Asus ZenScreen Portable Monitor 27% Off – PCMag Deals

For those who frequently travel or require a secondary display for increased productivity, the Asus ZenScreen portable monitor is currently available at a 27% discount through Amazon, dropping the price from $149 to $109. This offer presents a chance to expand your workspace or entertainment options on the go.

Expanding the Mobile Workspace

Portable monitors have become increasingly popular tools for professionals and casual users alike. Whether it’s connecting a gaming console for travel entertainment or simply augmenting laptop screen real estate for work, the versatility of these devices is undeniable. The Asus ZenScreen, specifically the MB16AHV model featured in the current Amazon deal, aims to address this demand with a lightweight and easily transportable solution.

The ZenScreen MB16AHV boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display with an anti-glare coating, designed to minimize reflections and improve visibility in various lighting conditions. Its slim profile and included kickstand facilitate both portrait and landscape orientations, offering flexibility in how the monitor is used. A tripod socket is also included, allowing for mounting options beyond the built-in stand. Connectivity options include two USB-C ports and an HDMI port, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. According to PCMag’s guide to portable monitors, these features are key considerations when selecting a portable display.

How the ZenScreen Connects and Operates

A significant feature of the Asus ZenScreen, and models like the MB16ACV, is its USB-C connectivity. This allows for a streamlined setup where a single USB-C cable can provide both power and video signal, reducing cable clutter. However, it’s important to note that the host device (laptop, smartphone, etc.) must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode) over USB-C for this functionality to work. If the device doesn’t support DP Alt Mode, the monitor can still be powered via USB-C even as receiving video through the HDMI port.

The monitor’s onboard menu, accessible through physical buttons, allows users to adjust settings such as brightness, contrast, color temperature, and input source. The ZenScreen also incorporates ASUS Eye Care technology, which aims to reduce blue light emissions to minimize eye strain during prolonged leverage. This is a common feature in modern displays, as prolonged exposure to blue light has been linked to potential sleep disruption and eye fatigue.

Impact on Productivity and Travel

The primary benefit of a portable monitor like the Asus ZenScreen is increased productivity. Having a second screen allows users to multitask more efficiently, whether it’s referencing documents while writing, monitoring communications while working on a project, or simply expanding their desktop space. This is particularly valuable for professionals who work remotely or frequently travel. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to incorporate into a travel bag without adding significant bulk.

Beyond professional use, portable monitors can also enhance entertainment experiences. Connecting a gaming console to the ZenScreen allows for gaming on the go, while streaming movies or videos on a larger screen than a laptop or smartphone provides a more immersive viewing experience. The anti-glare coating helps maintain visibility even in brightly lit environments, making it suitable for use on airplanes, trains, or outdoor settings.

Reviewer Perspective and Similar Models

PCMag’s Senior Hardware Writer, Tony Hoffman, awarded an “Excellent” rating to a similar Asus ZenScreen model (MB16ACE) in his review. He highlighted the comprehensive and user-friendly onscreen display as a key strength. The MB16ACE, while not identical to the MB16AHV currently on sale, shares many of the same core features and benefits, suggesting a similar level of performance and usability can be expected from the discounted model.

The Amazon listing for the Asus ZenScreen also highlights the 1ms response time and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut of some models, indicating a focus on image quality and responsiveness, which are important considerations for both professional and entertainment use.

What to Consider Before Purchasing

While the Asus ZenScreen offers numerous benefits, potential buyers should consider a few factors. The monitor’s resolution is 1920×1080, which is adequate for most tasks, but may not be ideal for users who require higher resolutions for detailed work or gaming. The built-in speakers are likely to be basic, so external speakers or headphones may be preferred for a more immersive audio experience. Finally, it’s crucial to ensure that the host device supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode over USB-C to take full advantage of the monitor’s single-cable connectivity feature.

Further deals on portable monitors can be found on other retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target, offering a wider range of options to suit different needs and budgets.

The current Amazon deal on the Asus ZenScreen MB16AHV provides a compelling opportunity to acquire a versatile and portable display at a reduced price. For those seeking to enhance their productivity or entertainment options on the go, this offer is worth considering, provided the device’s specifications align with their individual requirements.