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ASUS MB16ACV ZenScreen Portable 15.6" FHD IPS Monitor $369 Delivered @ Scorptec

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ASUS MB16ACV ZenScreen Portable 15.6" FHD IPS Monitor $369 Delivered @ Scorptec
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neikel on 06/03/2022 - 16:36 scorptec.com.au (2298 clicks)
Last edited 07/03/2022 - 12:48 by 2 other users

Working From Holiday is gonna be the new WFH.

deal expired, better deal in new post https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/687009
UPDATE - SCORPTEC INCREASED PRICE as of 9.33PM - alternative vendors below
You can still get it at Umart for $359 + Delivery $10 = $369 Delivered
https://www.umart.com.au/product/asus-zenscreen-15-6in-fhd-i…
Or Mwave for $379 + $5.99 shipping = $384.99 is not bad either, still a discount
https://www.mwave.com.au/product/asus-zenscreen-mb16acv-156-…

With all the flight deals coming up and having booked for a few trips myself, I decided to work out the best portable multi monitor solution for a travelling office set up.

Ordered myself a couple of the ASUS MB16ACV to go with a laptop of choice. Now this is noticeably fewer screens than my 6 monitors set up in the office but will be considerably more portable.

The Asus MB16ACV is the best bang for the buck portable monitor right now, probably. This is the latest model (2021) of the ASUS portable Zenscreen line with the some upgrades, of which the most meaningful being increased Brightness of 250 nits and Contrast Ratio of 800:1, from 220 nits and 700:1 in previous models. These are particularly important due to most reviews commenting on low brightness and contrast being the issue with these low powered portable monitors.

Potential downside of the Zensreen line up is connectivity, having only 1 USB-C port for power delivery and data, except for the GO and Touch models. This means that you will need a suitable laptop. I have an oldish XPS13 with 3 USB-C ports and planning to try using 2 of the MB16ACV as external screens as my travelling office set up. Docking may be required if one of the USB-C port on the XPS13 cannot provide power to the external monitor.

Notable mentions of monitors closely considered VS the Asus Zenscreen MB16ACV
- Dell C1422H & Lenovo M14: Higher brightness at 300 nits, Lower Contrast Ratio at 700:1, Smaller Screen size 14" vs 15.6", More expensive both selling for $469 vs ASUS MB16ACV current sale price of $369. Even at original price of $399 I would still go for the Asus.
- Espresso 15": potentially better spec however comes with glossy screen, too expensive (over $500) and then extra for monitor stand ($60ish) VS ASUS MB16ACV comes with Stand AND Cover at $369.
- Gaming specs: ASUS ROG Strix portable monitor lines, especially the XG17AHPE: Ultimately the best for specs, if money is not an issue at $1000ish a pop. Tempted but way overkill for my needs. If you want to game with a laptop, you would have gotten one with a gaming monitor.
- Other random brands avoided mainly due to lack of thorough testing/reviews online.

Other notes from my research and calculation:
- My set up: 2019 XPS 13 with 2 x MB16ACV; external Mouse and Keyboard (bluetooth); Potentially need a Powered Docking Station and if required, I will probably go with the Legion to avoid the external keyboard and extra screen.
Alternative set up considered:
- Old 2019 Lenovo Legion Y7000 15 inch + 1x MB16ACV, can ditch the external keyboard as laptop has Numpad, Probably need docking station
- Getting a new XPS17 for $2,800 + 1x MB16ACV: scrapped plan because of cost. Total weight will be the same as XPS13 + 2x MB16CV.
- If you are going to be ok with 220 nits brightness, i.e. working in a dark room with closed windows or working at night due to time zone difference while on holiday, the best bang for your buck will be the ZenScreen MB16ACE from Amazon for $329 delivered or OW price beat it.
https://www.amazon.com.au/ASUS-MB16ACE-ZENSCREEN-Portable-MN…

