12 Best Portable Projectors Recommendations (including Full-HD, High Brightness)

If you have a reasonably-size television, you might wonder why you would need a projector. The benefits of projectors are notable, though. For a far lower cost, you can watch your favorite movies are a much larger “screen.” Additionally, these devices are a lot more portable than a TV set. If you have a camper, for example, you can pack your projector with you and watch movies under the stars outside.

Best Portable Projectors  Source: coolthings.com

Buying Guide

Before you go out and buy the first portable projector that seems like a deal, consider the following features:

  • Connectivity Type: Make sure you have the appropriate cables, or if you want wireless, that it’s Bluetooth compatible.
  • Brightness: Look for the number of lumens a device puts out—the more, the brighter, generally.
  • Resolution: Native 1080p tends to be better, but look at the pixel ratio, too.
  • Fan noise: To keep the unit from overheating, most have internal fans, and you’ll want a quiet one.
  • Speakers: Not all projectors have the best sound quality, so check for loud or dual stereo speakers.

Buying Recommendations

Recommendations
Best Budget
Highest Resolution
AuKing Projector, 2024 Upgraded Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P Home Theater Video Projector, Compatible with HDMI/USB/VGA/AV/Smartphone/TV Box/Laptop
Mini Projector, Upgraded CiBest Native 1080P Portable Projector 10000L, Outdoor Projector for Home Theater Movie Projector, Projector 4K Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB
YABER Y30 Native 1080P Projector 15000L Brightness Full HD Video Projector 1920 x 1080, ±50° 4D Keystone Correction Support 4k & Zoom,LCD LED Home Theater Projector Compatible with Phone,PC,TV Box,PS4
Projection System Type
LCD
LCD
LCD
Resolution
1080p
1080p
1080P
Brightness
2,600 lumens
2,600 lumens
6,200 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity
100V – 240V and HDMI connect
HDMI, USB, VGA, memory card
HDMI, USB, card reader, smartphones
Warranty
Two-year guarantee
60-day money-back guarantee, three-year factory warranty available
three-year
Best Budget
Recommendations
AuKing Projector, 2024 Upgraded Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P Home Theater Video Projector, Compatible with HDMI/USB/VGA/AV/Smartphone/TV Box/Laptop
Projection System Type
LCD
Resolution
1080p
Brightness
2,600 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity
100V – 240V and HDMI connect
Warranty
Two-year guarantee
Best Premium
Mini Projector, Upgraded CiBest Native 1080P Portable Projector 10000L, Outdoor Projector for Home Theater Movie Projector, Projector 4K Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB
Projection System Type
LCD
Resolution
1080p
Brightness
2,600 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity
HDMI, USB, VGA, memory card
Warranty
60-day money-back guarantee, three-year factory warranty available
Highest Resolution
YABER Y30 Native 1080P Projector 15000L Brightness Full HD Video Projector 1920 x 1080, ±50° 4D Keystone Correction Support 4k & Zoom,LCD LED Home Theater Projector Compatible with Phone,PC,TV Box,PS4
Projection System Type
LCD
Resolution
1080P
Brightness
6,200 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity
HDMI, USB, card reader, smartphones
Warranty
three-year

Budget Portable Projectors

Looking for a budget-friendly projector? Check out our recommendations.

1. AuKing Mini Projector – Editor’s Pick

With a two-year guarantee and outstanding customer ratings, this compact projector is both highly affordable and offers a bright, clear picture.

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p
Brightness: 2,600 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: 100V – 240V and HDMI connect
Warranty: Two-year guarantee
AuKing Projector, 2024 Upgraded Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P Home Theater Video Projector, Compatible with HDMI/USB/VGA/AV/Smartphone/TV Box/Laptop
AuKing Projector, 2024 Upgraded Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P Home Theater Video Projector, Compatible with HDMI/USB/VGA/AV/Smartphone/TV Box/Laptop
The AuKing home projector claims to have a 35 percent brighter picture than its competitors, and we like the built-in speakers along with low background noise from the machine itself. The bulb life of the lamp is said to run up to 55,000 lifetime hours, which is a lot of watching! This projector is also compatible with several devices—always a plus.

