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Some of the best portable monitors for gaming out there can put desktop screens to shame, and I've tested plenty that pack a surprising punch. Not everyone is going to need a screen that's thinner, can slide into a backpack or carry case, and still offers up high resolutions and refresh rates, but I'd urge anyone with a gaming handheld or laptop to consider one.
Now is a pretty excellent time to track down a portable gaming monitor, as there is a wealth of options out there. My current overall favorite, the Uperfect Umax 24, takes the fight to the best gaming monitors with a 24.5-inch 1440p 165Hz panel, and while it absolutely pushes the definition of "portable," it's still an extremely travel-friendly screen that offers up single cable USB-C connectivity and QHD visuals.
The quick list
The Umax 24 is incredibly large for a portable monitor, but it features big specs to match its massive panel and is surprisingly lightweight for a 24.5-inch screen.
For the money, this budget 1080p panel boasts great portable visuals, a slimline profile, and full USB-C connectivity.
If it's dual screens you're after, the FlipGo will provide you with a double helping and excellent single-cable connectivity.
A fantastic full HD value option with surprising HDR capabilities.
You're not getting the 240Hz rates of the Asus at the top of this list, but with a 165Hz rate and adaptive sync at your disposal this is your next best (and much cheaper) option.
This ViewSonic model offers up a 4K resolution at a fair price - perfect for small-screen UHD gaming. You're getting wide compatibility with a range of ports and extra features.
Phil loves using portable monitors for gaming in creative ways, and they make sure to test all the latest options in different scenarios. One week, they'll be chilling in a coffee shop with an external display and a laptop, the next they'll be heading up the Scottish Highlands with a gaming handheld and a travel-friendly screen. As our resident monitor expert, you can trust our savvy hardware review you point out all the pros and caveats you need to pick up the perfect panel.
The best portable monitor for gaming overall
Yes, the Uperfect Umax 24 does push the very definition of a portable monitor, but it turns out 24 inches is ideal when paired with the right specs. This screen goes a step further than its competitors by offering up a much larger 1440p panel that can hit 165Hz, all while boasting easy USB-C connectivity for Switch and Steam Deck,
✅ You want beefy specs: The Umax 24 features hefty 1440p 165Hz abilities that make all the difference in terms of performance.
✅ You need something large: Uperfect's 24.5-inch screen is the largest portable monitor on the market, and the extra screen space is invaluable for multiplayer sessions.
✅ You'd like something versatile: The Umax 24's size and features like VESA mounting mean it can be used both as a desktop and portable monitor.
❌ You need something for your backpack: The Umax 24 certainly isn't going to fit in your rucksack, and while it has its own carry case, it's not ideal for backpackers.
❌You'd prefer a built-in battery: This screen doesn't come with a battery built-in, so you'll have to use your own Power Bank or fetch juice via USB-C.
Features: Size is certainly one of the Umax 24's biggest selling points. I know for a fact there are plenty of you heading to Google and Reddit looking for the biggest portable monitor possible, and Uperfect's larger 24.5-inch panel is a solid solution. It's big enough to serve as a desktop screen, but by maintaining a surprisingly light 2.64 kg (5.83 lbs) body that's only 0.63-inch-thick, the display maker has created something that's easy to take with you.
You'd be forgiven for thinking that the Umax 24 has to keep specs low to maintain a light form factor, but that's not remotely the case. We're talking about a QHD 165Hz panel that trades blows with desktop screens, even if its brightness is slightly lacking compared to full-blown panels. You're also getting plenty of ports, including two USB-C connectors for versatile power options and gaming handheld connectivity, and the latter is super important ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Design: The Umax 24 is light, and while it's not going to fit in any normal backpack, there are bundles that come with an extra-large sleeve. That makes it arguably as easy to take with you as a laptop, albeit one that's 24.5 inches. Since it's already ridiculously large, it naturally forgoes any extras like a built-in battery to keep things slim, but you'll still be able to use your own power bank via USB-C. Plus, you're getting integrated speakers, which contributes to the all-in-one nature of the panel.
Performance: As an extra-large way to access your Switch, Steam Deck, or PC library on the go, the Umax 24 is a heavy hitter. It's nice and crisp at 1440p, and the 165Hz refresh rate helps everything feel that bit slicker when you can hit higher frame rates. Even when you are sticking to 60fps, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe feels nice and swift thanks to the faster refresh rate, and while I wouldn't rely on this panel for proper competitive play in shooters, its 10ms response time isn't offensive.
Brightness is slightly lacking, and the panel's supposed HDR abilities fall short for that reason. But, that's a pitfall of many desktop screens that aren't much brighter, and since it pulls off respectable colors for an IPS display, it'll still make for an excellent way to fit some multiplayer sessions into your travels. The extra size means that whether you're in a hotel room, on a camping trip, or just having a wee garden get-together, the Umax 24 is going to feel like you're playing on a proper-sized screen even though it's extremely easy to take with you.
