The 5 Best External Monitors of 2024 for Every Budget and Need

In 2024, external monitors cater to diverse needs and budgets. You'll find the KYY Portable 15.6" FHD monitor ideal for on-the-go productivity, while the Acer KB272 EBI 27" satisfies gamers with its 100Hz refresh rate. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Sceptre 24-inch LED monitor, offering decent specs at a wallet-friendly price. The 15.6-inch Portable 1080P USB-C HDMI monitor strikes a balance between portability and performance, and the MNN 15.6" Portable FHD monitor boasts impressive user ratings. Each monitor has its strengths (and quirks), from ultra-slim designs to blue light reduction technology. Your perfect match awaits in the details that follow.

Key Takeaways

• KYY Portable 15.6" FHD Monitor offers excellent portability with a slim design and versatile connectivity options.
• Acer KB272 EBI 27" Full HD Gaming Monitor provides high performance with a 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology.
• The 15.6-inch Portable 1080P USB-C HDMI Monitor is ultra-lightweight and compatible with various devices, ideal for on-the-go use.
• Sceptre 24-inch 1080p LED Monitor (E248W-19203R Series) features multiple connectivity options and eye-strain reduction technology at an affordable price.
• MNN 15.6" Portable FHD Monitor balances portability with a high-quality display and has received positive user ratings.

KYY Portable 15.6" FHD USB-C/HDMI Monitor for Gaming and Computers

For those on the go who need a versatile second screen, the KYY Portable 15.6" FHD Monitor stands out from the crowd. This slim marvel (a mere 0.35 inches thick) boasts a 1080P HDR IPS display that'll have you wondering how you ever managed without it. You'll find yourself effortlessly connecting to laptops, smartphones, and even gaming consoles with its dual USB-C and Mini-HDMI ports. The plug-and-play setup is so simple, you might actually read the manual out of sheer boredom.

While the built-in speakers won't blow you away (external audio might be advisable for audiophiles), the visual experience more than compensates. With its 178° viewing angle and eye-care technology, you can binge-watch or work for hours without feeling like you've been staring at the sun. And when it's time to pack up, the included PU leather cover doubles as a stand—because who doesn't love a good multitasker?

Best For: Frequent travelers, remote workers, and casual gamers seeking a lightweight, versatile secondary display with easy setup and broad device compatibility.

Pros:

• Ultra-slim and lightweight design perfect for portability
• Plug-and-play functionality with multiple connectivity options
• High-quality 1080P HDR IPS display with eye-care technology

Cons:

• Built-in speakers may not provide sufficient audio quality for some users
• Requires external power source when used with certain devices
• PU leather cover, while functional, may not offer robust protection for rough handling

Acer KB272 EBI 27" Full HD Gaming Monitor

Gamers seeking a budget-friendly Full HD monitor with a smooth refresh rate will find the Acer KB272 EBI 27" an attractive option. This IPS panel boasts a respectable 100Hz refresh rate (via HDMI) and a 1ms response time (VRB), ensuring your gameplay remains fluid and responsive. While it may not reach the dizzying heights of 144Hz or 240Hz monitors, it's a solid performer for its price point.

The KB272 EBI's zero-frame design and VESA mount compatibility make it a versatile choice for multi-monitor setups (because who doesn't need three screens to dominate in Fortnite?). AMD FreeSync technology helps eliminate screen tearing, though you'll have to make do with a single HDMI port. Alas, audiophiles will need to bring their own speakers to the party—this monitor is as silent as a mime in a library.

Best For: Budget-conscious gamers seeking a Full HD monitor with smooth performance and the flexibility for multi-monitor setups.

Pros:

• 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for fluid gaming
• AMD FreeSync technology eliminates screen tearing
• Zero-frame design and VESA mount compatibility for versatile setups

Cons:

• Limited to a single HDMI port
• Lacks built-in speakers
• 100Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore competitive gamers

15.6-inch Portable 1080P USB-C HDMI Monitor

Professionals on the go will appreciate the compact convenience of a 6-inch portable 1080P USB-C HDMI monitor. This lightweight marvel, tipping the scales at a mere 1.8 pounds, boasts a svelte 0.3-inch profile that'll slip into your bag as easily as your laptop. With its full HD resolution and IPS panel offering 178° viewing angles, you'll enjoy crisp visuals whether you're presenting to clients or binge-watching your favorite shows in your hotel room.