What we like about it
  • Compatible with tablets, USB, Xbox, laptops, phones, and more
  • Budget-friendly
  • High contrast ratio
  • Simple plug-in setup
Drawbacks
  • May need additional cables to connect with phones
Sale
AuKing Projector, 2024 Upgraded Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P Home Theater Video Projector, Compatible with HDMI/USB/VGA/AV/Smartphone/TV Box/Laptop
  • ★【AuKing 2024 Upgraded Projector】With latest 1080p Full HD resolution supported, AuKing portable projector brings you a clear and sharp detailed images. Adopted the latest color reproduction technology, every details on the screen is accurately restored to ensure a real and color-vibrant viewing effect.
  • ★【Huge Screen & Long Bulb Life】200 inch large projection screen brings an immersive viewing experience. AuKing portable projector provides a 35~200 inches projection size with 3.6ft to 16.4ft projection distance. Use it for more than 15 years due to the powerful cooling system cools the heat of bulb effectively, extending the lamp's life up to 55,000 hours. More durable than previous models.
  • ★【Low Noise & Dual Stereo Speakers】Thanks to advanced noise reduction technology, the fan noise of AuKing Upgraded phone projector is reduced by 80%. Built-in dual stereo speakers provide you with loud and crystal clear sound quality. Connecting to external speakers will achieve a higher sound quality If you want.

2. XINDA Mini Video Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p
Brightness: 2200 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, SD, AV, TV
Warranty: three-year
Projector(2020) XINDA 2000 Lumens Video Projector with 170' Display 50,000 Hours LED Full HD Video Projector,Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD for Home Theater
Projector(2020) XINDA 2000 Lumens Video Projector with 170' Display 50,000 Hours LED Full HD Video Projector,Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD for Home Theater
This budget-friendly projector has a sleek design and supports a variety of formats to connect with both video and sound. There are several inputs on the back of the device, allowing for multiple ways to hook up a movie or game.

What we like about it
  • Built-in 5W speakers with surround sound
  • Virtually no machine noise
  • More extended warranty than some competitors
  • Simple setup
Drawbacks
  • Not the brightest projector for the price
Projector(2020) XINDA 2000 Lumens Video Projector with 170" Display 50,000 Hours LED Full HD Video Projector,Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD for Home Theater
  • 【High Brightness and High resolution】With 3800 lux of brightness and contrast ratio of 4000:1,Video projector is more vivid and 20% clearer than other small led projectors on the marke.Xinda projector 1280*768p (normally projector is 480p), which could offer a ultra accurate & vivid video quality
  • 【 bars led light & Big Screen & Built-in Speaker 】so cool bar led light in the dark , enjoy the best Wonderful Viewing Experience with 50-200 inches.We suggest that the best of projection is about 2.5-4m with 60 -120 inches Sizes
  • 【Strong dimensional effect & No Noise】2 Built-in 5 W speakers and surround sound system, make the listening as lifelike as your viewing. Easy to set up without the need for costly external speakers. Projector is used with an the newest innovative cooling system with the heat dispersion,cutting in half with noise suppression.

3. Dr. J Professional Portable Movie Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1920*1080
Brightness: 1,500 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, USB, VGA
Warranty: three-year offered
No products found.
No products found.
If you want an affordable projector but don’t have an ideal wall for watching movies, this is an excellent option. We like that a portable screen comes as part of the package, and for the price, we found the overall viewing experience positive for such a low price.

What we like about it
  • Comes with projector screen
  • Lightweight for travel
  • LED lamps (more affordable to replace)
  • Compact size
Drawbacks
  • Lower audio than some competitors
  • Focus can be touchy to adjust

No products found.

Premium Portable Projectors

These projectors make the top of our premium list.

1. CiBest Native LED Video Projector – Editor’s Pick

We love this projector for its various options, bright display, affordable bulb replacement, and a reasonable price even among premium projectors.

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p
Brightness: 2,600 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, USB, VGA, memory card
Warranty: 60-day money-back guarantee, three-year factory warranty available
Mini Projector, Upgraded CiBest Native 1080P Portable Projector 10000L, Outdoor Projector for Home Theater Movie Projector, Projector 4K Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB
Mini Projector, Upgraded CiBest Native 1080P Portable Projector 10000L, Outdoor Projector for Home Theater Movie Projector, Projector 4K Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB
CiBest is highly-rated, and even among higher-end machines, comes in at a fair price point. We found the device to be quiet and quite bright. The sleep timer is another excellent feature for those who fall asleep often during movies—but you never do that, right?

