Home workers with a regular desk
If documents, calls and several open windows feel cramped on your laptop, assess a fixed monitor alongside the desk space, connections and adjustment you need.
Who needs a second screen?
Hybrid workers who move between locations
A portable monitor is worth considering if you need to pack away or carry your second screen. Check its connection requirements against the laptop you will use in each location.
Laptop users seeking a one-cable desk setup
A USB-C hub monitor may suit a fixed desk if the laptop supports the required video output and charging arrangement. A USB-C-shaped socket alone does not establish either capability.
What should you check before choosing?
Which? distinguishes smaller monitors for limited spaces from larger displays suited to home offices. Start with where the screen will be used, then check the laptop connection and how the screen can be positioned.
Fixed desk monitor
Choose it when: Your laptop usually stays at one desk and you want a larger, more adjustable display for documents and calls.
Allow for: Permanent desk space and a connection that matches your laptop.
Portable monitor
Choose it when: You need to take a second display between home and other work locations or pack it away.
Allow for: The particular model’s carrying size, support and connection requirements rather than assuming it will work from any USB-C port.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Screen and workspace | Compare the screen dimensions with the usable desk area. Decide whether the display will stay put or need to be packed away. | I want documents, meeting content and other windows visible without relying solely on the laptop screen. |
| Video connection | Match the laptop’s video output to the monitor’s input. Which? notes that USB-C carries DisplayPort video only where the particular connection supports it; check the exact port before choosing a cable or dock. | If I move between work locations, I need a connection method that works with the laptop I will take with me. |
| Screen placement | Check stand adjustment, desk space and any proposed mount against the exact monitor and desk. The Health and Safety Executive advises placing the top of the screen about eye level and the screen roughly an arm’s length away. | A screen that fits on my desk still needs to sit at a workable height and distance. |
| Charging and accessories | For a one-cable USB-C setup, compare the monitor’s stated power delivery with the laptop’s charging requirements and confirm video support separately. Check which cables are included. | I would prefer one connection at my regular desk, but can use a separate charger if the laptop and monitor cannot provide the intended setup together. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming every USB-C port sends video
A matching connector does not establish that the laptop can drive a USB-C monitor. Which? notes that DisplayPort support depends on the particular USB-C connection.
Check the laptop’s exact port specification and the monitor’s required connection method before choosing a cable or dock.
A different connection method may call for an adapter, dock or replacement cable.
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Choosing screen size before checking placement
A display that fits across the desk may still be difficult to place at a suitable height and distance. The Health and Safety Executive advises a screen position about an arm’s length away, with its top about eye level.
Measure the usable desk area and check the stand or mounting arrangement. If you elevate a laptop for prolonged use, consider how a separate keyboard and mouse will fit.
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Assuming USB-C charging will work with your laptop
Dell UK lists up to 90W power delivery for its P2425HE hub monitor, but that monitor rating alone does not establish video-output or charging compatibility with a particular laptop.
Compare the exact laptop model’s video and charging specifications with the monitor’s connection and power-delivery requirements.
If the intended charging arrangement does not work, you may need to continue using a separate laptop charger.
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Choosing portability for a screen that stays on one desk
Being able to pack a monitor away does not settle whether its screen size and support suit daily document-heavy work at a permanent desk.
If the display will rarely move, compare fixed monitors’ dimensions and adjustment before deciding. If it will travel, check the portable model’s size and connection requirements instead.
Relevant monitor brands
Dell
Dell’s Pro 24 Plus USB-C Hub Monitor P2425HE is an example of a fixed-desk hub monitor.
- Dell UK lists height, pivot, swivel and tilt adjustment for the P2425HE, along with up to 90W power delivery.
- That power-delivery rating does not confirm that a particular laptop can send video to, or charge from, the monitor.
Lenovo
Lenovo’s ThinkVision M14 is a 14-inch portable display intended to extend or duplicate a compatible laptop screen.
- Lenovo UK describes one-plug operation with notebooks whose USB-C port supports DP 1.2 Alt Mode and PD 2.0.
- Check those laptop-port requirements before relying on the M14 as a one-plug second screen.
ASUS
ASUS’s ZenScreen range includes portable displays with different connection types, including HDMI, USB-C and USB 3.0 across the range.
- The range gives laptop users several connection types to investigate.
- ASUS support distinguishes USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode from USB 3.0 DisplayLink connections; check the exact ZenScreen model and laptop rather than assuming the methods are interchangeable.
Joybuy monitor options
These options include fixed monitors for a regular desk and portable displays for a second screen that moves or packs away. Compare each model’s stated features with your desk and laptop connections before choosing.
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ASUS ProArt PA278CV IPS WQHD monitor
Consider this fixed monitor if your laptop normally stays at one desk. Its product name specifies an IPS panel and WQHD resolution; check the connections, stand adjustment and laptop charging requirements for the setup you want.
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AOC Q32V4 31.5-inch 2K Ultra HD IPS monitor
The stated 31.5-inch screen makes desk fit an important check for this fixed monitor. Its product name also lists an IPS panel, built-in speakers and a 4ms response time; confirm the laptop connection and placement options you need.
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UPERFECT 18.4-inch 4K QLED portable monitor
Consider this portable option if the second display needs to move between workspaces and its size suits what you carry. The product name specifies 3840 × 2160 resolution, USB-C, Mini HDMI and VESA mounting; check the required video and power connections with your laptop.
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UPERFECT 14-inch 60Hz touchscreen portable monitor
This is a compact second-screen option if you move between work locations and want touch input. The product name lists VESA mounting and a 180° adjustable stand; confirm the connection, power arrangement and carrying requirements for your laptop setup.
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ASUS ZenScreen MB166CR FHD portable monitor
Consider this ZenScreen if you need a second display you can take between work locations. Its product name identifies the MB166CR FHD variant; check that its required video and power connections match your exact laptop before planning a one-cable setup.
Frequently asked questions
Will any USB-C laptop port connect directly to a monitor?
No. Which? explains that USB-C carries DisplayPort video only when the particular connection supports it. Check your laptop’s exact port specification and the monitor’s required display connection before buying a cable, dock or portable screen.
When should I choose a portable monitor over a fixed one?
Choose a portable monitor when you need to move or pack away the second screen, provided its size and connection method suit your laptop. If the screen will stay on one desk, compare the space and adjustment offered by fixed models instead.
Do I need a monitor arm for my home-working desk?
Not necessarily. The Health and Safety Executive advises positioning the top of the screen about eye level and the screen roughly an arm’s length away. An adjustable stand or riser may achieve that placement; check monitor mounting and desk compatibility if you prefer an arm.
Can my employer need to provide equipment for my home workstation?
A workstation assessment should identify what equipment is needed for the individual setup. The Health and Safety Executive states that where such an assessment identifies a need for display screen equipment, workers cannot be charged for it; discuss the assessment and resulting equipment needs with your employer.