The 10 Best Portable Monitors for MacBook Pro in 2024!
The portability and power of the MacBook Pro make it a true workhorse for professionals and creatives alike. What if you could extend your workspace or enhance your entertainment options on the go? Why not use the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro?
Enter the world of portable monitors for MacBook Pro. These compact, lightweight displays offer a solution to expand your screen real estate, improve multitasking, and enjoy multimedia content in stunning detail, all without sacrificing portability.
This comprehensive guide dives into the exciting realm of portable monitors for MacBook Pro, equipping you with the knowledge to find the perfect companion for your mobile lifestyle. We’ll explore key factors to consider, bust common myths, and unveil our top 10 picks for the best portable monitors for MacBook Pro in 2024.
Therefore, buckle up and get ready to unlock the full potential of your MacBook Pro, wherever your adventures take you with the best portable monitor!
Do You Really Need a Portable Monitor for Your MacBook Pro?
While the MacBook Pro boasts a stunning display, the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro should unlock a multitude of benefits like:
1. Enhanced Productivity
Extend your workspace, view multiple windows simultaneously, and boost your efficiency with a second screen.
2. Improved Presentations
Deliver impactful presentations with a larger, clearer display, ideal for client meetings or conferences.
3. Elevated Entertainment
Enjoy movies, games, or other multimedia content in stunning detail and immersive visuals on a bigger screen.
4. Gaming on the Go
Transform your MacBook Pro into a portable gaming setup, perfect for casual gaming sessions while traveling.
5. Increased Versatility
Use your portable monitor with other devices like smartphones, tablets, or gaming consoles for a broader range of applications.
Choosing Your Portable Powerhouse: Key Factors to Consider
Before diving into our top picks, let’s explore the crucial factors to consider when choosing the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro:
1. Size and Weight
If you want the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro, here’s how its physical dimensions matter a lot:
- Size: Consider your needs and portability preferences. Smaller screens (13-15 inches) offer excellent portability, while larger screens (17 inches or more) provide a more immersive experience but might be less portable.
- Weight: Lighter monitors (around 2 lbs or less) are ideal for frequent travel, while heavier ones (over 3 lbs) might be better suited for occasional use or stationary setups.
2. Panel Type
Do you want the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro? Then, you must pay attention to its panel type since it determines its overall display quality. Therefore, the two primary monitor panel types are:
- IPS: Known for their excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, IPS panels are ideal for creative work and general use.
- TN: Offering fast response times and lower price points, TN panels are suitable for casual gaming or basic tasks, but viewing angles and color accuracy might be inferior.
3. Resolution
As you might already know, the higher the resolution of the portable monitor, the better its display quality will be. Therefore, always check the resolution of the monitor, which should have:
- Full HD (1920 x 1080): The most common resolution in portable monitors, Full HD offers decent visuals and compatibility with most devices.
- WQHD (2560 x 1440): Providing sharper visuals and a more immersive experience, WQHD resolution is ideal for creative professionals or those who prioritize image clarity.
4. Connectivity
If you buy the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro, then ensure that it has these connectivity options:
- USB-C: The most versatile option, offering power and video transmission with a single cable, is ideal for modern MacBooks.
- HDMI: This widely compatible option allows connection to various devices but might require additional cables for power delivery.
5. Additional Features
While this is not a must, it will be great if your portable monitor can have these additional features:
- Built-in speakers: These eliminate the need for external speakers, ideal for presentations or multimedia consumption.
- Touchscreen functionality: Offers intuitive control and a more interactive experience but might come at a premium price.
- Foldable design: Enhances portability and storage convenience.
The Top 10 Best Portable Monitors for MacBook Pro in 2024:
Here are the top 10 contenders for the title of the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro:
1. LG gram +view 16MR70
| Size (inches) | 16 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | WQHD (2560 x 1440) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $349 (Amazon) |
Its lightweight design (2.05 lbs) and sleek aluminum construction make it incredibly portable. USB-C connectivity ensures seamless power and video transmission, while HDR compatibility further enhances the visual experience.
Built-in speakers and a foldable design add to the overall package, making the LG gram +view 16MR70 a premium option for those seeking exceptional image quality and portability.
2. ASUS ZenScreen MB16AP
| Size (inches) | 15.6 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Built-in Battery | Yes (up to 4 hours) |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-A |
| Price (USD) | $200 (Amazon) |
The ASUS ZenScreen MB16AP prioritizes portability and affordability. This 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel offers decent visuals and a lightweight design (1.7 lbs) for effortless travel. The integrated battery provides up to 4 hours of power, eliminating the need for a constant external power source.
Featuring a built-in stand and USB-A connectivity, the ASUS ZenScreen MB16AP is a budget-friendly option for users who prioritize portability and basic functionality.
3. AOC I1601FWUX
| Size (inches) | 15.6 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $150 (Amazon) |
The AOC I1601FWUX offers a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel at a competitive price for a budget-friendly option with a larger screen. The lightweight design (2.2 lbs) and foldable stand make it reasonably portable.
While lacking a built-in battery, the USB-C connectivity provides both power and video transmission with a single cable. The AOC I1601FWUX is a viable choice for users seeking a larger screen size and basic functionality at an affordable price.
