Unleash the cinematic experience anywhere with the best portable projectors! While traditional projectors are often bulky and cumbersome, portable options offer incredible flexibility for movie nights under the stars, camping trips, or even cramped dorm rooms. Many models boast built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, simplifying setup. Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity ensure seamless streaming from various devices. And, with powerful batteries or power bank compatibility, you're not tied to wall outlets.

However, smaller projectors often compromise on brightness and picture quality compared to their larger counterparts. Optimal viewing requires dark environments with minimal ambient light. High refresh rates and low input lag features typical of gaming projectors are also generally absent.

Despite these limitations, portable projectors provide an unmatched big-screen experience in space-constrained situations.

Top Portable Projectors:

1. Xgimi Halo+: Our Top Pick

• Best Overall Portable Projector: Full HD (1920x1080) resolution, 900 ANSI lumens, dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers.
  • See it at: Amazon, Best Buy, Xgimi
• Product 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, 1x HDMI, 1x USB, 3.5mm audio jack, DC power
  • Weight: 3.53 lbs
  • Dimensions: 4.47” x 5.71” x 6.75”
• Pros: Sharp picture, Android interface, auto keystone, auto focus, obstacle avoidance, low-latency gaming mode.
• Cons: Color accuracy could be better.

2. ViewSonic M1X: Best Budget Portable Projector

• Ultra-portable with a built-in stand and Harmon Kardon speakers.
  • See it at: Amazon
• Product 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, 1x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds
  • Dimensions: 2.1" x 6.5" x 5.4"
• Pros: Convenient stand, four-hour battery life.
• Cons: Limited resolution and brightness.

3. Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser: Best 1080p Portable Projector

• Crisp 1080p resolution (1920x1080), 300 ANSI lumens, excellent color accuracy and contrast.
  • See it at: Amazon
• Product 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, 1x HDMI, 1x USB-C, 1x Aux out
  • Weight: 2.1 pounds
  • Dimensions: 3.3” x 3.3” x 6.7”
• Pros: Excellent color accuracy, 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus.
• Cons: Low brightness.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air: Best Portable Projector for Sound

• Dual 8W speakers, Full HD picture.
  • See it at: Amazon
• Product 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, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMI
  • Weight: 3.7 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.2" x 4.8" x 7"
• Pros: Excellent sound, sleek design.
• Cons: Poor HDR performance.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max: Best Portable Projector for Brightness

• 3100 ISO lumens, 4K resolution.
  • See it at: Amazon
• Product 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, 1x HDMI (eARC), 1x DC
  • Weight: 10.6 pounds
  • Dimensions: 9.2" x 10.7" x 6.9"
• Pros: High brightness, feature-rich.
• Cons: No battery.

6. Optoma ML1080: Best Laser Portable Projector

• RGB laser technology, accurate colors, rich details.
  • See it at: Amazon
• Product 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: 1 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 3.5mm
  • Weight: 2.3 lbs
  • Dimensions: 6.18" x 5.31" x 2.68"
• Pros: Stunning picture, ToF and four-corner correction.
• Cons: No battery.

Key Considerations:

• Space: Consider throw distance and image size requirements for your viewing areas.
• Brightness (ANSI lumens): At least 800 ANSI lumens is recommended for outdoor nighttime viewing.
• Resolution: Higher resolution is needed for larger images.
• Battery: Essential for portability; check battery life for movie length.