Portable Monitor vs. Desktop Monitor | Which Should You Choose for Your MacBook? Criteria for Making the Right Decision
When working on a MacBook,
You might think, "It would be convenient to have another screen."
You sometimes feel that way.
Creating documents while keeping a browser open.
Writing text while looking at research.
Taking notes while in an online meeting.
You can get work done with just a MacBook, but
when you have to switch screens repeatedly,
it can start to feel a bit tedious.
That is when you start to wonder about
external monitors.
However,
once you actually start looking,
you run into another dilemma: "Should I get a portable monitor or a desktop monitor?"
This is a common point of confusion.
A portable monitor that you can carry around.
A desktop monitor that lets you work on a large screen.
Rather than one being better than the other,
the ideal choice depends on where you use it and the level of comfort you seek.
In this article,
Which one should you choose to pair with your MacBook?
We will explain the differences between them in an easy-to-understand way.
*This note contains Amazon affiliate links.
The products introduced are selected based on their practicality, features, and more.
Rather than deciding on a single 'best recommendation,'
this guide is compiled to help you find the monitor that suits your usage style.
Since prices and stock availability may change,
please check the latest information before purchasing.
Conclusion: It is easier to choose based on where you use it
To start with the conclusion,
if you use it at your home desk for long periods, choose a desktop monitor.
If you prioritize portability or space-saving, choose a portable monitor.
This way of thinking is the foundation.
For example,
you use your MacBook at the same desk every day.
you display multiple documents.
you work for long hours.
For this type of usage,
a desktop monitor around 24 to 27 inches will be easier to use.
On the other hand,
You want a dual-screen setup even when you're on the go.
Your desk space is limited.
You want to put it away when not in use.
You only want to add a secondary screen when necessary.
If that sounds like you,
a portable monitor might better suit your needs.
What matters is,
not which one has higher performance, but
where and how you intend to use it.
Let's start by thinking about that.
The difference between portable monitors and desktop monitors
The most obvious difference is
screen size and portability.
Portable monitors
often come in sizes around 13 to 16 inches,
and are designed to be carried along with a laptop.
On the other hand,
desktop monitors
have larger screens, typically around 24 to 32 inches,
and are intended to be set up and used on a desk.
Therefore,
Portable monitors offer,
portability and space-saving benefits.
Desktop monitors offer,
screen real estate and work comfort.
Each has different strengths.
Who is a portable monitor for?
When you see the name 'portable monitor',
you might think,
'It's only for people who take it outside.'
In reality,
it can also be used conveniently at home.
You want to work with two screens while on the go
You take your MacBook,
and work while out or on business trips.
For such people,
the portability of a portable monitor is a major advantage.
Even in situations where a MacBook screen alone is not enough,
you can add a secondary monitor.
Your desk is small
You want to set up a desktop monitor, but
you don't have enough space on your desk.
In such cases,
a portable monitor becomes an option.
If it's around 13 to 16 inches,
it's easy to place next to your MacBook,
and it won't take up more desk space than necessary.
You only want to use it when needed
You don't need two screens every single day.
You only want another screen
when creating documents or attending online meetings.
It is also suitable for such usage.
Since you can put it away when not in use,
you can keep your desk spacious most of the time.
You also want to use it for game consoles
Depending on the product,
you can also connect it to game consoles like the Nintendo Switch or PS5.
A sub-monitor for your MacBook during work.
For gaming on your days off.
Being able to use it in this way is also
The appeal of portable monitors.
Points to note about portable monitors
While they are convenient,
portable monitors also have their weaknesses.
The biggest one is,
the screen size.
At around 13 to 16 inches,
you can increase your workspace compared to a MacBook, but
it is not as expansive as a 24 to 27-inch desktop monitor.
Arranging multiple windows side-by-side in a large format.
Displaying spreadsheet software over a wide area.
Editing videos for long periods.
For these purposes,
a desktop monitor is more comfortable.
Also,
when connecting via USB-C,
the USB-C port on your MacBook or Windows PC must support video output.
Just because it has a USB-C port,
does not mean it can always output video.
