What is a 17-inch Portable Monitor and Why You Need One
Understanding the 17-inch Portable Monitor
A 17-inch portable monitor is essentially a slim, lightweight display that can connect to your laptop, tablet, or smartphone, giving you extra screen space on the go. Imagine working on an important presentation in a café and struggling to fit the details on your laptop screen. With a portable monitor, you can expand your workspace, easily comparing documents side by side or having your video call on one screen while taking notes on another.
The Benefits of Having a 17-inch Display
Why should we invest in a 17-inch portable monitor? Picture yourself travelling for work. When you’re in a hotel room or at a client’s office, having a portable monitor makes it easy to set up an efficient workspace anywhere you go. It enhances productivity by reducing eye strain; a larger screen allows for better viewing angles, making it more comfortable for long periods of work. For gaming or streaming, the extra screen size also enriches the visual experience.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a 17-inch Monitor
Screen Quality and Resolution
When choosing a portable monitor, the first thing to consider is screen quality. A high-resolution display, such as Full HD (1920×1080), will provide clearer images and vibrant colours. Think about watching your favourite series or reviewing detailed graphics; higher resolutions can greatly enhance your experience.
Portability and Design
Since we want a convenience factor, the weight and thickness of the monitor are essential. A monitor weighing about 1.5 to 2 kg is a good standard to look out for, as this makes it easy to carry in a laptop bag. Furthermore, features like foldable designs or foldable stands can make setup straightforward and space-efficient.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is crucial. We’d recommend looking for monitors that offer multiple connection types, such as USB-C, HDMI, or DisplayPort. This ensures compatibility with various devices, be it a laptop, smartphone, or gaming console. It saves time and hassle when switching devices.
Power Source
Battery life should also be a key consideration. Some portable monitors come equipped with their own rechargeable batteries, providing the flexibility to use them without being tethered to a power source. This is particularly useful when we’re working in places where outlets aren’t readily available.
Top 17-inch Portable Monitors for Every Budget
Budget-Friendly Options
For those on a tight budget, models like the AOC e1759Fwu and ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC are excellent choices. They deliver solid performance without breaking the bank, making them ideal for casual users who need an additional screen for work or entertainment.
Mid-Range Picks
If we want to invest a bit more for enhanced features, options like the Dell P1717S or ViewSonic VA1750sm offer better colour accuracy and LCD panels that improve both gaming and professional tasks. These screens maintain a balance between cost and quality.
Premium Choices
For those seeking the finest experience, monitors such as the ASUS ROG Strix XG17AHP or the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t bring top-tier specifications, including high refresh rates and superb colour detail, perfect for gamers or creative professionals who demand more from their visuals.
Setting Up Your 17-inch Portable Monitor: A Simple Guide
Connecting Your Monitor
Setting up a portable monitor is generally straightforward. Most monitors come with a USB-C or HDMI cable. First, plug the corresponding cable into your laptop and the monitor. If your monitor has an integrated battery, ensure it’s charged or plugged into a power source.
Adjusting Display Settings
After connection, we may need to adjust the display settings on our device. On Windows, right-click on the desktop and select ‘Display Settings’. You can choose to extend or duplicate your display. If you’re on macOS, navigate to System Preferences and click on ‘Displays’ to arrange the screen layout to your preference.
Positioning the Monitor
Position the monitor between 50-70 cm away from your eyes, adjusting height and angle for comfort. If the monitor has an adjustable stand, this feature can be utilized to find the best position that minimizes strain.
Tips for Maximising Your Productivity with a Portable Monitor
Utilise Multi-Tasking Features
With an additional screen, we can easily drag and sort applications between displays. Using one screen for emails and the other for tasks allows for smoother workflow and greater efficiency.
Organising Your Workspace
Keep your virtual workspace tidy. Use taskbar features to group applications, set reminders, and manage your time effectively. By segmenting tasks across screens, we prevent distractions and maintain focus.
Adapting Settings for Comfort
Finally, don’t forget to adjust the brightness and contrast settings of the monitor to prevent eye strain. Recommending blue light filters can also be beneficial, especially for late-night work sessions. This small adjustment can greatly enhance both comfort and productivity.
