ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6-Inch Portable USB-C Monitor: specs and uses

The ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC is a 15.6-inch portable monitor that adds a second screen to a laptop. It connects over a single USB cable, so there is no separate power adapter to carry. At 1.7 lb and 0.3 inches thick, it is made to slip into a laptop bag.

Screen and resolution

The panel is Full HD (1920 x 1080) and uses IPS technology, which typically gives wide viewing angles and consistent colour when seen from the side. At 15.6 inches, it matches the screen size of many laptops, so it works well for putting a reference document, chat window or spreadsheet beside your main work.

Connecting by USB-C or USB-A

The monitor uses a hybrid signal solution. With a USB Type-C source that carries video, a single cable can handle both signal and power. It also works with USB Type-A sources, but the listing notes that a DisplayLink driver is needed for that connection. ASUS also says it is compatible with Thunderbolt 3. Since not every USB-C port carries video, check your laptop's specifications.

Smart cover and orientation

The smart cover folds into a stand and has a hole for a smart pen, which lets you prop the screen in landscape or portrait orientation. ASUS says auto rotation works when the screen is turned, but it requires Windows and the DisplayWidget software to be installed.

Eye Care technology

ASUS lists Eye Care technology with TUV Rheinland-certified flicker-free backlighting and a blue light filter. These are the brand's own features and certification claims; check ASUS's documentation for details.

Size and weight

The monitor measures about 8.9 inches wide by 14.2 inches tall and 0.3 inches thick (roughly 23 x 36 x 0.8 cm) and weighs about 1.7 lb (0.77 kg). ASUS notes that its design pairs well with ASUS laptops.

About this listing

This particular listing is described as renewed. That means the unit is a previously owned one, so it is worth checking what is included and the terms of any warranty, since details beyond the product specs are not given in the listing.

Who it suits

It suits travellers, remote workers and students who want a lightweight extra screen for a laptop, and anyone who wants a quick portrait-mode display for coding, reading or messaging.

What to check before you buy

• Laptop port: confirm your USB-C port supports video output, or that you can install DisplayLink for USB-A.
• Operating system: auto rotation needs Windows and DisplayWidget.
• Cable and accessories: check what is in the box, especially for a renewed unit.
• Brightness and colour: the listing gives no figures here, so check ASUS's specifications if you need them.
• Warranty: confirm the terms that apply to a renewed product.

The short version

• A 15.6-inch Full HD IPS portable monitor.
• USB-C connection, plus USB-A through a DisplayLink driver.
• About 1.7 lb and 0.3 inches slim.
• Smart cover stand with landscape and portrait use.
• Flicker-free backlight and a blue light filter, as ASUS describes them.

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