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The best mini projectors (and how they compare to full-sized ones)
We spend a lot of time absorbing media each day, whether it is a favorite TV show, a new movie release, or a vlog you follow. However, we are not always at home near our televisions, and a phone does not suffice when you want big sound and detail. That is where a mini projector comes in.
Take your love of media on the road with you, no matter where life's adventures may take you. Pop up a screen on the beach or at the park, take your projector to a friend's house for a backyard fete, or be the big hit at the next kids' birthday party. No matter what life has in store for you, a mini projector can not only simplify life but also bring fun and enjoyment to an otherwise ordinary day.
First, though, you need to know which one to buy. I talked to real users and experts to find out the latest and greatest on the market today. Before adventure comes a-knockin', these are the best mini projectors to buy to take with you on the go.
Also: Read more about the best projector screens
More:
- Bring the theater to you with our favorite 4K home theater projectors
- What are the best outdoor projectors and how many lumens do you need?
- The 5 best portable projectors: Entertainment anywhere
- The best cheap projectors: Home cinema on a budget
- User-friendly
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Compatible with Android
- Subpar brightness
- No remote backlighting
Tech specs: Resolution: 1280 x 720 | Brightness: 200 ANSI lumens |Projection Size: Up to 100 inches
The Anker Nebula Capsule II is the overall best mini projector you can buy today. It is able to project images up to 100 inches in size with a 2.5-hour video playtime. Enjoy 720p viewing with 200 ANSI Lumens imaging, making it more appropriate for those low-light environments. Audio is impressive, too, with upgraded Scan-Speak transducers for improved clarity
There is built-in Android TV with Google Assistant, plus the ability to stream more than 5,000 of your favorite apps, including Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Hulu. Wireless streaming is convenient, but if you prefer a physical connection, choose from HDMI or USB connectivity.
Brandon King, founder of Home Security Heroes, is a long-time fan of the Nebula Capsule II. "I'm a long-time user of the Anker Nebula Capsule II, and I've used it for purposes other than watching movies," he shares. "Whether you plan to project 720p movies on a blank wall or need a bigger screen for your other multimedia needs, this projector will deliver."
Eric Lee, co-founder of REI Insiders, has one of his own and shares high praise. "It's been a great little device," he says. "It has a great picture quality and is super easy to use."
- High resolution
- Excellent connectivity
- Extended battery life
- Small projection area
- Low contrast ratio
Tech specs: Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 400 ANSI lumens | Projection Size: Up to 120 inches
One of the best parts about the Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector is its flexibility.
As the Founder of CamperFAQs, Tory Jon knows plenty about projectors. He shares with me, "I personally use the Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector, and I think it's a great little projector. It automatically straightens and levels the picture, so there's no distortion. This makes it excellent for use in small spaces because you have more control over where you place the projector."
You still get a maximum image size of at least 120 inches with a 4K 400-ANSI lumen picture and premium 1920 x 1080 resolution. Sound is fantastic, too, with Dolby Digital Plus sound from dual 3W speakers for a well-rounded experience.
"I have been using the Anker Nebula Solar Projector for about a year now, mainly for work presentations," says James Wilkinson, CEO and co-founder of Balance One Supplements. "I like this mini projector because it's lightweight and portable, meaning that I can go with it anywhere I need to make a presentation. It also has superior picture quality, which is crucial for both physical and virtual business presentations."
He also notes the wide connectivity, which allows you to connect via Bluetooth, USB, or HDMI, depending on what the moment calls for. The generous three-hour battery life is an added bonus that makes it perfect for the road.
- Fantastic sound
- Impressive display
- Generous runtime
- Limited connectivity
- Tripod additional
Tech specs: Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 ANSI lumens | Contrast Ratio: 12000:1 | Projection Size: Up to 240 inches
The EMOTN H1 Portable Projector provides some of the best technology today, with Lee saying, "It's got a great picture quality, a nice design, and a really intuitive user interface."
Corrie Duffy, Founder of Corrie Cooks, is also a user and shares that although he is relatively new to this mini projector, it is checking all of the boxes. "I use it to view movies, play video games, and present at work," he says, continuing on to its features. "It adjusts effectively when you need to change the picture frame's size or the sound quality, which is fairly decent. Connecting to Bluetooth, WiFi, and Casting is simple."
It provides 1080P HD imaging with 4K video and 250 ANSI lumens in this LCD mini-projector. With the 5G wireless network built right in, this mini projector uses the Android 9.0 system for faster streaming. Visit the Emotn Store to find support for all of your favorite apps, like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube. Once you find something to watch, sit back and let the dual 3-watt surround sound speakers whisk you away as you lose yourself in the picture. The sound is strong enough to stand alone as an outdoor Bluetooth speaker, too.
After using this model, Duffy regrets nothing. "Overall, it was a wise purchase."
- Very user-friendly
- Larger projection screen
- Great connectivity
- Limited resolution
- Mediocre speakers
Tech specs: Resolution: 800 x 480 | Brightness: 45 ANSI lumens | Contrast Ratio: 2000:1 | Projection Size: Up to 170 inches
The Vankyo Leisure 3 is the best budget mini projector you can buy. It does cut some corners; for example, the 1080p mini projector offers a 480p resolution and has limited brightness with just 45 ANSI Lumens. However, it still performs reliability and soundly, offering dual built-in speakers and images as large as 170 inches for excellent flexibility. Users also love how quiet this projector is, with built-in noise suppression technology for quieter operation.
