Latest news with #LenovoThinkVisionM14T
National Geographic
26-02-2025
- National Geographic
The best portable monitor of 2025
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* While no one should have to work on vacation, sometimes it's unavoidable. Working on the road poses its own set of trials and tribulations, but one major complaint is the lack of monitor real estate. For some, a portable monitor may be the solution. Not only do they expand your workspace, they offer some physiological benefits too—an important consideration when you're traveling in unfamiliar places. 'Workplace ergonomics specialists and physiotherapists agree that changing positions while working in a seated posture has a positive impact on health,' says Grzegorz Kowalski, the CEO and founder of , a site that helps remote workers find hotels to work from. 'With a laptop and a portable monitor, it's easy to move to another room, switch to a different chair and desk, and improve comfort. A portable monitor can also be quickly repositioned if glare from a window starts straining your eyes.' Beyond work, they're great for watching videos or movies and even gaming while traveling. They're lightweight and packable, so you won't be lugging extra weight through the TSA checkpoint. Due to technology improvements, the screens are clear and bright, helping relieve eye strain when you have to stay up late to finish that presentation or catch up on your favorite shows during downtimes. There are tons of portable monitors out there, which can make it tough to figure out what will work best for you. Besides weight, size, and portability, travelers should weigh practicality. 'Being able to connect different power sources and ports is also important, and then durability is a big one as well,' says Brittany Betts, the director of PR and marketing at home rental site The 100 Collection , who regularly works from the road. 'You want these monitors to be durable especially when things get a bit banged up during a travel day.' With that in mind, we think the Lenovo ThinkVision M14T will work best for most travelers. Customers appreciate the vibrant screen, highly adjustable monitor, and light weight. If you have more specific needs, check out more of our favorite portable monitors below. The best portable monitor options It goes without saying but the best portable monitor should fit your travel needs, whether you prioritize screen size, weight, or something else. In addition to working with your laptop (Macs often require an additional dongle to connect), the best portable monitor should be easy to carry. We appreciate monitors with bright, clear displays, additional ports if you need them, screen orientation flexibility, and a slim stand. Read on for the pros and cons of our top picks. Best portable monitor overall: Lenovo ThinkVision M14T Photograph courtesy Amazon Lenovo ThinkVision M14T Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: The second generation of Lenovo's M14T monitor improves on the previous generation with a touchscreen you can operate with your finger or the included stylus. It's built with high color accuracy, high resolution, and great contrast, plus a slim stand. Standout features reviewers like: • 16x10 aspect ratio makes it great for photo editing and office productivity • Wide stand adjustability—from five to 90 degrees Keep in mind: The M14T is limited to USB-C connectivity. Older Macbooks require a dongle to connect. Some reviewers say the 14-inch screen feels relatively small. Betts adds that while this portable monitor is a great option for daily use, she doesn't recommend it for design/illustration work or gaming, which requires higher resolution. For gaming, check out our top pick, the Arzopa , below. Product details: Screen size: 14 in. | Connector type: USB-C | Dimensions: 12.4 x 9.3 x 3.8 in. | Weight: 1.5 lbs. | Screen type: IPS (a type of LCD) Best portable monitor for laptop: Dell 14-inch LED Portable Monitor Screen Photograph courtesy Amazon Dell 14-inch LED Portable Monitor Screen Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: This portable monitor operates via power from your laptop, so there are no extra cords to connect. Additionally, reviewers say it works well right out of the box—no fussy setup. Weighing less than 1.5 pounds, this monitor is one of the lightest on our list, with an FHD 1080p resolution matte screen that's comfortable on the eyes. Standout features reviewers like: • Plenty of screen real estate for spreadsheets, presentations, and webpages • Sleek, thin, and light, easily slips into briefcases and carry-ons Keep in mind: This portable monitor has an LED screen, which means that at some viewing angles, it might be tough to see (more about this below). It's not a touchscreen and has only one USB-C port. Product details: Screen size: 14 in. | Connector type: USB-C | Dimensions: 12.7 x 0.6 x 8 in. | Weight: 1.3 lbs. | Screen type: LED ( Turn your cellphone into a powerful travel tool with these add-ons ) Best portable touchscreen monitor: ASUS ZenScreen Touch Photograph courtesy Amazon Asus ZenScreen Touch Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: There are multiple ways to engage with this 20-point touchscreen monitor. Scroll or tap with your finger or the included stylus, or use gestures to zoom in and out (just like on a cellphone). You can even forego the touchscreen for the mini joystick. 'This is a great brand with great resolution,' says Ryan Wuich, an electronics buyer for a Glenview, Illinois-based home goods retailer. 