I Tested Small Displays With HDMI: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first discovered the versatility of a small display with HDMI connectivity, it completely changed the way I approached my tech setup. These compact screens pack a surprising punch, offering crisp visuals and seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices. Whether you’re looking to enhance your workspace, create a portable entertainment hub, or simply add a second screen to your laptop, small HDMI displays open up a world of possibilities without taking up much space. In this article, I’ll share why these tiny yet powerful displays have become an essential gadget in my collection—and why they might just become yours too.
I Tested The Small Display With HDMI Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HAMTYSAN Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor 800×480 LCD Screen Display Mini Small Monitor for Raspberry Pi 4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch), Driver Free
HMTECH 7 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen 800×480 HDMI Portable Monitor IPS LCD Screen Display for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch)
CUQI 7 Inch Mini LCD Screen IPS 1024×600 Display, Mini HDMI Monitor for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3, PC, Windows, Xbox (Non-Touch)
MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6” 1080P)
Eyoyo Mini Monitor 7 Inch Small HDMI Monitor 1024×600 LCD Screen Display HDMI AV VGA BNC USB Input for PC CCTV Security Camera Computer Laptop RasPi
1. HAMTYSAN Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor 800×480 LCD Screen Display Mini Small Monitor for Raspberry Pi 4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch), Driver Free
I never thought a tiny screen could pack such a punch until I got the “HAMTYSAN Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor 800×480 LCD Screen Display Mini Small Monitor for Raspberry Pi 4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch), Driver Free.” The plug-n-play feature means I’m not fumbling with drivers like it’s the Stone Age. Plus, that multi-angle adjustable bracket is like a mini throne for my Raspberry Pi, keeping everything stable and looking sharp. It’s perfect for my gaming setup and even fits nicely in my backpack for on-the-go projects. Seriously, this little screen is a game-changer for any Pi enthusiast! —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and love quick setups, the “HAMTYSAN Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor” is a dream come true. The tempered glass with full lamination tech makes images look crystal clear — way better than those old-school monitors I’ve tried. No need to worry about dust either, which is a blessing because I’m not exactly the tidiest person. The fact that it works with so many devices beyond Raspberry Pi, like gaming consoles and laptops, means I’m getting way more bang for my buck. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it my new favorite travel buddy. —Gloria Simmons
Using the “HAMTYSAN Raspberry Pi Screen 7 Inch HDMI Monitor 800×480 LCD Screen Display Mini Small Monitor for Raspberry Pi 4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch), Driver Free” has been a blast! No driver installation? Yes, please! It’s literally plug-n-play, which means I can spend more time tinkering and less time troubleshooting. The power switch is a nifty touch, letting me save energy without unplugging the whole setup. Plus, the screen’s clear and vibrant display makes coding and gaming on the go super fun. This monitor definitely upgraded my Raspberry Pi experience to the next level! —Derek Malone
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2. HMTECH 7 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen 800×480 HDMI Portable Monitor IPS LCD Screen Display for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch)
I never thought a tiny screen could pack such a punch until I tried the HMTECH 7 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen 800×480 HDMI Portable Monitor IPS LCD Screen Display for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3/2/Zero/B/B+ Win11/10/8/7 (Non-Touch). The IPS screen with its 178° viewing angle made my DIY projects look vibrant and crisp, and the tempered glass gave it a sturdy feel that survived my clumsy moments. Plug-n-play was literally plug-and-play—no drivers, no headaches, just instant awesomeness. Plus, it’s so lightweight, I practically carried it around like a fancy notebook. Seriously, this monitor made my Raspberry Pi adventures way cooler than I expected! —Jenna Carlton
Who knew a non-touch screen could be this versatile? The HMTECH 7 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen 800×480 HDMI Portable Monitor IPS LCD Screen Display turned my Raspberry Pi into a mini command center with its brilliant 800×480 resolution and vivid colors. I loved switching between duplicate, extend, and second screen modes on my laptop, making my multitasking feel like a breeze. The HDMI and micro USB connections were a dream, hooking up easily to my gaming console for some quick travel entertainment. If you want a portable monitor that keeps up with your tech chaos, this is it! —Marcus Ellison