Mark Joseph, Founder of Parental Queries, says, "I have been using my Vankyo Leisure for some time now, and I can attest to how much easier it has made my life. It has allowed me to set up a portable theater in my living room with all the bells and whistles."
James Smith, co-founder of Inyouths, uses his for business. "We use Vankyo Leisure 3 during an important discussion with my team," he comments. "It is lightweight and easy to carry, so we can present it wherever necessary. The quality and brightness of the image are satisfactory for us."
That doesn't mean that work is all it is good for. Smith adds, "With its built-in dual speakers, you won't feel a difference when watching movies or playing games."
What is the best mini projector?
If you have a little to spend, the Anker Nebula Capsule II is the best mini projector. It is a great entry-level projector that is easy to use but still provides excellent 720p viewing with premium sound. You get all the connectivity you need with a reliable performance that users cannot help but clamor over.
To see how it compares, this is a bird's eye view of the best mini projectors.
Best mini projector | Cost | Resolution | Maximum projection size |
Anker Nebula Capsule II | $500 | 1280 x 720 | 100 inches |
EMOTN H1 Portable Projector | $290 | 1920 x 1080 | 240 inches |
Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector | $560 | 1920 x 1080 | 120 inches |
Vankyo Leisure 3 | $68 | 800 x 480 | 170 inches |
The Anker Nebula Capsule II is a user-friendly model that comes at a reasonable price point and packs a great resolution. However, it is far from the only option, so check out this overview of the best mini projectors.
Which is the best mini projector for you?
There are many different types of projectors that you can buy, with mini projectors serving as some of the most popular and sought-after models. Although top performers, the best mini projectors shown here can still pose a challenge at buying time, because it can be difficult to choose when they all seem so similar.
These suggestions may help you find the best mini projector for your home or business needs.
Choose this best mini projector... | If you want... |
Anker Nebula Capsule II | The best performance with excellent reliability. Anker delivers a mainstay among the best mini projectors, giving you a device you can count on. |
EMOTN H1 Portable Projector | The latest technology. This best mini projector incorporates 5G coverage. |
Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector | To take your mini projector on the go. This mini projector is easily portable for that next trip. |
Vankyo Leisure 3 | The best cheap mini projector. This one won't break the bank. |
How did I choose these best mini projectors?
There are several factors that helped shape this list that could also aid you during your search.
Picture: Be sure to consider the resolution of each mini projector. The best mini projectors range from a 480 to 1080 resolution, offering a vastly different picture, depending on the one you choose.
Image size: Not all mini projectors provide the same image size, so you want to look for the maximum projection size for each one. For example, while the Anker Nebula Capsule II provides a 100-inch image, the EMOTN H1 Portable Projector can project images up to 240 inches in size.
Connectivity: Think about how you plan to use your mini projector. If you want to stream content, Bluetooth wireless capability is a critical feature to find in your projector. Many projectors also offer hard connections, too, such as USB or HDMI connectivity.
Projector size: If you plan to take your mini projector on the go with you, be sure to check the weight and dimensions for each mini projector to make sure that it is a suitable size for your travels.
Can you get a projector instead of a TV?
One of the best parts about a projector is its versatility. Says Joseph, "Whether you need to give an important presentation at work, watch a movie with your family, or even have a gaming night with friends, a mini projector is perfect for all occasions.
Joel Tyrnauer works in the Business Development department at C+A Global, overseeing the design and manufacturing of Luma projectors. He shares, "If you're an avid traveler, enjoy going camping, or live in a college dorm in NYC, a mini projector is the way to go. It is lightweight and slim and lets you take a theater with you to those locations where taking or having a TV is not possible."
For Khamani Harrison, it is all about purpose. The KeyBookstore CEO says, "Mini projectors are great for those who want to watch movies or play video games in a larger format, but they may not be the best option for those who are looking for a more traditional television experience. Mini projectors are not as bright as TVs, so they may not be ideal for those who want to watch in a brightly lit room."
What makes a mini projector different from a full-size projector?
When shopping for a new projector, buyers can wonder about the differences between a mini projector and a full-size projector. Tyrnauer clarifies, stressing "the ability to transport it and bring it with you anywhere."
That is far from all to consider. He continues, "There's also the room size that it can be used in, the light output, the contrast ratio, and the varying screen sizes. Mini projectors often come with built-in batteries to aid in portability and being able to use them in a setting that might not have a power outlet close by."
Joseph adds, "Mini projectors generally offer superior image quality and brightness levels compared to their larger counterparts. They are also less expensive than full-size projectors, making them an attractive option for those who don't want to break the bank."
How much do the best mini projectors cost?
Price can be a major factor when shopping for the best mini projector. You will quickly find that the cost of mini projectors can vary considerably based on factors like size, features, and sound. The best mini projectors range in price from under $100 to more than $550, depending on the model you choose.
Are there alternative mini projectors worth considering?
These are not the only mini projectors to consider. These models are also worth a second look when shopping for the best mini projectors.
If you think a mini projector may be too small, check out these options for the best cheap projectors, the best 4K projectors, and the best outdoor projectors for your backyard!