For a second screen that stays on one desk, start with a fixed monitor whose stand and connections suit your workspace. Choose a portable monitor when you need to move or store the screen; choose a USB-C monitor or add a dock when a compatible laptop can support the intended video, charging and peripheral connections. Before buying, check the desk footprint, viewing position, computer outputs and any USB-C power requirements.
If documents, calls and several open windows share your working day, a fixed screen gives you a place to arrange them. Its position matters as much as its size: the Health and Safety Executive advises placing a work screen around an arm’s length away, with its top around eye level.
A USB-C monitor or dock may combine display output with charging and peripheral connections. DisplayPort guidance describes these functions over USB-C in compatible equipment, so check what your particular laptop port, cable and monitor support.
If you work between rooms or need to clear the desk afterwards, a portable screen is worth considering. Lenovo ThinkVision and ASUS ZenScreen offer portable models, but their connections and positioning options differ by model.
Decide where the screen will be used, then check that it fits the desk and connects to your computer in the way you intend.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Connections and charging | Check the computer’s video output and the monitor’s matching input. For a USB-C setup, confirm video support and compare Power Delivery with the laptop’s charging needs. | If I want one laptop connection for my display and charging, I need to know that both devices support those functions. About 33% of consumers put connection and charging compatibility first. |
| Desk fit and positioning | Compare desk width and depth with the screen’s dimensions, including its stand; check height and tilt adjustment. | On a permanent desk, I need room to place the screen at a workable distance without crowding my keyboard. Desk fit and positioning come first for about 27% of consumers. |
| Portability | Check the screen’s dimensions, carrying weight, stand and connection requirements for each place you plan to use it. | When I move between rooms or put my workspace away, I need a screen I can relocate and set up where I work. About 20% of consumers prioritise portability. |
| Visual workspace | Consider screen size and resolution together for your documents or visual tasks; check the exact model’s colour specifications if those matter to your work. | For side-by-side documents or detailed visual material, I want enough readable space without choosing a screen that overwhelms my desk. Visual workspace is the main concern for about 20% of consumers. |
A USB-C connector does not, by itself, confirm external-display output or laptop charging. Lenovo specifies DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery requirements for the ThinkVision M14, illustrating why the exact laptop and screen specifications matter.
Check the laptop maker’s external-display specifications, the monitor or dock connection requirements and the charging capability before relying on a one-cable setup.
A large screen may be difficult to position on a shallow desk. The Health and Safety Executive advises placing a work screen directly in front of you, around an arm’s length away, with its top around eye level.
Measure usable desk width and depth, then compare them with the monitor’s dimensions including its stand. Check height adjustment and tilt if the desk or chair offers little flexibility.
Portable and fixed monitors can have different screen sizes and stand arrangements. A screen that is convenient to move may not offer the positioning you want for long sessions at one desk.
Choose a portable model when moving or storing the screen is central to the decision. For a permanent workstation, compare its stand adjustment and viewing position with those of a fixed monitor.
Dell’s UK range includes fixed monitors with USB-C connections and adjustable stands; the features depend on the model.
The ThinkVision M14 and M14d are portable second-screen options for compatible laptops.
ASUS presents ZenScreen as a portable-monitor range for use alongside laptops.
These selections cover fixed monitors for a permanent desk, USB-C monitor options and portable screens for workspaces that need flexibility. Match the individual model to your computer’s outputs, desk and intended use.
Image unavailable
Consider this fixed monitor if you want a larger screen for documents or visual work at one desk. The title specifies 4K UHD, USB-C and a height-adjustable stand; check its full dimensions against your desk and confirm the laptop’s USB-C video and charging requirements.
Image unavailable
This is a fixed-screen option if a curved 4K display suits your desk and viewing tasks. The title lists a 65W Type-C connection and USB hub, but confirm USB-C video compatibility and whether that charging output meets your laptop’s needs. Check the exact screen dimensions before ordering.
Image unavailable
Consider the MB249C for a workspace where screen placement needs to change. Check which stand or mounting arrangement suits each intended location, and confirm your laptop’s USB-C display capability. If you plan to carry it frequently, verify its weight before deciding.
Image unavailable
This fixed monitor is worth examining for a permanent desk used for detailed visual material. Its title identifies a 4K Mini LED display, but confirm the exact ports and brightness specification before choosing connections or relying on those details. Measure the space available for the screen and stand.
Image unavailable
Its compact format may suit a temporary desk or a screen that is stored after use. The title specifies a touchscreen, VESA compatibility and a 180° adjustable stand. Confirm touch support on your intended device, the required video and power connections, and the dimensions if you will carry it.
No: the connector alone does not establish those capabilities. Check the laptop’s documented external-display support, the monitor’s USB-C video input, the cable requirements and whether its Power Delivery output suits the laptop. DisplayPort guidance describes video, data and power over USB-C in compatible equipment, not as a feature of every USB-C port.
Consider a dock when one laptop connection needs to serve the display, charging and USB peripherals, or when the laptop lacks enough direct ports for your desk setup. Check the dock’s display outputs and charging capability against the laptop and monitor before choosing it.
The Health and Safety Executive advises placing a work screen directly in front of you, about an arm’s length away, with its top around eye level. Check that the desk and stand allow that position; for prolonged laptop use, a separate keyboard and mouse can allow the laptop screen to be raised.
Yes, if its connections, screen size and stand suit your daily setup. When it will remain on one desk, compare its viewing position and adjustment with a fixed monitor rather than choosing portability that you do not need.