Portability is everything as we’re living in this busy era where “work” is our top priority. I am not saying that we can’t do everything with a laptop or PC, of course, we can, but no doubt portable USB monitors are more convenient when they work together with computers. To have the options of a progressive stand you need to see the available options around.
When it comes to the busy routine as many of you might have, it’s difficult for you to work on the go as you’re not provided with much space. So in this technology era, we have the option of best portable USB Powered monitors. Their portability allows us to complete our job on the go.
In other words “Working on two screens is way better than working on one” as laptop and portable monitor together allows you to have more workspace to do your complex tasks with ease.
There are many brands out there in the market that offers the best USB-powered monitors. You might be familiar with those brands like AOC ASUS HP Lilliput and a few others. But we tracked down the ones that are best for you as there are hundreds of USB-powered monitors out there in the market and I am sure, choosing the best one out of them is quite difficult for some of you. So without further ado, let’s get into the best portable USB-powered monitors list.
Best USB Powered Portable Monitors In 2021
1. ASUS MB169C+15.6″ Review
The first USB-powered monitor that took place in our list is ASUS MB169C+, the best portable full HD monitor that offers USB type C for both data transmission and Power rather than using USB-A-like the ASUS MB169B+. Anyhow, let’s continue with the design. I must say Asus never compromise on its design. Just like many other portable monitors out there in the market from ASUS, MB169C+ also comes with a slimmest and attractive design as you might have observed in the picture. Speaking of its dimensions, the MB169C+ comes with 379mm width, 236mm height, and 8.5mm depth which makes it a super portable monitor. Moreover, it weighs only 800g which makes it lighter than many other USB-powered portable monitors out there in the market. The device comes with a protective case that protects the exterior of the monitor from scratches and any unwanted damages. If you see around for other portability supporting screens especially every portable gaming monitor, they provide a protective shield on board to secure the screen from scratches either in the shape of body cover or a screen protector.
Just like any other modern monitor these days, the ASUS MB169C+ also has buttons on its side and the purpose of these buttons is to launch the OSD(on-screen display) menu. Now that you’re clear about the design of the portable monitor, let me guide you through some of the interesting specifications that ASUS MB169C+ offers. Just like its predecessors, the device keeps the same 15.6-inch display but I can see the improvements that ASUS made in the connectivity and screen’s panel. The previous portable USB monitor that I experienced was ASUS MB169B+ that offers HD TN panels, but unlike that, the MB169C+ went to the next level with IPS panels on a 1080pixels display. The device is also upgraded to use a single cable for display and power. Moreover, Screen settings are also improved. Though it is a fact that MB16AC is brighter than the MB169C+. The former is spec’d at 220 cd/m2 and the latter 180 cd/m2. I must say ASUS did a great job of making the device more convenient by making these small changes.
Moreover, the IPS panel comes with 220 cd/m2 brightness and a contrast ratio of 700:1 which is perfect for consuming less than 7w. Moreover, the USB-powered portable monitor claims to have a 1980×1080 display alongside impressive viewing angles which stand out from most of the monitors in the market. The device delivers awesome performance and speed. You don’t have to upgrade the drivers as the MB169C+ is compatible with almost all laptops. It means the monitor still delivers incredible speed and performance even if you’re using it with an old-generation laptop. One of the downsides for the device is that you might find the carrying case a bit fiddly to use and killing your laptop’s battery in less time isn’t hard for Asus MB169C+. The display seems to be a little dim but that’s fine, it’s good for the eyesight.
- Uses simple USB-C cable for charging and data transmission.
- Impressive display and viewing angles.
- Fast performance and reliable.
- Color saturation is on another level.
- Kills laptop’s battery fast.
- Carrying case might be complex to use for some of you.
