Enjoy the magic of the movies anywhere with the best portable projectors. Unlike their bulky, hard-to-move counterparts, these compact powerhouses bring cinematic experiences to your backyard, dorm room, or even a camping trip under the stars. Many boast built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for effortless setup, while Bluetooth and HDMI support ensure seamless connectivity with your devices. Even without a wall outlet, top models offer long-lasting batteries or compatibility with powerful power banks, ensuring uninterrupted entertainment.

TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:

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Our Top Pick

Xgimi Halo+

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ViewSonic M1X

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Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

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Nebula Mars 3 Air

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Xgimi Horizon S Max

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Optoma ML1080

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While compact projectors offer incredible convenience, it's important to note that brightness and picture quality might not match larger models. Optimal viewing is best achieved in darker environments. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag found in gaming projectors are generally absent. However, for space-conscious movie lovers, a portable projector remains an unbeatable solution.

Explore our top picks below, catering to various needs and budgets, from tiny and affordable options to more robust models delivering rich detail and accurate colors.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick

Xgimi Halo+

A portable projector delivering a full HD picture (1920x1080 pixels), boasting up to 900 ANSI lumens, and featuring two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers.

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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, includes Android interface. CONS: Color accuracy could be better.

With a long-lasting battery, powerful Harman Kardon speakers, and a built-in Android interface with Chromecast, the Xgimi Halo+ offers a comprehensive portable projection experience. Its auto-focus, keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance features simplify setup. A low-latency gaming mode is an added bonus.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

ViewSonic M1X

An ultra-portable projector with a convenient built-in stand and excellent Harman Kardon speakers.

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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.

The ViewSonic M1X provides exceptional value in a compact form factor. Its long battery life and integrated stand make it perfect for travel. While resolution and brightness are limited, its connectivity options and impressive Harman Kardon speakers make it a versatile choice, even doubling as a Bluetooth speaker.

3. Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Enjoy crisp 1080p resolution with surprisingly accurate colors and high contrast from a 300 ANSI lumens lens.

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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.

Despite its compact size, the Nebula Capsule 3 Laser delivers excellent 1080p picture quality with impressive color accuracy and contrast. Its built-in Android TV 11 and powerful Dolby Digital Plus speakers enhance the viewing experience. However, its lower brightness makes it best suited for darker environments.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

Nebula Mars 3 Air

Exceptional Full HD picture and powerful dual 8W speakers make the Nebula Mars 3 Air an excellent mid-range portable projector.

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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-sounding dual 8W speakers, sleek, durable design. CONS: Poor HDR performance.

The Nebula Mars 3 Air prioritizes audio quality, delivering rich sound from its dual 8W speakers with Dolby Audio support. Its sleek design and built-in Google TV make it a user-friendly and versatile option. While its HDR performance is a drawback, the Full HD picture and long battery life (8 hours in Bluetooth speaker mode) are significant strengths.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

Xgimi Horizon S Max

With a stunning 3,100 ISO lumens, this 4K portable projector delivers a dazzling picture.

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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: Bright for easy viewing, loaded with features for simple setup. CONS: No battery.

The Xgimi Horizon S Max shines with its exceptional brightness, making it ideal for various environments. Its 4K resolution, accurate colors, and support for multiple HDR modes deliver a stunning picture. While lacking a battery, its numerous features, including a gimbal mount and auto-correction, simplify setup and enhance usability. The powerful Harman Kardon speakers complete the package.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

Optoma ML1080

RGB laser technology creates accurate colors and rich details, delivering stunning picture quality.

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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.

The Optoma ML1080 utilizes RGB laser technology for superior color accuracy and detail. Its brightness and Full HD resolution ensure a vibrant picture, even in moderately lit rooms. Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction guarantee precise image projection. While lacking a built-in battery, its USB-C power input allows for portable use with an external charger.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Consider your viewing space and the projector's throw range to ensure it fits your needs and desired image size. Keystone correction can help with uneven surfaces.

Brightness and Resolution: For outdoor use, at least 800 ANSI lumens is recommended. Resolution should be chosen based on your image size; 1080p is often sufficient for smaller images.

Battery: A battery is essential for portable use away from wall outlets. Check battery life to ensure it meets your viewing needs.