Then, you whip out an Ultrabook – a thinner, lighter, faster and more attractive laptop, rocking the best processors and SSDs on the market. These thin and light beauties are as much about.
Does your job involve a lot of traveling? And do you miss the presence of that desktop monitor of your home? Then you are at the right page as we have listed the top best portable monitors to buy in 2019. Thanks to the ever-evolving technology that makes life much easier by introducing unique things every now and then. Portable monitors also called USB powered monitors are required to plug in through the USB port and that’s it. These monitors are very slim, lightweight and interface with your device hassle-free. The top best portable HDMI monitors are listed here to narrow down your search process.
If you travel a lot and prepare plenty of presentations, you might just need a second monitor or a screen. On the other hand, you might have limited port options on your computer and need a monitor for your gaming system or your computer? Also, you might have a small laptop, as it is portable and comfortable to carry around.
However, you might need a larger display for working. Portable monitors are the way to go! These are portable monitors that come with a powerful performance in a compact size. There are plenty of good options when considering portable monitors, available in different budgets. You can use these monitors as your primary display or just as an extended one to your laptop.
See also: Best i7 laptops
Top Best Portable Monitors
Ultra-Light and Slim
Asus MB168B, 15.6 inches
This portable monitor from Asus is powered by a USB 3.0 and comes with a built-in video adapter. It is ultra-light and slim, weighing just 800 grams. As it is USB powered, there are no additional cables or adapters. It is also compatible with a USB 2.0 port.
The monitor comes with a display panel of 15.6 inches in HD and has a resolution of 13266 x 768 pixels, with a 16:9 aspect ratio. The surrounding shell is in plastic with a metallic finish on the back. There’s a power LED on the top and there are no ports or cables on the back. The power button and brightness control is also on the top and the USB 3.0 port is at the bottom of the monitor. The monitor has a good brightness of 200 cd/m and a contrast of 500:1, offering good clarity as well. The viewing angle is 90 degrees. There is also a blue light filter that reduces blue light to prevent eye strain.
It comes with a stand, which can also be used as a sleeve for carrying around, known as the Asus Smart case. You also get a USB 3.0 cable bundled with it. The monitor is an LED with an option for auto-rotate, so that you can use portrait or landscape automatically. It runs on Asus’ proprietary EzLink technology, where the display adapter is built in. This means that there is no need for an additional graphics card.
The minimum system requirements are Windows 7 with a 1.4GHz Core 2 Duo and 1GB of RAM or Mac OS X 10.8.3. However, it is not compatible with the MacBook or the MacBook Pro.
Who is it for?
- Those looking for a slim and light monitor that they can carry with them while travelling.
- Those looking for a simple monitor that is easy to connect and install.
- Good option for those who want an extended display for their laptop.
- Those who want a travel mate with good ergonomics and powerful performance.
See it on Amazon
For a Spacious Display on the Road
AOC e1759Fwu, 17 Inches
This is an ultra slim, lightweight, portable monitor with a 17.3 inches display screen and a resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels and a brightness of 220 cd/m2, with a response time of 10ms. The screen resolution is 1600 x 900 pixels at a frame rate of 60 Hz and a high contrast ratio of 650:1. Colors are accurate and bold and images are sharp. The dimensions of the monitor are 16 x 9.7 x 0.6 inches (WHD) and it weighs 2.7 pounds. It comes included with a protective case. The bezels, as well as the cabinet, come in a glossy black finish. It has a foldable and flexible stand.
For mounting ,there are 4 VESA holes and it has one single connector, a USB 3.0 port at the back. Power, as well as video signals, come from the host system using a USB cable. It makes use of the DisplayLink software. There are no additional image settings or functionalities available on the monitor, but ra eorientation of modes, portrait to landscape is automatic.
It can be easily installed by plugging the USB cable into the monitor and connecting it to the laptop or desktop. There is also an additional Y connector for using with older desktops. It is compatible with Windows 10, though only using the DisplayLink drivers.
Who is it for?
- Those who are looking for a streamlined and ultra-light monitor with sharp and solid images and accurate colors.
- Those who want a light option to bring on the road. Useful for those who want to give presentations, as it has a spacious screen size.
