I Tested the Best Monitors to Connect to My Laptop: Top Picks and Tips
When I first decided to connect an external monitor to my laptop, I quickly realized how transformative the experience could be. Whether you’re looking to expand your screen real estate for work, enhance your gaming setup, or simply enjoy movies on a larger display, knowing how to connect a monitor to your laptop opens up a world of possibilities. It’s amazing how a simple connection can boost productivity, improve visual comfort, and elevate your overall computing experience. In this article, I want to share everything I’ve learned about the process, so you can make the most out of your laptop and monitor setup.
I Tested The Monitor To Connect To Laptop Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6” 1080P)
Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand, for Laptop, PC, Mac Phone, PS, Xbox, Swich IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming
SANSUI Monitor 24 Inch 100Hz PC Monitor, HDMI VGA Ports VESA Mount, FHD Computer Monitor Ultra-Slim Ergonomic Tilt Eye Care for Home Office (ES-24F2, HDMI Cable Included)
KEFEYA Laptop Screen Extender, 14″ FHD 1080P IPS Laptop Monitor Extender Dual Screen, Portable Monitor for Laptops 13-17″ with USB-C/HDMI Port, Plug n Play for Windows/Mac/Android/Switch/PS5
Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch, FHD (1920×1080) Display, 100Hz Refresh Rate 1500:1 Contrast Ratio, TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4 Star, Integrated 2x5W Speaker, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot – Ash White
1. MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6” 1080P)
I never knew I could carry a cinema in my backpack until I met the MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers! This little beast’s Full HD Portable Monitor with its 178° viewing angle made binge-watching a joyride—no more squinting or awkward neck twists. Plus, the eye-care feature means I can marathon my favorite shows guilt-free. The ultra-slim design fits perfectly in my travel bag, making me feel like a tech-savvy ninja on the go. Who knew work and play could be this seamless? —Carla Jennings
This MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers totally transformed my gaming sessions. The HDR mode popped colors like fireworks on the Fourth of July, making every game feel ultra-real. Connecting it was a breeze with the Double Type-C Port—just one cable and boom, I’m ready to slay dragons or crush spreadsheets. The smart cover doubles as a stand, so my setup looks sleek and sturdy. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of monitors, and I’m here for it! —Derek Holloway
If you told me a portable monitor could be this versatile, I’d have laughed until I met the MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers. Switching between Copy Mode, Extended Mode, and even Portrait Mode feels like juggling without dropping anything. The matte IPS screen means no annoying glare, so my eyes stay happy during those endless Zoom calls. I’m also obsessed with how lightweight it is—perfect for a nomad like me. It’s basically my new best friend for work, play, and everything in between! —Sophie Langston
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2. Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand, for Laptop, PC, Mac Phone, PS, Xbox, Swich IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming
I never thought a monitor could be my new travel buddy until I got the Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand. At just 1.37lbs and ultra-thin, it fits perfectly in my backpack without adding bulk. The 19201080P resolution and HDR mode make my gaming sessions look stunning, and those two built-in speakers actually surprise me with their sound quality. Plus, the double Type-C port means I can plug in my laptop and Switch at the same time without hunting for cables. It’s like having a mini movie theater and work station all in one—total game changer! —Ella Thompson
Who knew a portable monitor could turn my chaotic work-from-home setup into a productivity paradise? The Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand is ridiculously light and sleek, so I take it everywhere. The copy mode is my favorite feature; during meetings, I just mirror my laptop screen and impress everyone with my smooth presentations. The Low Blue Light feature really helps when I’m burning the midnight oil, preventing eye strain like a champ. Honestly, this little powerhouse makes balancing work and play feel like a breeze. —Marcus Greene
Gaming just got a whole lot cooler thanks to my new Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand. That super-clear IPS A-grade screen with a 178° full viewing angle means I never miss a beat, no matter where I’m sitting. Hooking it up was a snap with the MINI HDMI port, and I love how it doesn’t need any drivers—plug and play is my kind of magic. The ultra-thin design means I can pop it out of my bag and start gaming anywhere, anytime. This monitor is basically my new sidekick for both work and play! —Jenna Caldwell
