Unleash the cinematic experience anywhere with the best portable projectors! While many projectors are bulky and cumbersome, these compact powerhouses offer big-screen entertainment on the go. From camping trips to dorm rooms, portable projectors deliver convenience without compromising on quality (to a degree).
Many boast built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for seamless setup. Even offline, Bluetooth and HDMI support ensure easy connection to your devices. Top models often include batteries for extended viewing, or can be powered by portable power banks, eliminating the need for wall outlets.
TL;DR – Top 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
Smaller projectors naturally have limitations. Brightness and picture quality often fall short of larger models, making dark environments ideal. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag found in gaming projectors are also typically absent. However, for space-conscious users seeking a big-screen experience, portable projectors are unmatched.
Explore our top picks below, catering to various needs and budgets:
1. Xgimi Halo+ – Best Overall Portable Projector
Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+
1This full HD projector boasts 900 ANSI lumens, dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers, and a built-in Android interface with Chromecast. Its auto keystone, autofocus, and obstacle avoidance features simplify setup. A low-latency gaming mode adds versatility.
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. Cons: Color accuracy could be better.
2. ViewSonic M1X – Best Budget Portable Projector
### ViewSonic M1X
0Ultra-portable with a built-in stand and Harman Kardon speakers, this projector offers excellent value. Its four-hour battery life makes it ideal for travel.
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, long battery life. Cons: Limited resolution and brightness.
3. Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser – Best 1080p Portable Projector
### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
0This 1080p projector delivers surprisingly accurate colors and contrast despite its 300 ANSI lumens brightness. Its compact size and 8W Dolby Digital Plus speakers are noteworthy.
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, good speakers. Cons: Low brightness.
4. Nebula Mars 3 Air – Best Portable Projector for Sound
### Nebula Mars 3 Air
0Dual 8W speakers provide rich, well-rounded audio. This Full HD projector offers a sleek design and Google TV integration.
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, durable design. Cons: Poor HDR performance.
5. Xgimi Horizon S Max – Best Portable Projector for Brightness
### Xgimi Horizon S Max
0With 3,100 ISO lumens, this 4K projector delivers vibrant images even in bright environments. Its features include a gimbal mount and dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers.
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
### Optoma ML1080
1RGB laser technology ensures accurate colors and rich detail. Its 1,200 ANSI lumens brightness and Full HD resolution are impressive for its size.
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, Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction. Cons: No battery.
Choosing Your Portable Projector:
Consider your viewing space, desired brightness (at least 800 ANSI lumens for outdoor nighttime use), resolution (higher resolution for larger images), and whether a battery is essential for your usage. These factors will help you choose the perfect portable projector for your needs.