What we like about it
  • Simple setup with various inputs
  • Remote control included
  • Bright and clear video quality
  • Sleep timer option
  • Very quiet machine
Drawbacks
  • The internal lens can get dirty in dusty conditions
  • Adjusting clarity can be difficult
Mini Projector, Upgraded CiBest Native 1080P Portable Projector 10000L, Outdoor Projector for Home Theater Movie Projector, Projector 4K Compatible with HDMI, VGA, USB
  • 【OPTIMAL VISUAL PERFORMANCE】Experience enhanced visuals with the 2023 CiBest mini projector, offering 90% greater brightness compared to other portable projectors. With Native 1080P Full HD and 10000:1 contrast ratio, this 4K projector delivers astonishingly realistic images for movies and videos. The home projector's diffuse reflection technology ensures a gentle projection image that protects your eyes.
  • 【EXTENSIVE DEVICE COMPATIBILITY】Our versatile outdoor projector supports a broad range of devices, including TV sticks, PCs, laptops, tablets, Blue-ray DVD players, USB drives, gaming consoles (PS4/XBOX/WII), media players (music, pictures, video, TXT), and headphones. Easily connect your iPad, iPhone, or Android smartphone with an extra HDMI adapter (not included). Not suitable for PPT business presentations.
  • 【IMMERSIVE VIEWING & POWERFUL AUDIO】The mini projector's large viewing experience ranges from 30" to 200" with an ideal image size of 60 - 80". The built-in stereo speakers deliver impressive sound effects, or connect to your surround sound system via the 3.5mm audio output for an even better audio experience.

2. Epson VS355 LCD Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p with 1280 x 800 pixels
Brightness: 3,300 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI
Warranty: one-year, with 90-day lamp warranty
Epson VS355 WXGA 3,300 lumens color brightness (color light output) 3,300 lumens white brightness (white light output) HDMI 3LCD projector
Epson VS355 WXGA 3,300 lumens color brightness (color light output) 3,300 lumens white brightness (white light output) HDMI 3LCD projector
The Epson VS355 projector comes from a reputable name and has an outstanding LCD picture with vibrant colors and a bright display. Some people might think it is a small feature, but we love the lens cover, as a dirty or scratched lens can be a frustrating problem in a premium product. This projector works wonderfully with devices such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick, too.

What we like about it
  • Easy to focus
  • Exceptionally bright picture
  • Ideal color and clarity
  • Comes with a lens cover
Drawbacks
  • No WiFi connectivity
  • Speaker and sound could be better
Sale
Epson VS355 WXGA 3,300 lumens color brightness (color light output) 3,300 lumens white brightness (white light output) HDMI 3LCD projector
  • More accurate, vivid color, even in well-lit rooms — 3,300 lumens of equal color and white brightness (1).
  • WXGA resolution (1280 x 800) — 2x more resolution than SVGA for projecting HD presentations and video; perfect for widescreen laptops.
  • Fast, easy setup with Epson — get up and running in no time with easy image adjustments and convenient control.

3. Vankyo Performance V600 Native Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p HD
Brightness: 4,000 lumens, 6,000 lux
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, USB, 5V-USB, headphone audio port
Warranty: limited three-year
No products found.
No products found.
If you’re in the market for a more premium home projector, Vankyo offers an outstanding model that can keep up with gaming picture speed. We found the quality of the picture to be fantastic for the price, and the image is plenty bright for our taste. The carrying case is a bonus if you plan on carrying this portable projector to several locations.

What we like about it
  • Minimal input lag even for gaming
  • Comes with carrying case
  • Quality picture
  • Reasonable price for more premium projector
  • Quick refresh rate
Drawbacks
  • The internal fan is slightly louder than some
  • Power button sometimes needs a few presses to switch on

No products found.

Brightest Portable Projectors

These projectors are the brightest on the market.

1. APEMAN LC550 Mini Projector – Editor’s Pick

We like the Sony SRS-XB12 for the reliable brand name, outstanding reviews, and the passive radiator that provides incredible bass for such a small speaker.

