USB monitor???

[heni30]

I've seen ads recently for usb monitors. I've always thought about being able to add another monitor to a laptop.

 

What is the performance like? Any big cons?

 

I'm wary about how a usb cable can carry as much data as efficiently as, say, a DVI connection. Would wireless USB create another snag?

 

Juraj answered with:

 

DVI is long past its time, USB3.0 seems to be just as usable as upcoming HDMI 2.0 or DisplayLink, i.e even 4k works.

Edited February 26, 2014 by heni30

[Dimitris Tolios]

USB 2.0 driven monitors work acceptably as a portable companion.

It gets fast paced graphics for the interface to show weaknesses (there is some input lag, so fast paced/action games will trouble it), but for using as a secondary monitor displaying reference images, doing a presentation or even watching a movie while working, its fine. You need to pay attention / try to make it struggle with casual CAD/PS etc.

 

I had a HDMI external monitor to drag along with my laptop @ my grad school days, but a power outlet was always available (with some ext. cord magic). USB monitors don't even require external power.

 

Thus contrast / brightness might be a bit on the low side, and panels used in general are not that high quality or resolution, but for something the size of a folder that fits in your laptop/messenger bag and doubles you screen real-estate - sometimes for sub $100?

The value is there.