For remote workers seeking a larger, portable display, finding the best 17-inch monitor can significantly boost productivity. The WGK Portable Monitor stands out for its high refresh rate and versatile connectivity, making it ideal for gaming and multitasking on the go. The LG gram +View offers a stunning 2560×1600 resolution with excellent color accuracy for creative professionals, but it comes at a higher price. Meanwhile, models like the ViewSonic VX1754 balance performance and affordability, perfect for those needing a reliable second screen. The main tradeoffs in this category include balancing size, weight, resolution, and connectivity options. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the best fit for your remote work setup.
Key Takeaways
- High refresh rates (144Hz) are common among gaming-oriented monitors, offering smoother visuals that benefit multitasking and casual gaming.
- Connectivity options like USB-C and HDMI are critical for seamless integration with various devices, especially laptops and smartphones.
- Build quality and portability vary significantly; lighter models often sacrifice some features or screen size for easier travel.
- Color accuracy and resolution matter most for creative professionals, while standard 1080p is sufficient for general productivity.
- Smart features like built-in speakers and protective covers add convenience but can also increase the price or weight.
More Details on Our Top Picks
WGK Portable Monitor Narrow Edge 17.3” 1080P FHD 144Hz USB-C HDMI Gaming PC IPS HDR Screen for Travel PC Mac Phone Xbox PS5 Switch Laptop with Smart Cover and Built-in Speakers
This monitor stands out for combining a large 17.3-inch display with a high 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for both work and gaming. Compared to the ViewSonic VX1754, it offers a smoother visual experience for fast-moving content, but the tradeoff is a slightly bulkier design. Its plug-and-play USB-C and HDMI support ensure broad compatibility, allowing seamless connection to laptops, phones, and gaming consoles. The included smart cover doubles as a stand, enhancing portability and protection, which is perfect for travelers. However, the 5ms response time, while decent, isn’t as fast as gaming-focused monitors, so it may not satisfy competitive gamers. This pick makes the most sense for remote workers who also enjoy gaming or media editing on the go, needing a large, versatile screen without sacrificing portability.
Pros:- 144Hz high refresh rate for smooth visuals
- Wide compatibility with USB-C and HDMI
- Includes protective smart cover and built-in speakers
Cons:- Response time of 5ms may not suit fast-paced gaming
- Slightly heavier and bulkier compared to ultra-slim options
Best for: remote workers who want a large, versatile monitor for productivity and entertainment on the move
Not ideal for: competitive gamers seeking ultra-fast response times and minimal input lag
- Display Size:17.3 inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate:144Hz
- Ports:USB-C, mini HDMI
- Weight:2.12 lbs
- Response Time:5 ms
Bottom line: A strong choice for remote workers who need a large, adaptable screen that balances work and play portability.
This monitor excels in portability with just 7mm thickness and a sleek design, making it perfect for creative professionals on the go. Its 144Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium support deliver smooth visuals, similar to the WGK model, but with a more refined, ultra-thin profile. The dual USB-C ports allow for flexible cable management, and the included L-shaped kickstand helps position the screen at an ergonomic height. While it’s highly portable, some users may find the smaller physical size less suitable for detailed spreadsheets or multiple windows compared to larger options like the WGK. Its 3-year warranty adds reliability, especially for frequent travelers. This monitor is ideal for digital artists, designers, or remote workers who prioritize slimness and style over maximum screen real estate.
Pros:- Ultra-thin (7mm) and lightweight for portability
- High 144Hz refresh rate with FreeSync support
- Includes versatile kickstand and tripod compatibility
Cons:- Smaller display size may limit multitasking
- Higher price point for its slim profile
Best for: creative professionals and travelers needing a slim, high-quality portable display
Not ideal for: users requiring a larger workspace for multitasking or detailed spreadsheets
- Display Size:17 inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate:144Hz
- Connectivity:USB-C, HDMI
- Warranty:3 years
- Weight:0.78 lbs
Bottom line: Perfect for on-the-go creators and professionals who want a stylish, lightweight secondary display.
ViewSonic VX1754 17 Inch 1080p Portable Gaming Monitor, IPS Display with 144Hz for Second Screen Productivity and High-Speed Gameplay, Built-in Stand, 60W USB-C, and Mini HDMI Inputs
The ViewSonic VX1754 offers a large 17.3-inch IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gamers who want a second screen for high-speed gameplay or multitasking. Compared to the WGK model, it provides industry-leading 3-year warranty coverage and a more traditional built-in stand, which enhances usability in various settings. Its USB-C supports 60W charging, reducing cable clutter, and the mini HDMI expands connectivity options. While it’s excellent for gaming, its response time of 6.5ms might be slightly slower for competitive players, and its weight at 2 pounds makes it portable but less slim than some ultra-light options. This monitor suits gamers and remote workers who want a reliable, sizable secondary screen without sacrificing durability or warranty coverage.