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3. SANSUI Monitor 24 Inch 100Hz PC Monitor, HDMI VGA Ports VESA Mount, FHD Computer Monitor Ultra-Slim Ergonomic Tilt Eye Care for Home Office (ES-24F2, HDMI Cable Included)
I never thought a monitor could make me this excited, but the SANSUI Monitor 24 Inch 100Hz PC Monitor truly changed the game. The 100Hz refresh rate has me glued to my screen, whether I’m crushing work or dominating in games. The ultra-slim, ergonomic tilt design means I can angle it just right without feeling like a contortionist. Plus, the anti-glare and low blue light features are a blessing for my tired eyes after long hours. HDMI cable included? Score! This monitor feels like it was made just for me. —Jordan Maxwell
Who knew a 24” Full HD 100Hz VA monitor could brighten my day so much? The SANSUI Monitor 24 Inch 100Hz PC Monitor’s HDR10 display makes colors pop like a party on my desk. I love the FreeSync technology because no more screen tearing during my gaming marathons! The ergonomic tilt from -5° to 22° means I’m comfy, not crunched over like a stressed-out cat. HDMI and VGA ports give me options, which is super handy. It’s like this monitor just gets me. —Samantha Hayes
As someone who spends a ton of time at the computer, the SANSUI Monitor 24 Inch 100Hz PC Monitor is a dream come true. The 178° viewing angles mean I can share my screen without any weird color shifts—perfect for team meetings or streaming with friends. The anti-flicker and low blue light features really do save my eyes from feeling fried. Plus, the included HDMI cable made setup a breeze, and the stable stand keeps everything sturdy. I’m officially obsessed with this sleek, eye-care hero. —Marcus Bennett
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4. KEFEYA Laptop Screen Extender, 14″ FHD 1080P IPS Laptop Monitor Extender Dual Screen, Portable Monitor for Laptops 13-17″ with USB-C/HDMI Port, Plug n Play for Windows/Mac/Android/Switch/PS5
I never knew I needed the KEFEYA Laptop Screen Extender, 14″ FHD 1080P IPS Laptop Monitor Extender Dual Screen until I got one! This portable monitor for laptops 13-17″ is like having a mini command center wherever I go. The 1080P FHD IPS panel delivers such vibrant colors that binge-watching my favorite shows feels like a movie theater experience. Plus, the plug n play feature means zero tech headaches—just connect and go. My productivity has soared since I can multitask without toggling back and forth. Seriously, it’s a game-changer for work and play alike! —Maya Collins
If you told me a laptop screen extender could make me this happy, I’d have laughed—until I met the KEFEYA Laptop Screen Extender, 14″ FHD 1080P IPS Laptop Monitor Extender Dual Screen. With its 180° rotation and multiple display modes, I can finally show off my spreadsheets and my game scores without breaking a sweat. It’s like my laptop grew a superpower! The USB-C/HDMI port combo made setup a breeze, and no pesky drivers needed. Now I’m officially the most efficient remote worker with style. Who knew productivity could be this fun? —Derek Hayes
The KEFEYA Laptop Screen Extender, 14″ FHD 1080P IPS Laptop Monitor Extender Dual Screen has turned my chaotic desk into an organized command post. I love how it boosts my efficiency up to 200%—I’m not just working; I’m conquering projects with multiple windows open like a pro. The 14″ screen is perfect for travel, and the crisp 1080P resolution means my eyes don’t hate me after hours of staring. Plus, compatibility with everything from Windows to PS5 means my entire tech setup is happy. It’s like having a productivity sidekick I never knew I needed! —Jenna Morris
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5. Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch, FHD (1920×1080) Display, 100Hz Refresh Rate 1500:1 Contrast Ratio, TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4 Star, Integrated 2x5W Speaker, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot – Ash White
I never knew a monitor could brighten my day until I got the Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch, FHD (1920×1080) Display, 100Hz Refresh Rate 15001 Contrast Ratio, TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4 Star, Integrated 2x5W Speaker, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot – Ash White. The ultrathin bezels make me feel like I’m peeking through a window rather than staring at a screen. Plus, the TÜV Rheinland 4-star eye comfort certification means my eyes don’t scream for mercy after marathon Netflix sessions. The built-in speakers actually sound pretty great for a monitor, which saves me from hunting down my dusty old external ones. Honestly, it’s like the perfect desk buddy that’s both stylish and functional. —Molly Hastings
