The best projectors offer a cinematic experience right in the comfort of your home. However, traditional projectors can be large, cumbersome, and sometimes require mounting, making them challenging to move around. Fortunately, there are plenty of portable options available that cater to various settings, such as a movie night under the stars during a camping trip or binge-watching sessions in a cramped dorm room.
Many portable projectors now come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for easy setup. Even without an internet connection, most models support Bluetooth and HDMI, allowing you to stream content from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Some top portable projectors feature built-in batteries that can last through an entire movie, or they can be powered by the best power banks, eliminating the need for a wall outlet.
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 AmazonWhile portable projectors offer great convenience, they do come with some limitations. Their brightness and picture quality typically can't match larger models, so they perform best in dark environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates, low input lag, and specialized gaming modes found in the best gaming projectors are often absent. Nevertheless, when space is limited but you crave a big-screen experience, a portable projector is the perfect solution.
Explore our top picks below. Whether you're looking for a compact, budget-friendly option or a slightly larger model that delivers rich details and accurate colors, we've selected some of the best portable projectors on the market.
Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+
1Experience a full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens and enjoy two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers with the Xgimi Halo+. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at XgimiProduct SpecificationsResolution1920x1080 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”PROSSharp pictureIncludes Android interfaceCONSColor accuracy could be betterThe Xgimi Halo+ is a standout among portable projectors, 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, making it ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The onboard Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage enhance its functionality. Additionally, features like automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup easy in any environment. It also includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for portable gaming sessions.
### ViewSonic M1X
0The ultra-portable ViewSonic M1X offers a handy stand and solid Harman Kardon speakers, making it a great budget-friendly option. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution854x480 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"PROSConvenient standFour hour battery lifeCONSLimited resolutions and brightnessWhile there are cheaper portable projectors, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value in a compact package. Weighing under 2lbs with 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 along with automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand also doubles as a lens cover for safekeeping. Though not ideal for gaming or as a full TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a presentation aid or portable movie option. Its dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers can also function as a great Bluetooth speaker.
### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
0The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser provides a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, offering excellent color accuracy and great contrast. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1920×1080 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”PROSExcellent color accuracy8W speakers with Dolby Digital PlusCONSLow brightnessThe Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, ideal for nighttime viewing with little ambient light. It boasts 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 built-in, streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi are seamless, though the $800 price tag positions it alongside the Xgimi Halo+.
### Nebula Mars 3 Air
0The Nebula Mars 3 Air features dual 8W speakers for well-rounded sound and a Full HD picture, making it an excellent mid-range portable projector. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1920 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"PROSExcellent sounding dual 8W speakers Sleek, durable designCONSPoor HDR performanceSound is a critical factor when choosing a portable projector, particularly for road trips or outdoor movie nights. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels in this area with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound that's perfect for dialogue and soundtracks. It also gets loud enough for outdoor use and supports Dolby Audio. When not projecting, it can function as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours. The sleek and durable design is easy to carry around, and with Google TV built-in and Wi-Fi support, you can enjoy movies and TV shows without additional devices. The Full HD picture remains crisp and detailed, though HDR performance could be better.
### Xgimi Horizon S Max
0With a brightness of 3,100 ISO lumens, the Xgimi Horizon S Max delivers a dazzling 4K picture. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution3840 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"PROSBright for easy viewingLoaded with features for a simple setupCONSNo batteryThe Xgimi Horizon S Max boasts an impressive 3,100 ISO lumens, making it bright enough for viewing in various environments. Its picture remains vibrant even in ambient light, with solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution. The dual light source of laser and LEDs can be adjusted for personal preferences, and it supports several HDR modes. Though not as compact as other options, it's still portable enough for different rooms or road trips. Features like a gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance ensure easy setup. Without a built-in battery, it requires a wall outlet or a high-powered power bank. Android 11 and Wi-Fi support allow for easy streaming, while the dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers provide excellent sound.
### Optoma ML1080
1Utilizing RGB laser technology, the Optoma ML1080 offers stunning picture quality with accurate colors and rich details. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1280x800 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"PROSStunning pictureTime-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correctionCONSNo batteryThe Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology to produce accurate colors and rich details, resulting in stunning picture quality. Its energy-efficient design consumes less power than lamp-based projectors. With 1,200 ANSI lumens, it performs well in various settings, even with some ambient light. The Full HD resolution and features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction ensure a perfectly projected image. Though it doesn't have a built-in battery, it can be powered via a USB-C port with a portable charger, making it easy to take anywhere.
Space: Before purchasing a portable projector, consider your primary viewing spaces. Check the throw range of each model to ensure it fits the dimensions of your space for the desired image size. For outdoor use, ensure you have a level surface, though automatic keystone correction can help.
Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing. For indoor use during daytime, this can be challenging. Brightness is measured in ANSI lumens; we recommend at least 800 ANSI lumens for nighttime outdoor viewing. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K; choose based on your intended image size. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution is often sufficient.
Battery: If you plan to use the projector in areas without access to power outlets, consider a model with a built-in battery. These typically last for at least a 90-minute movie, with some lasting several hours.