'The touchscreen adds a nice benefit.' Travelers may also appreciate that the battery lasts for about four hours, plus this monitor comes with built-in speakers—a nice little bonus other portable touchscreens on this list don't offer. Standout features reviewers like: • On-board, rechargeable battery • Multiple touchscreen interactivity, including joystick and stylus Keep in mind: This touchscreen doesn't play well with iOS devices. For Macs, try our top pick, the Espresso Pro , below. Reviewers also say the colors on this ASUS model are somewhat dull and the price is relatively high, compared to others on this list. Product details: Screen size: 15.6 in. | Connector type: Micro-HDMI, USB | Dimensions: 9 x 14.2 x 0.4 in. | Weight: 2 lbs. | Screen type: LED Best portable monitor for MacBook Pro: Espresso Pro Why we like it: There's no getting around the high price tag of this Australian-made monitor. However, MacBook Pro users say it's worth it because it's one of the few monitors that works relatively seamlessly with their computers. 'Love this monitor and brand. It has great size, portability, and resolution,' notes Wuich. 'Overall, an amazing product.' Travelers will likely appreciate the large, multitouch 4K retina screen made for clear, crisp images; two USB-C ports; and optional stylus (sold separately). The stand attaches via magnets, so it's easy to break down and pack, but you can also purchase a separate stand. For a lighter, more compact option, this portable monitor is compatible with magnetic folio-style covers, similar to iPad covers. Standout features reviewers like: • Landscape and portrait modes • Multitouch responsiveness (swipe, pinch) • Compatible with USB-C cables that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode or Thunderbolt 3 and 4 Keep in mind: This is the most expensive portable monitor on our list, especially for the features, according to our experts. Some customers say the audio quality from the single speaker in the front isn't great. At 17 inches, this portable monitor requires a larger laptop case or pocket in a backpack. The Lenovo ThinkVision M14T , our overall top pick, may be a more affordable option for Mac users. Product details: Screen size: 17. In. | Connector type: Two USB-C ports | Dimensions: 15.6 x 9.6 x 0.4 in. | Weight: 2.4 lbs. | Screen type: LCD ( Our mountain guide says these are the best portable chargers ) Best portable gaming monitor: Arzopa 16.1-inch Portable Gaming Monitor Photograph courtesy Amazon Arzopa 16.1-inch Portable Gaming Monitor Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: This slim, lightweight portable monitor is a winner with gaming fans. 'Anyone who is passionate about gaming knows how important frame rate and graphics are to the gaming experience,' says Betts. 'This monitor has a high refresh rate which is great for gaming specifically, the resolution is incredible which makes it awesome for intense design or illustration needs, and it's compatible with several different types of technology.' Standout features reviewers like: • 144Hz refresh rate • FHD 1080p resolution • Lightweight and compact • Affordable price and frequently on sale Keep in mind: Some reviewers say the stand isn't very sturdy. It lacks a headphone jack and dedicated power supply input, so you have to run it off your computer or phone to power it. Product details: Screen size: 16.1 in. | Connector type: Mini-HDMI and USB-C | Dimensions: 8.2 x 14.9 x 0.5 in. | Weight: 1.7 lbs. | Screen type: IPS Best budget portable monitor: Plugable USB-C Portable Monitor Photograph courtesy Amazon Plugable USB-C Portable Monitor Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: If you're looking for a portable monitor that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, yet offers robust features and performance, this is a good bet. It's designed to be simple to use and reliable, all at a relatively affordable price. We love the eye-friendly matte screen, FHD 1080p resolution, and the pass-through laptop charging. Standout features that reviewers like include: • Two USB-C connectors, plus a separate charging port • 15.6-inch screen size • Lifetime support Keep in mind: Some customers say the stand is akin to a folio style (like an iPad) rather than a monitor stand. There are no speakers. It's a bit heavier than others on our list. Product details: Screen size: 15.6 in. | Connector type: Three USB-C ports | Dimensions: 0.4 x 14.2 x 8.5 in. | Weight: 1.8 lbs. | Screen type: IPS ( Pro travelers say these are the best e-readers ) Best wireless portable monitor: ViewSonic VG1656N 16-Inch Why we like it: If you want something without wires, the Viewsonic VG1656N may be the right portable monitor for you. It's designed for easy setup and with minimal lag between your laptop and the screen, according to the company. It also comes with an included stand support and pretty good built-in speakers. We also like the 16x10 aspect ratio, which means less scrolling. Standout features that reviewers like include: • Portrait and landscape modes • Quick and easy to set up • Wireless connectivity to any laptop over WiFi via a USB-C dongle Keep in mind: A couple of reviewers note the screen isn't as bright as they would like. Product details: Screen size: 16 in. | Connector type: Two USB-C ports | Dimensions: 0.4 x 14 x 9.3 in. | Weight: 1.8 lbs. | Screen type: IPS ( Traveling overseas? Grab one of these top-rated adapters and converters ) How we chose the best portable monitors A high-quality portable monitor is in high demand. As a result, tons of brands vie for customers. We spent hours researching all the choices out there to find the best of the best. Here's how we decided: • Third-party reviews: We looked at customer reviews from sites including Amazon, B & H, and NewEgg. • Expert reviews: There are tons of reputable tech reviewers out there, so we examined reputable review sites from tech specialists to general consumer sites. We also spoke to three