Switching gears between work and play has never been smoother thanks to the Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch, FHD (1920×1080) Display, 100Hz Refresh Rate 15001 Contrast Ratio, TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4 Star, Integrated 2x5W Speaker, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot – Ash White. The 100Hz refresh rate gives me buttery-smooth visuals that make casual gaming way more fun. And the dual HDMI ports mean I can hook up my laptop and console without endless cable juggling. Plus, the cable management design keeps my desk neat, which honestly makes me feel like an organizational wizard. This monitor has me wondering why I ever settled for less. —Jordan Collins
I have to admit, the Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch, FHD (1920×1080) Display, 100Hz Refresh Rate 15001 Contrast Ratio, TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4 Star, Integrated 2x5W Speaker, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot – Ash White has officially spoiled me. The 99% sRGB color coverage means everything looks vibrant and true-to-life, which makes photo editing and binge-watching way more satisfying. The adjustable height, tilt, swivel, and pivot options let me find my perfect comfy setup every single time. And let’s not forget the cool joystick control on the back—navigating menus feels like a mini joystick adventure. I’m officially in love with my new screen sidekick. —Samantha Price
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Why a Monitor to Connect to My Laptop Is Necessary
From my experience, connecting a monitor to my laptop has been a game-changer for productivity and comfort. First, having a larger screen or even dual screens allows me to multitask efficiently—whether I’m writing, researching, or managing multiple applications at once. It reduces the strain on my eyes compared to staring at a small laptop screen for hours.
Also, when I work on creative projects like photo editing or design, the extra screen space gives me better detail and color accuracy. It’s easier to see my work clearly and make precise adjustments. Plus, having a monitor set up ergonomically helps me maintain better posture, which has made long work sessions much more comfortable.
Overall, connecting a monitor to my laptop transforms my workspace, making it more flexible and suited to my needs. It’s not just about screen size but improving how I work and feel throughout the day.
My Buying Guide on Monitor To Connect To Laptop
When I decided to connect an external monitor to my laptop, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best experience. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you choose the right monitor for your setup.
1. Check Your Laptop’s Video Output Ports
The first thing I did was look at what video ports my laptop has. Common ones include HDMI, USB-C, DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, and sometimes VGA. Knowing this helped me pick a monitor with compatible input ports or figure out if I needed an adapter.
2. Choose the Right Screen Size and Resolution
I wanted a monitor that matched my workspace and usage. For general productivity, a 24-inch screen with Full HD (1920×1080) resolution worked well. But if you do design or video editing, you might want a larger screen with 4K resolution for extra clarity.
3. Consider the Refresh Rate and Response Time
Since I mostly used my monitor for work and casual browsing, a standard 60Hz refresh rate was fine. However, if you plan on gaming or doing fast-motion video editing, look for a higher refresh rate (like 120Hz or 144Hz) and a low response time to avoid motion blur.
4. Panel Type Matters
I discovered that IPS panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, which was great for my photo editing. TN panels are usually cheaper and have faster response times but poorer color reproduction. VA panels give deeper blacks but can have slower response times.
5. Connectivity Options Beyond Video
Some monitors come with extra USB ports or even built-in speakers. I found these handy for connecting peripherals and reducing clutter. If you want a clean setup, look for monitors with USB hubs or USB-C power delivery that can charge your laptop while connected.
6. Ergonomics and Adjustability
I wanted a monitor that I could tilt, swivel, and adjust in height to stay comfortable during long work sessions. Some monitors also support pivoting to portrait mode, which is useful if you work with long documents or code.
7. Budget and Brand Reliability
There are monitors available at every price point. I balanced my budget with trusted brands that offer good warranties and customer support. Reading user reviews helped me avoid models with common issues.
8. Additional Features to Consider
- Blue light filters and flicker-free technology to reduce eye strain.
- Matte vs. glossy screen finish depending on your lighting environment.
- Built-in KVM switch if you want to use one monitor with multiple computers.
Final Thoughts
Connecting a monitor to your laptop can boost productivity and improve your computing experience. By checking compatibility, choosing the right specs for your needs, and considering ergonomics, you can find a monitor that fits perfectly with your laptop and workflow. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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