Can you really replace your laptop with your phone? Yes, but you'll need the right accessories to turn your phone into a laptop.
Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
If nothing else, you need a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to truly replace your laptop with your phone. It's simply impossible to maintain the same speed and accuracy when typing on a small phone keyboard as you can on a real keyboard.
You should choose a foldable model if you plan on traveling. Some popular options include:
- iClever BK08 Foldable Keyboard - This tri-fold keyboard is compact and even has a built-in trackpad so you don't need a separate mouse. It even includes a detachable phone holder.
- Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard - This cheaper option also has a built-in touchpad instead of a mouse. It also includes a phone stand.
- ProtoArc XKM01 Full Size Folding Keyboard - Not interested in a compact keyboard? This keyboard folds for convenience, but opens up into a full-size keyboard. Plus, it comes with a standard mouse, phone holder, and even a carrying case.
- ProtoArc XKM03 Ergonomic Folding Keyboard – After trying out a few foldable ergonomic keyboards, many people prefer the feel of the ProtoArc XKM03. It doesn't fold up as compactly as some others, but the layout makes it comfortable to use for long hours.
Mobile display or external display
One of the benefits of using a laptop or desktop over a phone is the screen size. It can be tiring to stare at a small screen when you're trying to write a document, read a PDF, or even just watch a movie.
This is the most expensive accessory you'll buy, but it's well worth it and suddenly turns your phone into a laptop or desktop.
While there are many options to choose from, some of the top choices include:
- ViewSonic VG1655 – This dual-powered 15.6-inch portable monitor has built-in speakers and an eye-care mode. It's priced lower than most other options. My favorite feature is that you can power it directly from your phone or an external USB adapter. A cheaper model without the speakers and dual-powered mode is also available.
- UPERFECT OLED 16-inch Mobile Monitor – If you want a bright 3K display, you'll be hard-pressed to beat this one. It doesn't work well with older phones (pre-2022).
- ARZOPA 16-inch 2.5K Portable Monitor – Built-in eye care mode and vibrant display make this ideal for long hours of use. Or if you just want to use this portable setup to stream movies.
For gamers, check out our guide to the best portable gaming monitors .
Use Lapdock instead
If you prefer to use a laptop, skip the monitor and keyboard and just buy a lapdock instead. They look exactly like laptops, but are just a monitor, keyboard, and charger for your phone. They're a great way to turn your phone into a laptop. However, they sometimes lack additional ports.
Some of the best options include:
- Dopesplay 14.1-inch Lapdock – Has a built-in battery and a convenient touchscreen. It even charges your phone via USB-C cable.
- NexDock – NexDock comes in multiple sizes, including one with a wireless charger. There's also a desktop-style setup if you prefer.
- UPERFECT UDock X 15.6-inch – If you want a bigger screen, it's hard to beat the UDock X. It even includes a wireless charging pad.
Phone Docking Station
If you prefer a more custom setup, replace your laptop with a phone using a Phone Docking Station. These docking stations give you all the necessary ports that a laptop has, compared to just the single USB-C or Lightning port that a phone typically has.
Not only that, these vertical stands keep your phone visible (in case you're not using the second screen) and ensure it stays charged.
If you don't need any extra ports, an expensive vertical wireless charger like the Anker 313 is all you really need. Otherwise, consider adding one of these docks to your setup:
- NEWQ Versatile USB-C Docking Station – Includes USB-A and USB-C ports, a card reader, HDMI, Ethernet, and even a headphone jack. Of course, it's also a charger (up to 100W). And if you're not using a phone, it also works with tablets, portable monitors, thin-and-light laptops , and even portable gaming systems.
- Cable Matters 5-in-1 Docking Station – This docking station works similarly to the NEWQ, but without the built-in card reader. It's a bit cheaper, though, especially if you don't need SD card support .
USB-C flash drive for storage expansion
If you tend to store most everything in the cloud, this probably isn't necessary. However, it's worth getting a USB-C flash drive for extra local storage on your phone. Make sure it's compatible with your device before you buy it. Also, if you're using a phone dock with a USB-A port, you can use pretty much any flash drive you want.
Favorite USB-C flash drives include:
- Kingston DataTraveler Max – While people usually prefer SanDisk and Samsung flash drives, this 1TB product from Kingston is perfect for significantly increasing storage when using your phone as a laptop.
- Samsung Type-C Flash Drive – Although the maximum capacity is 512GB, this drive is highly recommended because it is water-resistant. Even if you spill coffee, your files will be safe.
- Move Speed 1 TB Drive – This drive actually comes in a 2 TB version, but 1 TB is usually enough for most users. The great thing about this drive is that it offers both USB-A and USB-C connectors for increased compatibility between devices.
Thanks to the USB-C adapter, you can easily use your USB-C flash drive in other USB ports .
Additional accessories
Some other things to consider are Bluetooth speakers for better overall sound and cloud-based apps. Office 365 is great for productivity, although free Office alternatives work well on mobile devices too.
Also consider cloud storage for added convenience and space. But be aware of common security concerns.
Take the time to customize the perfect setup to completely replace your laptop with your phone! Then you don't have to invest in both an expensive laptop and phone.