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1280 x 720P
Brightness: 4,500 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, RCA, TF Card
Warranty: one-year
No products found.
No products found.
Not only is the picture bright and clear on this projector, but you can also get a movie theater type of experience with the adjustable screen size (30 inches up to 200 inches). A built-in fan cools the device internally while not one, but two speakers provide clear, crisp sound.

What we like about it
  • Large screen display (up to 200 inches)
  • Exceptionally bright and clear display
  • Simple menu navigation
  • Built-in dual speakers for a louder sound
Drawbacks
  • Shorter warranty than competitors
  • You need a dongle to connect some devices

No products found.

2. Artlii HD Movie Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080p with 1280*800 pixels
Brightness: 4,000 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: VGA, USB, HDMI, wireless
Warranty: three-year
HD Projector - Artlii 1080P Support Home Theater Projector with 2 HIFI Dolby Stereo, 250' HD Movie Projector for Home Entertainment, Movies, Sports and Video Games
HD Projector - Artlii 1080P Support Home Theater Projector with 2 HIFI Dolby Stereo, 250' HD Movie Projector for Home Entertainment, Movies, Sports and Video Games
Artlii is one of our favorite extra-bright projectors, as the price is reasonable, and the picture and sound are high-quality enough for a legit home theater. The screen can expand up to 200 inches, and the stereo sound is one of the best among our picks on this list. For those who have a home theater and want an extra bright projector, this one is worth checking out.

What we like about it
  • Ultra-quality HIFI stereo sound
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Setting to increase brightness
  • Long bulb life with LED lamps (more affordable to replace)
  • Two different color options
Drawbacks
  • No zoom
  • Screen size is not ideal for small spaces
HD Projector - Artlii 1080P Support Home Theater Projector with 2 HIFI Dolby Stereo, 250" HD Movie Projector for Home Entertainment, Movies, Sports and Video Games
  • 【BRIGHT & CRISP IMAGE】:As the latest home theater projector of 2021, this projector has been upgraded with a 50% brighter LED bulb and native HD 1280x720P resolution, which produces a sharper image and vivid, and it supports up to 1080P resolution and 4K resolution (for YouTube only).
  • 【HIFI STEREO & LOW NOISE】 : Built in two HIFI Stereo delivers accurate and powerful sound. No extra amplifier and speaker is needed. Equipped with advanced noise reducing system, you can hardly notice any noise when playing movie or video.
  • 【LARGE PROJECTION SCREEN & LONG LAMP LIFE】 : The projection screen size can be as large as 250". It is your perfect choice for indoor and outdoor activities, such as remote learning. Adopted Direct Light Path Optical Technology, the lamp life of the movie projector can be more than 45,000 Hours.

3. XINDA Mini Portable Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: 1080 with 1280x720P
Brightness: 4600 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI, VGA, USB
Warranty: three-year
XINDA Projector, XINDA Projector with 4600 Lumen,220' Display Video Projector.Home Theater Projector 1080P Supported,Compatible with Fire TV Stick,Smartphone,PS4,HDMI,TF,VGA,AV USB
XINDA Projector, XINDA Projector with 4600 Lumen,220' Display Video Projector.Home Theater Projector 1080P Supported,Compatible with Fire TV Stick,Smartphone,PS4,HDMI,TF,VGA,AV USB
So many of the projectors we looked at require some wired connection. We love that the XINDA Mini Projector allows for use with Bluetooth to cast your favorite entertainment from your phone or tablet onto a large screen. The picture clarity is on this device is also one of the better we’ve seen.

What we like about it
  • Bluetooth compatible
  • HD clarity on-screen (around roughly 100-inch size)
  • Focus adjustment works well
  • Quality speakers
  • Reasonable price
Drawbacks
  • Limited range on remote
  • Does not work with Dolby sound

Highest Resolution Portable Projectors

If you’re looking for projectors with high resolution, here’s what we recommend.

1. Yaber Native 1080P Projector – Editor’s Pick

If one of the most crucial aspects to you of a portable projector is the image clarity, Yaber’s model comes through with clear an HD-quality picture.

