The Best Second Monitor
Boost your productivity with a well-chosen secondary display. Our research-backed picks cover portable, budget, and high-refresh-rate options to fit any workspace.
By Irene Hopkins
Updated September 11, 2026
Adding a second monitor to your workstation can transform how you work, game, or create content.
Whether you need extra screen real estate for spreadsheets, a dedicated panel for video editing, or a portable display for travel, the right second monitor eliminates tab-switching and keeps your workflow fluid.
At BestProducts, we evaluate each model through comprehensive research, analyzing specifications, expert review consensus, verified buyer feedback, and published data, to help you find the perfect match for your setup.
Below are our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide and answers to common questions.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Dell S2425HSM 24-inch 144Hz FHD Monitor
|
9.9/10 | $119.99 | Buy | |
| Best Overall |
MNN 15.6" FHD USB-C Portable Monitor
|
9.9/10 | $49.99 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Acer KB272 G0bi 27" 120Hz IPS Monitor
|
9.9/10 | $99.99 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
ForHelp 15.6" 1080p Portable Monitor
|
9.7/10 | $44.99 | Buy |
Philips 241V8LB 24-inch FHD 100Hz Monitor
|
9.6/10 | $79.21 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
Philips 221V8LB 22-inch 100Hz Monitor
|
9.5/10 | $64.99 | Buy |
InnoView 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor
|
9.4/10 | $59.99 | Buy | |
Sceptre E225W-FW144 22-inch 144Hz Gaming Monitor
|
9.4/10 | $64.97 | Buy |
Dell S2425HSM 24-inch 144Hz FHD Monitor
The Dell S2425HSM combines a smooth 144Hz refresh rate with a 1500:1 contrast ratio for clear, tear-free visuals. Integrated dual 3W speakers and a versatile stand with height, tilt, pivot, and swivel adjustments make it a solid mid-range choice for work and entertainment.
Pros
- 144Hz refresh rate for smooth motion
- 1ms MPRT reduces motion blur
- Integrated dual 3W speakers
- Fully adjustable stand (height, tilt, pivot, swivel)
- TUV-certified low blue light without color shift
Cons
- Only FHD resolution (1080p)
- Limited connectivity (HDMI only)
- No USB ports or built-in USB hub
MNN 15.6" FHD USB-C Portable Monitor
This portable monitor delivers a crisp 1080p IPS display and simplified connectivity via dual USB-C ports. Its smart cover doubles as a stand, making it a convenient second screen for travelers and remote workers on the go.
Pros
- Full HD IPS panel with HDR support
- Plug-and-play dual USB-C ports
- Lightweight and ultra-slim design
- Protective smart cover acts as stand
- Multiple display modes (copy, extend, portrait)
Cons
- Requires USB-C DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3
- No built-in battery for true portability
- Glossy screen can cause glare in bright light
Acer KB272 G0bi 27" 120Hz IPS Monitor
This 27-inch IPS monitor from Acer delivers a 120Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, making it a solid budget-friendly choice for casual gamers. FreeSync compatibility helps reduce screen tearing, though the 250-nit brightness is average for indoor use. It's a straightforward option for smooth motion without premium extras.
Pros
- 120Hz refresh rate for smooth motion
- 1ms response time minimizes ghosting
- Adaptive-Sync (FreeSync) reduces tearing
- IPS panel provides wide viewing angles
- Full HD resolution is sharp for everyday use
Cons
- 250-nit brightness is modest
- No built-in speakers
ForHelp 15.6" 1080p Portable Monitor
This ForHelp portable monitor provides a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS matte display with 178-degree viewing angles, making it suitable for both work and gaming. Its ultra-slim aluminum body (0.3 inches, 1.52 pounds) and magnetic smart cover enable easy portability, while dual USB-C ports and a Mini HDMI input offer broad compatibility with laptops, game consoles, and phones. Built-in speakers and HDR mode further enhance the experience for productivity or entertainment on the go.