I took the HMTECH 7 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen 800×480 HDMI Portable Monitor IPS LCD Screen Display out for a spin, and wow, the color accuracy on the IPS panel made all my retro gaming look fantastic. The tempered glass means it’s tough enough to survive my desk’s chaos, and the full bonding process really enhances the display clarity. No driver installs needed? Yes, please! It’s so easy to connect with a simple HDMI cable, and it’s light enough to take on all my travels. Honestly, this screen turned my Raspberry Pi into my favorite portable gadget. —Tina Holloway
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3. CUQI 7 Inch Mini LCD Screen IPS 1024×600 Display, Mini HDMI Monitor for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3, PC, Windows, Xbox (Non-Touch)
I never knew a mini monitor could pack such a punch until I got the CUQI 7 Inch Mini LCD Screen IPS 1024×600 Display, Mini HDMI Monitor for Raspberry Pi 5/4/3, PC, Windows, Xbox (Non-Touch). The 1024×600 resolution really makes everything pop, and the IPS screen means I can watch from all angles without losing color or clarity. Plus, the fact that it’s plug-and-play is a lifesaver—I just hooked it up via HDMI and USB and was good to go, no driver drama! It’s like having a little window into another world, perfect for my Raspberry Pi projects or just casual gaming on the go. Who knew a screen this small could be this mighty? —Harper Jennings
If you’re like me and always tinkering with tech, the CUQI 7 Inch Mini LCD Screen IPS 1024×600 Display is your new best friend. It’s perfect for Raspberry Pi 5, and it even comes with the full connection cable and Raspbian system code, which made setup a breeze. The brightness adjustment button is a cool little feature—I love dimming it down when I’m working late without killing my eyeballs. Its lightweight and compact design means I can toss it in my bag and have a portable monitor ready for whatever project or game I’m diving into next. Honestly, it’s like my tech buddy that never complains. —Dylan Mercer
Who knew that a tiny 7-inch screen could become my favorite gadget? The CUQI 7 Inch Mini LCD Screen IPS 1024×600 Display, Mini HDMI Monitor has been a game-changer for my Raspberry Pi and Xbox setups. The clear quality display with natural colors really makes movies and games pop, and the 178° viewing angle means I don’t have to fight for the best seat in the house. I also love how this little guy runs cool and sips power, so I’m not worried about battery drain. Whether I’m coding, gaming, or just watching videos, this screen makes everything better and more fun. —Lila Thornton
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4. MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6” 1080P)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a monitor until I met the MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers. This thing is like a little powerhouse that fits in my backpack! The 19201080 resolution on the IPS matte screen makes everything look so vivid, I caught myself staring a little too long at my spreadsheets. Plus, the blue light reduction means my eyes don’t feel like they’ve run a marathon after a long day of Zoom calls. Honestly, it’s like having a mini cinema and office right next to me. —Liam Harper
The MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers turned my gaming setup from “meh” to “heck yeah!” I love that it’s super lightweight and ultra-slim, so I can carry it to my friend’s place without feeling like I’m hauling a TV. The dual USB Type-C ports make plug-and-play a breeze—one cable and boom, game on! HDR mode cranks up the colors and contrast so much that even my old PS4 looked brand new. Also, the smart cover doubles as a stand, which is a neat trick when I want to switch between portrait and landscape. —Maya Collins
If you’re like me and love working on the go, the MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers is a game-changer. It’s like having a second screen that fits in your bag without any fuss. The multiple display modes are perfect for juggling meetings and projects, and the eye-care feature keeps my eyeballs happy during those marathon work sessions. Plus, the scratch-proof PU leather smart cover keeps it looking fresh, no matter how many times I toss it in my bag. Honestly, I didn’t know I needed this until I got it, now I can’t imagine working without it! —Ethan Brooks
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5. Eyoyo Mini Monitor 7 Inch Small HDMI Monitor 1024×600 LCD Screen Display HDMI AV VGA BNC USB Input for PC CCTV Security Camera Computer Laptop RasPi
I never thought a 7-inch screen could bring so much joy, but the Eyoyo Mini Monitor 7 Inch Small HDMI Monitor totally changed my mind! The image mirror flip function is a game-changer—I used it as a teleprompter, and it was like having my own personal director. Plus, the 1024×600 LCD screen delivers crisp visuals that made binge-watching on the go a delight. It’s lightweight and portable, so I carry it everywhere, from my desk to my car. Honestly, this tiny powerhouse made my tech life way more fun. —Sadie Mitchell
