When Apple introduced true windowing multitasking and extended display support with iPadOS 26, pairing my iPad Pro with a portable monitor suddenly became a lot more interesting. I’ve used numerous portable displays over the years, primarily with my MacBook Air, and they’ve ranged from inexpensive plastic options to higher-end models that focus on the screen itself. Some were decent, but the Sotsu FlipAction lineup just hits different. It looks like someone took a 16-inch iPad and attached it to a modular, magnetic Studio Display stand. I’ve been using this monitor for well over a year now, and I wanted to share my in-depth thoughts on whether or not it is worth the price. Let’s break it down.
Be sure to catch our hands-on review on the Sotsu Flip Action Pro below:
In a world where portable monitors fit in two main categories: cheap plastic shells with flimsy folio stands, or simple metal slabs with a single hinge that barely passes as “ergonomic.” The first thing you notice is how unique the Sotsu monitor’s design is, and it’s a nice change. They decided to go with a two-piece system, a 16-inch display and a magnetic folding stand. Both are made of anodized aluminum, which gives them a feel similar to that of an Apple product. It also doesn’t hurt that the display literally looks and feels like a big iPad.
When stowed away, they use my favorite material: magnets! You remove the stand from the display, fold it down, and then it attaches brilliantly to the rear of the display. It also fits flush against the stand portion that is on the display, so there is no real protrusion that can be snagged on something in your bag. When stowed away, it measures only about half an inch thick, making it easy to fit into any backpack or laptop sleeve.
Ergonomics and viewing angles
To set up the monitor, remove the stand from the rear and then attach it to the portion of the stand that attaches to the monitor. From there, you can adjust to your heart’s desire. The stand is a dual-hinge design. It has a hinge at the base of the stand but also a hinge where the stand meets the rear of the display. It gives it a somewhat similar feel to the Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. Additionally, you have a 360 ° swivel point that allows you to adjust the monitor’s orientation. Giving you a package that:
Has a base hinge to bring the panel forward
A top hinge where the display attaches
Full 360º rotation with auto-rotation baked in that locks at every 90º interval
This allows you to use it horizontally beside a MacBook, vertically as a sidebar monitor, or raised above your iPad Pro for better ergonomics. The flexibility is closer to a full desktop monitor than anything “portable.”
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