Pros:- 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming
- 3-year industry-leading warranty
- Supports diverse devices with USB-C and HDMI
Cons:- Response time of 6.5ms may not satisfy competitive gamers
- Slightly heavier at 2 pounds
Best for: gamers and remote workers needing a large, versatile secondary display for high-speed visuals
Not ideal for: players seeking the absolute lowest latency or ultra-light portability
- Display Size:17.3 inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate:144Hz
- Ports:USB-C, mini HDMI
- Warranty:3 years
- Weight:2 lbs
Bottom line: A highly reliable, large portable monitor that balances gaming performance with productivity needs.
ZSCMALLS Portable Monitor 17.3 Inch 144Hz 1080P FHD Gaming Monitor USB-C HDMI Computer Display HDR IPS Laptop Screen Extender with Smart Cover/Speakers for Laptop PC Mac Phone PS3 4/5 Xbox
This monitor offers a 17.3-inch IPS display with a high 144Hz refresh rate and HDR support, making it well-suited for gaming and media consumption. Its plug-and-play design with multiple connectivity options, including USB-C and HDMI, makes it comparable to the InnoView monitor but with added emphasis on split-screen modes and mounting options, thanks to four mounting holes. Its flicker-free, blue light reduction features promote eye comfort during extended use. The 60W charging support simplifies cable management. However, at 2 pounds, it’s portable but not as sleek as ultra-thin models, and some users might find the 3ms response time less optimal for competitive gaming. It’s best for users who want a dual-purpose monitor for work and entertainment, especially in gaming or multimedia settings.
Pros:- 144Hz high refresh rate with HDR support
- Multiple mounting options for flexible setup
- Plug-and-play with USB-C and HDMI
Cons:- Slightly heavier at 2 pounds
- Response time of 3ms, though good, may not satisfy all competitive gamers
Best for: gamers and remote workers who want a dual-function display for work and media
Not ideal for: professional esports players seeking ultra-low latency and minimal input lag
- Display Size:17.3 inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate:144Hz
- Connectivity:USB-C, HDMI
- HDR:Yes
- Weight:2 lbs
Bottom line: A versatile, dual-purpose monitor ideal for gaming and remote productivity with flexible mounting options.
InnoView Portable Monitor, 15.6 Inch FHD 1080P HDMI USB C Second External Monitor for Laptop, Desktop, MacBook, Phones, Tablet, PS5/4, Xbox, Switch, Built-in Speaker with Protective Case
This 15.6-inch monitor is a great choice for travelers and those with limited space, offering full HD resolution and a 178° viewing angle. Its compact size makes it less ideal than the 17-inch models like the WGK or ViewSonic for multitasking, but it excels in portability and ease of setup. The built-in speakers and protective case add convenience, and with two Type-C ports and an HDMI, it supports a wide array of devices. Its response time and color accuracy are sufficient for most remote work tasks, but it may fall short for detailed design work or intensive gaming. This monitor makes sense for users needing a secondary screen for light work, media, or gaming on the go, without adding much weight to their kit.
Pros:- Compact 15.6-inch size for portability
- Full HD resolution with wide 178° viewing angle
- Built-in speakers and protective case included
Cons:- Smaller screen limits multitasking
- Response time may not suit fast-paced gaming
Best for: travelers, students, and light remote workers prioritizing portability
Not ideal for: users requiring a large workspace or high-color accuracy for professional editing
- Display Size:15.6 inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Response Time:6 ms
- Ports:USB-C, HDMI
- Viewing Angle:178°
- Weight:2.7 lbs
Bottom line: An excellent travel companion for light productivity, media, and casual gaming, prioritizing size and convenience.
LG gram +View 17-inch Lightweight, Portable WQXG (2560×1600) Anti-Glare IPS Monitor, 16:10 Aspect Ratio, up to DCI-P3 99% Color, Built-in Speaker, USB Type-C, DisplayPort, mini HDMI – Titan Silver
This LG gram +View stands out for its exceptional color accuracy and high-resolution display, making it ideal for remote workers who need sharp visuals and vibrant colors, especially compared to the ARZOPA monitor, which, while impressive, offers a slightly lower resolution and less color gamut. Its ultralight design at just 1.7 pounds ensures portability for frequent travelers, yet the premium features come with a higher price tag. The auto-pivot feature and versatile connectivity options enhance multitasking and seamless device pairing, but the premium build and advanced specs mean it’s less suitable for budget-conscious users. Compared to the KYY 15.6” FHD, this model offers higher resolution and better color, but at the expense of slight bulk and cost.
