MSI PRO MP161 E2 Portable Monitor: A Practical Review

Enter portable monitors, which are gaining popularity as a way to expand your workspace on the go. They offer a second screen wherever you need one, boosting productivity and multitasking potential.

One such portable monitor is the MSI PRO MP161 E2. Designed specifically with productivity in mind, this sleek and lightweight monitor aims to be your perfect work companion. MSI, a brand well-known in the computer hardware space, promises a reliable and practical experience.

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 prioritizes ease of use with its simple setup and versatile connectivity. Additionally, MSI aims to address a common pain point of extended screen time: eye strain. Their EyesErgo technology features anti-flicker and blue light reduction modes.

But does the MSI PRO MP161 E2 make a worthy addition to your laptop setup? Is it the right portable monitor solution for your productivity needs? In this review, we’ll dive into the details of this portable monitor. We’ll explore its design, display quality, features, and real-world scenarios to see if it lives up to its promises.

Key Takeaways:

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 excels in portability with its slim design and lightweight build.
Its display quality is good for productivity tasks but lacks the color accuracy needed for creative professionals.
Connectivity is versatile, and the included accessories make setup a breeze.
The MSI PRO MP161 E2 offers solid value for frequent travelers and those seeking expanded screen space on the go.

1. Design and portability

Design: Functional and Understated

MSI takes a no-frills approach with the PRO MP161 E2’s design. Its dark chassis and simple lines give it a professional appearance. You won’t find flashy RGB lighting or aggressive styling here. Instead, MSI focuses on practicality, keeping the monitor lightweight and slim for effortless portability.

The materials feel durable, mainly a mix of plastics with a metal frame for some added rigidity. This focus on durability means worry-free use while commuting or setting up in temporary workspaces.

Weight and Thickness: True Portability

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 weighs about 0.75 kg (1.65 lbs), remarkably light given its size. It slips easily into most laptop bags thanks to its slim profile. This weight and size make it a truly portable monitor, unlikely to weigh you down when on the go.

Setup: Quick and Convenient

Setting up the MSI PRO MP161 E2 is straightforward thanks to a combination of Mini HDMI and USB-C ports. USB-C offers the convenience of both video and power transfer with a single cable (if your laptop supports it). Otherwise, you can use the included Mini HDMI cable along with a USB-A to USB-C adapter for power.

The included folio-style case doubles as a stand. It’s magnetic, attaching securely to the monitor. The stand provides several usable viewing angles, though its stability can be a bit hit or miss on uneven surfaces.

Accessories: Everything You Need

MSI includes the necessary cables and adapters to get you up and running quickly. You get the case/stand, a Mini HDMI to HDMI cable, and a USB-A to USB-C adapter in the box. This thoughtful approach means you won’t need to purchase additional accessories separately.

Overall: Portability Done Right

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 excels in the design and portability department. It’s a portable monitor designed with a focus on being easy to transport and deploy in different work environments. While some competing monitors may offer slightly slimmer profiles or fancier stands, the MSI strikes a great balance between everyday usability and true portability.

2. Display Quality

Panel Type and Resolution: A Practical Choice

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 features a 15.6-inch IPS LCD panel. IPS technology is known for its superior viewing angles when compared to older TN panels, which is important for a portable monitor you might share with others at times. The Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is a practical standard for portable monitors. It offers a decent level of sharpness without being overly demanding on laptop resources.

Brightness: Adequate for Most Environments

MSI rates the PRO MP161 E2’s brightness at 220 nits. While not exceptional, it’s sufficient for most indoor environments. However, direct sunlight or brightly lit spaces might prove challenging for this display. Consider your typical workspaces before making a decision – if you often work outdoors, you might find it a bit dim.

Color Accuracy: Not for Designers, But Fine for Productivity

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 isn’t targeted at artists or photographers. It covers around 53% of the sRGB color spectrum, making it a better choice for business documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and general web browsing than for color-critical work. Color representation is decent, but you might notice it’s not as vibrant or rich as your main laptop display.

Viewing Angles: Great for Collaboration

As expected from an IPS panel, viewing angles are excellent on the MSI PRO MP161 E2. Content remains clear and legible even when viewed from off-center angles. This feature is particularly useful when sharing content with a colleague or showcasing a presentation in a compact setting.

Gaming Potential: Casual, Not Competitive

While not its primary focus, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 does feature some gaming-oriented elements. It supports adaptive sync (like FreeSync) which can help reduce screen tearing with compatible devices. Additionally, you can tweak the response time settings in the monitor’s menu. However, don’t expect lightning-fast refresh rates or the lowest response times seen in dedicated gaming monitors.

EyesErgo: Reducing Eye Strain

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 incorporates EyesErgo technology which includes flicker-free backlighting and a blue light reduction mode. While these features cannot replace taking breaks and good viewing habits, they can potentially reduce eye fatigue during extended work sessions.

Overall: A Display Focused on Productivity

The MSI PRO MP161 E2’s display prioritizes practicality over exceptional visual performance. For everyday office tasks, light content editing, video consumption, or casual gaming, it performs adequately. If you work with color-sensitive material or demand high refresh rates, this portable monitor might not be the ideal fit. Overall, the MSI PRO MP161 E2’s display hits a sensible compromise between portability, price, and everyday productivity features.