Verdict: The Umax 24 isn't going to be ideal for those of you needing something that'll slip into your backpack alongside a laptop. However, its size helps to excel when it comes to providing an on-the-go gaming setup, and it goes the extra mile in terms of resolution, refresh rate, and sheer panel size.
The best budget portable monitor for gaming
It's incredibly hard to grumble with what the KYY K3 Portable Monitor offers at its price point, as it's a well rounded 1080p option that'll normally cost under $100 and features full USB-C support. That makes it a winner for gaming handhelds and laptops alike, not to mention it also manages to squeeze features and a folio stand into the package too.
✅ You want a cheap external screen: The K3 is built with budget-conscious gamers with USB-C devices in mind, and it makes for an affordable handheld screen extender.
✅ You play at 1080p: This monitor is 1080p 60Hz, so it's best suited to low spec gamers on mobile devices.
✅ You need USB-C and HDMI: You won't be short of ports thanks to the K3's USB-C and mini HDMI abilities.
❌You want at least 1440p: You'll want to aim for something with a higher resolution since the K3 sticks with 1080p.
❌You want a battery: At this price point, built-in batteries are rare, so you'll need to spend more for the luxury.
Features: If you're looking for standout features that bring something unique to the table, the KYY K3 perhaps isn't for you. This is a back-to-basics 1080p display that focuses instead on providing solid HD performance in a slimline package, but it does ensure you'll have a comprehensive setup to hand. Not only has it got a set of basic 1W speakers built in, but it's IO is fairly robust since it includes mini HDMI and two USB-C with DisplayPort Alt support. That will enable you to use a single cable for video and power, which in turn makes potential setups more portable.
Design: The KYY K3 looks like someone snapped the keyboard off of a laptop, and that's not actually a bad thing. Its traditional approach to design means it's only really as bulky as a slimline ultrabook, and that's with its included plastic folio stand case attached. The ports all reside on the side, so there's no funny business involved with hooking up your device of choice, but the OSD toggle is unfortunately one of those painful to use pivoting dials that often featured on cheap 2010s TVs.
Performance: It's important to adjust your performance expectations when talking about a sub-$100 portable monitor, but the KYY K3 holds up better than most cheap options. Its brightness and contrast levels are actually pretty nice for an IPS display of this size, and while it'll struggle it broad daylight, it's not what I'd call unusably dim. It is worth highlighting that while this display advertises HDR abilities, you're not going to be getting anything close to true High Dynamic Range with this display.
I used the K3 with the Steam Deck, OG Nintendo Switch, and MSI Claw 8 AI+ during testing, and I experienced zero issues while playing a bunch of games. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, in particular, feels exceptional on this panel since its resolution and refresh rate are a good match, whereas I also had a good time playing PC releases like Cyberpunk 2077 and Tomb Raider Trilogy. The speakers were pretty low volume, but serviceable if you're in a reasonably quiet environment, but I'd happily sit and tackle my Steam library using this panel within a portable setup.
Verdict: As a no-thrills option for playing handheld games on a larger screen, the KYY K3 is an absolute winner. It naturally comes with caveats, particularly when it comes to brightness, but it's USB-C functionality and slim design make it a backpack essential even for players who wouldn't normally opt for a portable monitor.
The best dual portable monitor
If your aim is to put together a dual screen monitor setup you can take on the go, the Jsaux FlipGo could be key. This double-stacked panel comes armed with everything you'll need to bring a desktop experience with you, and it makes for a great way to enlarge your gaming handheld screen to boot.
✅ You need a dual screen setup: A double helping of panels will enable you to use multiple desktops on the go.
✅ You also care about productivity: While the FlipGo is great for gaming, it's real strengths lie with multitasking
✅ You've got a gaming handheld: The FlipGo will hook up to your handhelds with a single cable, enabling you to play games and run other applications in desktop mode.
❌You don't need two screens: It sounds silly, but if you don't actually need two displays, this isn't the monitor for you.
❌You'd prefer a horizontal layout : If the stacked approach isn't your bag, you might be better off looking for alternative layouts.
Features: Wearing a clam-shell design that's not unlike a gaming laptop, the FlipGo is designed to cram as much screen space into as small a footprint as possible. Rather than extending outwards like most dual options out there, Jsaux stacks things vertically, and it'll all fold down into something that'll fit in your backpack. It also comes with an orange cover that might not be to everyone's tastes, but is going to add some extra protection for the display's aluminium body.
