The best projectors offer a cinematic experience right in your living room. However, traditional projectors can be cumbersome, often requiring mounting and making them less portable. Fortunately, there are numerous portable projectors designed for flexibility, perfect for movie nights under the stars or cozy sessions in a dorm room.

These portable projectors often come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, simplifying setup. Even without an internet connection, you can still enjoy content thanks to Bluetooth and HDMI support, allowing you to stream from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Many top models include a battery that can power through an entire movie, or they can be paired with the best power banks for extended use.

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 are convenient, they often compromise on brightness and picture quality compared to larger models. They perform best in dark environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag, common in the best gaming projectors, are typically absent. Nonetheless, for those needing a big-screen experience in tight spaces, portable projectors are unbeatable.

Explore our top picks below, ranging from compact and budget-friendly options to slightly larger models that offer rich details and accurate colors.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1

The Xgimi Halo+ is a standout portable projector, delivering a full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. 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 portable projector, featuring a battery that lasts up to two hours and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. It delivers a 1080p resolution with up to 900 ANSI lumens, ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The onboard Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage enhance its functionality. Additionally, automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup effortless in any environment. It also includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for portable gaming sessions.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0

The ViewSonic M1X is an ultra-portable projector with a convenient 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 in a premium, ultra-compact form. Weighing under 2lbs and offering up to four hours of battery life, it's perfect for camping or work trips. The built-in stand ensures a straight picture across various throw distances, and features like horizontal and vertical keystoning and automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand also doubles as a lens cover for safekeeping. Although not ideal for gaming or as a TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a presentation aid or portable movie option, with multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers also make it a great Bluetooth speaker.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0

The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, with 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 delivers a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, best used at night with minimal ambient light. It excels in picture quality, offering excellent color accuracy and great contrast. Its compact size, slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs, includes a battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours and 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus, which can also function as Bluetooth speakers. With Android TV 11, streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi are seamless, though its Full HD resolution and functionality come at a cost of $800, comparable to the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0

The Nebula Mars 3 Air offers excellent sound with dual 8W speakers and a Full HD picture, making it a top midrange portable projector. 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 crucial for portable projectors, especially for road trips or outdoor use. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound ideal for dialogue and soundtracks. These speakers are loud enough for outdoor movie nights and support Dolby Audio. Even without a movie, you can use it as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours. The sleek and durable design, complete with a carrying strap, makes it easy to transport. With Google TV built-in and Wi-Fi support, streaming is straightforward, and additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth. The Full HD picture is crisp and detailed, though HDR performance is not as strong as some TVs and brighter projectors.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

0

The Xgimi Horizon S Max boasts a bright 3,100 ISO lumens and 4K resolution for a dazzling picture. 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 3,100 ISO lumens, the Xgimi Horizon S Max offers exceptional brightness, making it suitable for various environments. Its picture remains vibrant even in ambient light, with solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution. Support for multiple HDR modes and a dual light source of laser and LEDs enhance viewing preferences. While not as compact as other models, it's still portable enough for different rooms or road trips. A gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit feature, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. Although it lacks a battery, Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable easy streaming, and an HDMI port allows for gaming console connections. The dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent sound, filling most rooms without additional speakers.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1

The Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology for accurate colors and rich details, offering stunning picture quality. 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 utilizes RGB laser technology to produce accurate colors and rich details, delivering stunning picture quality in a compact form. It's energy-efficient and can project at 1,200 lumens, suitable for environments with some ambient light. Features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction ensure a perfectly projected image. While it lacks a built-in battery, it can be powered via a USB-C port with a portable charger, making it highly portable.

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 your space for the desired image size. For outdoor use, ensure 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; choose based on your intended image size. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution is generally sufficient.

Battery: If you plan to use the projector in areas without access to power outlets, a model with a battery is essential. Most batteries last at least 90 minutes, with some offering hours of use.