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: Native 1080P with 1920 x 1080 pixels
Brightness: 6,200 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, USB, card reader, smartphones
Warranty: three-year
YABER Y30 Native 1080P Projector 15000L Brightness Full HD Video Projector 1920 x 1080, ±50° 4D Keystone Correction Support 4k & Zoom,LCD LED Home Theater Projector Compatible with Phone,PC,TV Box,PS4
YABER Y30 Native 1080P Projector 15000L Brightness Full HD Video Projector 1920 x 1080, ±50° 4D Keystone Correction Support 4k & Zoom,LCD LED Home Theater Projector Compatible with Phone,PC,TV Box,PS4
Few projectors we looked at had a picture quite as crisp as Yaber’s unit. While it’s not as bright as you would expect for the lumens stated on the box, there is no denying the display is clear. We also found this projector to work well with gaming.

What we like about it
  • Horizontal and vertical keystone correction
  • Contrast ratio of 8000:1
  • Screen size up to 200 inches
  • Quiet interior fan
  • Exceptionally clear picture
Drawbacks
  • The brightness of the image does not seem to align with advertised lumens
  • Best for indoor, darker room use only
YABER Y30 Native 1080P Projector 15000L Brightness Full HD Video Projector 1920 x 1080, ±50° 4D Keystone Correction Support 4k & Zoom,LCD LED Home Theater Projector Compatible with Phone,PC,TV Box,PS4
  • [Innovative 4D Keystone Correction & Zoom Function] Our HD projector is the first projector with 50 ° 4D (vertical & horizontal) keystone correction function to ensure the projected image is always a standard rectangle. It’s very convenient to adjust the screen by using the remote control, especially for the projector suspended from ceiling. Reducing projection size by using the X/Y Zoom function, while others can only do that by changing the projection distance.
  • [1080P Native Resolution (1920*1080), Support 4K Video] The projector with a real native resolution of 1920*1080, remarkable 15000L bright and high dynamic contrast ratio of 15000:1, provides sharp and detailed images from HD content without downscaling or compression, which is four times higher than 720p. Combining an innovative high-refraction 5 layers glassed lens, ensuring the best video experience.
  • [Hifi Stereo Sound & Latest Advanced Cooling System] The Y30 LED projector has built-in 3W dual stereo speakers with SRS sound system provides a great auditory sense experience without external speakers. Updated an advanced and silent cooling system with 3 fans running simultaneously. Adopt the latest SmarEco technology to minimize lamp power consumption to extend the useful life of the lamp to a maximum of 100000 hours.

2. Crenova Lux Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: Native 1080P HD with 1920 x 1080 pixels
Brightness: 5,500 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, TF Card, TV box
Warranty: one-year, with lifetime technical support
No products found.
No products found.
We found the Crenova portable projector to be durably-built with fantastic picture quality. The interior fan is relatively quiet, and not only is the resolution excellent, but it’s bright enough to use even in rooms with some light (not pitch black).

What we like about it
  • An exceptionally bright, precise imaging
  • Contrast ratio of 5000:1
  • Comes with quality remote control
  • The picture is still clear even at edges
Drawbacks
  • No keystone for side to side
  • Only available in bright red

No products found.

3. GuDee Full HD Video Projector

Specs
Projection System Type: LCD
Resolution: Native 1080p with 1920 x 1080 pixels
Brightness: 4,500 lumens
Video Inputs/Connectivity: USB, Micro USB
Warranty: three-year
No products found.
No products found.
The GuDee projector displays an incredibly clear picture with keystone correction and a focus ring. We found the stereo sound to be fantastic, and a notable plus is height and angle adjustment.

What we like about it
  • Contrast ratio of 5000:1
  • Large screen size (up to 200 inches)
  • Compatible with a vast array of devices
  • A bright and clear picture
  • Reasonable price for high resolution
Drawbacks
  • Confusing instruction manual
  • Bulkier than some portable projectors

No products found.

Final Thoughts

Video projectors can be a fantastic way to view movies at home on a much larger screen with a far lower cost and less bulk than a TV of comparable size. If you want to turn an unused room into a home theater, get some light-blocking curtains, comfy chairs, and one of these projectors. Compare how affordable your favorite projector from this list is to a massive television, and you’ll soon see the value in these devices.

Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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