Design: The FlipGo boasts both DisplayLink support and an UltraView mode, meaning you can use the display as two extra screens or one extended panel. You'll be able to plug USB-C devices straight into this screen with a single cable, but mini HDMI is also present to maximise compatibility. Sadly, there's no built-in battery with this one, so you'll need a power bank like the Jsaux 20000mAh 65w if you want to truly cut the cord.
Performance: While the FlipGo is two screens in one, it doesn't skimp on visual fidelity. Both panels look pretty great thanks to their QHD resolution, and contrast ain't half bad considering we're talking about IPS. The displays are also pretty bright, with that 500 nits punching through even in brightly lit areas.
Verdict: As a dual screen package, the Jsaux FlipGo is arguably one of the most appealing options out there. The nature of its layout might not be directly suited to gaming, but there's a lot you can do with a duo of screens in this formfactor.
Read more: Jsaux FlipGo review
The best high refresh rate portable monitor
The G-Story GSV56QM is a portable monitor that actually gives the ASUS ROG Strix XG17 a run for its money, despite having a lower refresh rate. The part that makes this technically a better option solely based on speed is its snappier response time, which will matter if you care about every frame in competitive scenarios.
✅ You care about responsiveness: With a 1ms response rate, this is one of the snappiest portable monitors around.
✅ You play at high frame rates: The G-Story's 165Hz refresh rate will feel silky smooth when boosting fps on the go.
✅ You want great performance for less: For the price, you're getting beefy specs that are on par with more expensive options.
❌You want a faster refresh rate: For most players, 165Hz will be plenty, but those of you looking for faster will want to upspent to Asus' screen.
❌You care about looks: The GSV56QM isn't what we'd call pretty, and it's not going to impress anyone at a LAN event.
Features: At a glance, the GSV56QM feels fairly ordinary, wielding a 1080p display and a decent selection of ports, including a few USB-C connectors. Yet, it's actually a bit of a monster specs-wise, offering a 15.6-inch panel with a 165Hz refresh rate and that aforementioned 1ms response time. There's probably an argument to be had over whether 3ms paired with 240Hz is more beneficial, but it's still impressive to see responsiveness like that in this sort of package.
Design: In terms of looks, the G-Story does look slightly dated, with a fairly thick bottom bezel and a logo that feels straight out of the 2000s. It's also strangely got a pair of micro USB ports facing outwards, even though that standard should be dead and buried by now. That said, the GSV56QM does feel well thought out when it comes to design, with a headphone jack conveniently facing outwards alongside some front firing speakers.
Performance: On paper, the GSV56QM holds up as a great portable competitive gaming monitor, especially when it comes to response time. There is a bit question mark over why it labels itself as a HDR screen, however, as its 300 nit brightness capabilities and lack of local dimming mean it can't really pull off proper High Dynamic Range. That aside, this screen has the potential to be a reliable speedy screen, providing your laptop can make use of 165Hz.
Verdict: For the money, the G-Story GSV56QM is a great option for players craving high refresh rate portable gaming. If 165Hz isn't enough to satiate your needs, you'll have to splash out on our top option, but it's hard to argue with what this panel offers up for the price.
The best 4K portable monitor for gaming
If your hellbent on playing at 4K no matter where you are, the ViewSonic VX1655-4K will see you right. You'll pay extra for a UHD panel, but the package doesn't skimp on build quality and features to make room for its high resolution.
✅ 4K visuals are a must: If you absolutely need to have a 4K screen, this is a good portable option.
✅ You want to play PS5: Not that we'd advise taking your console with you on a hiking trip, but this display will pair nicely with Sony's console.
✅ You need good compatibility: This display's ports will accommodate most modern consoles, PCs, and devices, so you won't be stuck trying to hook things up.
❌ You've no need for 4K: Players who aren't planning on playing games at UHD resolution will be better off choosing a lower spec option.
❌You want a bigger 4K display: At 15.6 inches, you might not feel the benefits of UHD compared to larger displays, but they won't be cheap or easy to find.
Features: Kitted out with the usual USB-C and HDMI ports, you'll be able to easily hook this screen up to anything that can handle 4K visuals. Whether you've got one of the best gaming laptops around or you just fancy torturing your Steam Deck, proper UHD visuals are on the menu with this display.
Design: Aesthetically, the ViewSonic VX1655-4K is a bit conservative, which will suit some of you out there that aren't into gamer vibes. That said, it cleverly uses its back IO block as a stick stand, meaning the extra bulk at the back serves more than one purpose.
Performance: Naturally, you'll be capped at 60Hz using this 4K monitor, but that's not going to matter so much if you're not into shooters (or lack a decent GPU). Response times aren't abysmal, but you might also want to curb your expectations if you're used to speedy desktop screens.
