Frequent document switcher
If you regularly compare documents or spreadsheets while keeping messages or a call visible, consider whether a second screen can stay on your work surface.
Who may benefit from an extra screen?
Laptop worker with a limited desk
If you use a laptop for long sessions but need to clear or share your desk, compare a portable display with raising the laptop screen and using separate input devices.
Worker unsure about laptop connections
If you want another display but are unsure which video output your laptop supports, check whether the proposed monitor or dock can extend the display you need.
What matters when choosing an extra screen?
Decide whether the display will stay on your desk or need to move, then check your laptop’s video output and the space available for the complete setup. If an applicable workstation assessment identifies an equipment need, discuss provision with your employer before buying.
| Concern | What to check when buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping work visible across applications | List the documents and communications you need to see together; check the usable display area against your desk. | If I need to compare files while keeping messages or a call in view, I want an arrangement that suits that workflow. Around 33% of consumers put keeping work visible across applications first. |
| Positioning the screen for prolonged work | Check the stand’s adjustments and whether a compatible mount fits the screen and desk. | When I work at a screen for long stretches, I need to position the display and input devices as part of a workable setup. Around 25% of consumers prioritise positioning for prolonged work. |
| Making the display work with the laptop | Check the exact laptop’s video-capable ports and display limit, plus the monitor input and any adapter or dock requirements. | If I am adding a screen to my laptop, I need confidence that its connections support the setup I want. About 25% of consumers put laptop compatibility first. |
| Keeping or clearing a limited workspace | Measure the usable desk area and compare the full fixed-screen setup with a display that can be moved or put away. | When my desk has to be shared or cleared, I need an arrangement I can move or put away. Around 17% of consumers prioritise a workspace they can clear. |
Buying pitfalls to avoid
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Assuming every USB-C socket carries video
A USB-C connector’s shape does not confirm that it can send video. Dell specifies that the P2425H’s USB-C downstream port is for data, while portable-display connections depend on the host and monitor specifications.
Match the exact laptop output to the monitor input, and check video and power-delivery functions separately.
Depending on the laptop and monitor, you may need a compatible cable, adapter or dock.
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Choosing a monitor arm by screen size alone
Mounting patterns and supported weights vary between arms. The specifications for one model do not establish what another arm can hold.
Check the screen’s mounting pattern and weight against the specific arm, then confirm that the desk accepts its attachment.
If the screen or desk is incompatible, a different mounting solution may be needed.
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Assuming a second display will resolve every workstation issue
An applicable DSE assessment considers the job, equipment, furniture and working conditions together; it may identify an action other than adding a screen.
Review screen placement, laptop input devices and the assessment findings before deciding what equipment to obtain.
Relevant brands to compare by setup
Dell
Dell’s P2425H and P2425E illustrate how connectivity can differ between fixed monitors.
- Dell specifies HDMI and DisplayPort inputs for the P2425H. For the P2425E, Dell specifies a USB-C hub monitor with up to 90 W power delivery.
- Dell specifies that the P2425H’s USB-C downstream port is data-only, not a laptop video input. Check the connections on the exact model.
Lenovo
The ThinkVision M14 is a portable second-screen option for a compatible notebook.
- Lenovo describes the 14-inch M14 as able to extend or duplicate a compatible notebook display.
- Lenovo specifies a host USB-C connection supporting DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode and Power Delivery 2.0; a USB-C socket alone does not establish compatibility.
BenQ
The GW2490E is a fixed-screen example with dimensions and a mounting pattern to check against a desk or arm.
- BenQ specifies a 23.8-inch Full HD display and a 100 × 100 mm mounting pattern for the GW2490E.
- Check the actual screen dimensions and mounting compatibility for your chosen setup; model specifications do not establish that a particular screen is necessary for every home worker.
Ergotron
Ergotron’s LX arm is an example of a separate support for repositioning a compatible display or freeing desk space beneath its base.
- For part 45-241-224, Ergotron specifies 75 × 75 mm and 100 × 100 mm mounting patterns and a 3.2–11.3 kg weight range.
- Ergotron lists this cited variant as discontinued. Do not assume its availability or apply its specifications to a successor model.
Joybuy monitor options for home-working documents
These Joybuy options include portable displays for a movable laptop setup and fixed monitors for a desk-based workspace.
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UFYQL M156F04 15.6-inch FHD portable monitor
A portable second screen for a laptop-based workspace that needs to be moved or cleared.
15.6-inch FHD 1080P IPS; USB-C and HDMI; smart-cover stand; VESA mountable.
Check your laptop’s video output and the required connection before buying.
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ASUS ZenScreen MB166CR FHD
A portable display option if you need a second screen that can move with a laptop setup.
The described USB-C video connection uses DisplayPort Alternate Mode, so the host must support it.
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ASUS ProArt PA278CV IPS WQHD monitor
A fixed-screen option for a desk-based workflow that benefits from a dedicated display.
The product name identifies an IPS WQHD monitor. Check its connections and the space needed for the complete setup.
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KOORUI E2412F 24-inch FHD business monitor
A fixed monitor option for a desk-based workflow involving documents and spreadsheets.
24-inch FHD display.
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MSI PRO MP223 E2 21.45-inch Full HD office monitor
A fixed-screen option for office tasks where a dedicated desk display suits the available workspace.
21.45-inch Full HD display; 1920 × 1080 resolution; 100 Hz; HDMI 1.4b and DisplayPort 1.2a; tilt-adjustable stand.
The supplied stand does not offer height adjustment.
Frequently asked questions
Does working from home in the UK automatically mean my employer must supply a second monitor?
No; the HSE does not prescribe a second monitor for every home worker. In Great Britain, where the relevant DSE rules apply, the assessment considers the home workstation and identifies whether action is needed. The HSE says a worker cannot be charged for DSE equipment that the assessment indicates is needed. Northern Ireland has separate guidance from the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland.
How should I set up a laptop and extra screen for prolonged work?
Treat the laptop, extra display and input devices as one workstation arrangement. HSE positioning guidance advises placing the top of the screen around eye level and about an arm’s length away; for prolonged laptop use, it advises separate keyboard and mouse input so the screen can be raised. Include the complete setup in an applicable workstation assessment.
Will a USB-C cable or dock make any laptop run an extra monitor?
No. Check whether the exact laptop port supports the video output the monitor needs, and whether the laptop supports the number of displays you intend to use. ASUS distinguishes USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode from USB video that uses DisplayLink; Apple’s display guidance also sets model-specific limits. A dock does not necessarily increase a laptop’s supported display maximum.
Who pays for equipment identified by a home DSE assessment?
For applicable DSE equipment needs in Great Britain, the HSE says workers cannot be charged for equipment the assessment indicates is needed. Acas advises discussing who will pay other home-working equipment costs with employees and their representatives; that does not make every preferred monitor purchase an assessment-required item.
Does adding a second monitor replace breaks or an eye test?
No. HSE guidance says employers should plan breaks or changes of activity for applicable DSE work and provide an eyesight test when a DSE user requests one. A monitor purchase is not a substitute for those steps.