espresso Lite 15 launches colourful portable displays at CES

Australian display maker espresso Displays has introduced a new entry-level portable monitor, the espresso Lite 15, at CES 2026 as it targets a wider market of mobile workers and travellers.

The 15.6-inch Lite 15 sits at the base of the company's range and offers a Full HD panel, single-cable USB-C connectivity and a lighter stand, along with a new set of colour options aimed at differentiating the product in a crowded accessory market.

espresso Displays, based in Australia, specialises in thin, lightweight screens that extend laptops, tablets and some smartphones. The company has focused on professionals who want a second screen away from a traditional desk.

The Lite 15 uses an LCD panel with 1080p resolution and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. The display reaches a stated brightness of 400 nits and covers 100% of the sRGB colour space, which is a common standard for general productivity and web content.

The device measures 9.5 mm at its thinnest point and weighs 700 grams, or 1.55 lbs. The casing uses PC/ABS plastic, which reduces weight compared with metal designs and supports the broader colour palette.

The monitor draws a maximum of 5 watts at full brightness, which reduces the power demand on connected laptops and mobile devices. That level of consumption is low compared with many external displays and is significant for users who rely on battery power during travel or field work.

Lite 15 connects via a single USB-C cable that carries both power and display signal. espresso has repositioned the dual USB-C ports to a central location on the device and included power passthrough. This change allows users to charge a laptop or device while also driving the display, subject to the power source and host device.

The Lite 15 package includes a redesigned magnetic Stand+ and a USB-C cable. The updated stand is lighter than previous versions and supports quick attachment and removal. It also allows multiple viewing angles, which addresses a common ergonomic issue for portable screens that sit flat or at a fixed tilt.

The integrated magnets allow the stand to attach directly to the back of the display. Users can fold it for transport, which simplifies packing in a laptop bag or backpack.

espresso will offer the Lite 15 in five colours: white, black, mint, orange and purple. The palette marks a shift from the more conventional finishes of many business-focused monitors and aligns the product with consumer electronics that emphasise customisation.

The company said the colour choices aim at users who want their work accessories to match personal style or hybrid work setups at home and in shared spaces.

Will Scuderi, CEO and Co-Founder of espresso Displays, said the firm has seen rising demand from people who work across multiple locations and devices.

"Our products are designed to meet the highest standards of business people and professionals on the go, and this extends to building a portfolio of products that help people expand their screen real estate, whatever their needs and budget may be," said Will Scuderi, CEO and Co-Founder, espresso Displays.

Lite 15 will act as the starting point in espresso's line-up, which also includes the espresso Display 15, Touch 15, and Pro 15 and 17 models. The higher-tier products address users who need touch input or larger screen sizes.

As more knowledge workers adopt remote and hybrid patterns, use of portable monitors has widened from niche technical roles to sales, consulting, design and education. Scuderi said this trend underpins the company's decision to introduce a lower-priced model.

"So many people are now discovering the value of portable monitors, which is why we're launching Lite 15 to meet the needs of a much broader audience. Lite 15 delivers great value and quality, while adding personality through its bold color range," said Scuderi.

The Lite 15 will launch in the United States at USD $249. Pricing for other regions will follow at a later date. espresso plans an initial release through Amazon in the US, with later rollouts in Australia, Europe and additional markets.

The company said Lite 15 is designed as an entry point for buyers who want simple operation and consistent performance rather than advanced interaction features. The product connects via a single cable and works with laptops, iPads and compatible smartphones, depending on their support for USB-C display output.

Scuderi said the introduction of Lite 15 forms part of a broader push to reach first-time portable monitor buyers.

"espresso Lite 15 the perfect entry point for anyone considering a portable monitor that delivers quality, performance, and reliability," said Scuderi.