Imagine this: you’re working on a super important school project, or maybe you’re playing your favorite video game, and your computer screen just feels… small. You can’t see everything at once! Or perhaps you’re tired of squinting at tiny text. If any of this sounds familiar, then you’ve probably thought about getting a bigger screen, also known as an external computer monitor. But where do you even begin? It feels like there are a million different kinds out there, and picking the right one can be confusing.
Choosing a new monitor can be tough because there are so many things to think about. Should it be big or small? What about picture quality? And how much does it cost? These questions can make your head spin! But don’t worry, this blog post is here to help you through it all. We’ll break down all the important stuff so you can understand what to look for and make a smart choice that fits your needs and your budget.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know the key features that make a great monitor, understand the differences between various types, and feel confident about choosing the perfect external monitor for your desk. Get ready to upgrade your computer experience and say goodbye to tiny screens for good!
Our Top 5 External Computer Monitor Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 External Computer Monitor Detailed Reviews
1. MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers
Rating: 9.4/10
The MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P is a fantastic addition for anyone needing more screen space on the go. It’s a portable external monitor that brings a full HD 1080P experience with vibrant colors and sharp details, thanks to its IPS matte screen. Whether you’re working from home, traveling, or gaming, this monitor makes everything look great. It’s also designed with your eyes in mind, reducing blue light and flickering for comfortable viewing during long sessions.
What We Like:
- It has a sharp 1920×1080 Full HD resolution and an IPS screen for great colors and wide viewing angles.
- The advanced eye-care features like reduced blue light and no flickering make it comfortable to use for extended periods.
- It’s super easy to connect with its double Type-C ports for Plug & Play, needing only one cable for power and display if your device supports it.
- This monitor is incredibly lightweight and ultra-slim, making it perfect for carrying in your backpack or suitcase.
- It offers multiple display modes to boost your work efficiency and a cool HDR mode for amazing visuals.
- The included smart cover protects your monitor and also works as a stand, allowing you to use it in both landscape and portrait modes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure your device supports Thunderbolt 3.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE for the single-cable connection to work.
- It’s important to use the original USB-C cable that comes with the monitor for the best performance.
Overall, the MNN Portable Monitor offers a great portable display solution that enhances both productivity and entertainment.
2. KYY Portable Monitor 15.6inch 1080P FHD USB-C
Rating: 8.8/10
The 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 is a fantastic tool for anyone needing more screen space on the go.
What We Like:
- It has a super clear 1080P Full HD screen with HDR for amazing colors, perfect for games and movies.
- The IPS screen lets you see clearly from almost any angle.
- It’s really easy to connect to your laptop, phone, or gaming console with its USB-C and HDMI ports.
- This monitor is super thin and light, so you can easily take it anywhere in your bag.
- The included smart cover protects your screen and doubles as a stand, making it easy to set up.
- It has built-in speakers for sound, and you can even plug in your headphones.
- The eye-care feature helps reduce strain when you look at it for a long time.
- It looks sleek with its gray metal finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cover is great, the stand options might feel a bit limited for some users.
- It would be nice if it came with a screen protector pre-applied, although one is included.
This KYY portable monitor offers a lot of value for its features and portability. It’s a great option for boosting your productivity or entertainment wherever you are.
3. Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor
Rating: 9.0/10
The Philips 221V8LB monitor is a great choice for your desk. It has a thin design and a clear picture. You can watch movies, play games, and get work done with this screen.
What We Like:
- The screen shows very clear pictures. It has Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution.
- It has a fast 100Hz refresh rate. This makes games and videos look smooth and not blurry.
- Adaptive-Sync technology helps your games run without any choppiness.
- The VA panel shows bright colors and dark blacks. This makes images look real.
- You can see the screen clearly from almost any angle. The colors stay true.
- It has a LowBlue Mode to help protect your eyes during long use.
- A 4-year advance replacement warranty is included. This gives you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This monitor only has one HDMI port. You might need an adapter if you have many devices to connect.
- It only has one VGA port. VGA is an older connection type.
This Philips monitor offers a great viewing experience for many tasks. It’s a solid option for anyone needing a reliable and clear display.
4. Samsung 27″ Essential S3 (S36GD) Series FHD 1800R Curved Computer Monitor
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for a more engaging experience with the Samsung 27″ Essential S3 (S36GD) Series Curved Computer Monitor. This monitor wraps around your vision, making everything feel bigger and more real. Whether you’re playing games, watching movies, or working, you’ll see more and get lost in the action. It’s designed to keep you comfortable too, so you can use it for hours without your eyes getting tired.
What We Like:
- The curved screen pulls you into your content, making it feel more immersive.
- A 100Hz refresh rate means everything looks smooth, with less blur in fast games and videos.
- Game Mode helps you see more details in dark areas, giving you an advantage.
- Eye comfort features reduce blue light and screen flicker, making it easier on your eyes.
- It has ports like HDMI and D-sub, so you can easily connect different devices.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers a great curved experience, some users might prefer a flatter screen for certain tasks.
- The 1800R curve is noticeable, but might not be as dramatic as some higher-end curved monitors.
This Samsung monitor brings a new level of immersion and comfort to your desk. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their viewing experience.
