The fact that laptop sales have overtaken the sales of desktops is well known. However, desktops still hold a few advantages over laptops. One of these advantages was the addition of multiple monitors. The process was easy, and the addition of an extra monitor meant that professionals were more productive.
In contrast, the laptop did not have too many options. One solution was to attach big bulky monitors, but this meant the user would have to work at their desk. This defeated the whole purpose of working on a laptop.
Then came the novel idea of a portable monitor. These were just as compact, lightweight, and portable as laptops. Thus, professionals could carry these around just as easily as they would a laptop. This meant they were far more productive and on the go than ever before.
The monitor extenders were an enhancement over portable monitors. They went a step further by offering up to two additional screens. Gradually, the concept caught on. Nowadays, you can use these devices just as much for the office as for your own personal use.
They connect easily with your laptop or portable gaming device. More importantly, they offer you double or triple the screen size so that you can work efficiently. Thus, you do not get frustrated switching between windows to compile that report that the boss needs “urgently.”
In this article, we will look at some of the best monitor extenders that money can buy. Next, we will share what factors you must keep in mind before you purchase one of these devices. Finally, we will attempt to answer some frequently asked questions pertaining to these devices.
Table of Contents
Comparison of the Best Monitor Extenders
| Image | Product | Details | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Vodzsla Triple Portable Monitor | Screen: 11.6” FHD IPS Ports: Two USB-C, one mini-HDMI (per screen) Form Factor: Triple screen (foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 13.3” to 16” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Yes Driver Needed: No Weight: 5.13lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | OFIYAA P2 Pro | Screen: 13.3” FHD IPS Ports: 2 USB-C, 1 HDMI Form Factor: Triple screen (foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 12” to 15” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Yes Driver Needed: Yes (included) Weight: N.A. | Check on Amazon |
 | OFIYAA P1 Plus | Screen: 13.3” FHD IPS Ports: 2 USB-C, 1 HDMI Form Factor: Dual screen (foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 12” to 15” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Yes Driver Needed: No Weight: 2.56lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | FOPO triple-screen | Screen: 12” FHD IPS Ports: Two USB-C, one mini-HDMI Form Factor: Triple screen (foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 13” to 16” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Yes Driver Needed: No Weight: 5.38lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | Kwumsy P2 Pro | Screen: 13.3” FHD IPS Ports: 2 USB-C, TF Slot Form Factor: Triple screen (foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 13.3” to 16.5” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Yes Driver Needed: Yes (included) Weight: 3.36lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | Mobile Pixels Duex | Screen: 12.5” FHD IPS Ports: 1 USB-C Form Factor: Dual screen (slide-out) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome Compatible Screen sizes: N.A. Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Not included Driver Needed: No Weight: 1.3lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | Mobile Pixels Trio Max | Screen: 14” FHD IPS Ports: 1 USB-C Form Factor: Dual screen (Slide and foldout) OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, and Android Compatible Screen sizes: 15” to 17” Adjustable Mount: Yes Kickstand: Not Included Driver Needed: No Weight: 1.60lbs | Check on Amazon |
 | SideTrak Swivel Triple | Screen: 14” FHD IPS Ports: One USB-C, one mini-HDMI Form Factor: Triple screen (Detachable Fold) OS: Windows, Mac, and Chrome Compatible Screen sizes: All Adjustable Mount: N.A. Kickstand: No Driver Needed: No Weight: 1.50lbs | Check on Amazon |
Best Monitor Extenders – Our Pick
1. Vodzsla Triple Portable Monitor – Compact Design
This monitor extender from Vodzsla boasts a triple-screen design. This means you instantly triple your present screen space. The two additional screens measure 11.6” each. At 1080p, these are FullHD screens that use the IPS standard. Hence, you do not have to worry about adjusting the screen on account of getting the perfect viewing angle.
The adjustable mount sits comfortably on the laptop’s screen and houses the two additional screens. These screens are individually powered either from the USB-C or the mini-HDMI port.
The screens come with one USB-C and one mini-HDMI port each. Hence, you have an alternative if your laptop has only one USB-C port. Consequently, the USB-C port uses the DisplayPort standard to supply input as well as power to the screens.
You can easily install the mounting bracket on screen sizes ranging between 13.3″ to 16″. With the screens folded out, the mounting bracket also reveals the kickstand. This kickstand is essential to make sure the laptop doesn’t topple over due to the additional weight of the added screens.
Speaking of weight, the device weighs 5.13lbs hence that kickstand will come in handy to support the extra weight.
The Vodzsla Triple screen extender is compatible with all operating systems. Further, the setup does not even call for the installation of specific drivers. However, there are compatibility issues with particular laptops. Therefore, it is advisable to read the list of non-compatible laptops before purchasing this device.
