Kenowa 17.3″ PC Monitor Review
May 18, 2025
Explore the Kenowa 17.3" PC Monitor: a portable, vibrant screen for work or gaming. With effortless setup and built-in speakers, it's perfect for your on-the-go needs.
The Kenowa 13.3-inch Portable Monitor is an HD display running at 1366×768 resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate, 1000:1 contrast ratio, 300 nits brightness, 72% color gamut, 160-degree viewing angle, 5ms response time, and flicker-free technology. It weighs 1.17 kg (2.58 lbs), measures 12.7 x 7.9 x 0.58 inches, and connects via two USB-C ports and one HDMI port. It includes built-in dual speakers, a 3.5mm audio jack, an adjustable kickstand (0-90 degrees), and VESA 75x75mm mount holes (bracket not included). Important: the DC power supply must be connected regardless of connection method. The package includes the monitor, an HDMI cable, a Type-C to Type-C cable, a 12V 2A power adapter, and a user manual. At 1366×768 resolution, this is a budget entry-level portable monitor suited for basic tasks rather than detailed productivity or media work.
Display: 13.3-Inch 1366×768 HD
The 13.3-inch LED/LCD panel runs at 1366×768 HD resolution. This is not Full HD (1920×1080). At 1366×768, text is less sharp and you get less usable workspace compared to 1080P portable monitors. For basic tasks like web browsing, email, video calls, and simple document work, the resolution is functional. For detailed spreadsheet work, photo editing, or any task requiring fine text rendering, the lower resolution is a noticeable limitation.
300 nits brightness is adequate for standard indoor environments. The 1000:1 contrast ratio provides standard separation between dark and light content. The 72% color gamut covers the basic color range for everyday use but is not suited for color-critical professional work. The 160-degree viewing angle is narrower than the 178 degrees found on most IPS portable monitors, meaning colors and brightness may shift when viewed from wider angles.
The 5ms response time handles standard productivity and casual media playback. Flicker-free technology reduces eye strain during extended use. The screen supports both 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios.
Connectivity: USB-C and HDMI (DC Power Required)
Two USB-C ports and one HDMI port provide the connection options. An important detail: the DC power supply must be connected at all times regardless of which connection method you use. This means the monitor cannot run on USB-C power alone from a laptop. You always need the included 12V 2A power adapter plugged in.
For USB-C, a single cable handles the display signal while the power adapter provides power separately. For HDMI, the HDMI cable carries the video signal and the power adapter provides power. This two-cable minimum is less convenient than monitors that run on USB-C power alone, but it ensures consistent performance regardless of the connected device’s power output.
Compatible devices include laptops, PCs, Macs, cameras, smartphones, and gaming consoles (PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch). The monitor is plug-and-play with no drivers or software needed.
Portability: 2.58 lbs with Adjustable Kickstand
At 1.17 kg (2.58 lbs) and 12.7 x 7.9 x 0.58 inches, the Kenowa is compact enough for a backpack or carry-on. The 13.3-inch size matches a standard laptop screen, so it doesn’t add significant bulk to a travel bag.
The built-in adjustable kickstand tilts from 0 to 90 degrees, providing stable support at any angle on a flat surface. The kickstand eliminates the need for a separate stand or cover. VESA 75x75mm mount holes on the back allow wall or arm mounting for a more permanent setup, though the VESA bracket is not included and must be purchased separately.
Display Modes
The monitor supports duplicate mode (mirror your laptop screen), extend mode (add an independent second desktop), and second screen functionality. These modes cover the standard multi-monitor configurations for productivity and entertainment.