2. AOC I1601FWUX Portable USB Monitor
Another portable monitor that I tracked down for you guys is AOC I1601FWUX 15.6 inches USB powered monitor that is slim and comes with a light design. I must say this device is perfect for work on the go. so without further ado, let’s get into the I1601FWUX review. Starting with the design, the device comes with a simple design having a plain display and black bezel around it. Moreover, the aluminum display chassis at the back and sides make the I1601FWUX USB powered portable monitor more appealing and eye-catching. The monitor weighs only 1.8 pounds which makes it lighter than many other USB powered monitors in the market. The thing is 14.9 x 9.25 x 0.3 inches in dimensions which makes it slim and small enough so that it can easily fit in your laptop’s bag.
Now that you’re clear about the design, let’s talk about the display of the device. AOC I1601FWUX comes with a 15.6-inch display with 1920×1080 pixels resolutions which is great. When we tested the trailer of blade runner 2049 and Avatar 2 on the portable monitor, we found that it was a bit hard to see the pixels as we found them a bit dark. AOC I1601FWUX stands out than many USB powered portable monitors in brightness as it delivers 212.6 nits which are way better than the AOC e1659fwu and Asus MB168B+ USB monitors which are similar to the one that we’re reviewing.
Moreover, the color saturation wasn’t that impressive as we expected, but still better than many USB powered monitors. The device is at the contrast ratio of 700:1 which is great. The device delivered lag-free performance during our test with the response time of 5ms(OD) which is quite impressive. Unlike other monitors in the market, we find it easy to handle and the touch screen quality is just amazing. I must AOC did a great job for releasing such a device for us. There is one design flaw that we found in the device, as the usb powered portable monitor is only USB-C so, if you don’t have USB-C port in your computer or laptop, it’s not recommended for you.
- A Single USB-C cable.
- Lag-free performance.
- Awesome contrast ratio.
- Brightness on another level.
- Good viewing angles.
- Lightweight.
- Slim and small.
- The pixels of the videos were a bit dark.
- Might not be compatible with old computers.
3. ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6-Inch Portable USB Monitor
All I have to say in the beginning is “The best USB powered portable monitor that works with all laptops” but the problem is that “it isn’t that bright as compare to other portable monitors”. Anyhow, let’s get into the real stuff. Let’s start with the display. The 15.6-inch display size and 1920×1080 resolutions make the ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC one of the best devices to use as a second display for your laptop to get the most out of your precious time. It comes along with the brightness of 179.6 nits and delivers the crisp and clear image with FHD resolutions.
ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC comes with two different brightness modes, one is for gaming and the other one is for movies. I find out the default one much brighter as I was able to handle many things in that mode. Now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about the design. The portability of the device is on another level with 14.6 x 8.9 x 0.3 inches dimension and weighs 2.8 pounds(with cover) and 1.7 pounds without cover which is amazing. Moreover, it is protected by a cover which helps the device to cope against scratches when it’s inside your briefcase or backpack. The cover is supposed to be used as a stand as it’s thick enough but it’s a headache for me, I wouldn’t use it, instead, I would use the hole at the bottom which is able easily to balance my device by sticking a pen. Moreover, the viewing area is covered with the bezel which makes it more attractive than many USB powered portable monitors. The buttons on the left corner of the USB powered portable monitor are supposed to control the navigation menus.
Changing the setting on ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC is quite simple. It would be better if you install any sort of software, then you can easily change the settings by using your laptop’s screen. The USB powered monitor comes with IPS panel and USB-C that can be used with A adapter. The contrast ratio is better(800:1) than the ones that I reviewed above. Moreover, it comes with the Flicker-free Blue light filter technology that allows you to different brightness capabilities. Comes with a glossy display that makes the pictures and videos crisp and clear with the pixel pitch of 0.179mm.
- Easy USB-C to USB-C connectivity.
- Appealing design.
- Impressive performance.
- powered with IPS panel.
- Flicker-free blue light filter added.
- Lighter and slimmer than what we expected.
- Easy to set up.
- Compatible with all new generation computers.
- Not bright enough.
- Stand is difficult to handle.
- Floppy smart cover.