When using it with a Windows PC,
Please check this before you buy.
If you want a portable option, the Intehill F13NA is a choice.
If you are choosing a portable monitor,
there are models like the Intehill F13NA.
It features a compact 13.3-inch size
and uses an OLED panel.
It supports Full HD
and is equipped with USB-C and mini HDMI.
It can be used not only as a sub-monitor for MacBooks and Windows PCs,
but also for game consoles like the Switch and PS5.
Compared to 15-16 inch sizes,
this model is suitable for those who prioritize portability and image quality.
Check it out on Amazon
Check it out on Amazon
▶ See details of the Intehill F13NA on Amazon
Regarding the F13NA,
I introduce it in detail in this note,
including the features of OLED and points to consider when using it with a Switch or PS5.
▶ Should you buy the Intehill F13NA? An OLED portable monitor that also works with Switch and PS5
Who a desktop monitor is for
On the other hand,
If you spend a lot of time using your MacBook at home,
a desktop monitor will be easier to use.
Working in a fixed location at home
If you work at the same desk every day,
the priority of portability decreases.
Instead,
you can prioritize screen size.
Place your MacBook on your desk,
and set up an external monitor next to or in front of it.
If you are primarily at home,
this setup becomes easier to use.
Wanting to work on a large screen
A major advantage of a desktop monitor is,
the screen real estate.
For example, with a 27-inch model,
It becomes easier to place your browser and documents side-by-side,
or display multiple windows at once.
Rather than just expanding your MacBook's screen,
it feels more like making your actual workspace larger.
You want to use it for long periods
If you look at a monitor for several hours every day,
it is important not only to consider screen size,
but also the ability to adjust height and angle.
If you choose a product that allows you to easily align the monitor position to your needs,
it will be easier to use even during long desk work sessions.
You want to use a 4K high-resolution display
If you are pairing your MacBook with a desktop monitor,
a 4K monitor is also an option.
It makes it easier to display text and photos in detail,
allowing you to create an environment that is easy to view even on a screen around 27 inches.
Points to note about desktop monitors
While desktop monitors allow you to work on a large screen,
they do require installation space.
When you get to the 27-inch class,
it takes up a significant amount of desk space.
You must consider not only the monitor itself,
but also the space required for the stand.
If your desk is small,
it may feel cramped when placed next to your MacBook.
Also,
once set up,
it is not something you can easily put away like a portable monitor.
If you want to use your desk for things other than work,
you should keep this point in mind as well.
The Dell S2725QC as a desktop option
As a desktop monitor to pair with a MacBook,
there is a model like the Dell S2725QC.
It is a 27-inch 4K display,
supporting USB-C connectivity.
While connecting to your MacBook via USB-C,
it also features the ability to provide up to 65W of power delivery.
Furthermore,
it also supports a 120Hz refresh rate.
If you want to create a larger workspace than your MacBook screen,
while keeping your cable setup as simple as possible.
This is an easy-to-choose model for such people.
Check on Amazon
▶ See details of the Dell S2725QC on Amazon
Regarding the Dell S2725QC,
I introduce its features when paired with a MacBook,
and points you should check before choosing in this note.
▶ Dell S2725QC Review | Why This Is the One to Get If You're Undecided [MacBook External Monitor]
Which one is better if you prioritize work efficiency?
Purely speaking,
if your goal is to work on a large screen,
a desktop monitor has the advantage.
With a screen around 27 inches,
it is easier to arrange multiple windows,
and you can create a wider workspace than with a MacBook alone.
However,
it is important to consider your specific needs.
Work efficiency is not determined solely by screen size.
If you are usually fine with just your MacBook,
but want a secondary screen only when reviewing documents,
then for someone like that,
adding a mobile monitor only when necessary
might be easier to use.
If you use a large screen every day, go with a desktop monitor.
If you only want to expand your screen when needed, go with a mobile monitor.
Thinking in terms of this difference should make it easier to understand.
Which one should you choose if you prioritize portability?
That would be,
the mobile monitor.
