ASUS MB169B+ 15.6-inch Full HD USB Portable Monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS MB169B+ is a slim portable monitor that adds a second screen to a laptop. It has a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display and takes its power over USB, so it needs no separate power adapter. This page covers what the listing states and what it means in use. The listing is for a renewed unit.

The display

The screen is 15.6 inches with a Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution and an IPS panel. Full HD is the standard resolution for laptop screens of this size, so text and images look the way you'd expect on a laptop. IPS panels typically hold their colour and brightness well when seen from the side, which helps when a second screen sits next to your main one.

Powered over USB

ASUS describes the monitor as using a USB power source. In general, this type of monitor connects to a computer with a single cable that carries both power and the picture, so you can use it on a train table or in a hotel room with only a laptop. Drawing power from the laptop reduces battery life a little, since the screen is being powered by it.

The model name carries a plus sign and the listing code includes "cr", which relates to the renewed version. Check the connection type and the cable and adapter details in the manual before relying on a particular laptop port.

Size and weight

The packaged dimensions are about 17.2 x 11.7 x 2.3 inches, and the listing gives a weight of 1.8 lb (roughly 0.8 kg). A monitor of this size is light enough to carry in a laptop bag next to a computer.

Where it fits

A second screen is useful for keeping reference material, chat windows or email open while you work in a main window. For people who travel, it can turn a hotel desk into a two-screen workspace. For a home office, it saves the space and cost of a full-size second monitor. Most people place it to the side of their laptop in landscape orientation, though some prefer it upright for long documents.

Who it suits

It suits remote workers, students, travelling professionals and anyone with a laptop who wants more screen area without a heavy, fixed monitor.

What to check before you buy

• Condition: the listing is for a renewed unit, so check what the seller says about condition and warranty.
• Connection: confirm which USB connector your laptop has and whether it can carry video, or whether an adapter is needed.
• Drivers: some USB-powered monitors need a driver or software installed on the computer.
• Power: check whether your laptop port can supply enough power to run the screen.
• Stand or cover: check how the monitor is supported on a desk.
• What's in the box: confirm which cables are included, since renewed items can differ.

The short version

• A 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS portable monitor from ASUS.
• Powered over USB, with a single cable for power and picture.
• About 1.8 lb, easy to carry with a laptop.
• Listed as a renewed unit, so check the condition details.
• Check your laptop's USB port and any driver needs first.

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