Pros
- Ultra-slim and lightweight design
- IPS matte screen with wide viewing angles
- Extensive connectivity with USB-C and HDMI
- Includes durable smart cover that doubles as a stand
Cons
- Requires USB-C DP Alt Mode for single-cable connection
- HDMI port located on left side
- Only 1080p resolution, not 4K
Philips 241V8LB 24-inch FHD 100Hz Monitor
The Philips 241V8LB is a 24-inch Full HD monitor with a VA panel, offering strong contrast and wide viewing angles. Its 100Hz refresh rate and virtually bezel-free design make it a practical choice for office work or multi-monitor setups. The EasyRead mode is a nice addition for document-heavy tasks.
Pros
- Full HD resolution with crisp clarity
- VA panel for deep blacks and contrast
- 178/178 degree wide viewing angle
- Virtually bezel-free for multi-monitor
- EasyRead mode mimics paper for documents
Philips 221V8LB 22-inch 100Hz Monitor
For budget-conscious users seeking a smooth everyday monitor, the Philips 221V8LB offers a 22-inch Full HD VA panel with a 100Hz refresh rate and Adaptive-Sync. It delivers crisp visuals, good contrast, and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for both work and casual gaming.
Pros
- Full HD clarity
- 100Hz refresh rate
- Adaptive-Sync support
- VA panel with deep blacks
- Wide viewing angles
- VESA mountable
Cons
- 22-inch screen may be small for multitasking
- No built-in speakers (likely)
InnoView 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor
This 15.6-inch FHD portable monitor from InnoView makes a solid travel companion for remote workers or gamers, with plug-and-play USB-C connectivity and a built-in protective cover that doubles as a stand. Its IPS screen offers good viewing angles and low blue light, though the included USB-C cable may not power all devices reliably without the optional HDMI and separate power source.
Pros
- True plug-and-play with USB-C
- Lightweight at 2.65 pounds
- Versatile cover and stand
- Supports power pass-through
- Compatible with games and consoles
Cons
- May need external power for some devices
- HDMI and power cable not included
Sceptre E225W-FW144 22-inch 144Hz Gaming Monitor
This 22-inch FHD gaming monitor by Sceptre offers a smooth 144Hz refresh rate for competitive play. Built-in speakers and a nearly bezel-free design make it a practical choice for dual-monitor setups.
Pros
- Smooth 144Hz refresh rate
- Integrated speakers save space
- Blue-Light Shift protects eyes
- Compact 22-inch size fits small desks
Cons
- Standard 1080p resolution
- No height adjustment stand
Best Second Monitor Buying Guide
Screen Size and Resolution
Size is the first consideration. A second monitor should complement your primary display without dominating your desk. Common sizes run from 15.6 inches for portable models to 24 or 27 inches for desktop setups.
Resolution matters too, as a 1080p 24 inch monitor offers sharp text for office tasks, while higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K are better for design work.
For a balanced upgrade, many users find a 24-inch 1080p panel a versatile second screen that aligns well with most primary monitors.
Panel Type: IPS vs VA
The panel technology affects viewing angles and color accuracy. IPS panels deliver consistent colors from almost any angle, making them ideal for collaborative work or media consumption.
VA panels offer deeper blacks and higher contrast, which can be beneficial for watching movies or gaming in a dim room.
For a second monitor used alongside your main display, an IPS panel is usually the safer bet because its wide viewing angles keep colors true when you glance sideways.
If you plan to use the monitor for gaming, a high-refresh-rate panel like those found in many 144Hz 1ms monitors can provide smoother motion.
Refresh Rate and Response Time
Even as a secondary display, a higher refresh rate reduces eye strain during scrolling and makes cursor movement feel more fluid.
For most productivity uses, 60Hz is perfectly adequate, but if you occasionally game or edit video, 100Hz or 144Hz can noticeably improve the experience. Response time (measured in ms) influences motion clarity, lower numbers minimize ghosting.
Many modern second monitors now offer at least 100Hz, like 24-inch 144Hz models that double as gaming screens.