Key Features
- Triple screen
- USB-C and mini-HDMI port
- 11.6” screen
- FullHD IPS screen
- Compatible with all Operating Systems
- No drivers needed
- Weighs 5.13lbs.
2. OFIYAA P2 Pro – Best Triple-Screen
The OFIYAA P2 Pro also offers a triple-screen setup. However, this setup handles the installation far more elegantly than Vodzsla’s monitor extender.
The OFIYAA P2 Pro powers both screens with just one connection. Hence, you have more ports free on your laptop to continue with your work unhindered. The P2 Pro from OFIYAA sports two USB-C ports and one HDMI port for convenient connectivity.
You can use either of these ports to supply input and power to the screens. The screens measure 13.3″ in size and for FullHD screen with IPS standard. Hence, you get excellent picture quality with enhanced viewing angles. Further, they have individual controls so that you can tweak the display setting to what suits you best.
The P2 Pro is compatible with laptops ranging in sizes between 12” to 15”. Also, the device has no problem working across all operating system platforms. Alternatively, you can connect the device to your phone and enjoy your favorite video using Android.
Further, the P2 Pro is compatible with most laptops. This includes Apple laptops that use the M1 chip. Fortunately, most such devices make their incompatibility clear around such laptops. The P2 Pro has no such issues.
In fact, you can even connect your Chromebook and Nintendo Switch. All you have to do is remember to install the included drivers that come with the device.
Key Features
- Triple Screen
- USB-C and HDMI ports
- 13.3” FHD IPS Screen
- Single cable setup
- Compatible with Mac with M1 chip
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Android Phone
- Driver installation needed
3. OFIYAA P1 Plus – Best Dual-Screen
The OFIYAA P1 Plus offers a 13.3” FullHD IPS standard screen. The P1 Plus is a dual-screen design. Hence you get double the screen space to do your work. This is basically the dual-screen version of its sibling, the OFIYAA P2 Pro. Hence, you get an excellent screen that generates superior picture quality.
You can easily accommodate the adjustable mount on laptops ranging from 12” to 15” screen size. Further, like its P2 sibling, the P1 Plus is also compatible across operating systems. These include the Mac that sports the M1 chip, Android, and gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch.
Additionally, you can use the P1 Plus in landscape and portrait mode to suit your needs. Simply detach it from the laptop screen and place the device on the table using the mount as the base. The screen automatically re-orients itself.
The P1 Plus comes with a thinner bezel that ensures you get a higher screen-to-body ratio. Further, because there is just one additional screen, the device is light. Hence, carrying it around is not a problem.
Unlike the P2 Pro, the P1 Plus does not require any additional driver installation. Hence, you can just unbox the device, plug it into the USB-C port and start using it. OFIYAA highly recommends this device if you work remotely and often find yourself in a crowded coffee shop. We agree a triple screen design would be a bit too unwieldy.
Key Features
- Dual-screen design
- 13.3” FullHD IPS Screen
- Compatible with all Operating System
- Compatible with M1 Mac
- Changeable Orientation
- No drivers needed
- Heavy for a Dual screen device.
4. FOPO triple-screen – Best Compatibility
This monitor extender from FOPO gives you a triple screen design that measures 12”. Along with this, you get the usual FullHD IPS specifications. These ensure you get greatly enhanced viewing angles. The screens have a foldout design. Depending on the use, the screen offers a wide-angle for you to fold them. For instance, the right screen allows you 180-degrees of movement while the left screen allows 235-degrees.
Each screen offers you both USB-C and mini-HDMI ports to connect the device to the laptop. Hence, be prepared to sacrifice precious ports on your laptop to connect this monitor extender. Of course, you can choose to invest in an external hub to help you sort out the scarcity. However, that would mean carrying around one more device in your laptop bag.
Fortunately, you have something to thank FOPO for. This is for the bundled power adapter you get with the device. Use this to power either one of the screens. This will help you save one precious USB-C/A port on your laptop.
The device is compatible with laptops ranging between 13.3” and 16.5”. Further, it is also compatible with most operating systems. However, Macs running the M1 chip are not supported. Therefore, we suggest that you look through the list of compatible laptops just to be sure before you buy.
Finally, getting the device ready for use is rather simple as there are no unnecessary complications of installing drivers. Simply plug the device into the relevant ports, and you are good to go.
Key Features
- 12” FHD IPS Screen
- Triple Screen design
- USB-C and mini-HDMI ports on each screen
- Power adapter included
- No driver installation
- Vast tilt angels for both screens
- Macs with M1 chip not supported
5. Kwumsy P2 Pro – Best Overall
The Kwumsy gives you a triple-screen design with its P2 Pro offering. These screens measure 13.3” and offer you FullHD and IPS standards. The body of the screens uses aluminum. While it makes it stronger, it also makes the entire device weigh significantly more. Hence, the device is quite heavy, weighing in at 3.63lbs.