The ZenScreen complete line up with different models to avoid confusion
Model Size Brightness Contrast Ratio Inclusion Notes
ZenScreen MB14AC 14" 250 nits 700:1 Stand only
ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6" 220 nits 800:1 Stand only
ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" 220 nits 800:1 Stand and cover Best price currently on Amazon for $329 or OW price beat.
ZenScreen MB16ACV 15.6" 250 nits 800:1 Stand and cover GamePlus and QuickFit features
ZenScreen MB16AH 15.6" 250 nits 700:1 Stand and cover Speakers, USB-C & Micro HDMI
ZenScreen Go MB16AHP 15.6" 220 nits 700:1 Stand and cover 7800mAH battery, speakers, USB-C & Micro HDMI
ZenScreen Touch MB16AMT 15.6" 250 nits 700:1 Stand and cover 7800mAh battery, speakers, touchscreen, USB-C & Micro HDMI

multiple edits on the writeup so please don't neg me for grammar mistakes

Computing ASUS Computer Peripheral Portable Monitor

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closed Comments

  • gimli on 06/03/2022 - 16:44
    +1

    Tldr?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 16:52
      +20

      Travel life done right?
      Thanks for the upvote :D

      • WhyAmICommenting on 06/03/2022 - 17:23
        +7

        I’ve read two sentences you wrote and I like you already.

  • freefall101 on 06/03/2022 - 17:01
    +1

    Don't really understand the extra $40 for the V version over the E. QuickFit seems to just be a tripod mounting point? Gameplus lets you put timers on the screen.

    I've had plenty of portable screens for work and always found spreadsheets look fine on a AOC one. They're currently around $230 for a FHD one.

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:16
      +2

      Fair points you raised considering the price. However, ASUS MB16ACV is overall better than AOC I1659FWUX (FHD version) with higher brightness and contrast ratio AND is significantly more portable, weighing in at 0.83kg with stand and 10.5mm thickness VS the AOC hitting 1.2kg with stand and 22.9mm thickness. So if you plan to lug a laptop and an extra screen or 2 around, the ASUS is the better one IMO.

  • mynameisborat on 06/03/2022 - 17:07
    +1

    Upvoting for the extensive research and description! BTW OP, why didn't you post the Amazon link as the primary link for this deal ?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:20
      +2

      Thanks for the upvote. The Amazon link is for the lower Spec model of the ZenScreen line up (It's really confusing at first) and I believe the extra $40 (10.8% price premium) is worthwhile for a gain of 100 nits (13.6% gain), especially if you intend to travel to tropical places to avoid Melbourne winter.

      • lulzenberg on 06/03/2022 - 17:22
        +1

        I'm guessing i'm missing something here - but isn't it only 30 nits difference? 220 vs 250?

        • WhyAmICommenting on 06/03/2022 - 17:24
          +1

          That’s about 12pc difference…

        • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:24

          ahaha sorry my bad yes 30 nits only. The 100 increase is in the contrast ratio in comparison to some other models.

          • lulzenberg on 06/03/2022 - 17:28
            +1

            @neikel: Yeah, fair - these may have solved my conundrum for setting up a mini work station in the back of my van for a Work From Camping setup. Is there much of a difference in 220 vs 250? I believe my laptop is ~300 and still not so great using it outdoors. I guess with the right window shades it should work.

            • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:33
              +1

              @lulzenberg: I've got some different laptops right now and the only thing that is comfortable outdoor I find is the 500nits XPS screen. However, I find the 250 nits laptop is just usable at a place not too bright such as in a corner with your back to the wall of a Starbucks. That's why I think 220 nits might be just a little bit annoying in a bright room.

  • getit on 06/03/2022 - 17:21
    -5

    not 2k or 4k, not 144Hz, seems not a good deal

    • WhyAmICommenting on 06/03/2022 - 17:24
      +7

      lol, I think you aren’t the target market

      • getit on 06/03/2022 - 20:22

        I had a few different portable monitors since a few years ago. I used a touch screen one as my forth screen connected to my desktop.
        Currently I am using 2 x HP Portable monitors for my ITX and NUC.
        I am in the market to a suitable 2k or 4K 144Hz portable monitor.
        https://ibb.co/9wnKzTf

        • WhyAmICommenting on 06/03/2022 - 21:48

          Is there anything in this price range that matches your specs?

