The ViewSonic TD1656-2K portable touchscreen monitor offers a crisp display and included passive stylus, making it a tempting option for those seeking on-the-go productivity. However, its performance is better suited for tasks like working in spreadsheets than creative applications like photo editing.
Introduction
Having a touchscreen on a computer can significantly enhance productivity, providing a convenient alternative to using a mouse. The ViewSonic TD1656-2K aims to deliver this functionality in a portable package, compatible with both Windows and MacOS. This review explores its features, performance, and overall value proposition.
ViewSonic TD1656-2K: Specifications and Features
The TD1656-2K boasts a 16-inch IPS LCD display with a 2560×1600 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. Key specifications include:
- Display Size: 16-inch, 16:10 aspect ratio
- Resolution: 2560×1600
- Panel Type: IPS LCD 8-bit
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Adaptive Sync: None
- HDR: No
- Ports: 2x USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode, 65W Power Delivery)
- VESA Mount: No
- Speakers: 2x 2-watt
- Price: $349.99 MSRP
Its standout features are the 10-point multi-touch screen and dual USB-C ports with 65W Power Delivery. The included passive stylus adds further versatility for on-screen interaction.
Design and Connectivity
The TD1656-2K sports a professional design with slim bezels and a silver metal back. The included fabric cover doubles as a stand, supporting both landscape and portrait orientations. While functional, the stand’s folding mechanism might require some initial figuring out.
The dual USB-C ports offer versatile connectivity. Both support DisplayPort for video input and 65W Power Delivery, enabling simultaneous charging of the connected laptop and powering the monitor. This bidirectional power delivery is a notable advantage over many competing portable monitors.
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Touchscreen and Stylus Performance
The TD1656-2K’s touchscreen is generally responsive and accurate for everyday tasks. Multi-touch gestures, such as the Windows five-finger pinch to close all apps, work flawlessly. The included passive stylus, while comfortable to hold, exhibits noticeable latency. This lag, while not a major issue for general navigation, becomes apparent when drawing or sketching in applications like Photoshop or Affinity Photo.
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The on-screen menu, controlled via the power and volume buttons, is functional but limited in customization options. Adjustments are primarily confined to brightness, contrast, volume, and audio mode.
The built-in 2-watt speakers are surprisingly decent, offering clear audio output suitable for podcasts or background music. However, the lack of bass makes them less ideal for entertainment purposes.
SDR Performance and Color Accuracy
The TD1656-2K boasts a bright display, peaking at 381 nits, which ensures good visibility even in brightly lit environments. However, the glossy screen can be prone to glare. While its contrast ratio of 1620:1 is above average for a portable monitor, it falls short of the immersive experience offered by OLED displays.
Color gamut is a weak point, covering only 99% of sRGB and 76% of DCI-P3. This limited color range results in a less vibrant image compared to other monitors in its price range. Color accuracy, however, is reasonably good, ensuring a realistic depiction of colors. Sharpness is excellent, thanks to the high pixel density of 189 PPI.
viewsonic td1656 2k 2 Matthew Smith /
HDR and Motion Performance
HDR is not supported on the TD1656-2K. Motion performance is also underwhelming due to the 60Hz refresh rate and lack of Adaptive Sync. This makes it unsuitable for fast-paced gaming.
viewsonic td1656 2k brightness Matthew Smith /
viewsonic td1656 2k contrast Matthew Smith /
viewsonic td1656 2k color gamut Matthew Smith /
viewsonic td1656 2k color accuracy Matthew Smith /
Conclusion
The ViewSonic TD1656-2K offers a compelling blend of portability, touchscreen functionality, and convenient connectivity. However, its limited color performance and stylus latency make it less suitable for creative professionals. It’s a solid choice for productivity-focused users who prioritize a touchscreen experience for tasks like spreadsheets and presentations, but those seeking high color accuracy or smooth motion performance should look elsewhere.
