Best Portable Monitors for Digital Nomads (2025)

Best Portable Monitors for Digital Nomads (2025)

If you’ve ever tried juggling Slack, Zoom, and a spreadsheet on a 13” screen — you know how limiting a single laptop display can feel. As remote work becomes more creative and collaborative, portable monitors have become a must-have in every nomad’s gear stack.

In this guide, I’ll share the best travel-ready monitors in 2025 — lightweight, USB-C powered, and durable enough to handle your digital life on the move.


🧠 Why Portable Monitors Are a Game-Changer for Nomads

You may be wondering: “Do I really need to pack a second screen?”

Here’s why I personally bring one:

  • Split workflows: Have Zoom open on one screen and notes on the other
  • Faster content creation: Design in Figma or Canva with reference tabs side-by-side
  • Better client calls: Share your main screen while checking your notes privately
  • Less tab-switching = less fatigue
  • Improved posture: Elevating your secondary screen reduces neck strain
  • Entertainment: Watch movies on a bigger screen without tying up your main device

And the best part? Many portable monitors weigh less than a paperback book.


🧳 What to Look For in a Travel-Friendly Monitor

Not all portable monitors are built for life on the road. Here’s what I look for:

  • Under 2 lbs (1kg): You’ll feel every extra gram when you’re living out of a backpack
  • USB-C video + power: So you don’t need 3 different cables and adapters
  • IPS or OLED display: For better viewing angles and color accuracy
  • Case or built-in stand: You won’t always have the luxury of a proper desk
  • VESA mount: Optional, but handy for Airbnbs or temporary home bases
  • 1080p is plenty, unless you do high-end video/photo editing

🔝 Top Portable Monitors for Remote Work (2025)

1. ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACV

  • Size: 15.6” Full HD (1920×1080)
  • Weight: 0.9 kg (1.98 lbs)
  • Ports: USB-C (video + power)
  • Extras: Foldable stand, blue light filter, antibacterial coating
  • Why it rocks: Balanced performance and portability for under $200
  • Best for: All-around nomads, casual multitasking, reliable build

👉 View on Amazon


2. ARZOPA A1 Gamut Portable Monitor

  • Size: 15.6” IPS, 100% sRGB
  • Weight: 0.75 kg (1.65 lbs)
  • Ports: USB-C + Mini HDMI
  • Extras: Ultra-slim profile, protective cover
  • Why it rocks: Excellent brightness and color for its price (~$130)
  • Best for: Budget-conscious nomads who still care about quality

👉 Check current price


3. ViewSonic VA1655

  • Size: 15.6” FHD
  • Weight: 0.72 kg
  • Ports: USB-C and Mini HDMI
  • Extras: Includes stand, case, and great warranty
  • Why it rocks: Durable and well-supported brand
  • Best for: Professionals looking for reliability + support

👉 See on Amazon


4. Lepow C2 Portable Monitor

  • Size: 15.6” FHD
  • Weight: 1.6 lbs
  • Ports: USB-C + HDMI
  • Extras: Includes leather smart cover, stereo speakers
  • Why it rocks: Great for media consumption + Zoom calls
  • Best for: Multimedia users, online coaches, YouTubers

👉 Compare models here


5. UPERFECT TruColor 4K Portable Monitor

  • Size: 15.6” UHD 4K (3840×2160)
  • Weight: 1.9 lbs
  • Ports: USB-C + HDMI
  • Extras: Premium aluminum body, color-calibrated
  • Why it rocks: Gorgeous 4K for content creators or devs
  • Best for: Designers, coders, photographers

👉 Shop on Amazon


📊 Comparison Table

Monitor Size Weight Resolution Price Range Best For
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACV 15.6" 1.98lb 1080p $$ Balanced productivity
ARZOPA A1 Gamut 15.6" 1.65lb 1080p $ Budget multitaskers
ViewSonic VA1655 15.6" 1.58lb 1080p $$ Reliability & support
Lepow C2 15.6" 1.6lb 1080p $$ Content + calls
UPERFECT TruColor 4K 15.6" 1.9lb 4K UHD $$$ Creative professionals

🧠 Pro Setup Tips for Nomads

  • Use a short braided USB-C cable for cleaner desk setups
  • Pair with a foldable laptop stand and external keyboard for true ergonomics
  • At hostels or cafés, try a tablet stand if you need elevation
  • Use a packing cube or sleeve to protect the monitor in your bag
  • Charge it with your USB-C power bank if you’re away from outlets

✅ Final Thoughts

If you want a second screen that just works and travels well, I recommend starting with the ASUS ZenScreen or ARZOPA A1 — both under $200 and highly portable.
Need premium performance for visual work? The UPERFECT 4K will blow you away (and still fits in your bag).

A portable monitor is one of those upgrades that instantly makes remote work feel less remote — and a lot more productive.

Expand your screen. Expand your freedom.