The 6 Best Portable Projectors in 2025

The best projectors offer a cinematic experience right in your living room. However, traditional projectors can be cumbersome, often requiring mounting and making them less portable. Fortunately, there are numerous portable projectors designed for flexibility, perfect for movie nights under the stars or cozy sessions in a dorm room.

These portable projectors often come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, simplifying setup. Even without an internet connection, you can still enjoy content thanks to Bluetooth and HDMI support, allowing you to stream from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Many top models include a battery that can power through an entire movie, or they can be paired with the best power banks for extended use.

TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:

-------------------------------------

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 convenient, they often compromise on brightness and picture quality compared to larger models. They are best used in dark environments to maximize their performance. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag, common in the best gaming projectors, are typically absent. Nonetheless, for those needing a big-screen experience in a compact package, portable projectors are unbeatable.

Explore our top picks below, ranging from budget-friendly options to those offering superior detail and color accuracy.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1

The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as the best portable projector overall, delivering a full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. 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 comprehensive portable projector, 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, ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The onboard Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage enhance its functionality. Automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup effortless in any environment. It also includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for portable gaming.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0

The ViewSonic M1X is an ultra-portable projector with a handy stand and solid Harmon Kardon speakers. See it at Amazon

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 resolutions and brightness

While there are cheaper portable projectors, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value in a premium, ultra-compact form. 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, and features like horizontal and vertical keystoning and automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand also doubles as a lens cover for safekeeping. Although not ideal for gaming or as a TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a presentation aid or portable movie option, with multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C. 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 a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, with excellent color accuracy and great 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 delivers a crisp 1080p resolution, though its 300 ANSI lumens make it best suited for nighttime use with minimal ambient light. It boasts excellent color accuracy and contrast, fitting comfortably into a compact size slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs. The battery lasts up to 2.5 hours, and the 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus can also function as Bluetooth speakers. Android TV 11 is included for easy streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi, though its $800 price tag aligns it with the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0

The Nebula Mars 3 Air offers excellent sound with dual 8W speakers and a Full HD picture, making it an outstanding midrange portable projector. See it at Amazon

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 road trips or outdoor use. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound ideal for outdoor movie nights, with support for Dolby Audio. It can also function as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours without projecting. The sleek and durable design includes a carrying strap for easy transport. With Google TV built-in and Wi-Fi support, streaming is seamless, and additional connectivity options include HDMI and USB ports. The Full HD picture is 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

0

The Xgimi Horizon S Max boasts a dazzling 3,100 ISO lumens, making it the brightest portable 4K option available. See it at Amazon

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 a simple setup

Cons:

- No battery

With 3,100 ISO lumens, the Xgimi Horizon S Max offers exceptional brightness, ensuring vibrant images even in ambient light. It supports multiple HDR modes and features a dual light source of laser and LEDs for customizable viewing. While not as compact as other models, it's still portable enough for home use or road trips. The gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit feature, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. Although it lacks a battery, Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable easy streaming, and the dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent sound.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1

The Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology to produce accurate colors and rich details, offering stunning picture quality in a compact size. 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, making it energy-efficient and capable of producing 1,200 ANSI lumens for bright, clear images even in 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 can be powered via a USB-C port with a portable charger, enhancing its portability.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector:

----------------------------------------

Space: Consider your typical viewing spaces before purchasing. 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. Aim for at least 800 ANSI lumens for nighttime use. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K; choose based on your intended image size. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution is generally sufficient.

Battery: If you plan to use the projector away from power outlets, a battery is essential. Most batteries last at least 90 minutes, with some offering longer durations.