experts and travelers who regularly use and recommend portable monitors to their clients and took their feedback into consideration. • Our own experience: I am a road warrior myself and travel one to two weeks every month. Because I'm a journalist who is always looking at data, I regularly use multiple screens on the road. Tips for buying a portable computer monitor Device compatibility Whether you're a PC or a Mac person, you need to find a portable monitor that will work with your device. Some will work with phones and tablets, while others won't. Be sure to read all the specifications and understand what they mean so you can find the right monitor for you, especially if you have a Mac. Main purpose As Betts points out, the right portable monitor really depends on how you plan to use it. Gaming, photo and video editing, and general business needs all require different types of technology. 'If you do design or heavy editing, then having a good refresh rate and resolution is something that you should look into,' says Betts. 'If you need screen brightness and need to take it on the go indoors or outdoors, night or day, then maybe one with a certain LED display and brightness would be the best for you.' Monitor technology IPS monitors offer better color accuracy and a wider variety of viewing angles, whereas LED monitors can have blind spots in viewing angles, making them less ideal for projects like presentations or editing photos. Most of the monitors on this list are IPS monitors. LED monitors tend to be brighter and have a faster response. LCD monitors tend to be viewable from any angle, are cheaper, and have better image quality compared to LED monitors. 'My best tip is to go for the best screen resolution,' says Wuich. 'People often shop for price, and then the screen resolution ends up resulting in a very poor user experience. I always recommend buying something with a nice panel and resolution.' Work environment While portable monitors can do wonders for productivity on the road, they take up space in your bag and in hotel rooms. To get the right size for your needs (and your trip), consider where you'll be working—a coffee shop, outdoors at a picnic table, or late at night in a dark room. Connections and power source Some portable monitors have small rechargeable batteries that will run for a few hours. Others work through a power supply or device. USB-C and micro HDMI connections are the most common types. If the device you're connecting to doesn't have that kind of connector, you'll need to buy a dongle. 'If you plan to use the monitor in a hotel room or vacation apartment, there's no need to buy one with a built-in battery,' notes Kowalski. 'These models tend to be heavier and harder to transport.' Frequently asked questions What are the disadvantages of a portable monitor? Carrying extra devices isn't a small task. You'll have to take them out of your bag at security checkpoints, and you won't be able to check them if they have a battery. Make sure you really need one (and will use it) before plunking down your cold, hard cash. Can I display my phone on a monitor? Yes. Some of the monitors listed here are compatible with both iOS and Android devices. However, it's important to note that many use power from your device to operate. Extra portable chargers for your phone or tablet can help you stay connected. How does a portable monitor get power? Most monitors on this list use power from a device. Some use rechargeable battery packs before drawing power from a device. The Plugable portable monitor is the only one that has what's known as passthrough power, where it has a dedicated port (one of the USB-C ports) that can be used to power the screen. Read through the descriptions and specifications to find out more about the power supply. Abigail Bassett is an award-winning freelance journalist based in Los Angeles, California. She has written for CNN, National Geographic, and Elle, among other outlets. Follow her on is an award-winning freelance journalist based in Los Angeles, California. She has written for CNN,, and, among other outlets. Follow her on Instagram *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
CNN
26-01-2025
- CNN
14 products for passing time at the airport, according to a travel expert
Curious about how to pass time in the airport during a lengthy connection? Whether your airline has issued a flight delay or your itinerary simply includes an interminable stopover, select travel gear can salvage your sanity. Whether you're traveling solo or a family with small children, here are 14 fun ideas to help you endure the airport experience while waiting for the next leg of your trip. Related article 22 tips and tools to make your economy class seat more comfortable, according to travel expertsBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Few things serve a frequent traveler better than quality noise-canceling headphones. For obvious reasons, they're great in flight, but they're also excellent during a layover while bingeing Netflix and our review Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024) The next best thing to dragging a steamer trunk of books with you into the fuselage is the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite. It's a fit-in-your-pocket marvel of technology. This e-reader features a dual-threat display of anti-glare and E-ink, so the only thing you won't get is that old book our review Lenovo ThinkVision M14T Portable Monitor If you're trying to get some work done during your connection, consider packing one of the best portable monitors. The Lenovo ThinkVision M14T is a 14-inch beauty. It's also a touch screen. It's got FHD 1080p resolution, and it's lightweight at just 1.54 pounds. It's an easy way to double