4. AOC E1659FWUX Portable USB Monitor
Here comes another best USB powered portable monitor all the way from AOC with the slimmest and lightweight design. The device is designed for people who are always on the go. So if you’re a person that works at the office, AOC E1659FWUX is a perfect choice for you. Before I get into the e1659fwux specs and features, let me guide you through the design of the USB powered monitor. You might have seen some of the devices like the one I reviewed before which is the ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC that comes without a stand and instead of that, it uses the cover as a stand which is quite difficult to handle. AOC E1659FWUX isn’t the same, as it comes with a proper stand that is easy to handle. All you have to do is to open the stand and it balances the portable monitor without any hesitation. You can rotate the stand which makes the monitor perfect to use in the landscape. You don’t have to worry about the image rotation as you rotate the stand as it automatically does its job.
Moreover, the display size is the same as the other USB powered portable monitors on our list which is 15 inches and is covered with half an inch of mate black bezels. AOC E1659fWUX USB powered portable monitor weights 2.6 pounds with 9.1×14.6×0.6 inches dimensions which makes it slim enough to fit inside your laptop’s carrying case or bag. In case of connectivity, this one is different than the ones that I reviewed before as it includes USB 3.0 and you won’t find any other input or output connectivity options in the monitor other than this one. Moreover, as soon as you’re done with the connectivity it displays the picture from your laptop or PC and consumes power from your host PC.
But before you get into the connectivity, there are few things that you need to do. First, install the DisplayLink driver. As soon as the software is done installing, make the connection. The DisplayLink software will find your monitor and you’re ready to go. However, you’re also provided with the AOC E1659fWUX manual so, you need to go through the instructions before you get started. The portable monitor delivers the contrast ratio of 500:1 with 1920 x 1080 resolutions which are good enough as compared to many other USB power portable monitors in the market. It could deliver crisp and clear images and visual content. Other than that, the monitor comes with TN panel rather than an IPS panel. Although, I am not impressed with the viewing angles as they narrow and the gray-scale performance is weak which are the only letdowns for this USB powered portable monitor.
- Comes with USB 3.0.
- Perfect design.
- Ideal for office use.
- TN panel included.
- Easy connectivity.
- The user manual provided.
- Drivers CD included in the package.
- Crisp and clear display.
- Fast performance.
- Viewing angles are narrow.
- Grayscale performance isn’t impressive.
5. GeChic 1503H 15.6″ Review
This is probably the best USB-powered portable monitor that offers more features than any other portable monitor in our list. But the thing is that it’s also expensive than the ones that I reviewed earlier on this list. With that being said, let’s find out what this monitor offers. First and foremost let’s have a look at the Gechic 1503H specs and features. The device is one of the best quality USB-powered portable monitors that includes USB type A, USB type C, and micro HDMI connectivity. So you’re getting 3 in one which is awesome.
Moreover, As much I am concerned with the design, it doesn’t offer the design that can stand out from other devices, but still, it’s satisfactory. The device weighs 798 grams which makes it a little heavier than other USB-powered monitors in the market, but not that heavy so that it is difficult to carry from one place to another. The stand at the back of the device is just perfect. It perfectly balances the monitor on the plan surface as soon as you open it. But the thing is, it’s not designed for landscapes.
The best is that in the menu options you can easily adjust the brightness, contrast, and sharpness of the picture without any hesitation. When we compared the price of Gechic 1503H with other USB powered portable monitors, it came out a bit expensive than others as it offers more specs and features. The design isn’t that good as we expect from the devices that we review.
- Multiple connectivity options(USB A, USB C, HDMI)
- Performance on another level.
- Better contrast ratio as compared to other USB monitors in the market.
- Easy to use with more menu options.
- Uses IPS panel.
- A bit heavy.
- Pricey.
6. Eleclink 10.1 Inches Portable USB Monitor Review
If you’re a person that is in search of the best portable monitor that has the capability to support more interfaces, the Eleclink 10.1 is strongly recommended for you. The monitor has multiple input options even more than the one that I reviewed at #5. Anyhow the connectivity options include USB, HDMI, AV, VGA. I must say in term of connectivity, the Eleclink 10.1 left behind many USB-powered portable monitors. The Eleclink 10.1 comes with length 14.3, width 11.8 and height 2.4 with 2.75 pounds which makes it super portable. The inner portion is protected by a strong exterior that prevents damages with a stand attached to its back that balances the monitor on a plan surface without hesitation. The overall design is quite impressive as you might have observed in the picture.
