Enjoy a cinematic experience anywhere with the best portable projectors! Many projectors are large and cumbersome, but portable options offer flexibility for movie nights in various settings. Many include built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, while Bluetooth and HDMI support allow connection to other devices. Some even boast long-lasting batteries or can be powered by power banks.
However, smaller projectors may have lower brightness and picture quality compared to larger models, best suited for dark environments. High refresh rates and low input lag features common in gaming projectors are usually absent.
Here are our top picks:
- Xgimi Halo+ (Best Overall): This Full HD projector offers 900 ANSI lumens brightness and dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers. It features an Android interface, Chromecast, and automatic keystone adjustment, auto-focus, and intelligent obstacle avoidance. A low-latency gaming mode is included.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels (DLP, HDR 10)
- Brightness: 900 ANSI lumens
- Throw Range: 1.2:1 (5.21 ~ 10.46 feet)
- Max Image Size: 120 inches
- Battery: Yes – 2 hours
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5, HDMI, USB, 3.5mm audio jack, DC power
- Weight: 3.53 lbs
- Dimensions: 4.47” x 5.71” x 6.75”
- ViewSonic M1X (Best Budget): Ultra-portable with a built-in stand and Harmon Kardon speakers, offering up to four hours of battery life. While resolution and brightness are limited, it's great for presentations or casual movie viewing.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 854x480 pixels (LED)
- Brightness: 360 LED lumens
- Throw Range: 2 feet ~ 8 feet, 8 inch
- Max Image Size: 100 inches
- Battery: Yes – up to 4 hours
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-A, USB-C, HDMI
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 2.1" x 6.5" x 5.4"
- Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser (Best 1080p): Offers crisp 1080p resolution (300 ANSI lumens) with excellent color accuracy and contrast. Compact and includes a battery (2.5 hours) and 8W Dolby Digital Plus speakers.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels (DLP, HDR10)
- Brightness: 300 ANSI lumens
- Throw Range: 2.2 ~ 10.5 feet
- Max Image Size: 120 inches
- Battery: Yes – 2.5 hours
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB-C, Aux out
- Weight: 2.1 pounds
- Dimensions: 3.3” x 3.3” x 6.7”
- Nebula Mars 3 Air (Best Sound): Features dual 8W speakers for rich sound and a Full HD picture (400 ANSI lumens). Includes Google TV and offers extended Bluetooth speaker playback (up to 8 hours).
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels (DLP)
- Brightness: 400 ANSI lumens
- Throw Range: Not listed
- Max Image Size: 150 inches
- Battery: Yes – up to 2.5 hours
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-A, HDMI
- Weight: 3.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 5.2" x 4.8" x 7"
- Xgimi Horizon S Max (Best Brightness): A 4K projector with 3100 ISO lumens brightness, delivering a vibrant picture even in bright environments. Features a gimbal mount and lacks a built-in battery.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (DLP)
- Brightness: 3100 ISO lumens
- Throw Range: 1 feet, 8 inch ~ 15 feet
- Max Image Size: 200 inches
- Battery: No
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 2x USB, HDMI (eARC), DC
- Weight: 10.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.2" x 10.7" x 6.9"
- Optoma ML1080 (Best Laser): Utilizes RGB laser technology for accurate colors and rich details (1200 ANSI lumens). Compact and portable, though it lacks a battery.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1280x800 pixels (VGA; Full HD)
- Brightness: 1,200 ANSI lumens
- Throw Range: 5.2 feet ~ 8.7 feet
- Max Image Size: 100 inches
- Battery: None
- Connectivity: USB-C power, HDMI 2.1, USB-A power, 3.5mm Audio
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
- Dimensions: 6.18" x 5.31" x 2.68"
Key Considerations:
- Space: Consider your viewing space and the projector's throw range.
- Brightness & Resolution: Higher ANSI lumens are crucial for outdoor use. Resolution should match your desired image size.
- Battery: Essential for portability if you lack consistent power access.
Choose the projector that best fits your needs and budget for an enjoyable big-screen experience on the go!
