Top 5 Small Monitors: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Imagine you’re setting up your dream gaming station, or maybe you just need a second screen to boost your productivity. You’ve got the big stuff figured out – the powerful computer, the comfy chair. But then you hit a snag: the monitor. Especially when you’re looking for something smaller, the choices can feel overwhelming, right? It’s like trying to find a specific LEGO brick in a giant bin!

Choosing a small computer monitor isn’t as simple as it seems. You want something that fits your space, looks good, and works well for what you need it to do. But with so many different sizes, resolutions, and features, it’s easy to get confused and end up with a screen that’s too big, too small, or just not quite right. That’s where we come in!

In this post, we’ll explore the world of small computer monitors. We’ll break down what makes a good one, what to look out for, and how to pick the perfect fit for your desk. By the end, you’ll feel confident about finding a monitor that makes your computer experience even better. So, let’s dive in and discover the best small screens out there!

Our Top 5 Small Computer Monitors Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Small Computer Monitors Detailed Reviews

1. Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor

Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor, 100Hz Refresh Rate, VESA, HDMI x1, VGA x1, LowBlue Mode, Adaptive Sync, 4 Year Advance Replacement Warranty

Rating: 9.0/10

Get ready for a better viewing experience with the Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD Monitor. This monitor brings your favorite movies, shows, and games to life with stunning detail and smooth action. It’s designed to be easy to use and looks great on any desk.

What We Like:

  • Crisp Clarity: Enjoy super sharp pictures with Full HD 1920×1080 resolution. Everything looks clear and detailed.
  • Fast Refresh Rate: The 100Hz refresh rate makes everything move smoothly. Movies and games look amazing and you won’t miss a beat.
  • Smooth Action: Adaptive-Sync technology makes sure fast scenes are not choppy. You get clear pictures without any stutter.
  • Incredible Contrast: The VA panel shows bright whites and deep blacks. Colors look real, and you see lots of different shades.
  • Perfect View: The extra wide viewing angle means colors stay the same no matter where you sit. Everyone gets to see the best picture.
  • Long Warranty: A 4 Year Advance Replacement Warranty gives you peace of mind. If something goes wrong, they’ll replace it quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited Ports: It only has one HDMI and one VGA port. You might need an adapter if you have many devices to connect.
  • Thin Bezel, Not Ultra-Thin: While it has thin bezels, they are not the absolute thinnest available on the market.

This Philips monitor is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a clear, smooth, and colorful display for entertainment and everyday tasks. It offers great value with its features and long warranty.

2. Yxk Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand

Yxk 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

Rating: 8.5/10

The Yxk Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch is a super thin and light screen that makes your life easier. It’s great for your laptop, computer, phone, and even game consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch. This monitor helps you work and play better, wherever you are.

What We Like:

  • It has a really clear 15.6-inch screen with Full HD (1080P) resolution. The colors look amazing, and you can see it well from any angle.
  • It’s very thin and weighs only about 1.43 pounds, so you can take it anywhere easily.
  • Setting it up is simple with just one cable using its USB-C or HDMI ports. It works with many different devices like laptops, Macs, phones, and gaming consoles.
  • You can use it in different ways, like showing the same thing on both screens, making your laptop screen bigger, or just having a second screen.
  • It has built-in speakers, so you don’t always need headphones for movies or games.
  • The screen helps protect your eyes by reducing blue light, which is good for long work or gaming sessions.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Your phone or laptop needs to support a specific type of USB-C connection (Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE) for it to work with just one cable.
  • The built-in speakers are okay, but they might not be as good as separate speakers for serious gamers or movie buffs.

This portable monitor is a fantastic tool for anyone who needs more screen space on the go. It balances work and fun perfectly.

3. YOTETION 19 inch (1440 x 900) Monitor

YOTETION 19 inch (1440 x 900) Monitor, 75Hz Refresh Rate, HDMI x1 Small Thin Monitor for laptops, Computers and desktops,LED Display, VGA/HDMI Connection.VESA:75 * 75MM

Rating: 9.2/10

The YOTETION 19-inch monitor is a great addition to any workspace or home setup. Its compact size and slim design make it perfect for desks with limited space, and it connects easily to laptops, computers, and desktops. This monitor offers a clear and crisp picture with its 1440 x 900 resolution, making it ideal for all your daily tasks, from work to watching videos.

