Best Places To Buy Compact Side Monitors

If you're looking for a small side monitor, there are a variety of options available to you.

For a portable monitor, you could consider the AOC E1659FWU 15.6” LED HD monitor, which is lightweight and compact, and can be powered and connected to your laptop with a single USB 3.0 cable.

If you're looking for a small monitor for your desktop setup, you could consider the PRO MP223 E2 monitor by MSI, which has a 22 VA LCD FHD 100Hz display and is designed to be easy on the eyes during extended use.

Other small monitors that could work as a side monitor include the ViewSonic VG1655 15.6 portable monitor, the Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor, and the Acer Nitro 34 curved QHD gaming monitor.

Portable monitors for laptops

Portable monitors are a great addition to your laptop, especially if you're frequently switching between programs or want a bigger screen for movies and games. They are lightweight, versatile, and can be used for work, gaming, and entertainment while on the go.

Lenovo ThinkVision M14d

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14d is a highly portable 14-inch monitor that is lightweight and simple to transport. It has a high resolution of 2240x1400, is bright, and has excellent colour accuracy. It is compatible with Windows, Chrome, and Mac and connects via USB-C.

ViewSonic VG1655

The ViewSonic VG1655 is a budget-friendly portable monitor with a 15.6-inch IPS panel and a resolution of 1920x1080. It features a built-in stand, two USB-C ports, a mini HDMI connector, and built-in speakers. It is ideal for typical business tasks and personal use.

Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT)

The Asus ZenScreen Touch is a 15.6-inch portable monitor with a touch screen and a built-in battery. It supports both gesture-based multi-touch and stylus input. It is compatible with Windows and Android phones and connects via HDMI and USB-C.

NexiGo NG17FGQ 17.3-Inch 300Hz Portable Monitor

The NexiGo NG17FGQ is a 17.3-inch portable monitor ideal for hardcore gamers. It has a high refresh rate of 300Hz, AMD FreeSync support, and excellent colour accuracy. It connects via HDMI and USB-C.

Acer SpatialLabs View ASV15-1B

The Acer SpatialLabs View ASV15-1B is a 15.6-inch portable monitor that supports glasses-free 3D viewing. It has a bright UHD panel, excellent contrast, and near-complete sRGB colour coverage. It connects via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C.

SideTrak Solo Pro FHD 15.8”

The SideTrak Solo Pro is a sleek, freestanding 15.8-inch portable monitor designed to boost productivity and efficiency. It features a Full HD anti-glare LED display, HDR, FreeSync, and an 8-bit colour display. It is compatible with Windows, Chrome, and Mac.

AOC E1659FWU 15.6" USB-3.0 Portable LED HD Monitor

The AOC E1659FWU is a lightweight and portable 15.6-inch monitor that connects with a single USB 3.0 cable. It has a built-in kickstand and can be pivoted to portrait mode. It is compatible with Windows and Mac.

Tablets as monitors

Tablets can be used as monitors, and this can be a great way to boost productivity and improve your workflow. There are several ways to do this, some of which are wired and some wireless.

Duet Display

Duet Display is a subscription-based service that costs $29.99 per year. It allows you to connect your Android device, such as a tablet, to a Windows computer wirelessly. For macOS, you will need to use a USB cable. Duet Display does not support touchscreen functionality for the extended display, but you can use the tablet as a touchpad to control your primary monitor.

Splashtop Wired XDisplay

Splashtop Wired XDisplay is a free app that allows you to use your Android tablet as a second monitor through a wired connection. It provides a better resolution and frame rate, even if it does not support a wireless connection.

Spacedesk

Spacedesk is a reliable software that provides multiple connectivity options: USB, Wi-Fi, and LAN. It offers good quality and user-friendly touch support. It is available for free, but the setup is quite difficult.

IDisplay

IDisplay is a powerful display mirroring app that is now available for free. It can be used to turn your Android tablet into a second monitor through both wired and wireless connections, but USB support is not available for Android devices yet.

AirDroid Cast

AirDroid Cast is a user-friendly and effective tool that can help you duplicate the screen of your PC to an Android tablet. It is cross-platform compatible and makes it easy for users to rely on this app for screen mirroring and maximizing collaboration with features like a remote control.

Samsung Second Screen

Samsung tablets have a built-in feature called "Second Screen" that can help you use a Samsung tablet as a second monitor. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 and S8 running One UI 3.1 and later have this feature. PCs that have Wireless Displays and are running on Windows 10 can use the Second Screen feature.

LCD screens from dead laptops

If you have a dead laptop, it's possible to repurpose the LCD screen for another use. However, it's worth noting that LCD screens on their own don't have a good interface, so you may need to get creative. Here are some ideas for repurposing your dead laptop's LCD screen:

• Convert it into a stand-alone monitor.
• Create an overhead projector.
• Set up a two-way peephole on your front door.
• Build a digital picture frame.
• Create a virtual window by setting up a camera outside and mounting the screen inside.
• Line the underside of a glass coffee table with screens and cycle through screensavers, visualisations and RSS feeds.
• Mount a camera in your fridge and put a screen on the outside, so you can peek inside without opening the door.
• Build a portable gaming console.
• Create a touchscreen tablet by adding a touchscreen overlay, an SSD, a dual CF-to-IDE adapter and CF cards.
• Put them on the ceiling and turn them into strobe lights.
• Set up a multi-screen DJ rig.
• Build a smart mirror with a Raspberry Pi.
• Use them as spares.