3. Features

Connectivity: Flexible Options

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 offers both Mini HDMI and USB-C ports for video input. Using USB-C allows for a convenient one-cable setup with compatible laptops and smartphones. This means both power and video can travel over a single cable, reducing clutter and streamlining setups.

For older laptops or devices without USB-C, the Mini HDMI port offers compatibility with a wide range of sources. It’s a smart move by MSI, since it ensures the monitor works with numerous devices right out of the box.

On-Screen Display Menu: Useful Tweaks

The PRO MP161 E2 features a simple On-Screen Display (OSD) menu accessible through physical buttons. The OSD offers adjustments for brightness, contrast, and color temperature as expected. Additionally, MSI includes options for response time overdrive (useful for some gaming) and different picture modes. These modes cater to watching movies, reading text, or using the monitor in dimly lit environments.

Built-in Speakers: Basic but Convenient

While not a replacement for dedicated speakers or headphones, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 does contain built-in speakers. Their volume and quality are average at best. In a pinch, they’re better than nothing for quickly watching a video or joining a conference call when you don’t have other audio options.

Pen Support for Select Devices

Interestingly, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 can accept touch input via the USB-C port from compatible devices. MSI lists certain smartphones as supported, opening a unique use case. However, this is likely a niche feature and not something most laptop users will benefit from.

Additional Features to Note

While the MSI PRO MP161 E2 is primarily a no-frills portable monitor, there are some noteworthy additions. It has a VESA mount pattern (75mm x 75mm), unusual for most portable monitors. This allows you to attach it to monitor arms or alternative stands for greater setup flexibility.

The MSI Display Kit software offers some screen management features. It enables screen splitting and basic picture-in-picture functionality. While it’s not a full-fledged workspace management solution, it can be helpful in certain productivity scenarios.

Feature Set: Geared Toward Practicality

Overall, MSI has chosen not to overload the PRO MP161 E2 with a plethora of features. Instead, the focus is on core functionality and compatibility with a wide range of devices. The addition of a VESA mount and basic software control is where it differentiates itself slightly from barebones portable monitor competitors. If you seek a portable monitor with a wide and flashy feature set, this might not be it. However, if you want a versatile, practical second screen, MSI offers the key tools to get the job done.

4. Pricing

Target Audience: Defining Value

The value proposition of the MSI PRO MP161 E2 becomes clearer when you consider the ideal user. Students, business professionals, and anyone who relies on a laptop as their primary work tool stand to benefit the most. If you frequently work remotely, travel with your laptop, or find yourself cramped for screen space, this portable monitor offers tangible value.

Conversely, if you rarely work away from your desk, don’t travel, or are on a tight budget, the investment in a portable monitor may be less compelling. It’s also not the right choice for color-critical work, such as for professional photographers or videographers.

Competition: Comparing Features and Price

Checking the current price of the MSI PRO MP161 E2 is crucial for an accurate assessment. However, remember that the portable monitor market is dynamic, with prices and competitors evolving over time. A quick search on popular online retailers will give the most up-to-date picture.

Focus on portable monitors of a similar size (15.6-inch) and resolution (Full HD) when doing comparisons. Consider the following features:

Panel Type: Most comparable models use IPS panels, but a few cheaper options might have older TN panels.
Brightness and Color Accuracy: Decide if better color accuracy is worth an extra cost for you.
Connectivity: Some monitors offer only HDMI or a mix of USB-C with older ports, impacting convenience.
Extra Features: Does a competitor offer touchscreen capability, a built-in battery, or more extensive software options?

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 aims for a middle ground, offering a sensible mix of features, brightness, and connectivity while prioritizing portability. You won’t necessarily find the absolute best in any one category, but it avoids having any glaring weaknesses.

Long-term Use

The value of a portable monitor extends beyond its initial cost. Consider the potential productivity gains by investing in a second screen. If it saves time during tasks, reduces stress, or makes you more efficient on the go, then those gains compound over time.

MSI’s reputation for generally durable and reliable products adds to the value equation. It’s reasonable to expect the PRO MP161 E2 to function well for several years, especially if treated with care while traveling.

Intangible Benefits

Don’t underestimate the impact a portable monitor can have on eye strain and work fatigue. Having more screen space with the MSI PRO MP161 E2 might translate to working longer hours more comfortably. This benefit is difficult to quantify in terms of purely monetary value but can be significant for certain users.

The Verdict: Subjective but Practical

Ultimately, whether the MSI PRO MP161 E2 represents good value for the price depends on how well it aligns with your needs. Its core strengths are its portability, decent all-around feature set, and ease of setup. If you prioritize these elements and can accept its limitations in color accuracy and outdoor brightness, then the MSI PRO MP161 E2 offers solid value for its price.

5. Potential Use Case of Portable Monitor

Productivity Powerhouse

The core benefit of a portable monitor is increased screen real estate when you’re away from your desk. Having an additional monitor opens up new possibilities. You can keep reference documents, spreadsheets, or your email inbox visible on the MSI PRO MP161 E2 while working on your primary laptop screen. This makes multitasking more efficient as you avoid constantly switching between windows or tabs.