Compatibility is key, and this monitor doesn't disappoint. It'll play nice with your laptop, smartphone, or gaming console (because who says business trips can't include a little fun?). The smart cover doubles as a stand, though some users find it less stable than they'd like—perhaps a metaphor for the precarious work-life balance of the modern professional. While it may struggle in bright environments, its eye-care technology guarantees you won't be squinting through those late-night work sessions.

Best For: Professionals and travelers seeking a lightweight, versatile second screen for enhanced productivity on-the-go.

Pros:

• Highly portable with a slim profile and lightweight design
• Versatile connectivity options compatible with various devices
• Full HD resolution with IPS panel for clear, wide-angle viewing

Cons:

• May not provide sufficient brightness in well-lit environments
• Some users report the stand could be more stable
• Requires a device with specific USB-C capabilities for full functionality

Sceptre 24-inch 1080p LED Monitor (E248W-19203R Series)

The E248W-19203R's connectivity options are generous, with two HDMI ports and a VGA input. However, you might want to invest in external speakers or headphones, as the built-in audio won't be winning any awards. The monitor's Blue Light Shift technology will help ease your eye strain during those late-night browsing sessions, while the included game modes for FPS and RTS titles are a nice touch (though hardcore gamers might scoff). At 5.77 pounds, it's not exactly featherweight, but it won't break your back either.

Best For: Students, office workers, and casual gamers seeking an affordable, reliable monitor with decent visual quality and eye-care features.

Pros:

• High refresh rate (75Hz) and quick response time (3ms) for smooth visuals
• Multiple connectivity options including two HDMI ports and VGA
• Blue Light Shift technology to reduce eye strain during extended use

Cons:

• Built-in speakers lack audio quality for immersive gaming or media consumption
• Limited color gamut (99% sRGB) may not satisfy professional graphic designers
• Relatively basic stand with limited adjustability options

MNN 15.6" Portable FHD Monitor with USB-C and HDMI

If you're seeking a versatile and portable second screen, the MNN 15.6" Portable FHD Monitor might be your ideal companion. This svelte device, weighing a mere 2.1 pounds, boasts a Full HD IPS matte screen with a 178° viewing angle, making it perfect for on-the-go professionals and itinerant gamers alike. Its plug-and-play functionality and multiple connectivity options (including USB-C and HDMI) guarantee you're never more than a cable away from expanding your digital real estate.

While the built-in speakers won't exactly blow you away (audiophiles, you've been warned), the monitor's HDR mode and blue light reduction features make up for any auditory shortcomings. With a 4.5-star rating from over 7,000 reviews, it's clear that users are smitten with this portable powerhouse. Just don't expect it to replace your home theater system—it's more "boardroom presentation" than "blockbuster premiere."

Best For: Professionals, students, and gamers seeking a lightweight, versatile second screen for work or entertainment on-the-go.

Pros:

• Ultra-portable design with high-quality Full HD IPS display
• Multiple connectivity options (USB-C, HDMI) for various devices
• Strong customer ratings and positive feedback on image quality

Cons:

• Built-in speakers offer subpar audio quality
• May not be suitable as a primary monitor for intensive graphic work
• Protective cover, while functional, may not provide robust protection for frequent travelers

Factors to Consider When Choosing External Monitors

When you're in the market for an external monitor, you'll need to navigate a labyrinth of technical specifications and marketing jargon. You'll want to take into account key factors like display size and resolution (bigger isn't always better), connectivity options (because who doesn't love a good port), panel technology, refresh rate, and color accuracy. These elements will shape your viewing experience, whether you're crunching numbers, editing photos, or binge-watching your favorite shows (we won't judge).

Display Size and Resolution

Choosing the right display size and resolution can make or break your external monitor experience. You'll want to strike a balance between comfort and productivity, with sizes ranging from portable 15.6-inch models (perfect for digital nomads) to expansive 27-inch behemoths that'll have you swiveling your head like an owl. The sweet spot? That's as personal as your coffee order.