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Making Life on the Road Easier with a Touchscreen Portable Monitor
GeChic 1303i, 13.3 inches
It is a lightweight monitor with HDMI as well as VGA inputs. This means that you can use the monitor with your laptop as well as other devices like DSLR cameras; mobile phones; mini PCs; gaming consoles; Go Pros; Raspberry using HDMI or other VGA ports and so on. It is a USB powered portable monitor and has the True Color display feature, 16.7M offering a crystal clear display. It is compatible with the Windows 7; 8 and 10 versions.
The screen resolution is 1920 x 1080 pixels and the weight is 1.9 pounds. It is a full efficient HD IPS screen panel. There is a dual speaker that is built in as well. The multi touch, 10 finger recognition features allows users to type on the screen easily. You can improve productivity with this efficient monitor. It is the Plug and Play type powered by USB and there is no need of driver installation.
Accessories included in the box are cover stand; a USB to Micro USB cable of 1.2 meters; one HDMI video cable of 1.2 meters for the display; one mini HDMI to Micro HDMI video cable of 0.6 m length.
Who is it for?
- Those who want a portable, touchscreen monitor with HDMI that they can use with their mobile phones and cameras.
- Those who want precise and stunning color projections on their portable monitors.
- Suitable for those using Windows; professional gamers; and for Apple users needing a portable monitor with high resolution and great display performance.
- Perfectly suitable for designers, photographers, containing all the features needed for efficient performance.
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Gaming on the Go Portable Monitor
Wimaxit Portable Monitor, 11.6 inches
This monitor does not depend on USB for its power, and instead plugs into a 12 volt input. It is a full HD screen and has built in speakers and ha eadphone jack. The monitor comes along with a stand. The display screen size is 11.6 inches and it has a screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also offers support for VGA and HDMI signals up to 1080 pixels. The brightness contrast ratio is a high 800: 1 and it offers sharp pictures with 350 nits.
The casing is durable in Aluminum housing and it is scratch resistant. There are 4 holes present on the rear for a VESA mount. The package includes a stand. It is compatible with the PS3 and PS4 as well as WiiU and Xbox360.
Who is it for?
- Those who want a bright screen even when outside.
- Excellent for those looking for a portable monitor for entertainment on the go and gamers on the go. You can attach the monitor to the car’s headrest to play games on the go.
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Attractive and Functional Portable Monitor at a Reasonable Price
HP Elite Display S140u, 14 inches LCD
This is a USB powered display monitor of 14 inches LCD real estate with a screen resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels. It weighs around 3 pounds and is less than an inch in thickness. The protective case included with the monitor has a premium look, made of black vinyl with a faux leather outer covering. The inner surface of the case is made of microfiber material, so that your monitor remains free from scratches during travel.
The HP EliteDisplay S140u comes with an anti-glare or matte screen with brightness up to 200 nits. Viewing angles are 90 degrees for horizontal and 50 degrees for vertical and the response rate is 8 ms. The dimensions of the monitor are 13.6 x 8.55 x 0.53 inches and the weight is 3.28 pounds.
The design of the stand is simple and functional. There is a power button on the rear, for controlling the brightness of the screen. One USB port on the monitor controls both power and video inputs. This means that you do not have to carry any adapter or video cables.
The box includes the magnetic cover; one USB Y cable; one CD ROM of the graphics drivers for the USB and a user manual.
Who is it for?
- Those who want a larger screen for sales presentations or multitasking purposes.
- Suitable for those who travel a lot, as it has a magnetic protection travelling cover, which can also be used as a supporting stand.
- Mobile professionals who are looking for a convenient and low priced second monitor.
See it on Amazon
Portable Monitor for Graphic Designers and Creative Work
EleDuino Touchscreen Portable Monitor, 11.6 inches
This monitor comes with an LCD Panel having a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and an aspect ratio of 16:9, with 170 degrees viewing angles. It is a USB multi touch monitor in a sleek, gorgeous and sturdy design. The weight is 1.3 pounds and it is slim at just 1 cm. The screen brightness is 400 cd/m2 and the response time is 26 ms.
The screen has True Color technology 16.7M colors and offers excellent visuals. It offers support for Windows 7; 8; 8.1 and 10 along with support for Raspberry Pi 3b+ 3B B A+ and Raspbian Tested. There is a single cable for; Video, Power and Touch delivery. It supports 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity and can be used for graphics drawing.
Who is it for?
- Those who want a portable monitor delivering the excellent visual experience.
- Slim and portable, being suitable for frequent travellers and businessmen.
- Ideal to be used as a monitor for graphics drawing or for creative artists and beginners who want to learn drawing, designing characters.