Connectivity and Ergonomics
A second monitor should connect easily to your laptop or desktop. Look for at least one HDMI input and a USB-C port that supports video and power delivery, especially useful for modern ultrabooks.
A dual monitor docking station can simplify cabling if you frequently connect multiple peripherals. Ergonomics matter too: a stand with height, tilt, and pivot adjustment lets you position the screen at eye level, reducing neck strain.
VESA compatibility also allows mounting on an arm for a cleaner desk.
Portability and Build Quality
If you travel or work from different locations, a portable monitor is a game-changer. These slim 15.6-inch panels slip into a laptop bag and often draw power through a single USB-C cable.
Look for a sturdy kickstand case that doubles as a protective cover. For desktop users, a fixed monitor with a solid stand and thin bezels is preferable.
Many portable options are also compatible with consoles, making them versatile for both work and entertainment. See our best portable monitor guide for more details on travel-friendly displays.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts evaluates every product using a consistent methodology. We assign a BP Score from 0 to 10 based on thorough research: we analyze official specifications, aggregate expert review consensus, examine verified buyer feedback, and review published data with proper attribution.
We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. This approach ensures our recommendations are impartial and data-driven, helping you make an informed purchase.
Final Thoughts
- Best Overall: Dell 24 Plus Monitor, S2425HSM With its 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and highly adjustable stand, this 23.8-inch FHD monitor excels as both a productivity companion and a gaming sidekick. Its ash-white finish and built-in speakers add convenience to its class-leading BP Score.
- Best for Gaming: Acer 27in FHD 1920×1080 IPS 120Hz Gaming Monitor, KB272 G0bi A larger 27-inch screen with a fast 120Hz IPS panel makes this an excellent choice for gamers who want extra screen real estate without breaking the bank.
- Best Portable Companion: MNN 15.6″ FHD 60Hz Portable Monitor Lightweight, ultra-thin, and USB-C powered, this monitor is a top-tier travel partner for extending your laptop display. Its high BP Score reflects outstanding value and strong user satisfaction.
- Best Budget Pick: ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor At an accessible price point, this zero-frame IPS display delivers crisp 1080p visuals and includes a smart cover, making it an affordable yet capable second screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size second monitor is best for most users?
A 24-inch monitor strikes a good balance between screen space and desk footprint. It pairs well with a 13- to 16-inch laptop or a 27-inch primary display. For portability, 15.6 inches is the standard for travel monitors.
Do I need a high refresh rate on a second monitor?
Not strictly, but benefits exist. A 100Hz or 144Hz panel makes scrolling smoother and reduces perceived flicker, which can improve comfort during long work sessions. If you also game on the same monitor, a high refresh rate is a clear plus.
Can I use a second monitor with a console like PS5 or Xbox?
Yes, many second monitors support HDMI inputs compatible with consoles. Portable monitors often have USB-C and HDMI, making them versatile for both PC and console gaming. For console use, prioritize low input lag and at least 60Hz output.
How do I connect a second monitor to my laptop?
Most laptops support an external display via HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C. Check your laptop’s video output ports; if you have limited ports, a dual monitor docking station can add multiple video outputs. Some monitors also offer daisy-chaining via DisplayPort for multiple displays.
Is a portable monitor powerful enough for office work?
Yes, most portable monitors feature 1080p IPS screens that handle spreadsheets, documents, web browsing, and presentations well. They are not designed for color-critical work or high-end gaming, but for typical office tasks they provide a seamless second display experience.
How important is VESA compatibility for a second monitor?
If you plan to mount the monitor on an articulated arm or a dual-monitor stand, VESA compatibility is essential. It allows you to adjust positioning freely and free up desk space.
Many desktop monitors now include a 100x100mm VESA pattern, check before buying if mounting is a priority.
About the author
Irene reviews desktop PCs and monitors for BestProducts, weighing performance, upgradability, and panel quality for work and home. She helps readers build a desk setup that stays fast and comfortable for years.