In today’s hybrid work environment, a portable monitor can be a game-changer for productivity, creativity, and entertainment on the go.
Portable monitors are a very different ‘kettle of fish’ to traditional monitors. Your portable monitor will be something that you’re going to physically handle, setup in various places, pack away into your bag, and also plug into different devices.
When it comes to portable monitors, there are a few additional factors to consider when seeking out what you want, and how much you are willing to invest.
With so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? We have broken down what we believe to be the building blocks of success for choosing the best portable monitor for your needs.
1. Screen Size: It can make the world of difference
Portable monitors come in various sizes, typically ranging from 12 to 17 inches. The size you choose should align with your intended use:
- Small (12-13 inches): Great for simplicity and basic tasks on the go like email and browsing. In some cases, this size is smaller than most laptop screen sizes.
- Medium (14-15 inches): A good balance of size and portability with a format that will match the size of most laptop screens. A 15-inch portable monitor seems to be the most popular size and the ‘sweet spot for most people.’
- Large (16-17 inches): Ideal for more complex, immersive or creative work. With something that may be larger than your laptop’s screen, this may better suited to people who work away from a traditional desk environment more frequently.
In addition to panel size, check the dimensions of the device. Will it fit into my bag alongside my other devices? Does it have any additional design features of accessories that require additional storage?
Naturally, the larger the panel, the more power it may consume from your primary device.
💡 Tip: Consider the primary tasks you’ll perform. If you work with multiple windows or detailed content, a larger screen might be beneficial.
2. Consider the Weight You’re Willing to Carry
The weight of a portable monitor affects its portability:
- Lightweight (under 1.5 lbs): Perfect for frequent travellers. Often made from lower quality materials and plastic chassis. Less durable.
- Mid-weight (1.5-2.5 lbs): A good compromise between size and portability. Often made from higher quality components such as aluminium, still slides easily into your bag.
- Heavyweight (over 2.5 lbs): Great for stationary setups but less convenient to carry around. May have additional features for specific uses (e.g. graphic design) and require additional power.
💡 Tip: If you’re constantly on the move, opt for a lighter monitor but balance durability. For stationary setups or occasional travel, a heavier monitor with more features might be acceptable.
3. Colour Accuracy and Brightness
Brightness and colour accuracy are critical to providing a rich and immersive visual experience. These features work together to showcase content with precision and in the best possible way.
If you’re creating, presenting, or just consuming content – from slide decks and spreadsheets, through to 4K video content, your display needs to be up to task.
Standard Displays:
- Suitable for: General use like browsing, office work, and streaming.
- Colour Gamut: Covers basic sRGB spectrum.
High Colour Accurate Displays:
- Suitable for: Photographers, graphic designers, video editors, and digital artists.
- Colour Gamut: Wider range of colours, Gamut coverage like Adobe RGB or DCI-P3, better colour reproduction.
💡 Tip: Check the monitor’s colour gamut percentage. A higher percentage indicates better colour accuracy, which is essential for colour-sensitive tasks.
4. Resolution
- 1080p (Full HD): This is a popular choice for its balance of detail, power consumption and affordability. It's suitable for most tasks like office work, browsing, and casual gaming.
- 4K (UHD): If you need more detail for tasks like photo or video editing, consider a higher resolution like 4K. However, keep in mind that 4K monitors tend to be larger and more expensive.
5. Touchscreen Features: Do You Need Them Now or in the Future?
Touchscreen capabilities can enhance interactivity:
Non-Touch Monitors:
- Pros: Generally, more affordable, lower power consumption.
- Cons: Less interactive, limited to traditional input methods of keyboard and mouse.
Touchscreen Monitors:
- Pros: Intuitive interaction, great for design, mark-up, sketching and note taking. Often a Pen or Stylus may be purchased for additional functionality and precision. Even if you don’t need touch capabilities now, investing in a monitor with these features can be beneficial as your needs evolve.
- Cons: Higher cost, May not be compatible with all operating systems, especially Mac.
6. Set a budget
Your budget will significantly influence your options:
- Budget-Friendly (under $200): Basic features and smaller screens, often less durable and built with lower quality materials and screens.
- Mid-Range ($200-500): Better build quality, higher quality panels, more stable stands and more features.
- Premium (over $500): High-end specs like 4K resolution or touch capabilities, often with superior colour gamut and built in batteries.
Conclusion
Selecting the best portable monitor involves balancing your specific needs with the features available:
- Size vs. Portability: Larger screens offer more space but are less portable.
- Weight Considerations: Lighter monitors are better for travel but may have limited features.
- Display Quality: Necessary for professional visual work.
- Touch and Stylus Support: Enhances functionality for creative tasks.
- Budget Constraints: Determine which features are essential and allocate your budget accordingly.
By carefully considering these factors, you’ll find a portable monitor that enhances your productivity and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
🚨 Remember: The best portable monitor for you is one that aligns with your specific needs, preferences, and budget. You can compare the espresso Displays range below.
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