Laptop writers comparing documents
A second display lets you keep a job description, CV or notes in view while drafting on your laptop. Consider whether its stand and orientation will fit the space where you write.
Who might use a second screen?
Applicants writing away from a fixed desk
If you work in libraries, shared spaces or while travelling, consider the monitor’s carrying weight alongside the cables, protection and support you would need to take with it.
Owners of mixed or older laptop hardware
If you cannot rely on USB-C video output, check the laptop’s available connections before choosing a monitor. HDMI inputs or a model-specific USB-A connection may offer another route, subject to their power and software requirements.
What matters when choosing?
Confirm how your laptop sends video, then decide how much document space and carrying convenience you need. BenQ UK notes that USB-C ports do not all provide video output; an alternative input is useful only if it matches your equipment.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Connection compatibility | Check the exact laptop port for USB-C video output, such as DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. Otherwise, check for a suitable HDMI input or the driver requirements of a hybrid USB model. | If my laptop cannot send an image to the screen, the extra workspace is no use to me. Around 31% of consumers would put connection certainty first. |
| Document workspace | Compare screen size, resolution and aspect ratio with the documents you want visible together. | When I tailor a letter against a job advert and CV, I want enough room to read my references without continually switching windows. A further roughly 31% of consumers would prioritise document space. |
| Portability | Consider the monitor’s weight and carrying protection, as well as any cables or power adaptor you will take. | I write applications in more than one place, so the complete setup needs to be manageable to carry. Portability would be the primary concern for around 19% of consumers. |
| Positioning | Check stand adjustment, portrait support and any software needed for automatic rotation. | If I spend time revising a letter, I need the reference screen to stand securely at a usable angle. Roughly 19% of consumers would put positioning first. |
Buying pitfalls
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Assuming every USB-C socket carries video
A laptop port may handle charging or data without sending an image to a monitor.
Check the specification for the exact laptop port for DisplayPort Alt Mode, Thunderbolt or another confirmed USB-C display capability before relying on that connection.
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Assuming a display connection will charge the laptop
Sending video to a monitor and supplying power to a laptop are separate functions. ViewSonic says an external power adaptor is required for the VA1655’s power-charging feature.
Compare the monitor’s power arrangements with your laptop’s charging needs, and check what accessories come with the model you intend to buy.
Using laptop power pass-through may mean carrying a compatible external power adaptor as well as the display cable.
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Choosing by screen size without checking the stand
A larger display is less useful for editing if it cannot stand securely or face the way you need on your writing surface.
Check its supported positions and whether portrait rotation is manual or depends on software. ASUS says automatic rotation on the ZenScreen MB16ACE requires Windows and DisplayWidget.
Relevant brands to consider
Lenovo
Lenovo’s ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 is a compact option for writers considering a taller document view and adjustable positioning.
- Lenovo UK specifies a 14-inch, 2240 × 1400 IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, adjustable tilt and two USB-C ports.
- Its touch and stylus features are optional for letter writing. Check that your laptop can provide the required USB-C video connection.
ASUS
The ZenScreen MB16ACE offers a 15.6-inch Full HD secondary display and a model-specific route for laptops using USB-A.
- ASUS lists USB-C and hybrid-signal USB-A support for the MB16ACE.
- USB-A display use requires a DisplayLink driver; automatic rotation requires Windows and DisplayWidget.
ViewSonic
The ViewSonic VA1655 is worth considering when a USB-C connection and a Mini HDMI input would both be useful.
- ViewSonic lists a 16-inch Full HD IPS display, a foldable stand and portrait or landscape positioning.
- ViewSonic says its power-charging feature requires an external power adaptor; do not assume connecting the display will also charge your laptop.
Joybuy portable monitors
These portable monitors offer different screen sizes and connection options for keeping writing and reference material in view. Check your laptop’s video output and the space where you will use the screen before choosing between them.
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UPERFECT 14-inch touchscreen portable monitor
Consider this compact second screen if you want to keep a reference document beside your covering-letter draft. The product name specifies a 60 Hz touchscreen, 100% sRGB, VESA compatibility and a stand adjustable through 180°. Confirm your laptop’s USB-C video output and check the carrying weight if you will travel with it.
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ASUS ZenScreen MB249C IPS USB-C monitor
Consider this model for a writing space where you can leave a larger second display set up. Its product name specifies an IPS display and USB-C connection. If you plan to move it often, confirm the weight of the exact item; also check that your laptop supports the video connection you intend to use.
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ASUS ZenScreen MB166CR FHD monitor
This Full HD model is an option for viewing a job advert or CV beside your laptop draft. Before choosing it for a temporary workspace, confirm how you will support and position it, as well as whether your laptop’s intended connection carries video.
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UPERFECT 16-inch 2560 × 1600 portable monitor
The 16:10 screen may appeal if you prefer a taller view of a letter or reference document. Its product name specifies a QLED display, Mini HDMI, Type-C and VESA compatibility. Check the laptop connection requirements, carrying weight and the support you would use for writing.
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UPERFECT 18.4-inch 4K QLED portable monitor
Consider this larger screen if you have room to set out a draft and reference material. The product name specifies a 3840 × 2160 display, USB-C, Mini HDMI and VESA mounting. Before relying on it for travel, check its weight and how you would support it; confirm USB-C video compatibility with your laptop too.
Frequently asked questions
Will any USB-C portable monitor work with my laptop?
No: a USB-C socket does not necessarily carry video. As BenQ UK explains, USB-C ports can offer different functions, so check your exact laptop port for DisplayPort Alt Mode, Thunderbolt or another confirmed display-output capability.
Is Full HD enough for writing a covering letter?
Full HD can provide a separate screen for a draft or reference document; a higher-resolution, taller display is worth considering if you regularly want more document content visible. Compare the screen’s size and shape with how you arrange your CV, job advert and draft rather than choosing by resolution alone.
Would portrait mode help with letter writing?
Portrait mode can suit a vertically arranged letter or job description if the monitor stands securely in that position. Check whether rotation is manual or needs software: ASUS says automatic rotation on the ZenScreen MB16ACE requires Windows and DisplayWidget.
Will a portable monitor charge my laptop through the display cable?
Only if the monitor supports suitable power pass-through and its power requirements are met; carrying video does not by itself provide laptop charging. ViewSonic specifies an external power adaptor for the VA1655’s power-charging feature, so check the requirements for the exact monitor and laptop.