing extra screen real estate, or a business owner looking to optimize productivity, portable monitors provide the flexibility and convenience you need.
As technology advances, portable monitors have become more compact and lighter, with USB-C connectivity for easy power charging, video, audio, and data transfer, as well as high-speed connectivity through a single cable.
What to Consider When Buying an External Monitor
Let’s explore key factors to consider that could help you make an informed decision when purchasing a portable display:
Screen Size
Since you want to extend a screen estate for yourself or your employees, make sure you’ve got a display that’s big enough. The most common portable models on the market will have display sizes ranging from 15 inches to 17 inches. Ultimately, the size of the portable display should align with your specific usage requirements and enhance your overall experience.
Total Weight
The weight of the portable monitor is another important factor to consider, especially if it’s meant to be carried around. Although what may seem not so heavy at the store or while browsing online options, it will feel different after carrying the device all day between client meetings and conferences. You can be sure your back will thank you for choosing a display that weighs less than 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds).
Connectivity Options
Having multiple connectivity options enhances compatibility with various devices, particularly when you’re on the go. Portable monitors typically feature HDMI or DisplayPort, but having a USB-C port is essential for seamless integration with your laptop. USB-C monitor is a one-cable solution that not only transmits over 60W power but also transfers data and video signals. This means you can connect your portable display to your laptop as well as other mobile devices with USB-C ports such as the new iPhone 15 series, eliminating the need for multiple cables and adapters.
Display Quality
Display quality is like a Russian doll of features. This is why, you want to know what you’re going to use the monitor for, because different features may accommodate different budgets and priorities. Here it’s important to think of resolution, monitor panel type, refresh rates, color gamut, or viewing angles. Additionally, you might want to think about your eye health and choose an option that will safeguard you from getting a digital eye strain.
Touch Functionality
A touchscreen function is a valuable feature found in some portable monitors, especially for small team communication and creative work. It serves as a versatile tool for individual creation, client meetings, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. The portable display’s design encompasses an adjustable wide stand and a pivoting display, offering support for various working angles. It’s also worth noting to check if your mobile device supports USB touch signal transmission to enable touch feedback control on the monitor.
Vertical Layout
Being able to pivot your orientation and adjust your viewing experience can be worth its weight in gold, especially for coding or photo editing. By switching between landscape and portrait modes, you can easily view portrait photos or scan through lengthy code blocks.