However, the screen resolutions are not that impressive as expected. The Eleclink 10.1 portable monitor comes with 1080 by 600 pixels having LED back-light. The contrast ratio measured at 800:1 which is good enough. Moreover, the aspect ratio also isn’t bad with 16:9 (height and width). From the connectivity options that I mentioned at the beginning proves the device to be a multipurpose portable monitor.
Let’s find out what you’ll get in the box for this HDMI portable. As soon as you open the box, you’re welcomed with Eleclink 10.1 inches portable monitor alongside with an adapter that supports all interfaces. The package also includes a VGA and a stand that is separate from the monitor. If you’re a gamer, I think it’s the best choice for PS3, PS4, and Xbox. The problems with the monitor are that it’s image quality isn’t that good and the company didn’t include any sleeves for outer protection. Moreover, comes with the poor viewing angles with 89/89/89/89 left, up, right, down.
- Come with affordable price.
- Good performance.
- Can be used for multiple purposes.
- Nice color saturation.
- Can work perfectly in extreme temperature conditions.
- Viewing angles aren’t impressive.
- Doesn’t come with good resolutions.
- Protection sleeves not included.
7. Gechic 2501C 15.6 Review
The last portable USB monitor in our list is Gechic 2501C which the best device for business purposes. If you’re really into business, I think it’s time you should have one of these. With that being said, let’s get into the Gechic 2501C review. The USB-powered portable monitor isn’t just limited to USB, it also supports VGA and HDMI that you have to buy separately from the package. Moreover, it supports USB 3.0 which means it can easily support all-new generation laptops. Other than that, the more connectivity options that I mentioned allows you to connect the monitor with Macbook, Mac mini, Xbox, PS4, and smartphones.
The resolutions are at 1366 by 768 which delivers a quite impressive display with crisp and clear images. The contrast ratio is calculated at 400:1 which is good enough. Just like most of the USB powered portable monitors in our list, Gechic 2501C also comes with 15.6″ IPS screen display with 1.28cm thickness and weighs only 2.27lbs including the cover. The cover is actually thick enough so that it can be used as a stand.
You don’t need to install the drivers, with Gechic 2501C, everything is plug and play. All you need to do is to plug in the connector to both devices and you’re ready to go. The response time for the Gechic 2501C USB powered portable monitor that we measured is 8ms which makes it fast enough. Moreover, the monitor comes with the 200cd/m2 brightness with 16.7 million colors. The aspect ratio is at 16:9 with the refresh rate of 60Hz. To check its performance, we tried some videos on the device, but the display wasn’t that impressive. instead of watching movies and videos, I think it’s way better for office use as it’s able to perform heavy tasks with ease. The problem with the device is that it’s non-touch, it means you have control everything from with buttons and laptop. The other problem that I found in the monitor is that it doesn’t deliver full HD resolutions.
- Slim and lightweight design.
- Awesome performance.
- Better for business tasks.
- 16.7 million colors.
- low response time.
- Good brightness.
- Non-HD resolutions.
- Non-touch.
8. HP Business S14 Review
Somehow this popular saying of “seeing is believing” and it fits well to your good choice of owning this portable HP Business S14. Well, is that it? You might be thinking what is so common of the noticing impact of this HP Business S14 portable monitor that is as wide as 14 inches (great size, of course!)?
Emmmm! That is the thing which does not suffice to list it up into our top of the best USB powered portable monitors. Got it yet? Yeah, that one and the single word (a whole lot of the feature!) of USB! Make it be picked with you wherever you go and go worry-free of how to power the secondary monitor because it is just a USB port away from powering ON. Maximize your productivity by attaching this great portable monitor to ease up your workload and spread it on to the dual-display for convenience. Even though your laptop monitor is wide enough but opening so many tabs on one display monitor will clutter and hence the productivity will be slowed down because of switching to the tabs from time to time.
