8 BEST PORTABLE MINI PROJECTORS
In this list of the best Portable projectors, we are going to look into aspects such as the picture quality, battery life, price, sound quality and the contrast ratio. Most importantly, the projector weighs approximately 2 kg.
Read more on Optoma UHZ50 4K laser projector
What we’re looking for
Projection type
Digital light processing (DLP) and liquid crystal displays (LCD) are the two most popular types of projectors. Neither projector uses a lamp or a bulb to light itself. In addition to being smaller and more portable, DLPs offer greater contrast and blacker blacks, says Alix Diaconis, contributing video producer at the Verge. Despite having fewer lumens (brightness) than DLPs, LCDs tend to have sharper, crisper images. The color accuracy of laser projectors is better and they usually cost around $2,000. All of the projectors recommended in this guide are DLP projectors since portability is a priority. Some of these projectors are bright enough to be best projectors for daytime use.
Quality of picture
The quality of the picture depends on the resolution of your projector. It’s possible to buy portable projectors with 4K resolution, but if you’re looking for something more affordable, you’ll want something with at least 1080p or 720p resolution. Read more on JMGO O1 Pro Ultra Short Throw Projector
Brightness
Lumens measure brightness; more lumens means brighter and more applications your projector can handle. In using your portable projector, lumens should be considered relative to the ambient light around you. An image will appear washed out if there is a lot of ambient light. Therefore, if you plan to use a projector in a lighter environment, you may be able to mitigate this effect by choosing a projector with higher lumens. It will be necessary to place the projector in a dark room if you choose a projector with fewer lumens.
The average portable projector has less than 1,500 lumens, while the highest-priced (and largest) portable options top out at 2,400 lumens (still below higher-end stationary projectors at 2,500 lumens in most cases). Compared with larger, more expensive models, portable projectors have small bulbs and are therefore expected to be less bright. Read more on Optoma GT1090HDR Short-Throw Gaming Projector
Connections
Regardless of which devices you wish to use a portable projector with, you need to consider how to connect it. HDMI cables are required for connecting laptops and streaming devices like Rokus and Apple TVs. If you want to connect your computer or smartphone wirelessly, many portable projectors also come with Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth capabilities. With this, you can access YouTube, Netflix, or Hulu through any of the built-in streaming apps. Read more on LG CineBeam UHD
Power source and sound
Portability is heavily influenced by the power source. Having reviewed a range of portable projectors, Ashley Carman advises looking for one that has “enough battery power to watch a two-hour movie.” I’ve seen many projectors with rechargeable internal batteries lasting between 2.5 and 4 hours, so you can watch while it charges. Bluetooth-enabled portable projectors typically work with wireless speakers because they have built-in speakers and outputs for connecting external speakers.
Best portable mini projectors
Best Overall: Anker Nebula Capsule II
Among mini projectors, we recommend the Anker Nebula Capsule.
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Our Ratings
Design 5/5
This is the third step in the setup process
4/5 for image quality
It has 4/5 for sound quality
4/5 for connectivity
The things we like
Built-in Android operating system
Focusing automatically
Assistant powered by Google
Why We Don’t Like It
It’s expensive
The Anker Nebula Capsule II is reviewed
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing mini projectors is portability. Since most bags and backpacks have pockets for carrying drink-sized items, being the size of a soda can is as portable as it gets.
Connect it to your Wi-Fi network and you’re good to go. The speaker is built into the base, and there’s an app store right on the device.
As an Android-based projector, it includes an app store to download apps such as Netflix or Hulu, along with built-in Google Assistant, so you can enjoy Netflix and Hulu at the same time. A smartphone app (or the supplied remote) or Google Assistant can also be used to control it.
Read more on Best laser projector for conference room
As a whole, we are impressed with the Nebula Capsule II, and consider it perfect for pop-up cinema nights or occasional use in the bedroom. Even though it costs a lot, it comes with everything you need.
Summary of specs
The resolution is 720p
The brightness of this lamp is 200 lumens according to ANSI
There is no mention of the contrast ratio
Projections between 40 and 100 inches in size
This portable projector by Anker is ideal for those who want plenty of features. There is a 720p resolution cap on this video, but the image quality is clear and crisp despite this. I was able to reproduce the image well at multiple throw distances when testing the image quality. Whenever you reposition the projector, the autofocus refocuses the picture automatically. A whisper-quiet fan and a better speaker than found in an average projector are built into the Capsule II. A portable mini projector that’s also portable, high in sound quality, and comes at a reasonable price is worth investing in. The product tester was George S Williams. Though this is not a 4k projector, here we have a list of best 4k laser projectors.
