ASUS ZenScreen GO MB16AHP portable monitor: features, specs and uses

The ASUS ZenScreen GO MB16AHP is a slim 15.6-inch portable monitor. It is meant to travel with a laptop and be plugged in when you want a second screen, whether at a desk, in a hotel room or at a client's office. ASUS lists USB-C and micro-HDMI connections, so it can be used with smartphones, laptops, game consoles and cameras.

What a portable monitor is for

A portable monitor adds screen space without the bulk of a desktop display. Typical uses include keeping a document or chat window beside your main work, showing a presentation to someone across the table, or giving a console or camera a larger display than its own. At 15.6 inches, it is close to the size of a standard laptop screen, which makes it easy to use as a matching second display.

Size and weight

The dimensions are about 14.2 x 9.0 inches (36 x 23 cm), with a thickness of 0.4 inches (about 1 cm). It weighs 1.9 lb (roughly 0.86 kg). That is thin and light enough for most laptop bags, though the weight is still noticeable when added to a laptop and charger.

Full HD resolution

The panel is Full HD, which means 1920 x 1080 pixels in a 16:9 shape. On a 15.6-inch screen, that gives a sharp image for office work, web pages and video. It is not a 4K screen, so it is not aimed at detailed photo or video editing, but the resolution matches many laptops of this size. The panel is a WLED-backlit LCD.

USB-C and micro-HDMI connections

The two connection types work differently:

• USB-C can carry both video and power over a single cable, but only if the source device supports video output through its USB-C port, usually called DisplayPort Alt Mode. Not every USB-C port does, so check your laptop or phone's specifications.
• Micro-HDMI is a video connection for devices with an HDMI output, such as game consoles or cameras. It typically needs a cable with a micro-HDMI end, and the monitor will usually need power from another source in that case.

Whether the monitor can draw all its power from the connected device depends on that device's USB-C output. Check the manual for the power requirements, especially when using it with a phone or with a laptop that has a low battery.

Setting up a second screen

Once connected, the computer treats the monitor as an extra display. Windows, macOS and most other systems let you choose between extending the desktop, mirroring it, or using the monitor alone. Placing the screen to the side of your laptop and extending the desktop is the most common arrangement. Portable monitors usually need a cover or stand to hold them upright, so check what comes with this one.

Who it suits

This monitor suits people who travel with a laptop, work from different locations, or want a compact display for a console or camera. It is less suited to a fixed desk setup, where a full-size monitor gives more room.

What to check before you buy

• Your device's ports: confirm that your laptop or phone supports video over USB-C, or has another way to output video.
• Cables: check what is in the box, and whether you need extra cables or adapters.
• Power: read how the monitor is powered and how that affects your device's battery.
• Stand: see how it is held upright and whether that suits your desk or tray table.
• Resolution: make sure Full HD is enough for what you do.

The short version

• A 15.6-inch Full HD (16:9) portable monitor from ASUS, model MB16AHP.
• USB-C and micro-HDMI inputs for laptops, phones, consoles and cameras.
• About 0.4 inches thick and 1.9 lb.
• USB-C video depends on your device supporting it.

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