The best projectors bring the magic of the cinema right into your living room, offering an immersive viewing experience. However, traditional projectors often come with drawbacks: they're large, heavy, and might need to be mounted, which makes them cumbersome to move. Thankfully, the market is brimming with portable projectors that offer flexibility for movie nights under the stars during camping trips or cozy sessions in tight spaces like dorm rooms.
These portable projectors are designed for convenience, often featuring built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for easy setup. Even without an internet connection, you can still enjoy content thanks to Bluetooth and HDMI support, allowing you to stream directly from your phone, tablet, or laptop. And for those concerned about power sources, many top portable projectors come equipped with batteries that can last through an entire movie or can be powered by the best power banks.
TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:
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Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+
1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Xgimi
### ViewSonic M1X
0See it at Amazon
### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
0See it at Amazon
### Nebula Mars 3 Air
0See it at Amazon
### Xgimi Horizon S Max
0See it at Amazon
### Optoma ML1080
1See it at Amazon
While portable projectors offer great convenience, they do come with some limitations. Smaller projectors may not match the brightness and picture quality of their larger counterparts, making them best suited for darker environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates, low input lag, and specialized modes found in the best gaming projectors are typically absent. Nonetheless, when space is at a premium and you crave a big-screen experience, a portable projector is the perfect solution.
Below, we've curated a selection of our favorite portable projectors to suit various needs, from budget-friendly options to those delivering rich details and vibrant colors.
Xgimi Halo+
Best Portable Projector Overall
Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+
1
The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as a top-tier portable projector, delivering a full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens of brightness. It's equipped with two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers, ensuring crisp audio to complement its stunning visuals. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Xgimi
Product Specifications
Resolution1920x1080 pixels (DLP, HDR 10)Brightness900 ANSI lumensThrow range1.2:1 (5.21 ~ 10.46 feet)Max image size120 inchesBatteryYes – 2 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5, 1x HDMI, 1x USB, 3.5mm audio jack, DC powerWeight3.53 lbsDimensions4.47” x 5.71” x 6.75”
PROS
Sharp pictureIncludes Android interface
CONS
Color accuracy could be better
The Xgimi Halo+ is a comprehensive package, featuring a battery that lasts up to two hours and robust Harman Kardon stereo speakers. With its ability to produce a 1080p resolution at up to 900 ANSI lumens, it's ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The onboard Android interface with Chromecast, coupled with 2GB of memory and 16GB of flash storage, enhances its versatility. Additionally, features like automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup a breeze in any environment. It even offers a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for on-the-go gaming sessions.
ViewSonic M1X
Best Budget Portable Projector
### ViewSonic M1X
0
The ViewSonic M1X is an ultra-portable projector that's both lightweight and budget-friendly, complete with a handy stand and solid Harmon Kardon speakers. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Resolution854x480 pixels (LED)Brightness360 LED lumensThrow range2 feet ~ 8 feet, 8 inchMax image size100 inchesBatteryYes – up to 4 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi , Bluetooth, 1x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMIWeight1.7 poundsDimensions2.1" x 6.5" x 5.4"
PROS
Convenient standFour hour battery life
CONS
Limited resolutions and brightness
While there are cheaper portable projectors, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value with its premium features. Weighing under 2lbs and boasting up to four hours of battery life, it's perfect for camping or work trips. Its built-in stand ensures a stable projection at various distances, while horizontal and vertical keystone adjustments, along with automated four-corner correction, simplify setup. The stand also serves as a lens cover for protection during transport.
Though not ideal for gaming or as a full-time TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a portable movie or presentation device. Its connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C ports, make it versatile. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers are a standout feature, turning the projector into a great Bluetooth speaker when needed.
Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
Best 1080p Portable Projector
### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
0
The Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers a crisp 1080p resolution and 300 ANSI lumens, ensuring excellent color accuracy and great contrast. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Resolution1920×1080 pixels (DLP, HDR10)Brightness300 ANSI lumensThrow range2.2 ~ 10.5 feet Max image size120 inchesBatteryYes – 2.5 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1x HDMI, 1x USB-C, 1x Aux outWeight2.1 poundsDimensions3.3” x 3.3” x 6.7”
PROS
Excellent color accuracy8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus
CONS
Low brightness
The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser, despite its lower brightness, excels in picture quality, delivering vibrant colors and sharp contrast. Its compact size, slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs, makes it highly portable. It includes a battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours and 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus, which can double as Bluetooth speakers.
