The Perfect Companion for Mac Mini and Other Mini PCs? Minisforum Launches a Portable 15.6-Inch Dual-Screen Monitor
Minisforum, a company dedicated to creating various mini hardware devices, has recently launched a portable monitor with dual screens, model MSDA156. This monitor is equipped with two 15.6-inch screens, each boasting a resolution of 1920x1080.
The two screens are connected by a hinge and can fully unfold to provide additional display space. Users can also support and fold the screens with an integrated stand for convenient display through the primary screen.
The MSDA156 monitor is priced at $231, equivalent to approximately 1686 CNY, and is compatible with Windows 10/11 and Apple macOS systems, making it a potential match for the Mac Mini.
Here are the detailed specifications:
- Screen Size: 15.6” x 2
- Typical Brightness: 250 nits
- Color Gamut: 45% NTSC
- Contrast Ratio: Typical 1000:1
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 for both screens
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9 for both screens
- Response Time: 20 milliseconds
- Viewing Angle: Typical 170°
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Maximum Flip Angle: 315°
- Input Ports: USB-C x 2 + HDMI x 1
- Audio Input: 3.5mm headphone jack, built-in dual speakers
- Rated Power: 30W
- Weight: 1.6 kg
From the specifications listed, the strengths and weaknesses of the MSDA156 monitor are clear. Advantages include the ability to display more content on two screens, built-in dual speakers for easier music playback, and the provision of USB-C and HDMI video interfaces. However, downsides include a lower screen resolution, a narrow color gamut, a longer response time of 20 milliseconds, and a refresh rate of 60Hz, which meets basic usage needs.
This monitor could be an appropriate match for devices like the Raspberry Pi, given its performance is not very high. However, pairing it with high-performance devices like the Mac Mini M4 might present challenges, especially since macOS systems perform better with higher-resolution screens.
Another consideration is the power supply. Ideally, connecting the Mac Mini to the monitor with a single USB-C cable should suffice. In reality, given the monitor's 30W power requirement, additional power may be needed through another USB port if the Mac and Windows devices cannot supply enough power.
Interested customers can visit the Minisforum store for more information: https://store.minisforum.com/products/minisforum-mdsa156-portable-dual-monitor