If you’re in the market for a portable monitor, the Viewsonic VA1655 stands out due to its USB-C power delivery and built-in features, despite some drawbacks. In an age where remote work and flexible setups are increasingly common, portable monitors can significantly enhance productivity. The VA1655 is designed to cater to the needs of professionals on the go, but does it really deliver the quality you’re looking for? Let’s take a closer look.
Overview of the Viewsonic VA1655
The Viewsonic VA1655 is a 15.6-inch portable monitor that boasts a 1080p IPS-LCD display and a refresh rate of 60Hz. It is primarily targeted towards users seeking a balance between functionality and affordability. Priced at around $109.99, it is positioned as a budget-friendly option amidst a crowded market of portable displays. However, it is essential to consider both its strong points and limitations before making a purchase.
Specifications and Features
- Display Size: 15.6 inches with a 16:9 aspect ratio
- Native Resolution: 1920×1080 (Full HD)
- Panel Type: IPS LCD
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Ports: 1x Mini-HDMI 1.4, 2x USB-C, 3.5mm audio-out
- Audio: 2x low-powered speakers
- Additional Features: Built-in kickstand, padded carrying sleeve
The monitor supports USB-C with power delivery up to 60 watts, allowing it to charge while also providing video input. This is a noteworthy feature not commonly found in cheaper portable monitors, making the VA1655 a more versatile option.
Design and Portability
One of the standout design features of the Viewsonic VA1655 is its integrated kickstand, which eliminates the need for separate carrying cases. While this can be convenient, it also contributes to the monitor’s thicker 0.7-inch profile and a weight of 1.5 pounds, making it bulkier compared to competitors that employ detachable stands.
The overall aesthetic is straightforward, constructed from black plastic that feels somewhat flimsy but is typical for budget monitors. Nonetheless, its thicker build does afford a sense of durability when handled.
In terms of protection, the monitor comes with a padded sleeve that secures it during transport, although the sleeve’s quality is on the lower end, echoing the overall budget nature of the device.
Connectivity Options
The viewsonic VA1655 excels in connectivity. The presence of two USB-C ports is particularly advantageous, allowing for easy connectivity to a range of devices. This means you can use it as a secondary monitor for laptops, smartphones, or gaming consoles that support USB-C video output. However, the mini-HDMI connection might be a concern for some users as finding compatible cables can be cumbersome.
As per Viewsonic’s claims, the power pass-through feature enables users to connect a laptop to the monitor while charge-keeping the laptop powered throughout the use. This is particularly useful for extended work sessions where keeping devices charged is vital.
Menu System and Audio Quality
When it comes to usability, the VA1655 offers a robust menu system controlled by a conveniently placed joystick on the right side of the display. This is a significant improvement over many budget monitors, which often rely on awkward button combinations for navigation. Access to gamma settings and RGB calibration further enhances user control.
However, the audio performance from the built-in speakers is lacking, with sound quality that is only suitable for basic notifications rather than media consumption. At less than one watt per speaker, users may want to consider external audio solutions for a better listening experience.
Image Quality and Performance
The Viewsonic VA1655 offers a maximum brightness of 239 nits, which is adequate for indoor use but may struggle in bright outdoor environments. The monitor’s contrast ratio is moderate at 1110:1, aligning closely with other budget monitors in its category but falling short when compared to higher-end alternatives. In terms of color reproduction, the VA1655 covers only 67% of the sRGB gamut, limiting its usefulness for tasks requiring precise color accuracy, such as photo editing.
Though sharpness is commendable due to its 1080p resolution on a 15.6-inch screen, viewers might notice color shifts in certain hues, particularly in reds and blues. Additionally, the lack of HDR support means that users will not be able to take full advantage of the latest content formats, but given the price point, this is somewhat expected.
Market Position and Alternatives
The Viewsonic VA1655 competes with similar monitors from brands like Asus and AOC, which offer comparable features and often lower price points. For example, the Arzopa Z1FC is noted for its better refresh rates, catering to gamers who may be looking for more performance. Additionally, considering that some budget monitors can be found for as little as $60, the VA1655’s price may not always justify its advantages.
Final Thoughts: Is the Viewsonic VA1655 Worth It?
In summary, the Viewsonic VA1655 is a competent but flawed entry into the portable monitor market. It provides useful features like USB-C power delivery and an integrated kickstand, but its bulkiness, average image quality, and weak audio performance are significant downsides. Users in need of a reliable portable monitor for basic tasks like web browsing and document editing may find it satisfactory; however, those seeking higher-quality visuals or better sound will want to explore other options.
Ultimately, deciding whether to purchase the VA1655 will depend on individual needs and preferences, particularly how the monitor aligns with what you prioritize in usability, performance, and portability.