With Android TV 11 built-in, streaming movies, TV shows, and light gaming is seamless over Wi-Fi. However, its Full HD capabilities and features come with a higher price tag, aligning it with the Xgimi Halo+.
Nebula Mars 3 Air
Best Portable Projector for Sound
### Nebula Mars 3 Air
0
The Nebula Mars 3 Air stands out with its dual 8W speakers, delivering well-rounded sound, and an exceptional Full HD picture. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Resolution1920 x 1080 pixels (DLP)Brightness400 ANSI lumensThrow rangeNot listedMax image size150 inchesBatteryYes – up to 2.5 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMIWeight3.7 poundsDimensions5.2" x 4.8" x 7"
PROS
Excellent sounding dual 8W speakers Sleek, durable design
CONS
Poor HDR performance
Sound quality is often overlooked when choosing a portable projector, but it's crucial, especially for outdoor use. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels in this area with its dual 8W speakers, offering clear dialogue and rich soundtracks that are perfect for outdoor movie nights. With Dolby Audio support and the ability to function as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours, it's a versatile choice.
Beyond audio, the Mars 3 Air boasts a sleek, durable design that's easy to carry with a built-in strap. Integrated Google TV and Wi-Fi eliminate the need for additional streaming devices, while HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth options enhance connectivity. Though best suited for low-light conditions due to its 400 ANSI lumens, the Full HD picture remains crisp and detailed, even at larger sizes. However, its HDR performance may not match that of brighter projectors or TVs.
Xgimi Horizon S Max
Best Portable Projector for Brightness
### Xgimi Horizon S Max
0
The Xgimi Horizon S Max dazzles with 3,100 ISO lumens, delivering a bright 4K picture perfect for any environment. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Resolution3840 x 2160 pixels (DLP)Brightness3100 ISO lumensThrow range1 feet, 8 inch ~ 15 feetMax image size200 inchesBatteryNoConnectivityWi-Fi , Bluetooth, 2x USB, 1x HDMI (eARC), 1x DCWeight10.6 poundsDimensions9.2" x 10.7" x 6.9"
PROS
Bright for easy viewingLoaded with features for a simple setup
CONS
No battery
With an impressive 3,100 ISO lumens, the Xgimi Horizon S Max ensures vibrant viewing in any setting, overcoming the challenges posed by ambient light. Its picture quality is enhanced by solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution, with support for multiple HDR modes. The dual light source of laser and LEDs can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.
Though less compact than other options, the Horizon S Max is still portable enough for use in different rooms or on road trips. Features like a gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. While it lacks a battery, Android 11 and Wi-Fi support make streaming easy. An HDMI port allows for gaming console connectivity, and dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide room-filling sound.
Optoma ML1080
Best Laser Portable Projector
### Optoma ML1080
1
The Optoma ML1080 leverages RGB laser technology to deliver accurate colors and rich details, ensuring a stunning picture quality in a compact size. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Resolution1280x800 pixels (VGA; Full HD)Brightness1,200 ANSI lumensThrow range5.2 feet ~ 8.7 feetMax image size100 inchesBatteryNoneConnectivity1 x USB-C power, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x USB-A power 1.5A, 1 x USB-A power 0.5A, 1 x Audio 3.5mmWeight2.3 lbsDimensions 6.18" x 5.31" x 2.68"
PROS
Stunning pictureTime-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction
CONS
No battery
The Optoma ML1080's RGB laser technology ensures accurate colors and rich details, offering a high-quality picture in a compact form. Its energy efficiency is a bonus, consuming less power than traditional lamp-based projectors. With 1,200 ANSI lumens, it performs well even in environments with some ambient light. Innovative features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction ensure a perfect projection every time.
While it doesn't have a built-in battery, the USB-C power input allows for use with a portable charger, making it suitable for on-the-go viewing.
What to Look for in a Portable Projector
Space: Consider the primary viewing spaces before purchasing a portable projector. Check the throw range of each model to ensure it fits the dimensions of your space for your desired image size. For outdoor setups, ensure you have a level surface, though automatic keystone correction can help with positioning.
Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing. A projector should have at least 800 ANSI lumens for nighttime outdoor use. Indoor use during the day may require higher brightness. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K; choose based on your intended image size, as larger images benefit from higher resolutions.
Battery: If you plan to use the projector away from power outlets, opt for one with a battery. These typically last for at least a 90-minute movie, with some offering extended hours of use.
