There's a lot to like about the MSI Pro MP161 portable monitor. It packs a 15.6-inch matte IPS full-HD display, and weighs just 0.75kg. But best of all, it comes with a versatile built-in stand that lets you use it in portrait or landscape mode easily.

Looking like a giant tablet, the Pro MP161 has a thick lower bezel with the MSI logo. The other edges are reasonably thin. The two USB-C ports, along with a mini HDMI port, are located on the right, but you can plug it on the left, too. That's because the built-in stand can easily be rotated so you can use the monitor upside down or in portrait mode. That said, the OSD doesn't flip around when you do so. There's also no rubber grip if you're using it upside down. But it remains quite stable even so.

In terms of its specifications, the MSI is a 60Hz monitor, with a full-HD resolution. Brightness is rated at 250 nits, which is lower than the Prism Plus Nomad Ultra 13, which has an OLED display. When used outdoors in bright sunlight, the Pro MP161 is viewable, but not ideal. It's best used indoors. You can use the display with a PC, a Mac, a game console, an Android phone or an iPad. You can even use it with a Nintendo Switch with the Genki ShadowCast, but you will need an adapter.

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While it does come with stereo speakers, they pack just 1.5W of power, and sound really soft. I don't recommend them for listening to anything (your laptop is probably louder). They will do in a pinch if you're desperate. The volume buttons also serve to adjust the brightness. I like that it comes with a soft case for storage, as well as a mini-HDMI to HDMI cable, and a USB-C to USB-C cable.

At S$249, the MSI Pro MP161 is a pretty good deal if you're looking for a portable monitor. I like the built-in stand, the matte display, and it's relatively light weight. Get it from Shopee, Lazada, or Amazon.

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Note: Review unit provided by MSI.