I recently got my hands on the Maxfree S2 Triple Monitor Extender, a device that promises to transform your laptop into a three-screen productivity powerhouse. As someone who constantly juggles multiple windows and applications, extra screen real estate has always been a necessity for me. Here’s a breakdown of my experience with the S2, including both the upsides and some potential drawbacks to consider.
Design and Screen Specifications
The design includes two foldable screens and a central back piece with a kickstand, ensuring stability and secure attachment to your computer’s screen. This traditional design, widely adopted by manufacturers and well-liked by customers, is effectively executed by the S2. The screens can be smoothly adjusted to different angles, facilitated by robust damping hinges that provide a reassuring tactile response when folding them.
Each of the two extender displays boasts a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, 300-nit brightness, and a 1:1000 contrast ratio. At first glance, these specs might seem modest, but the screens perform well in most settings. The image quality is more than sufficient for most users, unless you have specific needs for more accurate colors and brightness. Having used the S2 for the past two weeks, I’ve found its screens to be much easier on my eyes compared to my former screen extender. This has been a pleasant surprise, especially since I was already on the lookout for a more eye-friendly alternative. You can also fine-tune settings like contrast, backlight, sharpness, and color temperature by pressing and dialing the power button located at the top of the screens.
Setup and Usability
Setting up the S2 was quite straightforward. The Maxfree website promises a simple plug-and-play setup process, and it mostly delivers on that promise. The included cables (Type-C and HDMI with a USB-A for power when using HDMI) offered various connection options for my laptop, with no complicated driver installations needed. It’s worth mentioning that the cables’ quality matches the overall build quality; they seem solid and provide a steady connection so far. However, adjusting the extenders and finding the optimal viewing angles for each screen took some time. Considering the setup needs two ports from your computer, using a dongle might be more practical, particularly if your computer has limited ports and one is needed for charging. While this isn’t a major issue, it’s something to keep in mind for a smoother setup experience.
If you only need one screen, you can flip out a screen from either side and use the back stand without attaching it to your monitor. However, if you’re using Samsung Dex like I am, the screen won’t work when connected directly to your Samsung phone because it doesn’t get enough power (I’ve tried it myself). External power is required; otherwise, the screen will flicker. The same goes for game consoles and other devices that can’t provide a steady power output.
Overall, the Maxfree S2 Triple Monitor Extender is a compelling choice for professionals and multitaskers seeking to enhance their productivity on the go. With its user-friendly design, versatile display options, and solid build quality, it offers a practical solution for those in need of additional screen space without breaking the bank. While there are a few quirks, such as the need for external power with certain devices, the S2’s overall performance and affordability make it a noteworthy contender in the portable monitor market. If you’re in the market for a reliable and budget-friendly way to boost your workspace, the Maxfree S2 is definitely worth considering. It strikes a commendable balance between functionality and value, making it a smart investment for any mobile professional.