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Top Tier Gaming Experience with Portable Monitor
G story 11.6 inches full HD
It makes use of HDR technology offering exceptional video quality at high resolutions. The monitor also uses a FreeSync feature, offering lag free viewing. The viewing angles are 178 degrees and the structure of the monitor is compact. It offers support for HDR technology and gives a smooth performance. It is particularly designed with the FPS/FTS gaming functioning in mind, so gaming experience is enhanced in the given modes.
There are 2 HDMI ports for improved connectivity. There is also dual 3.5 mm audio jack so it is easy to play in 2 player mode without interference. There is a built in speaker and you can experience the audio effect even without headsets. With the dual HDMI ports, it is easy to connect the monitor to any other HDMI device, but not the PlayStation 4. The display screen has a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Who is it for?
- Those who want excellent video quality with every detail seen on the screen.
- Suitable for gamers who want a portable option. However, it cannot be attached to the original Xbox 1.
- For those who want realistic and top tier gaming experience.
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Touchscreen Portable Monitor for High Traffic Environments
ViewSonic TD2430, 24 inches
The display on the ViewSonic TD2430 offers the maximum touchscreen versatility. It is a Full HD screen display offering 1-point of multi touch features. The position can be adjusted with wide angle views in a sturdy design. It comes in a freestanding design like a tablet and has a stable stand that can be adjusted. The bezel is frameless and it has an edge to edge design with an intuitive touchscreen. The display is covered with a strong, protective faceplate that is scratch resistant. The monitor is 24 inches and comes with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels with a static contrast ratio of 3000: 1 and a response time of 25 ms. The brightness levels are 250 cd/m2 and the screen has an aspect ratio of 16:9. The physical dimensions of this portable monitor are 22.6 x 13.9 x 1.9 inches.
It is compatible with several operating systems, such as Windows 10 as well as some Android and Linux versions. It offers support for Windows 7; 8; and 10 as well as Linux 2.6.38 and beyond; along with Android 4.0 and later versions.
The monitor makes use of the SuperClear MVA technology delivery top quality images from all sides with 178 degrees ultra-wide viewing angles. Connectivity options are versatile with a DisplayPort; HDMI; as well as VGA inputs, so that you can connect easily to different devices. There are 2 USB 3.0 Type A; one USB 3.0 Type B; one VGA port; one HDMI 1.4 port and one DisplayPort. It also has two internal speakers of 2.5W.
Who is it for?
- Those who want a portable monitor that offers cross compatibility with different OS.
- Those who want a touchscreen that is highly accurate and ultra-responsive
- Suitable for interactivity in kiosks, search apps, classrooms and so on.
- Suitable for office work; entertainment; education as well as business purposes.
- Can be used in kiosks and other public environments where a high quality touch experience is needed in high traffic businesses.
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Budget Portable Monitor for Gamers on the Go
Eleclink, 10.1 inches
This is a portable LCD display monitor that weighs about 2.75 pounds. The dimensions of the Eleclink monitor are 14.3 x 11.8 x 2.4 LWH. It gets best support from interfaces that mention HDMI; VGA; AV; TV and USB. The graphics power is excellent with a HD display screen.
The screen resolution is 1024×600, having wide screen along with LED backlighting features. The 10.1 inch screen monitor is panel mountable and is convenient to carry around while travelling. The monitor can be used as a computer display or as a monitor with gaming consoles like the PS3; the PS4 and the XBox.
Who is it for?
- Suitable for gamers as well as professionals looking for a monitor at reasonable prices.
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Super Powerful with Many Interfaces
Elecrow 10.1 Inches Touchscreen Portable Monitor
The monitor comes with a metal shell along with a loudspeaker. It can be connected to Raspberry Pi board at the rear. It makes use of 2 in 1 power and the screen is capable of powering the Raspberry Pi, so that wires and clutter are reduced. The screen size is 24.3 x 16.3 x 4 cm (LWH) and the contrast ratio is 500:1.
This is a 10.1 inches portable monitor with IPS LCD technology, and a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It is a touchscreen monitor and can be controlled remotely as well as by touch. There are keys on the rear, for controlling the display screen or you can use the remote control for adjusting the contrast and colors. It offers support for several video inputs, such as HDMI; VGA; and AV as well as supporting audio.
The IPS display screen offers wide visual angles and a quick response along with accurate colors. The fixing holes at the rear are compatible with Raspberry Pi 3model B; 2modelB; Xbox 360; Windows 7; 8; and 10.