Best Portable: APEMAN Mini M4 Projector
Click here to view on eBay, or click here to view on Apemans
What We Like
Small in size
An excellent sound quality
Integrated battery
The tripod is included
Full HD (1080p)
What We Don’t Like
The light is very dim
Time between charges
Apeman Projector M4 Review
Apeman’s M4 DLP projector keeps up with the portability trend. With a size similar to three CD cases placed side by side, this projector has decent sound considering its size. Despite the compact size, the picture is fairly dim, so make sure the room is as dark as possible when setting up this projector.
While the projector comes with a 3,400mAh battery, it won’t last you more than two hours, which is rather disappointing. That leaves even less power for the projector if you charge your phone off the battery. The versatility of devices is still something we like to see.
Photos and movies can be displayed by connecting your devices via HDMI or plugging in a USB drive. Thanks to the included tripod, the projector can be pointed anywhere you need it to be. For campers, hikers, or anyone who wants to carry a projector around, this projector fits easily into a jacket pocket or a small bag.
summary of spec
A 1080p resolution is required
The luminance of the lamp is 50 ANSI lumens
A contrast ratio of 2000:1 is used
30-100 inch projection size
A sleek, modern design that fits in your pocket with surprising image and audio quality for its size makes the Apeman Projector M4 a good choice for those who value portability over raw power. It is easy to set up, so non-tech-savvy users will appreciate not having to fiddle with any settings or menus. When used in daylight conditions, colors become washed out.
Approximately six feet from the image is the perfect setup distance for me. In this way, a 64-inch screen is created with crisp, clear images, perfect for use at home and in the backyard. Apeman’s 2-watt speakers fill a medium or small room with impressive sound quality despite their tiny size. It may seem expensive for such a small, simple device, but it offers superior portability without all the extras. A product tester, George S Williams
Best Budget: Vankyo Leisure 3
A very portable projector, the Vankyo is a great choice.
You can view Walmart’s site, or you can view Best Buy’s site
Our Ratings
3 out of 5 for design
Steps 4 and 5 of the setup process
A rating of 3/5 for image quality
A score of 1/5 for sound quality
Connectivity 5/5
What We Like
Case for transportation
Inputs from multiple sources
An affordable price
What We Don’t Like
Bright but not very impressive
The short foot is useful for aiming
Vankyo Leisure 3 Review
For when it needs to go out on the road, the Vankyo Leisure 3 comes with a carrying case. It supports a wide variety of input types, such as VGA, HDMI, USB, MicroSD, and RCA.
There isn’t much brightness to the projector itself. In addition, setting it up is a bit difficult. This projector has no feet on the bottom to level it, and there is only a relatively short foot in front to adjust the vertical position. For the image to go where you want it, you will probably have to prop up the projector in front. However, when it comes to the price, you can’t argue.
This projector, as its name implies, can be used as an excellent budget option for home use. To get a good 1080p image with a good contrast ratio of 2000:1 and solid color reproduction, you would need a dark room. If you do have one, you will be able to get a sharp picture in 1080p.
Summary of specs
It has a 1080p resolution
The brightness of this lamp is 2400 lumens
It has a contrast ratio of 2000:1
32-176 inch projection
For its level of quality, the Vankyo Leisure 3 offers excellent value. Looks like a cheap toy, and it doesn’t have much to offer. Only in very dark rooms can you get an adequate projection due to the bulb’s lack of brightness. The only thing that satisfied me was when I closed the blackout curtains and had very little ambient light around me. Although it runs cooler and quieter than expected, it has a decent fan design. Those looking to build home entertainment systems on a budget will find this system to be easy to set up, easy to navigate, and affordable.
Best for Business: Optoma ML750ST
The Optoma ML7520 is our pick for the best business mini projector.
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Our Ratings
3 out of 5 for design
Step 45 of the Setup Process
A 5/5 rating for image quality
A 2/5 rating for sound quality
4.5 out of 5 for connectivity
What We Like
Amazing colors
Throwing a short distance
The carrying case is included
What We Don’t Like
There is a separate wireless dongle available
It’s expensive
Optoma ML750ST Review
It’s hard to show just how small the Optima ML750ST is in photos, but it is indeed a mini projector. It is small enough to fit in your palm. A short-throw projector is also capable of producing a full-size picture if the projector is close to the screen. From just six feet away, you can project a 100-inch image.
When you consider that this powerful machine has 700 ANSI lumens and a contrast ratio of 20,000:1, the size becomes even more deceptive. Due to its size and brightness, it is perfect for business because it can be carried in a briefcase or backpack. To ensure a successful presentation, ensure that your room is as dark as possible.