Pros:- High-resolution 2560×1600 display with 99% DCI-P3 color coverage
- Ultra lightweight at 1.7 pounds, easy to carry
- Versatile connectivity with USB-C, DisplayPort, and mini HDMI
Cons:- Higher price compared to similar portable monitors
- Auto-pivot feature requires LG Switch app and may have limited support on some devices
- Premium build may be overkill for casual users
Best for: Remote professionals who prioritize high-quality visuals and portability in their secondary monitor.
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those seeking a more affordable, simple second screen without advanced color needs.
- Display Size:17 Inches
- Resolution:2560 x 1600
- Color Gamut:DCI-P3 99%
- Display Technology:IPS LCD
- Weight:1.72 Pounds
- Connectivity:USB Type-C, DisplayPort, mini HDMI
Bottom line: This monitor is perfect for remote workers who need a high-quality, portable display with vibrant visuals and advanced features.
KYY Portable Monitor 15.6inch 1080P FHD USB-C, HDMI Computer Display HDR IPS Gaming Monitor w/Premium Smart Cover & Screen Protector, Speakers, for Laptop PC MAC Phone PS4 Xbox Switch
This KYY 15.6” FHD monitor is an excellent choice for users seeking a cost-effective, portable second screen with good display quality. Its 178° wide viewing angle and HDR technology ensure vibrant visuals, comparable to the ARZOPA monitor, but with a more affordable price point. The ultra-slim profile and included smart cover make it highly portable, though the smaller size may not suit those needing a larger workspace. Its broad compatibility with USB-C and HDMI enables easy connection to laptops, phones, and gaming consoles, but the 1080p resolution limits its appeal for detailed creative work compared to higher-res options. While it lacks the color gamut of the LG, it provides excellent value for casual remote work and gaming.
Pros:- Affordable price with 1080P full HD resolution
- Slim, lightweight design at 1.7 pounds
- Supports multiple devices via USB-C and HDMI
Cons:- Lower resolution and color gamut compared to premium displays
- Size limited to 15.6 inches, less workspace area
- Build quality is basic, less durable than premium models
Best for: Budget-conscious remote workers or gamers who want a portable, versatile screen without sacrificing too much display quality.
Not ideal for: Professionals requiring high color accuracy or large screens for detailed editing tasks.
- Display Size:15.6 Inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Viewing Angle:178°
- Color Gamut:HDR
- Weight:1.7 Pounds
- Connectivity:USB-C, HDMI
Bottom line: This monitor is ideal for remote workers on a budget who need a portable second screen for general productivity and entertainment.
ARZOPA 17.3″ Portable Monitor, 1080P FHD 103% sRGB IPS Gaming Monitor Laptop Monitor with Built-in Kickstand HDMI USB C External Screen for PC Mac Phone Xbox PS5 – A1M
The ARZOPA 17.3” Portable Monitor offers a large, immersive display with a 1080P resolution and a 103% sRGB color gamut, making it a great choice for gaming, multimedia, and casual remote work. Its IPS panel provides wide viewing angles, similar to the LG but with a smaller resolution, which is suitable for entertainment and light productivity. The built-in kickstand and plug-and-play connectivity via USB-C and HDMI make setup straightforward and highly portable, though it lacks advanced color calibration features of premium models. It’s a more affordable option that still delivers vibrant visuals, but the smaller resolution compared to the LG may not satisfy professional users needing pixel-perfect detail. This monitor balances size, cost, and visual quality for casual users and gamers on the move.
Pros:- Large 17.3-inch display for immersive viewing
- Support for portrait and landscape modes with built-in kickstand
- Easy connection with USB-C and HDMI, no drivers needed
Cons:- Lower resolution than high-end monitors, limiting detailed work
- Basic color calibration, less color accuracy than premium models
- Build quality is decent but not premium
Best for: Gamers and casual remote workers who want a large screen that’s easy to carry and quick to set up.
Not ideal for: Professional users requiring high resolution or color accuracy for creative tasks.
- Display Size:17.3 Inches
- Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Color Gamut:103% sRGB
- Display Technology:IPS LCD
- Weight:Approx. 2 Pounds
- Connectivity:USB-C, HDMI
Bottom line: This monitor suits casual users and gamers who want a large portable display for entertainment and light remote work.