Who is it for?
- Popularly used in industrial automations; security; industrial equipment display; car reversing and so on.
- Can be used by gamers offering support for PS3 and PS4.
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Top Quality Portable Monitor with large Real Estate
GeChic 1503H 15.6 inches
This is a 15.6 inches monitor with a Full HD IPS screen display of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It weighs 798 grams. For connectivity, there are 2 mini HDMI inputs; 2 USB A to 1 USB C power cable; one HDMI to mini HDMI cable.
The bezel is in plastic and it comes with a plastic cover as well. There is a stand for placing the monitor in three different positions. At the rear is a port for optional docking. The GeChic 1503H does not make use of drivers and can work just like usual HDMI displays, with the USB ports on the laptop providing the power, so you just have to plug it in and start playing.
The menu on the screen offers several options. For instance, you can choose from different color presets, change an individual color setting; choose the contrast and so on. Viewing angles are excellent and image quality is also equally good even from oblique angles, so you can share the screen with others at a meeting, for instance. Features and accessories can be tailored to personal preferences and requirements.
Who is it for?
- It is a versatile monitor for those who want to do multitasking on the go.
- Suitable for those who want to work without giving up screen space. Useful if you want a large, portable monitor with excellent image quality.
See it on Amazon
Other models worth buying
Best Slimmest Portable Monitor With Excellent Display
ASUS MB169B+ USB Portable monitor
One of best USB-powered monitor that is among the slimmest and lightest monitors of the world and the best part is you will get it at a very affordable price. The screen is 15.6-inch full HD having 1920×1080 resolution. The look is very stylish with a very sleek and metal finish. The stand let it place both the ways in portrait mode and landscape mode. So, you can place it your way to get things done easily. Other interesting features include the auto-rotating display, ASUS smart case etc. In other words, this portable monitor is a must to consider if you are planning to own one.
See It On AmazonBest USB Powered Portable Monitor with Latest Features
AOC e1659Fwux- Pro 16” FHD LED Portable Monitor
Faster connection speed, the sleek great design is what that makes this monitor one of the best options to consider. Also, since it is lightweight, it is a great travelling companion to all the frequent travellers. The display is big, 16-inch with 15.6-inch viewable and the display has a full HD 1920×1080 resolution along with 300cd/m2 brightness, so you can enjoy each and everything in this set smoothly. It is compatible with the latest operating system Windows 10 as well, so not to worry in case you love to work on the latest OS. The foldable flexi stand allows you to have both the view portrait and landscape, whatever you are comfortable with.
See It On AmazonBest Portable Monitor With Bigger And Excellent Display
AOC E1649FWU 16” USB Powered monitor
Supported by USB 2.0 technology this is another best portable monitor which requires no external powered cord. The LED LCD ultra-thin display lets you enjoy everything at your best. The screen is big enough almost 16” while 15.8-inch is viewable. The foldable stand let you place the monitor in both positions landscape and portrait. The best thing is this monitor is compatible with all the OS except Windows 2000 and the previous Windows OSes. If you are a very frequent traveller, this lightweight monitor with ultra-slim design can be a great company which occupy hardly any place in your luggage.
See It On AmazonBest USB Portable Monitor With Cute Small Screen
Lilliput 7” LCD USB Powered Monitor
If you are looking for a portable monitor that is comparatively small in sizes than the other options listed here, then you can look at this one from Lilliput that has a 7-inch display with 16:9 aspect ratio and 250:1 contrast ratio. The screen resolution is 800×480 pixels. The LED backlight ensures a brighter display while the USB powered feature ensures no need of having any other external power cord. This great piece is fully compatible with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7.
See It On AmazonBest USB Powered Portable Monitor With Wide-Ranging Features
GeChic 1503I Portable with HDMI and VGA Ports
Perhaps the expensive set in this list which comes packed with some improved and extensive features that made it a unique portable monitor to own. The monitor employed IPS panel and the full HD display with 1920 x 1080 resolution and 250cd/m2 backlight are just great to enjoy. The monitor has 262k colours which are just amazing. Also, apart from just being a USB portable monitor, this one comes featured with VGA input and micro HDMI port so that users can interface the monitor with their devices. It has a protective case that is also used as the stand.