          • getit on 06/03/2022 - 23:33
            +1

            @WhyAmICommenting: I have seen some 4K ones for this price range, 144Hz will come soon and I don't mind pay more.
            Back to my point. $369 for 1080P portable screen is not a good deal. Those are just laptop screens put into a frame, are they gonna cost more than monitor screens? What you tried to say? Who is the target market? You?

            https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/643830
            https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/640252
            https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/629975
            https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/619555

            • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 23:56
              +1

              @getit: For what they are the ones you post are good value. However, for office work the 2k and 4k monitors, at 15 or 17 inch, do not add any value. In fact, they screw up the consistency of PPI between the laptop and the monitors which is annoying and lower productivity.
              They also consume more power and require an additional charger and cable which is inconvenient for travelling.
              Last but not least, stuff from Banggood and AliExpress do not come with a warranty like of Asus monitors sold in Australia. For purchases after Feb 2022, monitors are under Perfect Pixel Warranty for 36 months with a promise of Zero Bright or Dark Dot for the warranty period. I would like to have the 3 years warranty if I'm gonna carry the monitors everywhere with me.
              Hope you got a feel of what the target market is now.

              • getit on 07/03/2022 - 18:59

                @neikel: Based on what you say, no office workers need 2k or 4k laptop screens, they are not add any value just consume more power. It sounds like someone told me 17 inch monitors and 29 inch TVs would be good enough for anything years ago. People should stop buying and manufacturer should stop producing 2k 4k laptop screens because they screw up the consistency of PPI with monitors. Everyone should use 1080P 60Hz laptop screens for ever. However the truth is nearly a half current model laptops comes with 2k or 4k or high refresh screens.

                I have used so many portable screens and monitors, whatever the brand is, not have a problem within 36 months. Furthermore, I have 3 ROG monitors had same issues after 3 years, but other cheaper brands never had issues. Do not blind faith on brands, they are most like bluffing. Not much different qualities for mass production nowadays.

                Then back to my point again. I bought two HP portable screens with flip stand and type c port for similar price range as one ASUS portable screen. And they are working perfectly since I bought 2 years ago. So are there anyone else think it is a good deal other than you? My point form start, it is not a good deal, why are you keeping saying something else like no one need 2k 4k screens.

                • neikel on 07/03/2022 - 19:37

                  @getit: I'm sure one can make a case for anything. For my case and people with similar needs, these are good values. Obviously it is not for you but I'm sure some people find this a deal.

                  If you think you find a good deal then maybe post it as it will help solve someone's problem.

                  Appreciate the insights you shared regardless.

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:27
      +1

      username doesn't check out

  • Tech and cars on 06/03/2022 - 17:37

    Does this work on m1 MacBook Air?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:41

      With the intel Mac with thunderbolt I think it works. Not sure about the M1. Best way to find out is to bring your Mac to Officeworks and try it on the MB16ACE model

    • kokita on 07/03/2022 - 09:13

      It should work using HDMI and high chance should work on USB C.
      BUT a special driver (paid licence) is required for touch functionality.

  • Rayve on 06/03/2022 - 17:38
    +1

    I've done this - not with this particular model, but with two portable touch screens. Makes a significant improvement in productivity. Power is an issue though - my battery life was very short when powering all three displays (I think about 45 minutes). I bought a powered USB hub with power delivery but had to sacrifice touch functionality to get it to work.

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 17:42

      Hey Rayve which powered USB hub do you use? I've been looking into it too just in case the old XPS13 doesn't have 2 thunderbolts.