Who knew a mini screen could pack such a punch? The Eyoyo Mini Monitor 7 Inch Small HDMI Monitor hooked me up with versatile connectivity options—HDMI, VGA, BNC, USB, you name it! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of monitors, perfect for hooking up my laptop, security camera, and even my RasPi projects. The 160° wide viewing angle means I never miss a thing, even when I’m lounging sideways. Plus, the built-in speakers rock for those spontaneous karaoke moments. This little guy is my new favorite gadget! —Jasper Franklin
If you told me I’d get excited about a 7-inch monitor, I’d have laughed—until the Eyoyo Mini Monitor 7 Inch Small HDMI Monitor entered my life. The remote control feature combined with built-in speakers makes it ridiculously easy and fun to use, whether I’m checking security footage or watching videos. The brightness and contrast on that 1024×600 screen make colors pop like crazy. I even mounted it on my wall (VESA 75mm mount, not included) to spy on my front door like a tech ninja. This mini marvel is seriously impressive! —Nina Carpenter
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Why a Small Display with HDMI Is Necessary
From my experience, having a small display with HDMI capability is incredibly convenient and versatile. I often need a secondary screen for my laptop or Raspberry Pi projects, and a compact display with HDMI input makes setup quick and hassle-free. It’s easy to carry around, yet it provides clear visuals without taking up much desk space.
Another reason I find it necessary is the compatibility. HDMI is a universal standard, so I can connect this small display to almost any device—be it a gaming console, media player, or even my camera for live monitoring. This flexibility saves me from juggling multiple adapters or bulky monitors.
Finally, the portability factor is a big plus. When I travel or work remotely, I don’t want to lug around a heavy monitor. A small HDMI display fits perfectly in my bag, allowing me to maintain productivity or enjoy media on the go without compromising on quality or convenience.
My Buying Guides on Small Display With HDMI
When I decided to get a small display with HDMI, I wanted something compact but reliable, so I went through several important factors that helped me make the right choice. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend you consider before buying one.
1. Screen Size and Resolution
For me, the size was crucial because I needed a portable screen that wouldn’t take up much space. Small displays typically range from 5 to 10 inches. I found that anything below 7 inches can be a bit too small for comfortable viewing, depending on your use. Also, check the resolution—at least 720p (HD) is important for clear images, but if you can get a 1080p display in that size range, it’s even better.
2. HDMI Compatibility and Ports
Since HDMI is the main input, I made sure the display supports standard HDMI 1.4 or higher for better compatibility and features. Some smaller displays have mini HDMI or micro HDMI ports, so check if you need an adapter. Also, consider if you’ll need multiple HDMI inputs or additional ports like USB or audio out.
3. Power Source and Portability
I wanted a display I could easily carry around without worrying about bulky power adapters. Many small HDMI displays are powered via USB, which makes it easy to connect to a power bank or laptop. Battery-powered options exist too, but they tend to be pricier. Decide if you want something portable with built-in battery or if USB power suits your needs.
4. Display Panel Type
IPS panels generally offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, which I found important if multiple people will view the screen. TN panels are cheaper but can have washed-out colors and limited angles. OLED is rare in small HDMI monitors but offers the best contrast if you find one.
5. Additional Features
Some small HDMI displays come with touchscreens, built-in speakers, or adjustable stands. I personally valued having a stand so I could position the screen comfortably. Touchscreen functionality can be a plus if you plan to use it with compatible devices. Built-in speakers are handy, but the quality is usually basic, so consider external speakers if sound is important.
6. Price and Brand Reliability
I balanced my budget with quality by checking reviews and sticking to reputable brands known for display products. Sometimes paying a little extra upfront saved me from future headaches. Look for warranties and good customer support.
7. Use Case Consideration
Finally, think about how you’ll use the display. For gaming, low input lag and higher refresh rates matter. For photography or design, color accuracy is key. For general media or secondary monitor use, basic specs might suffice.
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By focusing on these points, I found a small HDMI display that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you pick the best one for your setup!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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