your workspace real estate. Anker Nano Power Bank The Anker Nano Power Bank isn't itself a way to pass the time, but it's a clutch device for keeping your primary time-wasters alive. You'll get 10,000mAh of juice, meaning you can charge your phone multiple times or even your laptop. This power bank is one of our favorites, and, of course, it complies with TSA battery rules for carry-on luggage. Belkin BoostCharge Hybrid Wall Charger 25W and Power Bank We love this product's dual functionality as a power bank and fast wall charger. It helps ensure you can keep all your devices powered during airport delays without worrying about finding a charging station. Nex Playground The Nex Playground transforms any space into an active play area, keeping kids entertained and engaged during long airport delays with motion-tracking games that require no controllers. Farm Animal Gel Clings Decals Stickers Traveling with a lap infant? Find a quiet gate in the terminal and pop some of these farm animal gel clings to a window. My daughter absolutely loved peeling and sticking these over and over, and I got to enjoy views of the tarmac while she played. They're surprisingly thick and durable for the price too (and of course, they leave zero residue). PlayTape Road Tape for Toy Cars For slightly older kids, the PlayTape Road Tape for Toy Cars can turn the blandest of environments into a playhouse. This 2-inch-thick tape looks like an asphalt road and inspires fun scenarios for whatever carry-on toys they might have brought along, whether it's cars, action figures or otherwise. Acelion Waterproof Playing Cards Playing cards are endlessly entertaining, whether traveling alone or with a group. Acelion Waterproof Playing Cards are a great item to stuff into your backpack for those arduously long stopovers. And because they're waterproof, they're far less susceptible to wear and tear. You can even play with them in the pool when you get to your destination (fingers crossed you're going somewhere beachy). My Arcade Atari Pocket Player Pro The My Arcade Atari Pocket Player Pro offers 100 classic games in a compact, portable design. Our senior tech editor, Mike Andronico, loves My Arcade products, and this one offers an entertaining and nostalgic way to pass the time. Kimiandy Inflatable Travel Pillow The Kimiandy Inflatable Travel Pillow is designed for sleeping on airplanes. It helps you to find a comfortable position while sitting in a confined space. But after trying it out, the neck pillow is surprisingly relaxing. If you're not quite ready to surrender the whole of your dignity by lying on the soiled airport carpet, this is a great way to take a quick nap (though not so comfortable that you'll miss your flight).Read our review Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask Our favorite sleep mask offers complete light blocking and unmatched comfort. It's ideal for catching much-needed rest during lengthy airport our review Everfoams Women's Satin Ballerina Slippers Everfoams slippers are compact, washable and hygienic. They're great for staying comfortable and clean during long airport delays or on the plane. Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder The Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder keeps your drinks secure and hands-free. The extra organization can go a long our reviewWhat is the best way to pack products to pass time? What is the best way to pack products to pass time? When packing items to keep yourself entertained at the airport, it's essential to make them easily accessible. Many of the things you'll use during a long connection are also handy on the plane, so it's smart to pack them near the top of your bag — ideally in your personal item rather than your carry-on. This way, you can avoid stepping into the aisle after takeoff to dig through the overhead compartment. How long do you need to be delayed at the airport to get a refund? How long do you need to be delayed at the airport to get a refund? According to the US Department of Transportation, if your domestic flight is delayed by three hours or more, you're entitled to a refund of the portion of your travel assuming you do not accept alternate transportation or travel credit from the airline. If traveling internationally, you must be delayed by at least six hours. Are electronic products better than non-electronic ones to pass the time at the airport?? Are electronic products better than non-electronic ones to pass the time at the airport?? The question as to whether electronic products are better than non-electronic ones is debatable, but on any occasion you can find to avert your eyes from a screen, you should take it. If you're like most of us, you already spend an inordinate amount of time on your phone or computer. Plus, then you aren't draining your battery in the airport when you might want to enjoy your device in flight. CNN Underscored editors accompany thorough research with first-person testing of most (if not all) of the products we write about. We'll be fully transparent about how we test them too. Our team of writers and editors have many years of experience testing travel products to properly evaluate each item we review. We also talk to experts to round out our unbiased reviews. Contributing writer Sarah Hostetler specializes in travel and has written a number of travel-related articles and guides, and used her years of experience and expertise to round up the best products for flight delays. Explore trending products Men's PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket Free People Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket The North Face Women's 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket Paka Men's Apu Lightweight PufferRead our review
