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
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
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
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
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
📊 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.