See It On AmazonConclusion
The problem that PC fans have with a laptop is that it is not as powerful as a desktop. When they are travelling, it is not possible to carry a laptop as well as a computer with a full-sized monitor. Now, you can purchase these high-quality portable monitors at decent prices. Portable monitors are naturally smaller than the regular computer monitors, with an average screen size of 14 inches or less. It’s a perfect solution when you are on the go!
Think about the size you need. 7 inches might seem ideal, but if you need to read a lot of text, go for something bigger or even for the 24 inches monitor, depending on your requirements. Small size means more portability, but a bigger size offers more comfortable viewing options. As for resolution, there are no 4K resolutions available in the portable field, but you can opt for the HD resolutions.
Also, take into consideration the compatibility with your laptop or desktop. Some of the options are touchscreen ones. They are convenient for navigation and scrolling. Moreover, you don’t need to carry a mouse while travelling! Other things to consider would be USB powered monitors and whether you need speakers on board, especially in case of gaming.
See also: Top best laptops for teachers
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
The Rundown
- Most Popular: ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 at Amazon, “The Chromebook is a reliable laptop that won’t break the bank.”
- Best Overall: Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 at Amazon, “Featuring a lovely, sleek design that easily rivals the MacBook Air.”
- Best Large Screen: LG gram 15Z970 15.6” at Amazon, 'One of the lightest and slimmest 15” screens.'
- Best 2-in-1:Samsung Notebook 9 Pro at Best Buy, 'A high-end, feature-rich computer that is both adaptable and affordable.'
- Best Apple: Apple MacBook Air (2018) at Amazon, “The tapered-toward-the-front design makes it look and feel even thinner from certain angles.”
- Best for Multitaskers:LG Gram 17 at Amazon, 'Designed to be the laptop for those on the go.'
- Best for Students:Dell XPS 13 at Dell.com, 'A powerful, portable laptop with a base model that is relatively affordable but doesn’t compromise on performance or display.'
- Best Design:Dell XPS 13 at Amazon, 'Packs a 13.3” display in a laptop the size of a typical 11” notebook.'
- Best Value: Huawei MateBook X Pro at Amazon, “You’ll get an impressively clean experience right out of the box.'
- Best for Durability: ASUS Zenbook S at Amazon, “Built to military specifications for durability and includes Amazon Alexa integration for voice control.”
- Best for Gaming: MSI GS65 Stealth Gaming Laptop at Amazon, “A 144Hz refresh rate makes things feel snappy.”
- Best for Travel: Acer Swift 7 at Acer.com, 'The brushed aluminum body and chrome detailing are downright stylish, and it's got some brawn behind it, too.'
Our Top Picks
Most Popular: ASUS Chromebook Flip C302
When it comes to budget-friendly laptops, HD resolution is often the first thing to be eliminated. Not so with the ASUS Chromebook Flip. You can still enjoy all your favorite videos in picture-perfect 1080p on the 12.5-inch anti-glare screen. This Chromebook is a definitely lightweight at only 2.65 pounds and can easily transform from a laptop into a tablet with its flexible 360-degree hinge. The interface and controls are very user-friendly — the touch screen is very responsive, the touchpad is appealingly oversized, and the backlit keyboard provides 1.4mm of key travel for comfortable typing.
The Chromebook Flip C302 contains an Intel Pentium 4405Y processor with 64GB storage and 4GB of RAM to provide fast and reliable performance (even on a budget). You also receive 100GB of additional storage on Google Drive. Despite its slim design, this laptop also provides an adequate amount of port space: USB 3.1 and Type-C ports, a micro SD slot, and a standard audio jack. The battery life lasts about 10 hours per charge. While some may find that 4GB of storage to be a bit on the small side, the Chromebook is a reliable laptop that won’t break the bank.
Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best laptops under $500.
Best Overall: Microsoft Surface Laptop 2
The Microsoft Surface 2 features a lovely, sleek design that easily rivals the MacBook Air. Like its Surface predecessor, its dimensions are 12.13 x 8.79 x 0.96 inches and it weighs 2.76 pounds. The 13.5-inch display also features full HD resolution with 201 pixels-per-inch, delivering crisp, vivid colors and deep shadows. The Surface 2 comes in four fashionable tone-on-tone color combinations: black, platinum, cobalt blue, and burgundy.
For the Surface 2, Microsoft boasts faster processing speeds than its predecessor. Also, one of the laptops main draws is the option to customize your own specs. In its most baseline configuration, it offers an 8th-generation Intel i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB solid-state storage. Microsoft also includes descriptions for each of these specs to help buyers determine which combination best fits their needs.
