ViewSonic VA1655 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor Review Compact Design and FHD IPS Performance

Description

Compact and Lightweight Design for Maximum Portability

Carrying the ViewSonic VA1655 portable monitor around feels effortless. Weighing just 1.5 pounds and with a thickness of only 0.7 inches, it fits snugly into my backpack without hogging any space. Its sleek black finish gives it a professional look, which makes it an excellent companion for both work meetings and casual use in coffee shops. I was particularly impressed by the protective case and built-in stand that came with it. The stand allows for seamless transitions between portrait and landscape orientations, which is such a handy feature whether you’re coding, reading documents, or watching videos.

What struck me most is how travel-friendly this monitor is. Whether you’re a digital nomad or someone who frequently juggles between the office and home, this monitor’s ultra-slim profile ensures it goes wherever you go. Honestly, I’ve even tossed it into a overstuffed bag once, and the protective case ensured there were no scratches or marks on the screen.

Crystal-Clear Display and Anti-Glare Screen

The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display delivers on its promise of clarity and vibrant colors. I tested it with everything from spreadsheets to gaming, and the 1920×1080 resolution consistently made details pop. The anti-glare screen is a lifesaver, especially when working in bright environments. Even with sunlight streaming through my window, the screen remained perfectly visible without any annoying reflections.

While watching videos or editing photos, I noticed the colors were vivid but natural – no oversaturation, which sometimes happens with other displays. The 60Hz refresh rate is smooth enough for casual gaming and binge-watching, though hardcore gamers might want something with a higher refresh rate. For everyday tasks, though, it’s more than sufficient.

USB-C Connectivity: A Single Cable for Everything

One of the key benefits of this portable monitor is its USB-C connectivity. With just one cable, I could transfer data, audio, and video while also powering the monitor. This significantly reduces cable clutter, which is a big deal for me because I hate dealing with a mess of wires on my desk. The dual USB-C ports are a thoughtful addition, allowing flexibility in how you power the device or connect it to a laptop.

I tested the two-way power feature, and it worked like a charm. You can either power the monitor from your laptop or use the monitor to charge your laptop if you have a USB-C power bank or AC adapter. It makes the setup feel modern and efficient, especially compared to older monitors that required multiple cables for power and video.

Built-in Speakers and Audio Quality

The monitor comes with built-in speakers, which, while convenient, are honestly not its strongest feature. They get the job done for casual video calls or YouTube videos, but the sound is a bit tinny when compared to standalone speakers or good-quality headphones. If you’re someone who prioritizes audio, you might want to use external speakers or headphones for a richer experience.

That said, the inclusion of speakers is still a neat touch for a portable monitor. I found it useful when I was working in a quiet space and didn’t want to carry extra audio equipment with me.

Positives

Here are some winning points that stood out during my use:

• Lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel and remote work.
• Vibrant Full HD IPS display with anti-glare features for clear visibility in bright conditions.
• USB-C connectivity simplifies the setup with a single cable for power, audio, and video.
• Comes with a protective case and built-in stand, adding convenience and durability.
• Flexible orientation options (portrait and landscape) enhance versatility.

Areas of Concern

Despite its strengths, I did notice a few areas for improvement:

• The built-in speakers lack depth and could use better sound quality.
• No touchscreen capability, which some users might expect at this price point.
• Limited refresh rate at 60Hz might not satisfy competitive gamers.

Market Rivals

Comparing this monitor to other portable screens, a few competitors come to mind. The ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC is a popular alternative, offering a similar lightweight design and USB-C functionality. However, the ViewSonic VA1655 edges out with its two-way power delivery, which the ZenScreen lacks. On the other hand, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14 boasts a slightly better build quality and a brighter display, but its lack of built-in speakers is a downside for users wanting an all-in-one solution.

Where the ViewSonic VA1655 truly shines is in its balance of features and portability. While some rivals may offer individual aspects that are slightly better, this monitor combines portability, versatility, and user-friendly design in a way that makes it a strong contender in the market.

Bang for the Buck

The overall value for money here is impressive. While it’s not the cheapest portable monitor out there, the combination of features like Full HD resolution, anti-glare technology, and USB-C connectivity justifies the investment. I found it particularly appealing for its ability to cut down on desk clutter and its efficiency for multitasking.

If you’re someone who needs a reliable second screen that doesn’t compromise on portability or functionality, this one delivers well within its price range. The protective sleeve and built-in stand alone save you from having to buy additional accessories, further adding to the overall affordability.

Ultimately, the ViewSonic VA1655 is a smart pick for anyone who needs a portable monitor that’s both practical and stylish. Whether you’re a remote worker, a student, or just someone who likes to have an extra screen on hand, it’s hard to go wrong with this one.

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