Resolution-wise, 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) is the bare minimum for sharp images and vibrant colors. It's the bread and butter of gaming and multimedia applications—though some might argue it's more like the plain toast of resolutions these days. If you're eyeing those larger 27-inchers, you might be tempted by their higher refresh rates (up to 100Hz). It's a smoother experience, sure, but ask yourself if you really need to see your spreadsheets update that quickly.

Don't forget about aspect ratio (16:9 is the norm) and pixel density (measured in PPI). A wider ratio might seem appealing for multitasking, but you'll be sacrificing vertical space. And while a high PPI sounds impressive, your wallet might beg to differ.

Connectivity Options

An abundance of connectivity options can make or break your external monitor experience. When you're on the hunt for the perfect display, it's not just about the pretty pixels—it's about how those pixels get there in the first place. You'll want to scrutinize the ports on offer like a detective at a crime scene, ensuring your chosen monitor can play nice with all your gadgets.

HDMI, USB-C, VGA—oh my! It's an alphabet soup of connectivity, and you'll need to know which letters spell success for your setup. USB-C is the golden child of the bunch, offering not just video but power delivery too. (Imagine, one cable to rule them all!) But don't dismiss HDMI and its miniature sidekick; they're still kicking in the connectivity game.

For the truly ambitious, Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE support is your ticket to single-cable nirvana. And let's not forget the joy of plug-and-play functionality—because who has time for driver shenanigans in this fast-paced world? Choose wisely, and your monitor will be more accommodating than a five-star concierge.

Panel Technology

Now that you've got your ports sorted, let's turn our attention to what's happening behind the screen. Panel technology is the unsung hero of your viewing experience, determining everything from color accuracy to how well you can see your screen from odd angles (perfect for those impromptu cubicle presentations).

IPS panels are the current darlings of the monitor world, offering superior color reproduction and wide viewing angles. They're like the Swiss Army knives of panel tech—versatile and reliable. TN panels, while faster on the draw with quicker response times, tend to falter in the color department (think a painter with a limited palette). VA panels, on the other hand, excel in contrast and deep blacks, making them ideal for your late-night Netflix binges.

But it's not all about pretty pictures. Higher refresh rates (100Hz and beyond) can make a world of difference in gaming, turning choppy gameplay into butter-smooth action. And let's not forget about your poor, strained eyes. Modern panels often come equipped with blue light reduction and flicker-free technologies—because let's face it, we're all spending way too much time staring at screens.

Refresh Rate

With a flick of the wrist, your screen transforms from a static image to a fluid motion picture. This cinematic magic is brought to you by your monitor's refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz). It's the unsung hero of your visual experience, dictating how many times per second your display updates its image.

You'll find monitors sporting refresh rates from a modest 60Hz to a dizzying 144Hz (and beyond). For the casual user, 60Hz might suffice, but if you're a gamer or video editor, you'll want to aim higher. (After all, why settle for choppy when you can have buttery smooth?)

Higher refresh rates, like 120Hz or 144Hz, offer smoother motion and better responsiveness. It's like upgrading from a flip book to a high-speed camera. But beware: your graphics card needs to keep up, lest you end up with a Ferrari engine in a bicycle frame.

Screen tearing and stuttering, the bane of gamers everywhere, can be mitigated by higher refresh rates. Technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC (fancy names for "make it look pretty") further improve the experience.

Color Accuracy

When hunting for your next external monitor, keep an eagle eye on color gamut coverage. Aim for 99% sRGB or higher; it's like giving your eyes a wider palette to paint with. IPS panels, the darlings of color enthusiasts, offer consistency across viewing angles that would make a TN panel blush with envy.

Don't be fooled by out-of-the-box brilliance, though. Even the most expensive monitors can benefit from calibration—a digital spa day for your display. And while you're at it, pay attention to brightness and contrast ratios. They're the unsung heroes of color accuracy, teasing out subtle differences in hue and saturation that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Ergonomics and Design

Consider adjustable stands that allow for height and tilt customization—your neck will thank you during those marathon work sessions. For the minimalists among us, zero-frame designs offer a near-seamless visual feast, perfect for multi-monitor setups that'll make your coworkers green with envy.