Since the screens use the IPS standard LCD, you get a wide viewing angle. The screens on the P2 Pro also use the foldout design. The screens offer a wide 207-degrees of rotation on both screens.
You can easily fit the adjustable mount on any laptop, with its size ranging from 13.3″ to 16.5″. The Kwumsy P2 Pro is compatible with all operating systems. Kwumsy takes Special care to make sure users of Macs with the M1 chip are not left behind.
You can easily connect the P2 Pro to your laptop. Like the OFIYAA P2 Pro, this device also uses a single cable to connect to the laptop. This means you do not give up the use of additional ports on your laptop. However, there is the matter of the installation of the drivers. Fortunately, these come included in the package. But be warned, Kwumsy needs you to disable your anti-virus before you install the drivers.
The device gives you two USB-C and one TF card slot on the port’s front.
Key Features
- 13.3” FHD IPS Screen
- Triple Screen Design
- USB-C and TF Card Slot
- Single cable to connect screens
- Support for Macs with M1 Chip
- 207-degree rotation of the screen
- Heavy, weighing 3.63lbs
- Driver installation
6. Mobile Pixels Duex – Best Design
If you are looking for a device that couples useful functionality with excellent design, then consider the Mobile Pixel Duex.
For starters, while most devices use a foldout design, the Duex uses a slide-out design. Of course, this is coupled with the advantage of the foldout design. This folding action allows you to pivot the screen by 270-degrees.
Further, the 12.5” FullHD IPS grade screen gives you excellent picture quality at 300 nits brightness. This Dual screen device can be used in multiple modes. You have the option to choose between portrait, presentation, and slide more.
Next, the complete device weighs just 1.3lbs. Agreed that it is a dual-screen. Nonetheless, it is easily amongst the lightest such devices money can buy. Surprisingly, it is also amongst the most economically priced extenders on the market.
Connectivity comes in the form of DisplayPort standards which come via the USB-C ports on the device. Mobile Pixel remains silent on the size compatibility of the device. However, do not expect any surprises as most devices are easily fit on laptop sizes ranging from 13” to 16”.
Continuing with compatibility issues, Mobile Pixel mentions that the device is supported on all platforms. According to Mobile Pixel, the installation is easy and does not involve driver installation. However, upon further investigation, it seems some users report harrowing experiences concerning this. Hence, consider yourself warned.
Finally, Mobile Pixel adds an elegant touch with the “origami kickstand.” This is a sleek-looking stand that attaches to the device. The design allows you to fold it in a combination of ways to suit your need. Thus, making the device look elegant. Sadly, you have to purchase this as an add-on.
Key Features
- 12.5” FHD IPS screen 300 nits
- Blue light filter
- Dual-screen design
- Lightweight
- 270-Degree screen rotation
- Changeable orientation with mode support
- Dodgy drivers
- Kickstand comes as an add-on
7. Mobile Pixels Trio Max – Value for Money
With a name like Trio Max, one would assume this was a triple screen device. However, your assumption would be wrong. The Mobile Pixel Trio Max is a dual-screen monitor extender. Then why use the “Trio” moniker? We can only make an informed guess. Which is that it allows you to connect and attach two dual screens to create a triple-screen.
The Trio Max gives you a class-leading 14” FullHD IPS display. The screen follows the same design philosophy of the Duex. This means that the screen slide-out and then allows you the pivoting angle of 270-degrees. Thus, you have the option of using the device in the portrait mode as well as the presentation mode.
The installation is simple. Simply mount the device on any laptop with a size ranging from 15” to 17”. Plug into the USB-C port using the cables provided with the device, and you are good to go. Or is it? Like its sibling, the Duex, some users have reported similar driver-related issues.
Further like the Duex, the Trio Max also offers the origami kickstand, but only as an add-on.
So why buy the Trio Max? If you have never used one or are unsure what your need is, start with the Trio Max. To begin with, you can start by using it in Dual-screen mode. After that, if you feel the need for a third screen, simply buy one more. Mobile Pixel ensures the two devices effortlessly unite into one.
Key Features
- Dual-screen
- 14” FullHD IPS display
- Changeable orientation with selectable mode
- Expandable to Triple-screen setup
- Compatible with Android and Nintendo Switch
- Back charging for USB-C devices
- Dodgy drivers
- Kickstand comes as an add-on
8. SideTrak Swivel Triple – Versatile
If you are looking for versatility and flexibility, the SideTrak Swivel Triple is undoubtedly the way to go. The Swivel Triple offers you a triple screen design using its 14” FullHD IPS standard screen.
