Best Phones That Can Be Used as a Secondary Display for PC in Malaysia (2025 Edition)
Introduction
Need a smartphone that doubles as a secondary display for your PC or laptop di Malaysia? With the right combination of hardware & software, you can turn your phone into a useful workspace extension — ideal for multitasking, monitoring chats, dashboards or just more screen real estate. I’ll show you top phone picks, how to set it up, and what to watch out for (RM pricing, local telco/retail context).
What to Look For in a Phone for Secondary-Display Use
Before checking out specific models, here are some key features and setup considerations:
- USB-C and DisplayPort/Alt Mode or support for wireless second-screen protocols: If you want low latency (important for display extension) a wired connection is best. Wireless works but may have lag. For example, apps like Duet Display, AirDroid Cast or Deskreen enable the phone as a second screen. (Android Central)
- Good display size & resolution: A larger screen with higher resolution helps when using it as a monitor.
- Strong hardware & network/wired connection: To ensure smooth performance without lag when used as a monitor extension.
- Software compatibility & ecosystem: Some phone brands (e.g., Samsung) have built-in “second screen” or “extend display” features for Windows PCs. (addrom.com)
- Local availability & warranty in Malaysia: Always get the “Malaysia-set” to ensure local support, network bands, etc.
- Use case clarity: If your need is merely for chat/monitoring, any mid-to-high phone may suffice. If you need full productivity extension (graphics, video editing), you may need the best specs.
Comparison Table: Top Phone Picks for Secondary Display Use
Here are some smartphone options available in Malaysia that make strong candidates for this purpose. Always check the variant you buy supports the required features.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
top flagship Samsung secondary monitor
RM 3,999.00
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google flagship Pixel 9 Pro Malaysia
RM 3,779.00
Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9 (budget flagship)
RM 3,361.79
Sony Xperia 1 VII
Sony flagship Xperia 1 VII professional display
RM 5,919.95
Oppo Find X8 Ultra 5G
Oppo Find X8 Ultra 5G premium display
RM 2,957.87
Apple iPhone XR
Apple entry iPhone XR monitor reuse
RM 740.48
Ulefone Armor X13
Ulefone rugged budget secondary screen
RM 715.23
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB variant)
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra alternate variant
RM 4,499.00
Quick Highlights:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Flagship device in Malaysia from RM 6,299 (256 GB) for the S24 Ultra. (thestar.com.my)
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: Officially available in Malaysia; great spec choices for those wanting Android purity. (Malay Mail)
- Google Pixel 9: Slightly more affordable than the Pro version, still a strong choice.
- Sony Xperia 1 VII: Premium professional-level display and hardware; for those serious about screen real estate.
- Oppo Find X8 Ultra 5G: Premium device with high quality display; alternative for those not choosing Apple/Samsung.
- Apple iPhone XR: Older device but still usable; good for secondary display use if you already own it.
- Ulefone Armor X13: Rugged budget phone—okay if you want a dedicated secondary display device on the side.
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB variant): Same model as the first, but listed separately just to highlight variant pricing.
Detailed Review of Top Picks
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Short Overview
This flagship from Samsung offers top hardware and is among the best for use as a secondary display because of its large, high-resolution screen, strong connectivity and good support in Malaysia.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Big 6.8″ screen with sharp resolution — good for seeing multiple windows | Price is premium (RM 6,000+) |
| Strong hardware — less likely to lag when used as extended display | Large size may make it less portable for this specific use case |
| Good support in Malaysia (Samsung Malaysia, authorized stores) | If you don’t already own it, could be over-spec for just secondary display use |
Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM)
Starts from around RM 6,299 for 256 GB variant. (thestar.com.my)
Local Buy Tips
- If you already use this phone, you can repurpose it as a secondary display.
- For secondary display-only use, you might shop promos or refurbished units to reduce cost.
- Check connectivity: for wired display extension, make sure USB-C supports video output/DisplayPort Alt Mode.
