Top 6 Portable Projectors of 2025 Revealed

The best projectors bring the magic of cinema right into your living room. However, traditional projectors can be large and cumbersome, often requiring permanent installation. Fortunately, there's a wide range of portable projectors that offer flexibility for enjoying movies under the stars during a camping trip or in the confines of a small dorm room.

These portable projectors often come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for seamless setup. Even without internet access, many models support Bluetooth and HDMI, allowing you to stream content from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Additionally, top portable projectors feature batteries that can power through an entire movie, or can be charged using the best power banks.

TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:

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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

While portable projectors are incredibly convenient, they come with some limitations. Their smaller size often means less brightness and lower picture quality compared to larger models, making them ideal for use in darker environments. Features like high refresh rates, low input lag, and specialized gaming modes, typically found in the best gaming projectors, might not be available. Nevertheless, for those looking to enjoy big-screen viewing in limited spaces, portable projectors are the perfect solution.

Explore our top picks below, which cater to various needs, from budget-friendly compact options to slightly larger models that offer superior detail and color accuracy.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1

The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as a top-tier portable projector, delivering a full HD picture with a brightness of up to 900 ANSI lumens and featuring two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. It's perfect for those seeking a comprehensive viewing experience.

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Xgimi

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

The Xgimi Halo+ is a complete package, boasting a battery that lasts up to two hours and robust Harman Kardon stereo speakers. Its 1080p resolution and 900 ANSI lumens are perfect for nighttime outdoor viewing. With an onboard Android interface featuring Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage, it offers a versatile entertainment solution.

The projector simplifies setup with automatic keystone adjustment, autofocus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance features, making it adaptable to various environments. Additionally, it includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for portable gaming sessions.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0

The ViewSonic M1X is an ultra-portable projector that's perfect for budget-conscious buyers looking for a compact, feature-rich option.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications:

- Resolution: 854x480 pixels (LED) - Brightness: 360 LED lumens - Throw range: 2 feet ~ 8 feet, 8 inches - 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 resolutions and brightness

The ViewSonic M1X is a budget-friendly choice that offers great value. Weighing under 2lbs with up to four hours of battery life, it's ideal for camping or work trips. Its built-in stand ensures a stable display, and features like horizontal and vertical keystoning, along with automated four-corner adjustment, make setup a breeze. The stand also serves as a lens cover for added protection.

While not suitable for gaming or as a TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a portable movie or presentation tool. It supports Wi-Fi and includes HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C ports for easy connectivity. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers also make it a great Bluetooth speaker.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0

The Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, delivering excellent color accuracy and contrast.

See it at Amazon

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

The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser is best used at night with minimal ambient light due to its 300 ANSI lumens brightness. However, it excels in picture quality, offering excellent color accuracy and 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 straightforward. However, its Full HD resolution and features come at a cost of $800, matching the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0

The Nebula Mars 3 Air is an excellent midrange portable projector, known for its superior sound quality and Full HD picture.

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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

Sound quality is crucial for portable projectors, especially for outdoor use or when away from other sound systems. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels in this area with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound. These speakers are loud enough for outdoor movie nights and support Dolby Audio. Even without a movie, you can use it as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours of playback.

The projector's sleek and durable design, along with a handy carrying strap, makes it easy to transport. With Google TV and Wi-Fi built-in, you can stream content without additional devices. It also includes HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth for further connectivity options.

The Mars 3 Air's picture quality matches its mid-range price, with up to 400 ANSI lumens best suited for low-light conditions. The Full HD picture remains crisp and detailed, though HDR performance is not as strong as some TVs and brighter projectors.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

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The Xgimi Horizon S Max is a 4K portable projector that boasts an impressive 3,100 ISO lumens, ensuring a bright and vibrant picture in various environments.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications:

- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (DLP) - Brightness: 3100 ISO lumens - Throw range: 1 feet, 8 inches ~ 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 a simple setup

CONS:

- No battery

The Xgimi Horizon S Max's 3,100 ISO lumens make it exceptionally bright, allowing for easy viewing in almost any environment. Its picture remains vibrant even in ambient light, with solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution. It supports multiple HDR modes and features a dual light source of laser and LEDs, adjustable for personal viewing preferences.

While not as compact as other models, it's still portable enough for use in different rooms or on road trips. A gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit feature, and obstacle avoidance make setup straightforward. However, it lacks a built-in battery, requiring a wall outlet or a high-powered power bank. Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable easy streaming, while an HDMI port and two USB ports offer additional connectivity. The dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent sound, filling most rooms without additional speakers.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1

The Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology to deliver accurate colors and rich details, offering stunning picture quality in a compact form.

See it at Amazon

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's RGB laser technology ensures accurate colors and rich details, providing exceptional picture quality for its size. It's energy-efficient and can produce images at 1,200 lumens, suitable for environments with some ambient light. Features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction ensure a perfectly projected image.

While it lacks a built-in battery, it includes a USB-C power input for use with a portable charger, making it easy to take on the go.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Before purchasing a portable projector, consider your typical viewing spaces. Check the throw range to ensure it fits your space for the desired image size. For outdoor use, ensure a level surface, though automatic keystone correction can help.

Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing. A minimum of 800 ANSI lumens is recommended for nighttime outdoor use. 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, a model with a battery is essential. Most batteries last at least 90 minutes, with some offering several hours of use.