A little on the pricey side is the projector too. It is disappointing that Optima does not offer wireless connectivity, and selling a dongle to fix that oversight for an additional fee seems almost insulting. This projector is a perfect companion for business presentations on the road because of its tiny size and high-contrast image.
Summary of specs
It has a 1080p resolution
The lumens are 700 according to ANSI
This image has a contrast ratio of 20,000:1
The projection size ranges between 16 and 135 inches
A mini-projector and a full-size projector are a good compromise in the Optoma ML750ST. It feels and looks cheaper and older thanks to the raised buttons that make a harsh clicking sound when pressed. Even in dimly lit rooms, I was very pleased with the vivid colors and vivid pictures. With this system, you will be able to produce large images without having to move them further away, which is great if you have a cramped office or a small room. In comparison to the external speaker, the external speaker sounds tinny and small; the 1.5-watt speaker sounds tinny and small. This product was designed with business professionals in mind, but it may be a good fit for home theater enthusiasts as well due to its compact size and power. A product tester, George S Williams
Best Design: ViewSonic M1+ Portable Projector
A portable smart projector with Wi-Fi from ViewSonic. Click here to view on Amazon, click here to view on Best Buy
What We Like
Stand with a variety of uses
Batteries that last for hours
The sound is fantastic
What We Don’t Like
A maximum resolution of 480p is available
Focusing and auto keystone glitches
ViewSonic M1+ Portable Projector Review
Among the projectors on this list, we especially like the ViewSonic M1 smart projector for its self-contained versatility. Projectors come with a built-in stand that protects the lens of the projector when it is closed. The projector can be pointed wherever it needs to go when the stand is open. With its sleek design and kickstand built in, the projector earns high marks for design.
In addition, this projector’s keystone adjustment is glitchy, and its resolution is limited to 480p. Nevertheless, when the projector is in eco mode, its battery can last for up to six hours and has a contrast ratio of 120,000:1. You can access the device via microSD, USB-C, HDMI, or USB-A. In addition to the 3.5mm audio jack, it can also output sound.
Summary of specs
This video has a resolution of 480p
There is a 300-lumen brightness
A Contrast Ratio of 120,000:1 has been calculated
A 100-inch projection can be projected
This projector has so many great features. I love multifunctional features, and I’m always on the lookout for those. The metal stand doubles as a lens cap, so there’s no need for a tripod. Despite the ViewSonic M1’s simplicity of setup and control, it produces crisp images. While autofocus is generally reliable, it can sometimes struggle to maintain focus. Projectors commonly experience this issue. As expected, audio quality is inferior to that of a speaker, but it is superior to that of most other miniature projectors available. Despite being noticeable, fan noise is not disruptive. As a portable projector with practical features and bonus features, the ViewSonic M1 is a perfect choice. A product tester named George
Best for Travel: AAXA P7 LED Projector
The AAXA P7 LED projector is our pick for the Best for Travel mini projector.
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3 out of 5 for design
This is the third step in the setup process
This image is rated 3/5 for quality
Quality of sound 2 out of 5
The connectivity rating is 4 out of 5
What We Like
Options for input are plentiful
Long life of LEDs
What We Don’t Like
Batteries run out too soon
There is no tripod included
The audio quality is poor
AAXA P7 LED Projector Review
Portable projectors are one thing, but travel-friendly projectors are quite another. The best travel projector needs to be portable, easy to carry, and reliable under most circumstances. There are many input options considering the small size of the AAXA P7, which measures approximately 4 x 4 x 3 inches (LWH). There are several ways you can plug in the device, including HDMI, USB, MicroSD, and mini-VGA. You should be able to use the projector with any device you run across while traveling.
AAXA projectors tend to have very low sound levels, which is something of a trend. In business presentations, you will be able to use the battery for 90 minutes, but for feature-length movies, you will need to plug it in. As the tripod that comes with the projector isn’t very good, you should have a sturdy base for aiming the device.
Despite that, the LED bulb will last 30,000 hours and its image quality will resemble what you’d see on a modern HDTV, according to our reviewer George. There is a lot of contrast and brightness in this picture, which makes the colors seem vibrant. Taking this projector on the road means you can connect it to anything you might need while you’re out and about.