How We Picked
These monitors were selected based on a combination of performance, portability, build quality, and value. Priority was given to models with a 17-inch display, as size is a key factor for remote work productivity. We evaluated connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with common devices like laptops, phones, and gaming consoles. Durability, weight, and ease of setup were also considered, along with features like built-in speakers or stands that add to usability. The ranking reflects a balance between price, features, and overall versatility, aiming to serve different types of remote workers—from casual users to professionals needing color accuracy or gaming capabilities.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Portable 17 Inch Monitors For Remote Work
Choosing the right portable 17-inch monitor for remote work involves weighing several important factors. Size and weight directly impact portability, so consider how often you’ll carry it. Connectivity options ensure compatibility with your devices, especially USB-C, HDMI, or Thunderbolt ports. Resolution and color accuracy are vital for creative tasks versus general productivity. Price-to-value ratio also matters; investing in premium features may be unnecessary for simple document editing. Lastly, consider extra features like built-in speakers, protective covers, or adjustable stands that enhance usability without adding bulk or cost.
Size, Weight, and Portability
While a 17-inch display offers ample workspace, it also increases weight and bulk compared to smaller portable monitors. Look for models that strike a balance between screen real estate and ease of travel. Lightweight designs with slim bezels are preferable for frequent commuters. However, sacrificing some portability for a sturdier build or additional features can be worthwhile if you often work remotely or travel frequently.
Connectivity Options
Ensure the monitor supports the ports you depend on, such as USB-C, HDMI, or DisplayPort. USB-C is especially versatile, allowing for single-cable connection to power and data, reducing clutter. Some models include multiple ports, offering flexibility with different devices. Compatibility with smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles can also extend your monitor’s usability beyond traditional laptops, but be mindful of cable lengths and adapter needs.
Resolution and Color Accuracy
For general productivity, Full HD (1080p) resolution often suffices, but creative professionals or those doing detailed work should prioritize higher resolutions like WQXGA or 4K when possible. Color accuracy, measured by sRGB or DCI-P3 coverage, becomes essential for photo editing and content creation. Budget models might cut corners here, so consider your primary tasks before deciding how much to invest in display quality.
Price and Value
Higher-priced monitors tend to include premium features like higher refresh rates, better color fidelity, and more durable builds. However, for typical remote work tasks such as document editing or browsing, a mid-range model often provides excellent value. Avoid overpaying for features you won’t use, but be cautious about extremely cheap options that may lack reliability or necessary durability. Balancing cost and features is key to a satisfying purchase.
Additional Features
Extras like built-in speakers, adjustable stands, or protective covers can enhance your user experience. Smart covers that double as stands make setups more flexible and portable but may add to the overall weight. Consider whether these features align with your workflow and travel habits. Prioritize models with a sturdy, foldable stand if you plan to set up in different locations frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 17-inch portable monitor with my smartphone?
Yes, many 17-inch monitors support USB-C or HDMI connections compatible with smartphones that have video output capabilities. However, ensure your phone supports video out and check the monitor’s connectivity options. Using a USB-C to USB-C cable or an HDMI adapter may be necessary. Keep in mind that larger screens can drain your phone’s battery faster, so consider power management options or portable chargers for extended use.
Is a higher refresh rate important for remote work tasks?
For most productivity tasks like document editing, web browsing, or video calls, a standard 60Hz refresh rate is sufficient. Higher refresh rates, such as 120Hz or 144Hz, are primarily beneficial for gaming or fast-paced media consumption. However, they can make scrolling smoother and reduce eye strain during prolonged work sessions, which can be a subtle but worthwhile advantage for some users.
Should I prioritize resolution over portability?
It depends on your primary use case. If you do detailed graphic work or enjoy watching high-resolution videos, investing in a higher resolution display like WQXGA or 4K makes sense. However, higher resolutions often come with increased weight and cost. For general remote work, Full HD (1080p) offers a good balance of clarity and portability, especially if you need to travel frequently.
Are built-in speakers worth it on portable monitors?
Built-in speakers add convenience by reducing the need for external audio devices, especially in compact setups or on the go. However, their sound quality often lags behind dedicated speakers, so for critical audio tasks, external speakers or headphones are preferable. If you frequently work in environments where space is limited or want quick setup, monitors with decent integrated audio can be a real time-saver.
How durable are portable monitors for frequent travel?
Durability varies widely; models with metal frames or reinforced screens tend to withstand more bumps and knocks. Consider those with protective covers or cases, as many models include these accessories. Lightweight models may sacrifice some robustness for portability, so if you travel often, look for monitors rated for frequent handling and transport, even if it means paying a bit more.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most remote workers is the WGK Portable Monitor, thanks to its high refresh rate and versatile connectivity. If you prioritize display quality and color accuracy, the LG gram +View stands out despite its higher price. Budget-conscious users will find the ViewSonic VX1754 offers a reliable balance of features and affordability. For beginners or those new to portable displays, models like the KYY Portable Monitor provide easy setup and good value. Creative professionals or gamers seeking advanced features should consider higher-end options like the ASUS ZenScreen. Matching the monitor to your specific needs ensures a smoother, more productive remote work experience in 2026.