5. Dell S2425HS Monitor – 23.8 Inch
Rating: 9.5/10
The Dell S2425HS monitor is a stylish and functional addition to any desk. Its modern design with thin bezels makes your screen look even bigger. You can enjoy clear pictures and vibrant colors. The monitor also has built-in speakers for good sound. It’s designed to be comfortable for your eyes, even after long use. This monitor is great for work, watching videos, and even some casual gaming.
What We Like:
- The ultrathin bezels make the screen look amazing and let you focus on what’s on display.
- Integrated dual 5W speakers provide impressive sound for everyday use.
- IPS technology gives you great colors that look good from any angle, with 99% sRGB color coverage.
- Easy-to-access ports and improved cable management keep your desk neat and tidy.
- The new joystick and shortcut buttons make navigating menus simple.
- Dual HDMI ports let you easily switch between devices like a streaming stick and a gaming console.
- You can adjust the monitor’s height, tilt, swivel, and pivot for the most comfortable viewing position.
- TÜV Rheinland 4-star eye comfort certification means it’s great for your eyes, reducing strain.
- ComfortView Plus lowers blue light, and the 100Hz refresh rate provides smooth motion, perfect for casual gaming.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the speakers are good, they might not be powerful enough for serious audiophiles.
- The 100Hz refresh rate is good for casual gaming, but serious gamers might want a higher rate.
This Dell S2425HS monitor offers a fantastic blend of style, comfort, and performance for a variety of tasks. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their visual experience.
Your Guide to Picking the Best External Computer Monitor
Why You Need an External Monitor
Your laptop screen is good, but it’s often small. An external monitor gives you more space to work and play. It makes your computer tasks easier and more fun. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
Screen Size
Monitors come in different sizes. Most common sizes are 24 inches and 27 inches. Bigger screens let you see more at once. This is great for gaming and watching movies. Smaller screens are good for tight spaces.
Resolution
Resolution tells you how clear the picture is. More pixels mean a sharper image. Common resolutions are 1080p (Full HD) and 4K. 4K is super clear. It’s good for detailed work like editing photos. 1080p is fine for everyday use.
Refresh Rate
Refresh rate is how many times the screen updates per second. It’s measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate means smoother motion. For gaming, 120Hz or 144Hz is best. For regular use, 60Hz is fine.
Panel Type
There are different types of screens.
- IPS panels show great colors and wide viewing angles. This means colors look good from almost anywhere.
- TN panels are faster and cheaper. They are good for gaming if speed is your main focus.
- VA panels offer good contrast. They show deep blacks, which is nice for movies.
Connectivity
Check the ports on the monitor. You’ll need ports that match your computer.
- HDMI is common for many devices.
- DisplayPort is often used for higher refresh rates and resolutions.
- USB-C can send video, data, and power all at once.
Important Materials and Build Quality
Most monitors have plastic bodies. Look for a sturdy stand that holds the screen steady. Some stands let you adjust the height and tilt. This helps you find a comfortable viewing position.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Screen Brightness
Brightness is measured in nits. Higher nits mean a brighter screen. This is good for well-lit rooms. A bright screen is easier to see. A dim screen can strain your eyes.
Color Accuracy
Some monitors show colors more accurately than others. This is important for artists and photographers. Look for monitors with good sRGB or Adobe RGB coverage.
Response Time
Response time is how fast pixels change color. It’s measured in milliseconds (ms). Lower response times reduce motion blur. This is important for fast-paced games.
Backlight Bleed and IPS Glow
Sometimes, light can leak from the edges of the screen. This is called backlight bleed. IPS glow is a slight glow from the corners of IPS screens. These issues can be annoying. Checking reviews can help you find monitors with fewer problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
For Work and Productivity
A larger screen or a dual-monitor setup helps you do more. You can have multiple windows open at the same time. This makes multitasking easy. Good color accuracy is helpful for design work.
For Gaming
Gamers need fast refresh rates and low response times. This makes games look smooth and clear. Good contrast is also a plus for immersive gaming.
For Watching Movies and Media
A large screen with good color and contrast is best for movies. A 4K resolution shows amazing detail. Deep blacks make the picture pop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How big should my monitor be?
A: It depends on your desk space and what you use your computer for. 24 inches is a good all-around size. 27 inches is great for more space.
Q: What is the difference between 1080p and 4K?
A: 4K has four times more pixels than 1080p. This makes 4K pictures much sharper and clearer.
Q: Do I need a high refresh rate for everyday use?
A: No. 60Hz is usually enough for web browsing, email, and most work. Gamers benefit most from higher rates.
Q: What does IPS mean for a monitor panel?
A: IPS stands for In-Plane Switching. IPS panels offer excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
Q: How important is connectivity?
A: Very important! You need to make sure the monitor has the right ports to connect to your computer.
Q: What is response time and why does it matter?
A: Response time is how fast pixels change. A low response time (like 1ms) reduces motion blur in fast-moving images, which is great for gaming.
Q: Should I worry about backlight bleed?
A: It’s something to be aware of, but it’s usually not a major issue for most users. Reading reviews can give you an idea of how common it is on a specific model.
Q: Can a USB-C port on a monitor do more than just display video?
A: Yes! Some USB-C ports can also charge your laptop and transfer data.
Q: Are curved monitors better?
A: Curved monitors can feel more immersive, especially larger ones. They can also help reduce eye strain by keeping the screen at an even distance from your eyes.
Q: Where can I find good reviews for monitors?
A: Look at tech websites and YouTube channels that review computer hardware. They often test monitors thoroughly.
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.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!