We’ve really only found two downsides with the Surface 2. The first is the battery life: while Microsoft promises 14.5 hours of use on a single charge, many users report that the laptop tends to last for closer to 5.5 hours with a normal level of use. The second issue is the outdated ports: The Surface 2 has a Type-A USB input but doesn’t include a standard 3.1 USB port. If you’re planning to use this laptop more like a mobile workstation, then this probably isn’t a huge problem, but it is strange to see such an outdated spec on an otherwise top-quality product.
Best Large Screen: LG gram 15Z970 15.6”
LG released a powerhouse of an ultrabook that is winning accolades for being one of the lightest and slimmest 15” screens. The specs are sure to impress, as the laptop tries to be the best gram for gram on the market. It weighs a featherweight 2.5 pounds, thanks to a sleek metal alloy body made from advanced nano carbon and magnesium for a durable, but ultra-lightweight case that is less than 0.7” thick. Meanwhile, the thin bezel doesn’t distract from the gorgeous IPS screen that gives more viewing area and exquisite style.
Besides the thin lightweight design and gorgeous 15.6” IPS screen, the laptop has a powerful 7th generation i5 Intel processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. The battery keeps going for over 15 hours of power, while DTS Headphone: X delivers expansive 11.1 channels of audio for a revelatory listening experience.
Best 2-in-1: Samsung Notebook 9 Pro
Samsung’s response to the MacBook Pro and the Surface Pro, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro is a high-end, feature-rich computer that is both adaptable and affordable. The 2-in-1 device weighs just 2.9 pounds and contains 8GB of system memory and a 128GB solid-state drive for a faster startup time while reducing noise, heat production, and battery wear. The accompanying S Pen, which never requires charging, and Windows Ink let you jot down ideas or visuals, and Intel HD Graphics 620 can provide quality graphics for visual artists or casual gamers. The 360-degree hinge allows the Notebook 9 Pro to function as a laptop, tablet, tent, or stand. The Bluetooth 4.1 interface makes sharing media and music easy between compatible devices, and the laptop can be connected to an HDTV or high-definition monitor for a dual-screen display. Though the panel is glossy, the RealView display gives you up to 450 nits in 'outdoor mode' so the Notebook 9 Pro can be used while racing between activities and obligations.
Check out our other reviews of the best laptops available on the market today.
Best Apple: Apple MacBook Air (2018)
When the first gen MacBook Air came out, Apple advertised it as being so thin that you could slide it into a manila folder. Since then, a lot of other Apple laptops have come out that are even lighter and even more powerful, including the 2017 12-inch MacBook. But in 2018, Apple dropped an updated version of the 13-inch MacBook air, and it comes with some welcome additions. At 2.75 pounds and 15.6 mm in thickness, it very clearly makes the cut for “lightweight,” and the tapered-toward-the-front design makes it look and feel even thinner from certain angles.
Inside, there’s an 8th-gen core i5 processor, so you won’t get top-of-the-line processor speeds, but it does beat many other “lightweight” PCs. Another great addition here is that you can opt for RAM as much as 16GB, so you’ll be able to bolster that middle-of-the-road processor with some high levels of on-demand memory. Another factor contributing to the speed is the upgraded super-fast SSDs that you can configure up to 1.5 TB for tons of storage headroom. The slim size doesn't hamper battery capacity as much as you would expect, either — Apple advertises up to 12 hours on a single charge. The single USB-C/Thunderbolt port and the slightly tinny speakers do detract from the premium experience a bit. But the presence of a fingerprint sensor and the (finally) upgraded 2560 x 1600 pixel 13.3-inch display make this a lightweight laptop that’s worth a look.
Best for Multitaskers: LG Gram 17
The LG Gram 17 is designed to be the laptop for those on-the-go, whether that’s running between meetings or finishing work while in the great outdoors. Along with a 72Wh lithium battery built to last up to 19.5 hours, the laptop has also passed seven tests of the U.S. military standard to prove its ability to handle nearly any condition, from extreme temperatures to dust to impacts. The large 17-inch WQXGA (2560x1600) 16:1 IPS display results in stunning visuals, and the 8th Gen Intel Core Processor, 16GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD make it a powerhouse. That doesn’t mean the device is bulky; rather, it's built with a metal alloy consisting of nanocarbon and magnesium and weighs just 2.95 pounds. The laptop also prioritizes security and convenience with a fingerprint reader — no more entering a password to access your computer.