Summary of specs
It has a 1080p resolution
The brightness of this lamp is 600 lumens
Projections sizes range from 60 to 120 inches. Contrast ratio: Not listed
Picture quality is good and contrast and brightness are good on the AAXA P7 LED Projector. Installation of the software isn’t a problem, and it’s easy to set up. A speaker external to the laptop is recommended if the onboard audio is not up to par. Only 90 minutes of battery life can be accomplished with the rechargeable battery. Despite this, some buyers might be willing to pay the price for the AAXA P7 LED Projector. Despite this, for those who are not picky cinemagoers or who aren’t concerned about the price tag, it won’t outperform other solutions in terms of sound and image quality.
Best for 4K: AAXA 4K1 LED Home Theater Projector
Projection system for home theaters – AAXA 4K1
Check out Amazon and Best Buy for more information
What we like
This picture is awesome
It’s bright
HDMI dual inputs
Remote control is included
Why we don’t like it
The remote is difficult to use
There is not enough audio
Leveling and aiming are not included
Controls in Keystone are not responsive
Review
The AAXA 4K1 is slightly larger than some 4K projectors, though some 4K projectors can be mini as well. This 4K beast also produces an impressive picture. There is still plenty of room for the cables and the remote in the carrying case, which is smaller than a bread box. Depending on how much else you need to carry, it could also fit into a backpack. There is a remote included with the projector, though the external IR port is recessed into the projector slightly, so aiming the remote can sometimes be tricky.
You’ll need to prop up the projector on something to aim it because it does not have feet or a mechanism for aiming. There’s nothing ideal about that. Nevertheless, the inputs include dual HDMI ports and a USB-A port. Due to the soft speakers on this projector, you’ll need an auxiliary output and headphone jack for audio output. As a result, you get a 4K video that is crisp and sharp with a low contrast ratio that does not bother you at all.
Keystone adjustment can also be performed with the remote, but it’s not very responsive. The picture has to be adjusted a lot to even slightly change. A greater number of course controls would be helpful. In general, you won’t be able to do better than this for a 4K picture you can carry around in a bag.
Summary of specs
It has a 4K resolution
The light has a brightness of 1500 lumens
It has a contrast ratio of 2000:1
A 300-inch projection screen can be used
Best for Gaming: BenQ HT2050A
Our Ratings
4 out of 5 for design
A 5/5 rating for setup
An image of 5/5 quality
4.5 out of 5 for sound quality
It is 4/5 in terms of connectivity
Here’s what we like
Lag in input is virtually nonexistent Check out our list of other best Projectors for gaming
It’s bright
Multiple input options are possible
Why We Don’t Like It
Portability is not possible
You will need to purchase mounting brackets separately
BenQ HT2050A Review
It’s nice to watch movies on a projector, but what’s cool is playing a video game on a 300″ screen. The projector delivers low input lag so you can accomplish that. Your game will not go well if your projector does not process commands quickly enough. With low latency in mind, BenQ designed the HT2050A for gamers.
Featuring 2,200 lumens, it’s also one of the brightest projectors we’ve tested, so your friends can’t close the curtains for gaming. Additionally, your drake won’t appear washed out because the contrast ratio is high. A microSD card can be connected, as well as an HDMI port, RCA, VGA, and RCA.
The projector, despite its size, cannot be taken with you. No case comes with the device, but it can be packed in a bigger bag. You can buy an additional mounting bracket if you want, but it does not come with one. The projector takes gaming to a whole new level, so if you’d like to step it up, it’s the projector for you.
Summary of specs
It has a 1080p resolution
Luminous output: 2200 lumens
This image has a contrast ratio of 15000:1
A 300-inch projection screen can be used
There are a lot of connectivity options on the BenQ HT2050A. A wall-mounted unit or one placed on a coffee table takes up a lot of space. There is no fuss when it comes to set up, and the image quality is excellent. This screen produces a crisp, vibrant picture by using 1080P resolution and 2,200 lumens, but it has a hard time displaying an image in an area with sufficient lighting. A modern TV can compete with these colors and clarity under ideal dark conditions, however. A 10-watt speaker built into the projector does not sound fantastic but does not create a lot of distractions. A great option for anyone looking for a high-caliber projector to serve their cinematic and gaming needs in a small space with a clean wall or silver screen. A product tester by the name of George S Williams
Best Sound: XGIMI Elfin
Check out Amazon and Xgimi.com for more information
A few things we like
The device is equipped with Google TV and Chromecast
Avoidance of obstacles and automatic keystone
An excellent remote control
Stereo loudspeakers
Why We Don’t Like It
Batteries not included
You do not need to aim or level
There is no Netflix native app
Review in the XGIMI
A compact and powerful indoor projector from XGIMI, the Elfin provides 800 ANSI lumens while offering a lot of features. A collection of streaming apps are included with the projector’s Google TV operating system. It takes only a few minutes for this projector to be set up and ready to watch a movie. For some reason, Netflix isn’t supported by those apps because the projector does not qualify as a supported device. Using a streaming stick on the HDMI port on the back or casting to the projector should get you around that, but you shouldn’t have to.
