If you're like most of the TR staff, you almost can't work on a single monitor, something that makes using laptops an exercise in frustration. It's pretty hard to justify grabbing something like the Valerie, though. AOC has us multi-monitor addicts covered with its new ultra-slim 15.6" USB monitor. The attractively-titled I1601FWUX is just 0.33" (8.5 mm) thick, and pulls both power and display data from a single USB Type-C connection.
Displays like this aren't exactly a new concept, but AOC's looks like one of the better examples of the form. It uses a 1920×1080 IPS panel that AOC says can be viewed comfortably within 160° of head-on, both horizontally and vertically. The company rates the monitor's brightness at 220 cd/m², which isn't amazing. However, considering that the monitor is entirely powered off one USB connection, that number is actually fairly impressive.
The stand on the I1601FWUX is a folding type similar to what we've seen on a lot of tablet cases and convertible PCs. AOC calls it a smart cover, and when using it, the monitor will auto-pivot to be used in either portrait or landscape mode. Finally, thanks to the wonders of DisplayPort Alternate Mode, this monitor shouldn't have the performance problems of older USB displays, either. AOC says the pack-along display will be available for $199 in the second quarter of this year.
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