  • silentsoar on 06/03/2022 - 17:48
    +5

    Biggest trouble I've had with these portable monitors is poor colour gamut. Haven't yet found any under $400 with 100% sRGB coverage

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 18:24
      +3

      I agree with you too. This is not an issue for office stuff but for anything requiring colour accuracy, these monitors are terrible.

  • Zackeroo on 06/03/2022 - 18:01
    +1

    Heads up. If you have an old iPad, an app called Duet works excellent for this same use. I've been using it for the last 2 years

  • superroach on 06/03/2022 - 18:04

    What say you of the lenovo model?
    https://www.shoppingexpress.com.au/buy/lenovo-thinkvision-m1…

    That one only just went out of stock, it's around on the Web though

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 18:17
      +1

      I mentioned that in my post. I think overall the Asus is more usable and the better monitor with a 15.6" screen.
      - Dell C1422H & Lenovo M14: Higher brightness at 300 nits, Lower Contrast Ratio at 700:1, Smaller Screen size 14" vs 15.6", More expensive both selling for $469 vs ASUS MB16ACV current sale price of $369. Even at original price of $399 I would still go for the Asus.

      • superroach on 07/03/2022 - 13:46

        Sorry, thanks! imo, the brightness is a limitation of the power draw these screens are all doing.

  • CyberMurning on 06/03/2022 - 18:16
    +1

    Why you need 6 monitors at work?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 18:20
      +1

      1 main ultrawide screen for excel, 2 screens on top for multiple pdfs and docs, 1 screen for outlook, 1 screen for calendar and Tasks, 1 for Teams video chat, last one for Unconscious Ozbargain browsing and shopping while on the phone :D

      • ULT on 06/03/2022 - 18:33
        +1

        cant go wrong with max efficiency; i find that 6 screens is perfect for trading as any more than that and you lose focus, as i can just split the screens up for 12 anyway if i really really needed to

        • [Deactivated] on 06/03/2022 - 18:56
          +1

          Crazy to think how productive we've become due to tech but salaries have been quite slow. Some people doing literally several people's jobs a couple of decades ago but earning very similar amounts.

      • bydl on 06/03/2022 - 23:10
        +2

        Are you able to post a picture of your battlestation? Sounds like a dream come true.

  • Radar on 06/03/2022 - 18:33

    I just got the Viewsonic 16in ips VG1655 - so far so good (but I have nothing to compare it to).
    Plenty of connectivity options - I chose it over the Asus Zen screen because there were too many models to choose from and couldn't be bothered figuring out what the difference was.

  • gsxr600rr on 06/03/2022 - 18:43

    Thanks OP! Bought one and just started looking a couple of days ago.

  • clearance on 06/03/2022 - 18:55
    +1

    I got this one at half the price, probably worse specs. https://www.amazon.com.au/AOC-e1659Fwu-1366x768-Brightness-3…

    • sureyoucan on 06/03/2022 - 19:42

      I got this as well.. this is my third monitor for MacBook M1 as it uses displaylink drivers.

      The resolution is lower however it has vesa mounting points so you can use an arm for it.

      • godofpizza on 06/03/2022 - 20:58

        same i had 3 of these, quite good to use just the low resolution is annoying low.

  • zihengg on 06/03/2022 - 18:58

    I have a gaming desktop and can I connect to my GPU via HDMI or DP?

  • baronorder on 06/03/2022 - 19:17
    +3

    For anyone looking for a little more size, more resolution and more flexibility (and save a few bucks) there is this option for ~$352 delivered (inc GST):
    https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003447129681.html

    Have had one of these for about two weeks and its a huge step up from the previous portable monitor I was using - bright, decent res & works with pretty much every recent laptop I have tested it with over a single cable (including the very picky XPS13 9310…).

    Some advantages:
    Takes both USB C and HDMI inputs so can run anything through it
    Additional USB-PD power input
    17.3 inches of 2K (2560x1440) IPS goodness @ 60hz (I know, I know 240hz or itz just 4 teh n00bz…)
    Contrast and brightness are a bump up from the Asus (1000:1, 300cd/m2 vs 800:1 and 250)
    Not much physically bigger at 391x241mm vs 357x224mm and about the same thickness.