What We Like:

  • The 1440 x 900 resolution provides a clear and sharp image, perfect for everyday use.
  • Its 75Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals, making activities on the screen transition seamlessly.
  • The monitor features eye protection technology with low blue light and flicker-free settings to reduce eye strain during long work sessions.
  • With a 5-millisecond response time, you’ll experience quick and responsive screen changes.
  • It offers flexible connectivity with both HDMI and VGA ports.
  • The thin and seamless design makes it suitable for various commercial uses like in shops or restaurants.
  • A one-year free replacement guarantee for quality issues offers peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This monitor does not have built-in speakers and cannot transmit audio.
  • A VGA cable is not included with the product, so you will need to purchase one separately if you plan to use that connection.

This YOTETION monitor is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and space-saving display. It balances good performance with user-friendly features, making it a practical option for many users.

4. MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers

Rating: 8.6/10

The MNN Portable Monitor is a game-changer for anyone needing extra screen space on the go. This 15.6-inch monitor boasts a crisp Full HD 1080P resolution and an IPS matte screen for vibrant, accurate colors that look great from any angle. It’s designed to be eye-friendly, reducing blue light and flickering, making it ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. Plus, it’s incredibly thin and light, making it easy to slip into your bag.

What We Like:

  • Stunning Visuals: The 1920×1080 resolution and IPS screen bring your content to life with bright, true colors.
  • Easy Connectivity: Two USB-C ports make setup a breeze with Plug & Play functionality, connecting to most modern devices.
  • Super Portable: Its ultra-slim and lightweight design is perfect for travelers, students, and anyone who works from different locations.
  • Versatile Use: Switch between work and play with different display modes, and HDR mode makes everything look even better.
  • Smart Protection: The included smart cover doubles as a stand and keeps your monitor safe from scratches.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Device Compatibility Note: Your device needs to support Thunderbolt 3.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE for single-cable connection.
  • Cable Specificity: It’s important to use the original USB-C cable provided for optimal performance.

This MNN portable monitor is a fantastic option for boosting productivity and entertainment wherever you are. It offers a great balance of portability, performance, and ease of use.

5. Ingnok Portable Monitor

Ingnok Portable Monitor, Ultra Slim 15.6 Inch FHD IPS Laptop Screen Extender with Adjustable Stand, USB C Compatible, Ideal for Travel and Office

Rating: 8.8/10

Looking to expand your workspace on the go or at home? The Ingnok Portable Monitor, Ultra Slim 15.6 Inch FHD IPS Laptop Screen Extender is here to help. This sleek device is designed to be your perfect companion for work and play, wherever you are.

What We Like:

  • Super thin and light, making it easy to carry around. It’s like carrying a slim notebook, not a heavy screen!
  • The screen looks amazing! It’s Full HD with bright colors, so your pictures and videos will be super clear and vibrant.
  • You can tilt it just right for the best view, no matter where you sit. Say goodbye to neck strain!
  • Connecting is a breeze with just one USB-C cable. It works with most laptops, Macs, PCs, and even gaming consoles.
  • It helps you get more done by giving you extra screen space to multitask. It’s perfect for working from different places.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it’s great for most connections, some older devices might need an adapter.
  • The built-in speakers are okay, but for amazing sound, you might want to use your own headphones or external speakers.

This Ingnok Portable Monitor is a fantastic tool for anyone who needs more screen real estate without the bulk. It’s an excellent investment for boosting your productivity and enjoying your content.

Small Computer Monitors: Your Pocket-Sized Powerhouse Guide

Looking for a smaller screen? Small computer monitors offer big benefits! They save space, are easy to move, and can be perfect for specific jobs. This guide helps you find the right one.

Why Choose a Small Monitor?

