Settled-desk multitaskers
If you regularly work across documents, messages and meetings at one desk, another display may give you more viewing area, provided your computer supports it.
Who these options suit
Shared-space workers
If your workspace needs to be cleared or used for other things, a portable display may be easier to put away than a permanent desk monitor. UCL research describes home working across dedicated offices and other domestic spaces.
Connection-limited laptop users
If you already have a suitable screen but need to connect displays or accessories, check your laptop’s video output and the connection requirements of a dock or adapter before choosing one.
What to check before buying
Start by identifying whether you need more viewing area, a setup that can move, or a better way to connect or position the screen you already have.
| Concern | What to check when buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing area | Check screen size and resolution, adjustment options, available video outputs and your computer’s supported display count. | When I work at one desk across documents and messages, I want enough room to keep them visible; around 28% of consumers put viewing area first. |
| A setup that moves | Compare the display’s size and weight, and check its stand, cables, video input and power requirements. | If I share a room or move between work locations, I need a screen I can put away; around 22% of consumers prioritise a movable setup. |
| Connections and charging | Confirm your exact laptop’s display support, USB-C video capability, operating-system requirements and charging compatibility. | When I repeatedly connect a screen and other devices, I want to know whether one connection can handle my setup; around 22% of consumers focus on connections. |
| Screen positioning | For an arm, check the monitor’s VESA pattern and weight against the arm’s limits, plus the desk attachment. | If my current screen is large enough but awkwardly placed, I would look at repositioning it before adding another; around 17% of consumers prioritise screen positioning. |
| Connecting an existing screen | Check the computer’s video output, the screen’s input, adapter direction and whether the connection extends or mirrors the display. | When my existing screen still works but its connection does not match my computer, I want an adapter for the specific ports and display mode; around 11% of consumers prioritise this connection fix. |
Common buying pitfalls
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Assuming every USB-C port carries video
A USB-C socket’s shape does not confirm video support. ASUS specifies DisplayPort Alt Mode for the ZenScreen MB166C, and HP lists USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery among the host requirements for its Dock G5.
Check the specifications for your exact computer model and the requirements of the display or dock before ordering.
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Assuming extra dock ports override a laptop’s display limit
A dock’s available outputs do not establish how many independent displays every computer can run. Apple says a supported hub does not increase the display maximum covered by its MacBook Air guidance; some adapters may also mirror instead of extending a display.
Confirm your computer’s supported display count and check whether each proposed output provides an extended or mirrored image.
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Buying another screen when positioning is the issue
If you already have enough screen area, repositioning the existing display may be the more relevant change. An arm also needs to match the monitor’s mounting pattern and weight, as well as the desk.
Assess your current setup first, then check screen position and any arm or stand compatibility requirements.
Relevant brands to consider
Dell
The P2425HE is a desk-monitor example combining a 23.8-inch FHD panel with USB-C hub functions.
- Dell specifies height and pivot adjustment and up to 90 W power delivery for this model.
- Check that your laptop supports the monitor’s video and charging requirements; these specifications apply to the P2425HE, not every Dell monitor.
ASUS
The ZenScreen MB166C is a portable-display example for a setup that needs to move or be put away.
- ASUS specifies a 15.6-inch FHD panel and a weight of 0.78 kg for the MB166C.
- Its listed video input is USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode, and it has no built-in speakers; check your host and audio needs.
Lenovo
The ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 is a portable touch-display alternative.
- Lenovo specifies a 14-inch, 2240 × 1400 display and two USB-C ports for this model.
- Check the connected computer’s video support and whether this display’s size and touch features suit your setup.
HP
The USB-C Dock G5 is a connection option for existing displays and peripherals; it does not add a screen.
- HP lists HDMI, two DisplayPort outputs and up to 100 W host power for this dock.
- The stated host requirements include USB-C Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode. A computer’s own display limits still apply.
StarTech.com
The 122-USBC-HDMI-4K-VGA illustrates a narrower adapter option for connecting an existing display.
- The manufacturer specifies a single HDMI or VGA display from a USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode host.
- Using HDMI and VGA together mirrors the image, so this adapter does not provide two independently extended displays.
Ergotron
The LX desk arm is an example of repositioning a compatible monitor instead of adding another screen.
- Ergotron specifies VESA 75 × 75 mm or 100 × 100 mm and a 3.2–11.3 kg weight range for the cited LX version.
- Check that the monitor and desk match the arm’s model-specific mounting and weight requirements.
Joybuy product choices
These options are desk monitors for a settled workstation that needs additional screen area.
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27-inch QHD IPS Monitor
A 27-inch desktop display is an option to consider for a settled desk that needs more screen area.
QHD resolution; 180Hz refresh rate; HDMI and DisplayPort; one HDMI cable and one DisplayPort cable listed.
No image available
ochama 23.8-inch Office Monitor
This 23.8-inch monitor is a desktop option for a fixed workstation needing an additional screen.
1080P resolution; 100Hz refresh rate.
No image available
PRO MP273Q E14 27-inch WQHD Monitor
A 27-inch WQHD desktop display to consider if you need additional screen area at a settled workstation.
2560 × 1440 resolution; 144Hz refresh rate; IPS; HDMI and DisplayPort.
No image available
PRO MP245PDG E14 24-inch FHD Monitor
This 24-inch display is a desk-monitor option if you need another screen for a fixed setup.
1920 × 1080 resolution; 144Hz refresh rate.
No image available
MSI MD272UPSW 27-inch 4K UHD Smart Monitor
A 27-inch 4K UHD monitor to consider for a settled desk that needs an additional display.
USB-C with 65 W power delivery is listed; check compatibility with your connected device.
Frequently asked questions
Will a dock let any laptop run two external monitors?
No; the computer’s supported display count and the dock’s host requirements both matter. Apple says a supported hub does not increase the maximum stated in its guidance for the MacBook Air models covered, while HP specifies USB-C Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode as minimum host requirements for its Dock G5.
How do I check for an extra display in Windows?
In Windows, open Settings, then System and Display to identify and arrange detected screens. Microsoft also provides a Detect option if a connected display does not appear, but this cannot remedy unsupported hardware.
Does a DisplayLink dock on macOS work without extra setup?
For products using DisplayLink technology, DisplayLink says its Manager software is required and macOS Screen Recording permission must be granted for operation. Check whether your chosen dock uses DisplayLink and whether your workplace permits the software and permission.
Should I ask my employer before paying for home-workstation equipment?
In Great Britain, the Health and Safety Executive says display screen equipment rules can apply to permanent, long-term and hybrid home workers who use display equipment daily for continuous periods of an hour or more. Where a workstation assessment identifies necessary display screen equipment, the worker cannot be charged for it. This does not mean every worker needs a second monitor or must buy one personally.
What if an online monitor or dock is unsuitable when it arrives?
GOV.UK guidance says distance-selling customers generally have 14 days after receiving an item to notify the seller that they want to cancel, followed by another 14 days to return it; exceptions and handling conditions apply. Faulty or misdescribed goods have separate refund rights.
Is UKCA the only conformity mark accepted for electrical equipment in the UK?
No. UK government guidance lists UKCA or CE for relevant electrical equipment placed on the Great Britain market, and CE, or UKNI together with CE, for Northern Ireland. Check the product scope and applicable rules; this distinction does not confirm that an individual listing has been checked.