Despite being the portable USB powered monitor, the fitted screen is ready to display you the full HD content and is also a mere 9mm thick with having the weight of less than 1KG to carry it along with you. With the aspect ratio of 16:9 along with the refresh rate touching to 60Hz with the response time of 5ms; this combination is truly equivalent to deliver the best viewing quality content loaded with the full HD and 1920 x 1080 resolution summed up within this 14 inches LCD. The included easel cover is best to make it stand up or fold back; whichever viewing angle and convenience you seek to place your it up according to you willing.
- Brilliant viewing experience.
- Inexpensive USB powered portable monitor.
- A bit heavy in weight.
9. Newsoul Portable Monitor Review
We bring you another full HD USB powered portable monitor that is just as big as your own laptop or the PC. Even though portable monitors are usually consumed for professional arrangements but the trends have been slightly changing their course as the techie people have adopted the use of portable monitors specifically for games. And this Newsoul USB portable monitor is the best alternative monitor that needs to be only powered up using the USB port. Just plug it in and enjoy the seamless gaming sessions going to last for good long hours without increasing your energy bill because it is only powered up through a USB port and hence the power efficiency leads you to save good bucks off of your monthly electricity bill.
It's wider and the bigger screen with the size of 15.6 inches loaded with the IPS and HDR to show the pixel-perfect images as well as animated content without noticeable difference from the reality with the resolution size of 1920 x 1080 along the Eye Care screen to play the games for long without fatiguing your eyes. Attach it with your laptop and feel the brilliant quality of voice as this Newsoul USB powered portable monitor has the built-in dual speakers. And worry not if you are meant to use with your phone, Xbox, PS4, Wii, Nintendo, and such devices to play up the volume at a high level!
The single Type-C USB is efficiently used to connect, signal, and get the power thanks to its hybrid-signal solution that makes it to function as 3-in-1 whereas the similar connectivity features such as HDMI, mini DP, OTG, and the USB port enables it to connect with laptops, PCs, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PS3 and PS4, mouse, and a keyboard to play the games anywhere you are. Wrapped it up under the smart cover made of the pure and durable PU leather to store this ultra-narrow bezel USB powered portable monitor to firmly place without worrying about the slip or securely wrap during the travel. Moreover, it is VESA mountable as well so that you can hook it up as your secondary monitor to split up your work.
- Bigger screen-sized USB powered portable monitor.
- VESA mountable.
- Variety of connectivity to hook up with the latest devices.
- Best for games!
- Kind of expensive but the good USB powered portable monitor to have!
Conclusion
It's time to wrap up everything. The USB powered portable monitors that we reviewed are the best picks that we made from the market for you guys. I would highly recommend our editor's choice which is ASUS MB169C+ as it delivered us the satisfactory results.
The other options that might suit you are ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC and AOC I1601FWUX as these are also good in performance and offers many specs and features.
If you have any queries, feel to free to contact us.
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Oh wow. I never even thought about the possibility of having a portable monitor. Most monitors consume at least 30 watts so I didn’t consider that it would be possible to power one up with a USB port. Really impressive.
Hey George, i am glad you find the post helpful.
Hey Matthew,
Why did you select the MB169C+ over the Zenscreen?
What are the differences?
Thanks!
Zenscreen has a bit dim display brightness while the MB169C+ is brighter and lighter in weight.
Matthew,
According to the Asus website, the Zenscreen MB16AC is brighter than the MB169C+. The former is spec’d at 220 cd/m2, and the latter 180 cd/m2.
Are you sure you adjusted the brightness to max on the MB16AC?
Hey Morgan
Agreed, I retested it with the adjustments on max on MB16AC and it is brighter than the MB169C+. I did not compare it with the way you guided, I appreciate the guidance.
Your post has a great value with the information you shared.
Then whats its a better choice MB16AC or MB169C+.
Hey Miguel
I would personally suggest you the Asus MB169C+, As it offers USB type C for both data transmission and Power. In my opinion, both are the best choices for USB type C, The MB16AC also gives the Type-A sources but utilization this feature you would need DisplayLink driver for type A connection. I hope this would solve your quest.