Audio: Dual Speakers and 3.5mm Jack
Built-in dual speakers provide audio for video calls, system sounds, and casual media playback. The 3.5mm audio jack allows connection to headphones or external speakers for private listening or better sound quality.
| Feature |
Details |
| Screen Size |
13.3 inches |
| Resolution |
1366×768 HD |
| Panel Type |
LED/LCD, glossy finish |
| Refresh Rate |
60Hz |
| Contrast Ratio |
1000:1 |
| Brightness |
300 nits |
| Color Gamut |
72% |
| Viewing Angle |
160 degrees |
| Response Time |
5ms |
| Eye Care |
Flicker-free |
| Speakers |
Built-in dual speakers |
| Audio |
3.5mm audio jack |
| Ports |
2x USB-C, 1x HDMI |
| Power |
DC power required (12V 2A adapter included) |
| Kickstand |
Adjustable 0-90 degrees |
| VESA |
75x75mm (bracket not included) |
| Weight |
1.17 kg (2.58 lbs) |
| Dimensions |
12.7 x 7.9 x 0.58 inches |
| Display Modes |
Duplicate, Extend, Second Screen |
| Compatible Devices |
Laptop, PC, Mac, Camera, Smartphone, PS4/5, Xbox, Switch |
| In the Box |
Monitor, HDMI cable, Type-C cable, 12V 2A power adapter, user manual |
| Model |
HD-133 |
| Warranty |
1 year |
What’s in the Box
The package includes the 13.3-inch portable monitor, an HDMI cable, a Type-C to Type-C cable (5V 2A), a 12V 2A power adapter, and an English user manual. The power adapter is essential since the monitor requires DC power at all times.
Pros and Cons
What Stands Out
- Compact 13.3-inch size fits easily in any laptop bag
- Dual USB-C and HDMI connectivity for broad device compatibility
- 300 nits brightness for comfortable indoor use
- Adjustable kickstand (0-90 degrees) with no separate stand needed
- VESA 75x75mm mounting holes for wall or arm mounting
- Built-in dual speakers plus 3.5mm audio jack
- Plug-and-play with no drivers required
- Works with cameras in addition to standard devices
- Flicker-free technology for eye comfort
- All cables and power adapter included
What Could Be Better
- 1366×768 resolution is HD, not Full HD (1080P). Text is less sharp and workspace is smaller
- DC power adapter required at all times, cannot run on USB-C power alone
- 160-degree viewing angle is narrower than the 178 degrees on most IPS panels
- Glossy screen finish produces more reflections than matte alternatives
- 72% color gamut is limited for color-sensitive work
- LED/LCD panel type rather than IPS
- 2.58 lbs is heavier than some competing 13.3-inch monitors
- VESA bracket not included, must be purchased separately
- 1-year warranty is shorter than competitors offering 2-3 years
- No protective case or sleeve included
Who Is This Monitor For?
Budget buyers who need a basic portable second screen. At 1366×768, this is an entry-level monitor priced below most 1080P alternatives. For users whose primary needs are email, web browsing, video calls, and basic document work, the lower resolution handles these tasks functionally.
Console gamers who want a compact portable display for PS4/PS5, Xbox, or Switch via HDMI. The 13.3-inch size is easy to carry, and the HDMI connection works with all major consoles. The 300 nits brightness and 60Hz refresh rate handle casual gaming adequately.
Camera operators and photographers who need a field monitor for reviewing shots. The Kenowa lists cameras as a compatible device, and the compact 13.3-inch size with adjustable kickstand works as an on-location preview display.
Users who need VESA mounting in a small portable monitor. The 75x75mm VESA holes allow mounting on an arm or wall bracket, giving the Kenowa a secondary role as a mounted display at a desk.
This monitor is not the right choice if you need Full HD resolution (1080P or higher), if you want single-cable USB-C operation without a separate power adapter, if you need wide viewing angles for shared viewing, or if you prefer a matte anti-glare screen.
Final Verdict
The Kenowa 13.3-inch Portable Monitor is a budget entry-level option for users who need a compact second screen and accept the tradeoffs of 1366×768 resolution. The built-in kickstand, VESA mounting, dual speakers, audio jack, and broad device compatibility (including cameras) provide practical features at a lower price point than 1080P alternatives.
The DC power requirement and 1366×768 resolution are the main limitations. Every connection method requires the power adapter, which adds a cable to every setup. The HD resolution means less workspace and softer text compared to 1080P monitors at the same size. For buyers on a tight budget who prioritize portability and basic functionality over display quality, the Kenowa fills a budget niche with honest limitations.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