Best for Students: Dell XPS 13
An exercise in innovation, the Dell XPS 13 is a powerful, portable laptop with a base model that is relatively affordable but doesn’t compromise on performance or display. Featuring up to new 9th Gen Intel Quad Core processors, the laptop can accommodate your work and streaming needs, and the 21-hour battery life means you won’t have to stop mid-day to recharge. Dell Cinema upgrades the personal entertainment experience, with CinemaColor delivering rich visuals and CinemaSound creating high-quality audio. Use Dell Power Manager to customize preferences for acoustics, temperature, and performance using a variety of different modes including 'quiet,' 'ultra-performance,' and 'cool.' Thanks to speech technology and built-in mics, the computer is voice-activated and responds to your commands. Other options are available with up to 8GB and 16GB of memory. The laptop is available in three colors: frost, rose gold, or platinum silver.
Best Design: Dell XPS 13
The Dell XPS 13 packs a 13.3” display in a laptop the size of a typical 11” notebook, which makes for a computer that’s both compact and lightweight. Whether you’re at work or playing, the 2.7-pound XPS 13 has more than enough horsepower to get you through the day.
Our model of choice includes an Intel Core i5 3.4 GHz processor, 8GB of RAM, 128GB SSD, up to 11 hours of battery life and Windows 10. That option is priced several hundred dollars cheaper than Apple’s MacBook Air. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a QHD+ display, but still offers the non-touch InfinityEdge border which remains stunning no matter your configuration. With a comfortable keyboard to type on, precise trackpad, huge range of configurations and a design that’s unrivaled, the Dell XPS 13 is fantastic.
Best Value: Huawei MateBook X Pro
Huawei is central to a tech revolution right now: overseas brands taking the market by storm with no-frills devices that give you a ton of bang for your buck. Now, before you go arguing that this is a premium laptop due to the price tag, it’s important to note that it offers features that are nearly on-par with the MacBook Pro for well under the price. The MateBook X Pro, like a few other laptops, has fallen in the interim between the Intel i5 and i7, and while the latter will give you a performance bump, for price and value we recommend the i5. (The i5 is an 8th gen processor with plenty of power, and paired with 8GB of RAM and a solid-state 256 GB drive in this machine, the power and speed afforded you will be great.)
But the real calling card here is the nearly bezel-less, touchscreen FullView Display, featuring a super-crisp 3K resolution and a 91% screen-to-body ratio. There are quad speakers, quad microphones, and a pop-out 1MP webcam for high-quality video calls, plus an all-day battery to keep you going through the whole work day. And with the built-in Windows 10 Signature edition (that has been stripped of bloatware and optimized for the MateBook), you’ll get an impressively clean experience right out of the box.
Best for Durability: Asus ZenBook S
Equal parts rugged and portable, this 13.3-inch, all-metal laptop weighs barely over two pounds and, thanks to a 50Wh lithium-polymer battery, can last for 13.5 hours. At just 0.5-inches thick, the Asus Zenbook S contains either the i5-825OU or an i7-855OU CPU, along with a 3.5mm headphone jack and three USB-C ports. The ErgoLift hinge allows the keyboard to tilt by 5.5 inches for more comfortable typing and increased airflow beneath the chassis.
Multiple display options are available, including a 4K glossy touchscreen and an HD non-touchscreen, all of which are enclosed by barely-there 5.9mm-thick NanoEdge bezels. However, in a bid for lightness, the machine only packs Intel’s integrated UHD 620 graphics, though 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD options are available. The ZenBook S is not the cheapest option on the market, but was built to military specifications for durability and includes Amazon Alexa integration for voice control.
Best for Gaming: MSI GS65 Stealth Gaming Laptop
With requirements like mechanical keys and insane levels of processing and graphics speeds, gaming laptops are almost never considered “lightweight”. That’s what makes options like the MSI Stealth GS65 all the more interesting. It achieves its form factor with some smart design choices like a super-thin bezel that is less than 5mm. The screen they fit in there is pretty great to look at too, sporting IPS tech for great viewing angles and a 144Hz refresh rate to make things feel snappy. Those are important factors to consider because there’s an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 that is VR-capable, meaning that the graphics processing here is stunning.
