The best projectors bring the magic of cinema right into your home, offering an immersive viewing experience. However, traditional projectors often come with the downside of being large and cumbersome, requiring mounting and making them less mobile. Thankfully, the market is rich with portable projectors that cater to those looking to enjoy movies under the stars during a camping trip or in the cozy confines of a dorm room.
These portable projectors are designed for convenience, often featuring built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for a seamless setup. Even without an internet connection, you can still enjoy your content thanks to Bluetooth and HDMI support, allowing you to stream directly from your phone, tablet, or laptop. What's more, many top models include a battery that can last through an entire movie, or can be powered by the best power banks, freeing you from the need for a wall outlet.
TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:
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 are incredibly versatile, they do come with some limitations. Their smaller size often means they can't match the brightness and picture quality of larger models, making them ideal for use in darker environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag, which are crucial for the best gaming projectors, are also typically absent. Nonetheless, when space is at a premium and you crave a big-screen experience, a portable projector is an excellent choice.
Explore our curated list of top portable projectors below, tailored to meet various needs, from compact and budget-friendly options to those offering richer details and vibrant colors.
Xgimi Halo+
Best Portable Projector Overall
Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+
1
The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as the ultimate portable projector, delivering a stunning full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens of brightness. It's equipped with two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience. With a battery life of up to two hours, you can enjoy your favorite movies anywhere. The built-in Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage further enhance its versatility.
Setting up the Xgimi Halo+ is a breeze, thanks to features like automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance. It also offers a low-latency gaming mode, making it perfect for portable gaming sessions.
Product SpecificationsResolution1920x1080 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”PROSSharp pictureIncludes Android interfaceCONSColor accuracy could be better
ViewSonic M1X
Best Budget Portable Projector
### ViewSonic M1X
0
For those on a budget, the ViewSonic M1X offers a compelling package. This ultra-portable projector comes with a handy stand and solid Harmon Kardon speakers, making it an ideal choice for camping or work trips. With a battery life of up to four hours and weighing under 2lbs, it's incredibly convenient to carry around.
The ViewSonic M1X features horizontal and vertical keystone correction along with automated four-corner adjustment for easy setup. Its built-in stand also doubles as a lens cover for safekeeping. While it may not be suitable for gaming or as a full TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a portable movie or presentation tool. With Wi-Fi support and multiple ports, you can easily connect it to your devices, and its dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers can transform it into a great Bluetooth speaker as well.
Product SpecificationsResolution854x480 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"PROSConvenient standFour hour battery lifeCONSLimited resolutions and brightness
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 through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, delivering excellent color accuracy and contrast. Its compact size, slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs, makes it incredibly portable. The battery lasts up to 2.5 hours, perfect for a movie session, and its 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus provide impressive sound quality, doubling as Bluetooth speakers.
Equipped with Android TV 11, streaming and light gaming are effortless over Wi-Fi. However, its low brightness means it's best used in low-light conditions. Priced at $800, it matches the Xgimi Halo+ in terms of cost but offers a different set of features tailored for picture quality enthusiasts.
Product SpecificationsResolution1920×1080 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”PROSExcellent color accuracy8W speakers with Dolby Digital PlusCONSLow brightness
Nebula Mars 3 Air
Best Portable Projector for Sound
### Nebula Mars 3 Air
0
If sound quality is a priority, the Nebula Mars 3 Air is an excellent choice. It features dual 8W speakers that deliver rich, well-rounded audio, perfect for outdoor movie nights or road trips. With Dolby Audio support, the sound quality is further enhanced, and you can use it as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours without projecting.
The Mars 3 Air also offers a sleek, durable design with a carrying strap for easy transport. Built-in Google TV and Wi-Fi support mean you can stream content directly, while additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth. Its Full HD picture quality is impressive, though HDR performance could be better. With up to 400 ANSI lumens, it's best suited for low-light environments.
Product SpecificationsResolution1920 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"PROSExcellent sounding dual 8W speakers Sleek, durable designCONSPoor HDR performance
Xgimi Horizon S Max
Best Portable Projector for Brightness
### Xgimi Horizon S Max
0
For unparalleled brightness, the Xgimi Horizon S Max stands out with its 3,100 ISO lumens, making it suitable for viewing in various lighting conditions. Its 4K resolution ensures a vibrant, detailed picture, with solid contrast and accurate colors. The projector supports multiple HDR modes and features a dual light source of laser and LEDs, which can be adjusted for personalized viewing.
While not as compact as some other models, the Horizon S Max is still portable enough for home use or road trips. It includes a gimbal mount for easy positioning, along with autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance for straightforward setup. Although it lacks a built-in battery, it can be used with a high-powered power bank. Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable quick streaming, and the dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent audio.
Product SpecificationsResolution3840 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"PROSBright for easy viewingLoaded with features for a simple setupCONSNo battery
Optoma ML1080
Best Laser Portable Projector
### Optoma ML1080
1
The Optoma ML1080 leverages RGB laser technology to deliver stunning picture quality with accurate colors and rich details. Its 1,200 ANSI lumens make it suitable for environments with some ambient light, while its Full HD resolution ensures clarity. Features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction help achieve a perfectly projected image.
Though it doesn't include a battery, the Optoma ML1080 can be powered via a USB-C port, allowing for use with portable chargers. Its compact size and energy efficiency make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality portable projector.
Product SpecificationsResolution1280x800 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"PROSStunning pictureTime-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correctionCONSNo battery
What to Look for in a Portable Projector
Space: Before purchasing, consider your typical viewing spaces. Check the throw range of each model to ensure it fits the dimensions of your space for the desired image size. For outdoor use, ensure you have a level surface, though automatic keystone correction can help.
Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing. A minimum of 800 ANSI lumens is recommended for nighttime outdoor use. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K, and the larger your intended image, the higher the resolution you should seek. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution is often sufficient.
Battery: If you plan to use the projector in areas without easy access to power outlets, opt for one with a battery. These can last from 90 minutes to several hours, depending on the model.