- Use apps/software like Deskreen or SuperDisplay to enable extended display functionality. (Gadgets To Use)
2. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Short Overview
Officially available in Malaysia, the Pixel 9 Pro offers excellent display & hardware specs which make it a feasible alternative for a secondary monitor setup.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High display quality, recently launched in Malaysia — so local support is good (Malay Mail) | Still a high cost; might require additional software setup for second-screen usage |
| Android ecosystem: many apps support extended display + usb/wi-fi link | Not all manufacturer built-in features might directly support “phone as second monitor” out-of-the-box |
Harga di Malaysia (RM)
Prices approximate: 128GB from RM 5,199, 256GB up to RM 5,699 etc. (eCentral.my)
Local Buy Tips
- Buy via authorised retailer (Urban Republic, Senheng/SenQ, Maxis, CelcomDigi) for Malaysian set.
- For best results use wired connection (USB-C) to reduce latency when using as monitor.
- Apps like SuperDisplay or Deskreen can help turn the phone into an extended display for Windows.
3. Google Pixel 9
Short Overview
A slightly more affordable flagship option from Google; if budget is tighter but you still want good quality screen and performance, this is valid.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower cost than Pro model; still strong display hardware | Slightly smaller screen/resolution may mean less workspace as a secondary monitor |
Buy Tips
- Use for monitoring windows, side-tools, chat apps, or reference displays rather than full productivity main display.
- Make sure you install the right PC/phone apps to enable the extended display functionality.
How to Use Your Phone as a Secondary Display (Malaysia Setup)
- Choose wired or wireless connection: Wired (USB-C) gives lowest latency. WiFi wireless more convenient but may lag. (Gadgets To Use)
- Install companion software on PC and phone: e.g., Deskreen (works via browser) or SuperDisplay/Duet. (Android Central)
- Configure your PC display settings: In Windows go to Settings > System > Display > Detect and “Extend these displays”. For Samsung phones you can use Smart View/Second Screen feature. (Android Central)
- Position the phone: Mount it beside your PC monitor, maybe with a stand or clamp so it acts like a real secondary screen.
- Adjust resolution & scaling: Especially if phone screen is small relative to monitor; adjust scale in PC to make text legible.
- Test latency and input: If you plan to interact (touch, use as control surface) test responsiveness; some apps support touch input from phone screen to PC.
- Power and battery: If using wired, phone can charge while connected; if wireless you may want to plug it in.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can any phone be used as a secondary display for PC?
In principle yes, with the right software/driver you can use most phones. But for the best experience you want: a decent-sized display, good connectivity (USB-C, etc.), support for extended display mode or apps that enable it. Some phones (e.g., Samsung Galaxy with Smart View) have built-in easier methods. (addrom.com)
Q2: Does the phone need a special cable or hardware?
A USB-C cable (preferably one that supports data + video if using wired) is ideal. Wireless is possible via apps like Deskreen but may have more latency. (xda-developers.com)
Q3: What are the limitations?
- Phone screen size is smaller than a normal monitor — may limit workspace.
- Wireless connection may lag or drop frames depending on WiFi strength.
- Some features (HDR, high refresh rate) may not be fully usable as secondary display.
- You’ll still rely on phone hardware rather than a dedicated monitor.
Q4: Is this setup useful for Malaysians working from home / remote work?
Yes — very useful for monitoring tasks (e.g., chat windows, dashboards, reference docs), or for travel when you don’t want to carry a full monitor. If your phone supports it and you have a stand/desk area you can get extra screen real-estate.
Q5: Should I buy a phone just for the secondary display use?
If your primary usage is as secondary display then maybe not — you might be better off buying a portable monitor. But if you also need a flagship phone for other uses and want the flexibility of second-screen use, then yes it can work.
Final Recommendation
For Malaysian buyers wanting a phone that can double as a secondary display for a PC:
- For top performance and future-proofing: go for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra — best hardware and local support.
- For strong performance with Android ecosystem focus: Google Pixel 9 Pro is a very good choice.
- If you already own a flagship phone, you may reuse it as your secondary display rather than buying a new one solely for that purpose.
Call-to-Action: Semak Harga Terkini di Shopee Malaysia! Use voucher codes, compare seller ratings, ensure the model is “Malaysia set” (warranty/local stock) and confirm that the phone supports extended display usage via your chosen method — then you’ll get an efficient secondary display setup.