This particular configuration has a super-fast 8th-gen 6-core i7-8750H processor alongside 16GB of RAM and a 256GB solid-state drive. That might sound like a lot of power, but this is actually where some of the concessions were made for the lighter weight, as many gaming PCs contain a lot more RAM. Seeing as it weighs just over 4 pounds, however, we can forgive some compromises. Finally, you’ll get some important gaming features including a stepped-up cooling system, Steel series keys that offer great tactile feel (especially for a laptop), and individual RGB lights for each key switch, allowing you customize the look.
Interested in reading more reviews? Take a look at our selection of the best gaming laptops.
Best for Travel: Acer Swift 7
Hailed as the “world’s thinnest” laptop when released, the Acer Swift 7 excels in both design and performance. The brushed aluminum body and chrome detailing are downright stylish, and it's got some brawn behind it, too — the battery life can last up to an impressive 10 hours. The 2.6-pound device features a 14-inch CineCrystal IPS touchscreen with narrow bezels for a vibrant cinematic experience. It even offers a biometric fingerprint sensor for added security.
The built-in LTE connectivity does require a subscription after the one-month free trial, but provides coverage in a majority of regions around the world and is a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers. Keep in mind that personal preference may dictate whether or not you like some of the Acer Swift 7’s distinct features, like a clickless trackpad and a webcam located below, rather than above, the screen.
Tested by
How We Tested
Our reviewers spent 65 hours testing three top-rated lightweight laptops. To get the most comprehensive results, they configured them to their liking and experimented with their various capabilities, from sending emails to editing photos. We asked our testers to consider the most important features when using these lightweight laptops, from their battery life to their screen size and weight. We've outlined the key points here so that you, too, know what to look for when shopping.
What to Look for in a Lightweight Laptop
Battery life - One of the best features of lightweight computers is that their batteries tend to last longer. If you’ll be using your laptop on a plane or in a coffee shop, you’ll want to check its expected battery life so you aren’t constantly in search of an outlet.
Screen size - If 13-inch laptops are too small for you, we have good news: It’s not hard to find a lightweight 15-inch laptop. You’re likely going to have to sacrifice a little bit of weight for a larger screen, but if this will be your primary device, it might be worth an extra pound or two.
Specs - Lightweight laptops save on weight by having lower specs than comparable heavier models. These machines are often perfect for emailing and browsing the Internet. However, if you’re planning on doing some heavy-duty video editing, it’s important to pay attention to features such as processing power and RAM to ensure that your machine will be capable of doing what you need it to do.
Test Results: ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 (Most Popular)
What We Like
Easy to use
Extremely portable
Responsive touchscreen
“Overall, this is a really great machine at a wonderful price point,” raved one of our testers, who thought it was the ideal combination of a laptop and an Android tablet. Another plus, according to our reviewers, was its portability, ease of use, and responsive touchscreen. “As someone who's long been a skeptic of touchscreen laptops,” one tester said, “this has made me somewhat of a convert.” However, one of our reviewers described the laptop's trackpad as “truly frustrating and not responsive.”
Test Results: Microsoft Surface 2 (Best Overall)
What We Like
Attractive design
Intuitive to use
Long battery life
What We Don't Like
Heavy
Low number of USB ports
Bottom of laptop gets warm with use
This laptop was the perfect combination of “gorgeous and functional,” according to one of our reviewers. One tester also loved its long battery life and felt that it was more intuitive than other PCs: “Small features, such as facial recognition, worked well without having to fiddle with settings repeatedly,” he explained. In terms of negatives, our reviewers thought it was heavy and reported that it got warm with continued use. One tester also wished it had more than one USB 3.0 port: “It has just enough ports that I wouldn't feel the need to travel with a dock,” he said, “but I found myself wishing I could charge my phone and attach an external USB hard drive.”
Test Results: LG gram 15Z970 15.6” (Best Large Screen)
What We Like
Simple setup
Very portable
Easy navigation
What We Don't Like
Screen too reflective
Inconvenient camera placement
“The three most impressive things about this device,” explained one of our reviewers, “are its ease of setup, extremely lightweight design — that’s also quite aesthetically pleasing and in the same vein as Apple products — and the easy-to-navigate desktop and start menu.” One tester also declared that this machine was the most portable laptop she’d ever used. On the other hand, one of our reviewers felt that its screen was so reflective that even a little bit of sun created a glare and that the camera positioning was strange: “It’s at the bottom of the screen rather than the top,” she noted, “which makes for a weird angle when you’re Skyping or video chatting.”