Verdict: We'll eventually see cheaper (and better) 4K screens hit the marker as the technology matures. For the time being, the ViewSonic VX1655-4K is a reliable way to take UHD visuals with you on the go, and we'd pick this model over various no-name brands out there.
The best touchscreen portable monitor for gaming
Portable monitors can cost a pretty penny, but Verbatim's Portable Touchscreen Monitor manages to offer great features for less. It's main draw is naturally its capacitive panel, especially since it makes for a great way to navigate your Steam Deck without a controller, but it's got plenty of other perks going for it too.
✅ You want great specs for less: Verbatim's screen offers surprisingly great specs considering it's cheaper than its competition
✅ You want a touchscreen: This panel will save you having plug in additional peripherals when trying to browse menus or set things up.
✅ You need something sleek: This model is pretty thin, meaning it's more likely to fit in your bag without causing a fuss.
❌ You'd rather have a built-in battery: Power banks can provide this screen with juice, but you might prefer something with an integrated solution.
❌You want something bigger : At 15-inches, this screen will feel fairly standard in terms of size.
Features: It's worth noting this screen lacks a built in battery, and that may matter if you're looking for a completely untethered experience. However, if you hook it up to your own battery bank, you'll be able to pair it with the best gaming handhelds out there and benefit from features like HDR and touchscreen support. Depending on what you're using it for, trading away an integrated battery for those traits is more than worthwhile, not to mention it helps cut cost.
Design: In terms of design, Verbatim's monitor is clad with a metal shell, and it's pretty thin even by portable monitor standards. One of its stand out elements is the fact it has a kickstand built in, so you won't have to use any dual-use cases to prop it up on a desk.
Performance: We tested the Verbatim Portable Touchscreen Monitor using laptops and handhelds like the Steam Deck, and for the price, it performed admirably. 15.6 inches is arguably the perfect size for a 1080p screen, and we didn't notice any particularly soft visuals as a result of sits resolution. Even PS5 gameplay looks pretty decent on this screen, which is a feat given that we normally use a 4K panel with our new gen consoles.
Verdict: Your mileage may vary when it comes to price, but you should be able to snag one of these monitors for under (or just over) the $200 mark in the US. If you're in the UK, you'll easily find it for under £200, and it's a fantastic option for the money.
Read more: Verbatim Portable Touchscreen Monitor review
Best portable monitor: FAQs
Is a portable monitor worth it for gaming?
Ideally, you'll want to use a portable monitor for playing games on the go rather than solely at your desk. Achieving a lighter weight and travel-friendly design normally means playing at lower resolutions and refresh rates, which is a perfect match for handhelds and laptops but not so much for high-spec desktop PCs.
Can you use a portable monitor for gaming?
Many portable monitors are made with gaming in mind, featuring higher refresh rate capabilities and extras like HDR support. Even if you're eyeing up a basic screen designed around productivity, there's nothing stopping you connecting a laptop, PC, or console and diving into your favorite outings.
How should I choose a portable monitor?
Before clicking buy on a portable monitor, it's worth breaking down your specific needs. For example, if you're going to be working or playing games away from power outlets, you're going to want a built in battery, while FPS fans might want to focus on getting something with a higher refresh rate. Ultimately, you should pick a screen that fits your requirements, rather than just opting for the model other people claim is best.
Can I use a portable monitor as a second screen?
When connected to a device, portable monitors function just like a secondary screens. You'll be able to configure your chosen display using a PC or laptop to extend or mirror your workspace, while consoles will send a single output through to the panel.
Can you use a portable monitor with the Steam Deck
Yes, the Steam Deck can be hooked up to a portable monitor, and most models will connect via a single USB-C cable. That'll save you picking up a separate docking station, meaning you won't have to carry as much kit around. Most portable PCs like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go will play nice with on the go panels too, but you will need some sort of dock to use the Nintendo Switch.
How we test portable monitors at GamesRadar+
Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
Just like with stationary screens, we spend hours testing portable monitors, but there a few key differences involved. For example, if a display has a built in battery, we add in additional benchmarks to assess longevity and capacity, as both become vital when cutting the cord.
Of course, we also check each portable monitor's specs, design, features, and performance too, and all four traits help decide whether we should recommend a display. To do this, we typically use the panel as our daily driver by playing the latest games, which enables us to push a screen's resolution and refresh capabilities to their limit. In turn, this also let's us assess other qualities like contrast, color, and brightness, all while seeing how it brings console and PC games to life.
For more information, you can read more on How we test monitors at GamesRadar+ here, and for an overview of our approach to gaming tech then you can check out our full Hardware Policy.
If you're looking for something TV-shaped and specialist, then check out our best TV for PS5 ad Xbox Series X, best OLED TV, and best 120Hz 4K TV guides.