A tripod mount is located in the center of the round base of the projector. Rubber feet cover the bottom of the projector. There is no aiming mechanism for the projector on the round base, which makes propping it awkward and makes it hard for you to point the projector where you want it. The auto keystone and obstacle avoidance make it stand out from most other projectors. The projector will fill the largest possible space when you aim it at the screen or wall while avoiding other objects on the wall, such as shelves or lamps. The setup is incredibly easy with this projector since it has such a slick design.
As a final note, the sound from this projector is clear and loud. It is tuned by Harmon Kardon, and you can turn up the volume with its dual 3W speakers.
Adding an external speaker or soundbar will give you more bass, but the speakers are great on their own. There could be a few things that could be improved as far as brightness, but overall, this is an excellent projector that has a lot to offer and this one will serve you well for quite some time.
Summary of specs
The resolution of the display can reach up to 4K
This lamp has an ANSI lumen rating of 800
It was unannounced that the Contrast Ratio would be so high
It is possible to project up to 150 inches on the screen.
Yaber V7 Pro: The best budget portable projector
Amazon is now selling this item for £250
The Yaber V7 Pro isn’t the lightest or slimmest projector on the market, and it doesn’t run on batteries, but it’s an excellent choice if you want to watch occasional films, sports, or TV programs with friends or family. 380 ANSI lumens of brightness are claimed, and you can adjust the image via the menu to get a decent 1080p image. For households with children, the automatic image adjustment is especially useful: if the projector is knocked or moved slightly, the picture will be automatically adjusted.
The Yaber Pro V7 isn’t as feature-rich or as crisp as other, more expensive portable projectors on this list, but it still makes a good budget choice. As a bonus, you get a free carry bag. There’s a noticeable fan whirr on this model, so keep that in mind.
Read our full Yaber V7 Pro review
Light output: 380 ANSI lumens
It is natively 1080p in resolution;
There are two stereo speakers with a power of 3W
The ratio of throws: 1.50 to 1
A maximum image size of 120 inches is recommended
This device has two USB-As, two HDMI 1.4s, and 3.5mm jacks for audio and headphones
Using Bluetooth technology
The time between charges: N/A
A lamp’s life is not specified
In terms of dimensions, it measures 265 x 205 x 105mm
It weighs 2.2 kilograms
Viewsonic M1: The best-sounding budget portable projector
The price is £299. You can buy it now on Amazon.
There is something particularly ingenious about Viewsonic’s pint-sized projector. In addition to being able to cover the lens with the integrated handle, it can be used as a stand by rotating the handle underneath. When the projector sits below the level of your screen, you can easily tilt the beam upwards, and you do not need to find a prop if you use it on the floor or a coffee table.
A streaming stick can be plugged into the HDMI port while an Android smartphone can be connected via HDMI, USB-A, or USB-C. However, you can plug in a pair of headphones if you want to listen to music wirelessly.
Compared to bargain-basement projectors, the M1 has better picture quality. Although the camera’s 480p resolution limits its quality, a darkened room will reveal an image that is vibrant with deep blacks and punchy colors.
Furthermore, Harmon-Kardon’s sound quality is superb. The sound quality isn’t as good as a soundbar or mid-range Bluetooth speaker, but it’s excellent for watching movies, TV, and sports events.
When the eco options are enabled to achieve the maximum battery life of five to six hours, the picture doesn’t look good. In terms of price and performance, the M1 is the best buy if you want a strong, portable projector you can use anywhere.
Specs summary
Aspect ratio: 2:1; Max recommended image: 100”; MicroSD, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 1.4, 3.5mm headphone/audio inputs and outputs; Input / outputs: microSD, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 1.4, Wireless: N/A; Battery life: 2.5 to 6hrs; Lamp life: 30,000 hours; Dimensions: 126 x 148 x 40mm; Weight: 689g; Dimensions: 126 x 148
Final thoughts on the best portable mini projectors
As a whole, we love the Nebula Capsule II’s compact and portable design. It was simply made to be taken anywhere. What sets it apart from the competition is that it comes pre-installed with Android. Watching content on it without having to plug anything into it is great. We also love the Viewsonic M1+ if you need something even smaller. This mini projector stands out from most mini projectors simply because it has long battery life. Because it was designed for portability, we are impressed.