The versatility comes in the form of an adjustable mounting bracket. There is none. As a result, you are not confined to the dimension of the laptop. Instead, the screens are attached to a magnetic holder. This holder simply clasps onto magnets installed on the rear panel of the laptop’s lid.
There is more versatility to be availed. Since the screens are individual and self-contained devices, you can use just one instead of installing both. Meaning, you can use it as a dual-screen setup or a triple-screen setup by adding or removing the appendage.
Flexibility comes in the form of the movement that the screens allow. Of course, the device has a foldout design that offers you a 270-degrees pivot. Additionally, you also get a full 360-degree swivel with each screen. Hence, you can twist and turn the screen in innumerable permutations and combinations.
However, operating system compatibility can be considered a limitation. Macs running on the M1 chip do not support this device. Apart from that, all OS platforms are supported. There is no real need for drivers to be installed. Just make sure you use the USB-C or mini-HDMI ports that are provided on the device.
Key Features
- Triple-screen design
- 14” FullHD IPS screen
- USB-C and mini-HDMI ports
- 2-in-1 setup Dual or Triple Screen
- 360-degrees swivel action
- No size limitation on laptop
- No Drivers needed
- No support for Mac with M1 Chip
Best Monitor Extender – Our Buying Guide
This guide will help you understand the factors you need to keep in mind before you purchase a monitor extender. We have listed the factors in the order in which we think may be important to most people.
Operating System Compatibility
You may have noticed that not all devices are compatible with all operating systems. The biggest challenge that most devices pose is the compatibility with the Macs that use the M1 chip.
Therefore, the devices from Kwumsy and the OFIYAA are best for people using these MacBooks.
Number of Screens
Monitor extenders come in two varieties: dual-screen and triple-screen. If you are confident which option suits you better, we have highlighted what screens we think are the best.
However, if you are unsure about your needs, we recommend the Mobile Pixel Trio Max. It allows you to start with one and then scale up to two additional screens. Thus, you can try before you buy.
Compatible Laptop Sizes
Most laptop users use a laptop that ranges from a 14” to 16” laptop screen. While most extenders would not have a compatibility issue with that, there are some that may. This is due to the limitations set by the adjustable mounting. Unfortunately, these devices do not conform to the ideology of “one size fits all.”
Therefore, if you want to play safe or you plan to change your laptop, we recommend the SideTrak Swivel Triple. It does away with the mounting contraption altogether.
Ports on your Laptop
Triple screen devices come with the added need for precious ports on your laptop. To avoid this, you can choose the OFIYAA P2 Pro or the Kwumsy P2 Pro, as they use only one port to do the job.
Alternatively, you could use a hub if you do not mind carrying the extra device.
Screen Size
Monitor extenders come in a range of sizes. For instance, the model from FOPO offers you a 12” display, while the one from SideTrak offers a 14” display. You must decide how you intend to use the device. This would help you determine what screen size is best for you.
For instance, You could consider the 12″ screen from FOPO if you intend to use it for video calling. However, it may not be the best option if you want to edit videos or images.
Price
There are devices that cater to varied needs. Naturally, they command different prices. This is where the Trio Max from Mobile Pixel shines through. You have the option to start small with one screen and then scale up if the need arises. The Trio Max holds a price advantage against some other triple-screen setups even when you add on a screen.
Drivers
There are plenty of extenders that require you to install drivers for you to be able to use them. A lot of users would not have a problem with this. However, there are plenty of us who would prefer a plug-and-play device.
Therefore, the models from Vodzsla, FOPO, and SideTrak would be great for such users.
These are some vital considerations that you must consider before making a purchase. Of course, there are more. For instance, whether the device includes a kickstand? However, there should be secondary considerations. And to answer the question, the models from Mobile Pixel sell kickstands as optional appendages.
Best Monitor Extenders – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a monitor extender with any laptop?
A monitor extender has several compatibility issues. It must be compatible with the size of your laptop. The operating system that you use must be able to support such a device. Hence, it is advisable to read through the specification before you buy a device.
Which is better, a Dual-screen or a Triple-screen monitor extender?
There is no simple answer to this question. The answer depends on how you intend to use the device. Generally speaking,
- A dual-screen device will be ideal if you do plenty of video calls. It will make sense if you do the occasional presentation among a limited number of colleagues.
- A triple-screen device would be better where you refer to several different tabs a once. For instance, while compiling a complex report with minimal scope for error. Or if you are a graphics designer or video editor.
Can I use a monitor extender only with a laptop?
Several monitor extenders allow you to use your phone or portable gaming devices directly. You need to ensure that your phone/portable device has a USB-C port and a power source for the extender.