Small monitors are great for lots of things. Maybe you need a second screen for your laptop. Or perhaps you want a dedicated display for a gaming console or a Raspberry Pi. They are also ideal for tight desk spaces or for people who travel a lot and need a portable display.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop, keep these important features in mind:

  • Screen Size: This is the most obvious! Small monitors usually range from 7 inches to around 15 inches. Think about how much space you have and what you’ll be doing. A 10-inch screen is good for basic tasks, while a 13-inch might be better for watching videos.
  • Resolution: This tells you how clear the picture is. Look for a resolution like 1920×1080 (Full HD). Higher resolution means sharper images. A tiny screen with a low resolution can look blurry.
  • Panel Type:
    • IPS (In-Plane Switching): These panels give you great color and wide viewing angles. This means the picture looks good even if you’re not looking straight at it.
    • TN (Twisted Nematic): These are usually faster, which is good for gaming. However, their colors and viewing angles aren’t as good as IPS.
  • Brightness: Measured in nits, higher brightness makes the screen easier to see in bright rooms.
  • Refresh Rate: This is how many times the screen updates per second. A higher refresh rate (like 60Hz or more) makes motion look smoother. This is important for gaming and watching fast-moving videos.
  • Connectivity: How will you plug it in? Most small monitors use HDMI or USB-C. Make sure it has the ports you need for your devices.

Important Materials

Most small monitors use plastic for their bodies. This keeps them light and affordable. The screen itself is usually glass. Some higher-end models might use aluminum for a more premium feel and better durability.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

  • Improves Quality:
    • Good Resolution: A sharp picture makes everything look better.
    • IPS Panel: Vibrant colors and clear views from any angle.
    • High Refresh Rate: Smooth visuals for a better experience.
  • Reduces Quality:
    • Low Resolution: Blurry images and text.
    • Poor Viewing Angles: The picture can look washed out if you’re not directly in front of it.
    • Flimsy Build: A cheap plastic body can feel less sturdy.

User Experience and Use Cases

Small monitors offer a great user experience for many situations.

  • Portable Second Screen: Connect it to your laptop to have more space to work. You can have your main work on one screen and research or emails on the other.
  • Gaming: Some gamers use small monitors for retro games or as a dedicated display for a console.
  • DIY Projects: Enthusiasts use them with single-board computers like Raspberry Pi for custom builds.
  • Digital Signage: Small screens can display information or ads in shops or at events.
  • Desk Setup: If you have limited desk space, a small monitor is a perfect fit. It keeps your workspace tidy.

The right small monitor can make your digital life easier and more enjoyable!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the smallest size for a computer monitor?

A: Small computer monitors typically start around 7 inches. Some are even smaller, but 7 inches is a common size for a functional display.

Q: Can a small monitor replace my main computer screen?

A: It depends on your needs. For basic tasks like browsing the web or writing, a small screen might work. However, for detailed work or gaming, a larger screen is usually better.

Q: What does “resolution” mean for a monitor?

A: Resolution tells you how many tiny dots (pixels) make up the picture. More pixels mean a sharper, clearer image. 1920×1080 is a good resolution for most small monitors.

Q: Is a 10-inch monitor good for watching movies?

A: It can be! If you have a good resolution and decent colors, a 10-inch monitor can be nice for watching movies, especially if you’re on the go or have limited space.

Q: What is the difference between IPS and TN panels?

A: IPS panels offer better colors and wider viewing angles, meaning the picture looks good from more directions. TN panels are usually faster, which is good for gaming, but their colors and viewing angles are not as good.

Q: How do I connect a small monitor to my laptop?

A: Most small monitors use HDMI or USB-C cables. Check what ports your laptop has and choose a monitor with matching connectors.

Q: Are small monitors good for gaming?

A: Some are! Look for monitors with a high refresh rate (like 60Hz or more) and a fast response time. These features make games look smoother.

Q: What does “brightness” mean on a monitor?

A: Brightness tells you how bright the screen is. It’s measured in nits. A higher nit number means the screen is brighter, which helps you see it better in sunny rooms.

Q: Can I use a small monitor as a touch screen?

A: Yes, some small monitors are touch screens. This is great for interactive applications or if you want to use it like a tablet.

Q: Are small monitors expensive?

A: Small monitors can range in price. Basic models are quite affordable, while those with advanced features like high resolution, touch screens, or IPS panels can cost more.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Leave a Comment