4. Lenovo ThinkVision M14
| Size (inches) | 14 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $250 (Amazon) |
The Lenovo ThinkVision M14 caters to professionals who value portability and productivity. This 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel boasts a slim, lightweight design (1.5 lbs) for effortless travel.
The built-in kickstand offers adjustable viewing angles, while USB-C connectivity with power delivery ensures seamless integration with your MacBook Pro. Featuring TÜV Rheinland Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light certifications for eye comfort, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14 prioritizes user well-being alongside portability and functionality.
5. Gaon PD1560S
| Size (inches) | 15.6 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 144 |
| Response Time (ms) | 1 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | Yes |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | Dual USB-C |
| Price (USD) | Around $300 |
For gamers seeking a portable option, the Gaon PD1560S features a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and minimizing screen tearing during fast-paced gameplay. The built-in speakers and dual USB-C ports provide versatility and convenience.
While lacking a battery, the Gaon PD1560S focuses on performance and caters specifically to gamers who prioritize a smooth gaming experience on the go.
6. UPERFECT 4K Portable Monitor
| Size (inches) | 15.6 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | 4K (3840 x 2160) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 4 |
| Built-in Battery | Yes (up to 4 hours) |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $350 (Amazon) |
If you prioritize stunning visuals and a large screen, the UPERFECT 4K Portable Monitor boasts a 15.6-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) IPS panel, delivering exceptional detail and clarity. The built-in battery offers up to 4 hours of power, while the included carrying case enhances portability.
However, the higher resolution might require a more powerful MacBook Pro to maintain optimal performance, and the weight (2.9 lbs) is slightly heavier than some options on this list.
7. ASUS ROG Strix XG16AHPE
| Size (inches) | 15.6 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 240 |
| Response Time (ms) | 1 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $250 (Amazon) |
One of the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro for gamers, the ASUS ROG Strix XG16AHPE features a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a blazing-fast 240Hz refresh rate, ensuring ultra-smooth visuals and responsiveness. G-SYNC compatibility further eliminates screen tearing for an immersive gaming experience.
While lacking a battery and featuring a higher price point, the ASUS ROG Strix XG16AHPE prioritizes high-performance gaming on the go.
8. Samsung Odyssey OLED G95NC
| Size (inches) | 57 (curved) |
| Panel Type | OLED |
| Resolution | Super Ultrawide (7680 x 2160) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 |
| Response Time (ms) | 0.1 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | Multiple |
| Price (USD) | $3,500 |
Pushing the boundaries of portable displays, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G95NC boasts a massive 57-inch curved OLED panel with a stunning Super Ultrawide (7680 x 2160) resolution. Therefore, I consider this to be the best ultrawide monitor in 2024!
While not strictly portable due to its size and weight (26.4 lbs), it offers an innovative and immersive viewing experience, ideal for presentations, creative work, or entertainment in unique environments.
9. NexiGo NG17FGP
| Size (inches) | 17.3 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 300 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Built-in Battery | Yes (up to 3 hours) |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Price (USD) | $450 (Amazon) |
For users seeking a larger screen at a reasonable price, the NexiGo NG17FGP offers a 17.3-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a built-in battery for up to 3 hours of power. The lightweight design (2.6 lbs) and foldable stand make it reasonably portable for a larger screen size.
While lacking a built-in speaker, the USB-C connectivity provides both power and video transmission with a single cable. The NexiGo NG17FGP is a good option for users who prioritize affordability, a larger screen size, and basic functionality.
10. CHOETECH Triple Portable Monitor
| Size (inches) | 3 x 10.1 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Resolution | 3 x Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 |
| Response Time (ms) | 5 |
| Price (USD) | Around $200 |
| Built-in Battery | No |
| Speakers | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Connectivity | USB-A |
For users seeking a unique and innovative way to extend their workspace, the CHOETECH Triple Portable Monitor features three 10.1-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panels, offering a panoramic viewing experience.
The lightweight design (2.2 lbs) and foldable stand make it surprisingly portable for a triple-monitor setup. USB-A connectivity ensures compatibility with various devices, while the included carrying case enhances portability.
However, the smaller individual screen sizes might not be ideal for all tasks, and the lack of USB-C connectivity might limit compatibility with newer MacBooks.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Portable Monitor for Your MacBook Pro
With this comprehensive guide and our top 10 picks, you can find the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro that aligns with your needs and budget.
Remember, the “best” monitor ultimately depends on your individual priorities, whether you prioritize portability, screen size, visual quality, gaming performance, or a combination of factors. Consider the key factors we explored, and don’t hesitate to research further based on your specific needs and preferences.
Here are some additional tips for choosing the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro:
- Read online reviews: Reviews can offer valuable insights from other users, including real-world experiences and potential drawbacks.
- Compare prices and features: Don’t hesitate to compare options from different retailers to ensure you get the best value for your budget.
- Consider your usage: Consider how you’ll primarily use the portable monitor and choose features that cater to your needs.
We hope this guide empowers you to unlock the full potential of your MacBook Pro and enhance your productivity, creativity, or entertainment experience on the go! Moreover, let us know in the comments below which of the best portable monitor for MacBook Pro did you bought in 2024!
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