Because you can carry it with your laptop,
you can create a dual-screen environment not only at home,
but also while out and about or on business trips.
However,
you will be carrying not just the monitor itself,
but also the connection cables and, if necessary, a power source.
If you are going to carry it every day,
consider not just the screen size,
Make sure to check the weight of the unit when choosing.
Which one should you choose if your desk is small?
Just because your desk is small,
it doesn't necessarily mean you have to choose a portable monitor.
However,
if you want to minimize the installation space as much as possible,
a portable monitor is a strong option.
Place it next to your MacBook only when you are using it,
and put it away when you are finished working.
With this way of using it,
you can make effective use of a limited desk space.
On the other hand,
if you have an environment where you can use a monitor arm,
you can also secure space on your desk with a desktop monitor.
Try considering your own desk environment as well.
Which one should you choose if you also want to use it with a Switch or PS5?
If you also want to use it with a game console,
it depends on how you use it.
You want to enjoy games thoroughly on a large screen.
You want to prioritize a high refresh rate.
In such cases,
a desktop gaming monitor is suitable.
On the other hand,
I want to play in a room without a TV.
I want to bring out a screen for gaming only when needed.
I want to carry it around with my Switch.
For such usage,
a portable monitor is convenient.
With a model like the Intehill F13NA,
which can be used for both PCs and game consoles,
you can use it as a secondary screen for your MacBook on weekdays and as a gaming monitor on weekends.
You can use it in that way as well.
A portable monitor is for people like this
To summarize the differences so far,
a portable monitor is suitable for those who:
・Want to work with two screens even when on the go
・Have a small desk
・Want to put it away when not in use
・Want a secondary screen only when necessary
・Want to carry it around with a Switch, etc.
・Want to use it for both a PC and a game console
are the people it is for.
Portability is not its only advantage.
Being space-saving,
and being able to use it only when needed, are also
These are the reasons to choose a portable monitor.
A desktop monitor is for people like this
A desktop monitor is suitable if you:
・Work for long hours at home
・Want a large screen
・Want to display multiple windows side-by-side
・Want to take advantage of 4K high resolution
・Use a monitor every day
・Have space on your desk for setup
are the type of person.
If you don't need to carry it around,
and you want to build a solid workspace,
you will be able to take full advantage of the benefits of a desktop monitor.
If you're unsure, start by thinking about "where you will use it"
If you are torn between portable and desktop,
the first thing to consider is,
where you will use the monitor.
If you use it every day at a fixed desk at home,
choose a desktop monitor.
If you use it both at home and on the go,
choose a portable monitor.
Even if you only use it at home,
if your desk is small,
or if you only want to add a screen when necessary,
a portable monitor is also an option.
Conversely,
if you have no plans to carry it around,
and you want to prioritize screen real estate,
a desktop monitor will likely be easier to use.
It is not about "which one is more popular,"
but rather whether it fits your specific usage style.
It is important to use this as your standard for choosing.
Summary
Both portable monitors and desktop monitors
can expand your MacBook's workspace.
However,
they excel at different types of usage.
Choose a portable monitor if you need portability, space-saving, or only use it when necessary.
Choose a desktop monitor if you prioritize a large screen, long working hours, and a larger workspace.
Thinking in terms of these criteria
will make it easier to choose the one that suits you best.
If you choose a portable monitor,
there are models like the Intehill F13NA,
which allow you to enjoy OLED picture quality,
and can be used not only with a MacBook but also with a Switch or PS5.
For a desktop monitor,
like the Dell S2725QC,
there are models that support 27-inch, 4K, and USB-C connectivity.
What is important is
not choosing the highest-performance monitor.
It is choosing a monitor that fits where you usually work and what you want to do.
Please think about it using that criteria.
If you have decided on a portable monitor but
"I don't know which model to choose."
for those people,
please also refer to this note.
For those who want to further increase their PC work efficiency
In addition to an external monitor,
・USB-C hub
・External SSD
・Laptop stand
combining these and other items will further increase your work efficiency.
👉 Click here for how to navigate the PC/Work Efficiency Magazine
※Summarizing the notes you should read first