    • bestbarginever on 06/03/2022 - 20:21

      What's the power for? Is it to power the monitor when using HDMI?

      • baronorder on 06/03/2022 - 20:49

        Yes or if your laptop / PC's USB port can't deliver enough to power it.

  • giventofly on 06/03/2022 - 20:29

    Would love to know if my work issued Dell Latitude 5310 would power this via a single USB-C DP port.

  • aeon on 06/03/2022 - 20:33
    +1

    You missed the MB16AH, which is the model I've had my eye on. No battery, but USB and Micro HDMI input (that's the main requirement for me), and has a standard tripod mount on the back.

    https://www.scorptec.com.au/product/monitors/17-22-inch/9047…

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 21:28
      +1

      ahh yes I did thanks for pointing that out. This one would be my choice from the Asus line up too if Micro HDMI is required. The MB16ACV also has the tripod mount FYI if your laptop can power through USB-C there will be fewer cables required.

  • petesmith on 06/03/2022 - 20:44

    Excellent write up - any suggestions for something under $300 (for tax deductibility)?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 21:55
      +1

      I think the AOC i1659Fwux FHD version is a decent monitor for its price. However, it's a little bit more bulky. You can get them for $229 at Amazon AU or other tech retailers.
      If you are game enough, AliExpress's Porpoise options look ok. You can get a 17 inch slim IPS panel for under $300 delivered. Panels are so cheap right now so I think it should be ok. Quality control with these brands are probably worse than Asus so the chance of getting a faulty unit is higher and there is practically no warranty in comparison to buying from an Australian retailer.

      https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000802447811.html?spm=a2g0o…

  • spliniter on 06/03/2022 - 21:01

    Does this work with a Mac book?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 22:19

      If you it has Thunderbolt it should work. Not sure if M1 has something similar and can work with this. Sorry I do not know much about Mac.

  • Gusper on 06/03/2022 - 21:15
    -1

    I bought portables for the kids, waste of money, bought a 32 inch 4k and then my son said wow.

  • echan28 on 06/03/2022 - 21:22

    Think it's back to $399 now :(

  • giventofly on 06/03/2022 - 21:29

    If I want to use with a Nintendo Switch, would this work? Does it only have one port to get power and receive data?

    • neikel on 06/03/2022 - 22:26
      +1

      It has only one USB-C for both Power Delivery and Data. So if you want to use it for console, you may need the one with both USB-C (for power delivery) and Micro-HDMI, which is the MB16AH ($429 and various retailers) or MB16AHP.
      However, for gaming, the ZenScreen line up may disappoint you though as they are probably ok for office use. You may want to venture to AliExpress and take a punt on the Purpoise line mentioned above by baronorder

  • getit on 06/03/2022 - 23:38
    +1

    ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE Portable USB Monitor- 15.6 inch Full HD, Hybrid Signal Solution, USB Type-C, Flicker Free, Blue Light Filter, Anti-Glare Surface, Gun Metal $329

    https://www.amazon.com.au/ASUS-MB16ACE-ZENSCREEN-Portable-MN…

    But still not a good deal for 1080P 60Hz screen

  • Marty-69 on 07/03/2022 - 12:11

    My laptop only has one USB-C port which is also used for charging (no other charge options). So with this screen connected, I can't charge the laptop and it'll drain the battery a lot quicker. Any workarounds for this?

    • neikel on 07/03/2022 - 12:21
      +1

      You may need the one with both USB-C (for power delivery) and Micro-HDMI, which is the MB16AH ($429 and various retailers) or MB16AHP. These models come with power adapter.

  • neikel on 07/03/2022 - 12:48

    deal expired, better deal in new post https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/687009

  • Savealopoulos on 08/03/2022 - 08:52

    This post is the gold standard. Great analysis OP!

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