For presentations, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 becomes an extension of your laptop display. You can show speaker notes, slide previews, or dashboards on the portable monitor while the audience sees your main presentation. The wide viewing angles enhance this use case, allowing colleagues to gather around the portable screen for small group discussions or impromptu collaborations.

Travel-Friendly Companion

The lightweight design and slim profile of the MSI PRO MP161 E2 make it ideal for professionals on the go. Whether you’re working from a hotel room, a coffee shop, or between client meetings, it expands your workspace with ease. The simple setup and included accessories keep things hassle-free.

Frequent travelers will appreciate the option to use a single USB-C cable for both power and video input. This dramatically reduces cable clutter, making your work setup more streamlined and professional.

Mobile Entertainment Hub

While work is its primary purpose, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 transforms into an entertainment device during your downtime. You can use it to watch movies or stream videos with a larger, more immersive image than your laptop or smartphone screen. Its built-in speakers offer basic convenience for these scenarios.

Additionally, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 has some potential for casual mobile gaming. The adaptive sync feature helps with smoothness, and the display is surprisingly responsive. However, don’t expect the performance of dedicated high-refresh-rate gaming monitors.

Expanded Creativity

If your work involves light photo or video editing on the go, a portable monitor like the MSI PRO MP161 E2 can be handy. While its color accuracy isn’t pro-grade, it offers better visuals than a cramped laptop screen. The option to place editing tools and image palettes on the portable monitor can improve your workflow and reduce eye strain.

Students will find the MSI PRO MP161 E2 enhances focus during research sessions or extended writing projects. The ability to have source materials open on the portable monitor while composing essays on the main display reduces distractions and aids note-taking.

Situational Versatility

The beauty of a portable monitor lies in how well it adapts to different scenarios. You might use it to extend your desktop PC’s display for a brief project, offering a temporary triple-monitor setup. Content creators may find it useful as a dedicated monitoring display off to the side of their primary workstation.

Real-World Benefits

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 portable monitor offers a practical way to boost your productivity, especially when paired with a laptop. Whether it’s through enhancing your on-the-go efficiency, expanding your work area for creative tasks, or even just watching movies more comfortably – there are tangible benefits you’ll discover quickly.

Conclusion

The MSI PRO MP161 E2 portable monitor delivers on its promise of practical, on-the-go productivity. Its focus on being lightweight, easy to set up, and compatible with various devices makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking to boost their efficiency away from their main desk. While the display won’t wow graphic designers or serious gamers, it’s perfectly suitable for everyday office work, web browsing, and light content consumption.

The standout value proposition of the MSI PRO MP161 E2 lies in its portability and versatility. If you frequently find yourself wishing for more screen real estate while working on your laptop, this monitor could significantly improve your workflow. Students, business travelers, and anyone transitioning between workspaces will find it genuinely useful.

However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. This isn’t the brightest, most color-accurate, or feature-packed portable monitor on the market. MSI’s focus was on creating a reliable, well-rounded tool without excessive bells and whistles.

Ultimately, if your primary criteria are portability, ease of use, and decent all-around performance, the MSI PRO MP161 E2 portable monitor delivers excellent value. It may not be the flashiest option, but it could be the productivity upgrade you’ve been seeking.

FAQs About Portable Monitor

Q: Do portable monitors need to be plugged in?

A: Yes, most do. Some may have built-in batteries, but the MSI PRO MP161 E2 requires a power source via USB-C or the included adapter.

Q: Can I use a portable monitor with my smartphone?

A: Some portable monitors have this capability, including the MSI PRO MP161 E2. Check compatibility with your specific phone model.

Q: Will a portable monitor improve my laptop’s battery life?

A: No, it will likely decrease battery life since you’re powering an additional display.

Q: Are portable monitors good for gaming?

A: They can be for casual gaming, but don’t expect the low response times or high refresh rates of dedicated gaming monitors. The MSI PRO MP161 E2 features adaptive sync for some improvement.

Where to Buy MSI PRO MP161 E2 Portable Monitor in Singapore?

Are you convinced the MSI PRO MP161 E2 is the perfect portable monitor to level up your productivity? If so, then I have fantastic news! You can easily snag this versatile work companion from the trusted experts over at Volta PC.

Volta PC is known for its exceptional customer service and vast selection of tech products. They understand the different needs of students, professionals, and casual users alike. Their team can answer any lingering questions you might have about the MSI PRO MP161 E2 and ensure you get the best experience with your new monitor.

Not only does Volta PC offer competitive prices, but they also frequently run promotions and have convenient shipping options. You might even discover a bundle deal pairing the MSI PRO MP161 E2 with a compatible laptop or other useful accessories.

Plus, by supporting Volta PC, you’re choosing a company passionate about providing top-notch customer experiences. They’re committed to making your tech purchases as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Volta PC’s website and explore their catalog. Claim your MSI PRO MP161 E2 portable monitor today and prepare to transform your workflow, entertainment, and travel productivity!