If you're a digital nomad, weight matters. Opt for lightweight models (under 2 pounds) that won't break your back or your luggage allowance. Slim profiles around 0.3 inches thick not only save precious desk real estate but also slip easily into your bag—because who doesn't want to carry a 27-inch screen to the coffee shop?

Don't forget VESA mount compatibility. It's the Swiss Army knife of monitor placement, allowing you to affix your display to walls, arms, or perhaps the ceiling (we don't judge). Remember, the right ergonomics can turn your workstation from a pain in the neck to a productivity paradise.

Portability Vs. Stationary Use

Choosing between a portable or stationary external monitor boils down to three key factors: your workspace, travel needs, and primary tasks. If you're a digital nomad (or just pretend to be one while sipping overpriced lattes at your local café), portability reigns supreme. Look for featherweight champions under 2 pounds with waistlines rivaling supermodels – we're talking 0.3 inches thin. These svelte screens often come with built-in protective cases that double as stands, perfect for impromptu presentations or binge-watching sessions in hotel rooms.

On the flip side, if your idea of adventure is swiveling between multiple monitors in your home office, stationary setups offer more bang for your buck. Larger 27-inch displays provide an immersive experience that'll make you forget the outside world exists (not that you were planning on leaving anyway). These behemoths often boast ergonomic features, higher refresh rates, and faster response times – because nothing says "productivity" like silky-smooth scrolling.

Connectivity is key: portable monitors favor simplicity with USB-C or mini-HDMI, while stationary setups incorporate a smorgasbord of ports. Choose wisely, lest you end up with a tangle of adapters worthy of a modern art installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Clean and Maintain My External Monitor?

Envision your monitor as a window to another world, one that needs regular care to stay crystal clear. You'll want to keep it dust-free with a soft, lint-free cloth—no need for Windex here, folks. A gentle mixture of water and white vinegar will do the trick for stubborn smudges. Don't forget the stand and cables; they're part of the package too. And remember, always power down before cleaning. You're not trying to give your monitor a shocking spa day.

Can I Use Multiple External Monitors With My Laptop Simultaneously?

Yes, you can use multiple external monitors with your laptop simultaneously. Most modern laptops support dual or even triple monitor setups. You'll need to check your laptop's specifications for the number of displays it can handle and accessible ports (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C). You might need adapters or a docking station for additional connections. Once connected, you can customize your display settings to extend or mirror your screens. It's like having a command center at your fingertips – productivity on steroids, if you will.

Are External Monitors Compatible With All Operating Systems?

You might think external monitors are universally compatible, but hold that thought. While most modern operating systems play nice with external displays, it's not always smooth sailing. Windows, macOS, and Linux generally support them well, but you'll need to check your specific OS version and hardware capabilities. Some older systems might struggle, and certain features (like touchscreens or high refresh rates) may not work across all platforms. It's a bit of a compatibility dance, so do your homework before buying.

What's the Difference Between Ips, Va, and TN Panel Technologies?

You'll find IPS, VA, and TN panels duking it out in the monitor arena, each with its own strengths. IPS offers wide viewing angles and accurate colors, perfect for design work (and Netflix binges). VA boasts superior contrast ratios, making blacks truly black – ideal for cinephiles and gamers who love atmospheric titles. TN, the speedster of the bunch, delivers lightning-fast response times for competitive gaming. But let's face it, it's like choosing between pizza toppings – there's no universally "best" option.

How Do External Monitors Affect Laptop Battery Life When Used On-The-Go?

You'll find that external monitors can be quite the power vampires when you're working on-the-go. They'll drain your laptop's battery faster than a thirsty camel at an oasis. The extra screen real estate comes at a cost: increased power consumption. Your laptop's graphics card works overtime, and the monitor itself needs juice. It's a trade-off between productivity and battery life. (Pro tip: Always pack your charger when using an external display away from outlets.)