Older, used monitors

If you're looking for an older, used monitor, eBay is a great place to start. They have a wide range of options available, from well-known brands such as Dell, HP, Samsung, and Acer. You can often find great deals on refurbished monitors, which are typically tested and certified to be in good working condition.

Another option is Best Buy, which offers a variety of used and refurbished monitors. Their website provides detailed descriptions and customer reviews, making it easier to find the right monitor for your needs.

When shopping for an older, used monitor, it's important to consider factors such as size, resolution, and refresh rate. Additionally, pay attention to the connectivity options, as you'll need to ensure the monitor is compatible with your computer. It's also worth checking the warranty information, as this can provide added peace of mind.

• ViewSonic VX2276-SMH 22" IPS LCD FHD Monitor: This monitor offers flexible connectivity options and an ultra-slim profile, making it ideal for both computing and gaming. It has a sleek, minimalist design and features that help minimize eye strain.
• ASUS VA27EHE 27" Full HD LED LCD Monitor: This monitor provides a wide viewing angle and vivid image quality. It has a fast refresh rate and Adaptive-Sync technology for crisp and clear video playback.
• Dell - 21.5" IPS LED FHD 100Hz Monitor: This monitor offers flexible connectivity with VGA, USB, and HDMI ports. It's a good option for those seeking a basic, lower-cost monitor.
• AOC E1659FWU 15.6" USB-3.0 Portable LED HD Monitor: This compact and lightweight monitor is perfect for enhancing your productivity on the go. It connects easily to your laptop with a single USB 3.0 cable and has a built-in kickstand for adjustable viewing angles.

When purchasing an older, used monitor, be sure to check the seller's feedback and return policy, if applicable. It's also a good idea to verify the condition of the monitor and ensure that it includes all the necessary cables and accessories.

Dual-monitor setups

Benefits of Dual-Monitor Setups:

• Increased screen real estate: With two monitors, you can spread out your work, easily view multiple windows simultaneously, and switch between tasks without minimizing or overlapping windows.
• Enhanced productivity: Dual monitors allow you to keep important information visible on one screen while working on the other, eliminating the need to constantly switch between applications.
• Improved multitasking: You can easily monitor emails, social media, or other applications on one screen while working on a project or playing a game on the other.
• Better viewing experience: Dual monitors provide a more immersive experience for gaming, video editing, or watching movies, especially when combined with curved or ultra-wide monitors.

Things to Consider:

• Monitor Size: When setting up dual monitors, consider the size of each monitor. While larger monitors offer more screen space, they may also require more desk space. Smaller monitors, such as 24-inch or 27-inch options, can provide a comfortable viewing experience without taking up too much room.
• Resolution: Look for monitors with similar resolutions to ensure a consistent viewing experience across both screens. While 1080p monitors are great for everyday tasks, consider higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K for more detailed and sharper images, especially if you work with graphics or video editing.
• Refresh Rate and Response Time: For smoother and more responsive performance, opt for monitors with higher refresh rates (144Hz or higher) and lower response times (1ms or lower), especially if you plan to use them for gaming or fast-paced applications.
• Connectivity: Ensure that your computer has the necessary ports, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C, to connect both monitors. You may also need to use adapters or purchase additional cables.
• Stands and Mounts: Consider investing in monitor stands or mounts to adjust the height, tilt, and swivel of your monitors for optimal viewing angles and comfort.
• Color Performance: If color accuracy is important for your work, look for IPS (In-Plane Switching) monitors, which offer wider viewing angles and better color reproduction than TN (Twisted Nematic) panels.

Examples of Dual-Monitor Setups:

• AOC E1659FWU 15.6" Portable LED HD Monitor: This USB-powered monitor is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry and set up as a second screen for your laptop. It features a built-in kickstand and can be pivoted for portrait or landscape viewing.
• ViewSonic VA2459-smh 24" LCD FHD Monitor: This monitor offers flexible connectivity, wide-angle viewing, and solid screen performance. Its frameless bezel design makes it ideal for multi-screen setups, providing a seamless viewing experience.
• LG UltraGear 32" LED UHD 1ms Gaming Monitor: With a high refresh rate and fast response time, this monitor delivers smooth graphics and minimal motion blur, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced applications. It also offers height, tilt, and pivot adjustments for ergonomic viewing.
• ASUS ROG Strix 27" Curved 1440P 180Hz Gaming Monitor: This curved monitor provides a more immersive viewing experience and features a fast response time for super-fast gaming. It includes DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB connectivity, making it versatile for different devices.
• Samsung 49" Odyssey G95C Odyssey Dual QHD 240Hz Gaming Monitor: With a 1000R curve and Dual QHD resolution, this monitor offers a panoramic viewing experience with sharp details. It has a rapid refresh rate, low response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for an ultra-smooth gaming performance.

Frequently asked questions