The Top 5 External Monitors for Laptop Warriors (Because That 13″ Screen Ain’t Cutting It)
The name’s Salty, and if you’re still working off a single tiny laptop screen, I’ve got news for you—you’re doing it wrong.
I don’t care how “minimalist” your setup is. If you’re juggling spreadsheets, client calls, and seventeen Chrome tabs, you need more screen real estate or you’ll be squinting your way into an eye doctor visit by Q2.
So I clawed my way through specs, reviews, and a few painfully ugly monitors to bring you the top 5 best-rated external monitors for laptop users in 2025. Whether you’re remote, hybrid, or chained to a coworking space with dreams of escape, these picks will make you feel like a productivity god (or at least look like one on Zoom).
1. Dell UltraSharp U2723QE – Best Overall for Workaholics with Taste
Resolution: 4K UHD
Size: 27”
Port Game: Thunderbolt, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C hub
This thing is as sharp as my comebacks. Crystal-clear 4K, USB-C charging, and enough ports to power a small fleet. If your job involves actual thinking (designers, developers, spreadsheet addicts), this is your screen soulmate.
✅ Pros:
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Stunning 4K clarity
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USB-C hub built in (goodbye, dongle life)
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Anti-glare and ergonomic stand
🚫 Cons:
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Not cheap
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Might expose how bad your Canva skills really are
2. ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACV – Best Portable Monitor for Digital Nomads and People on the Run
Resolution: 1080p Full HD
Size: 15.6”
Port Game: USB-C
Need a second screen without the back pain of hauling a TV around? This baby fits in your backpack and doesn’t make your luggage weep. Perfect for coffee shop warriors, remote workers, and anyone pretending to work while traveling.
✅ Pros:
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Lightweight and ultra-portable
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No external power needed
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Sleek and subtle
🚫 Cons:
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Only 1080p
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Color accuracy is meh for creative pros
3. LG 34WN80C-B – Best Ultrawide Monitor for the Spreadsheet Fiends and Creatives Who Need SPACE
Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (Ultrawide QHD)
Size: 34”
Port Game: USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
This beast is for people who live in multitasking land. With its ultrawide curve, you’ll feel like you’re working in a command center instead of your sad guest room office. Bonus: USB-C makes cable chaos disappear.
✅ Pros:
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Massive screen space
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Great color accuracy
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Curved for immersion and comfort
🚫 Cons:
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Takes up serious desk space
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You’ll never go back to a normal screen
4. HP E24u G5 – Best Budget Monitor That Doesn’t Feel Like a Sad Compromise
Resolution: 1920×1080 Full HD
Size: 24”
Port Game: USB-C, HDMI
You want plug-and-play. You want decent quality. You don’t want to take out a second mortgage. This HP gives you exactly that. Clean design, USB-C power delivery, and enough screen to split tasks without splitting your sanity.
✅ Pros:
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Budget-friendly
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USB-C support
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Nice ergonomics
🚫 Cons:
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Not 4K
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No built-in speakers (but do you really want to hear Slack pings louder?)
5. Apple Studio Display – Best for Mac Users Who Like Pretty (and Pricey) Things
Resolution: 5K Retina
Size: 27”
Port Game: Thunderbolt, USB-C
If you’re a Mac user and money is no object (or you’re very good at convincing your boss), this is the holy grail. It’s gorgeous, overbuilt, and makes every other screen feel like a potato. Great for creative work, or just looking fancy on calls.
✅ Pros:
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Impeccable color and resolution
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Seamless with macOS
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Built-in speakers and webcam = flex
🚫 Cons:
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Price tag will make your wallet cry
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Only really optimized for MacBooks
🐾 Final Scratch from Salty:
Your productivity is only as good as your setup. Stop treating your second monitor like a luxury—it’s a necessity. These five options range from budget-friendly basics to “I just got promoted and I deserve this” vibes.
If you’re serious about working smarter (or at least looking like you are), invest in gear that doesn’t suck. You’re welcome.