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Using a projector is a great way to view content on a big screen whether for business presentations, outdoor movie nights, or gaming. While full-size projectors can be bulky and heavy, small and portable projectors make it easy to project a big image anywhere.
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What to consider when buying a small portable projector
Brightness – Measured in lumens, needed based on room lighting. Choose a projector with higher lumens if you’ll use it in a room with lots of ambient light.
Resolution – Minimum of 720p HD, up to 1080p Full HD. Higher resolution like 1080p provides sharper image quality, but 720p is adequate for most.
Contrast ratio – Higher ratio gives sharper image. Look for a contrast ratio of at least 10,000:1 for deep blacks and vivid colors.
Connectivity – HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi for device pairing. Multiple options like HDMI, USB, and wireless provide flexible device connectivity.
Built-in speaker – Convenient but may lack robust sound. Opt for a model with built-in speaker for portability, but consider connecting an external speaker for better audio.
Different Types of Small Portable Projectors
There are three main projector technologies to choose from:
LED – Uses LEDs as the light source. Lower brightness but provides rich colors. Best for small rooms or dark environments. Most portable and affordable option.
Laser – Utilizes lasers for lighting. Offers very high brightness and contrast. Excellent for well-lit rooms. High upfront cost but with lower maintenance.
DLP – Employs tiny mirrors and a color wheel. Brightness depends on lamp wattage. Middle ground price-wise. Provides very sharp image quality.
Top 5 Small Portable Projectors
1. Nebula Mars 3 Portable Projector
The Nebula Mars 3 portable projector by Anker is a compact projector that packs a punch with 1080p high-definition resolution that makes any image pop with vivid color and crisp details. The punch also comes with a punchy price tag at $879.99.
The Mars 3 shines with 1000 lumens of brightness adapting to any lighting conditions indoors or out. You can carry and set up the projector anywhere thanks to the long 5-hour battery life.
Built-in Harman Kardon speakers pump out robust, immersive sound so you don’t need extra equipment. Access all your favorite streaming apps and use hands-free control with the integrated microphone and Android TV.
You can connect smartphones, laptops or tablets using the HDMI or USB-C ports. Then project up to a 100-inch image on any wall or screen. The integrated kickstand and carrying case let you easily transport this 3 pound projector anywhere.
Cost: $879.99
2. XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector
The XGIMI MoGo 2 portable projector packs in powerful performance and convenience features into a compact 2.2 pound device. This LED projector outputs an extremely bright 400 ISO lumen image that looks sharp even in daylight.
Integrated D65 color temperature standard provides natural, accurate colors for a true cinematic viewing experience. With up to 90% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, images pop with vibrant hues. Built-in Harman Kardon speakers deliver clear, robust audio to complete the theater effect.
Easily project up to a 200 inch screen for both small and large groups. Automatic focus and keystone correction optimize projections onto any surface. The Android 9.0 OS allows seamless media streaming with screen mirroring capabilities.
Designed for portability, the rugged aluminum MoGo 2 includes a convenient folding kickstand and fits easily into any bag. The built-in battery powers up to 2 hours of projections for on-the-go entertainment.
Whether setting up an impromptu movie night at home or using for business presentations on the road, the MoGo 2 offers powerful performance and smart features in a compact portable projector.
Cost: $399.99
3. ViewSonic M1+-2 – Ultra Portable Projector
The ViewSonic M1+-2 lives up to its billing as an ultra-portable LED projector ready for entertainment anywhere. This DLP projector delivers bright, vivid projections ranging from a 24 inch image up close to an expansive 100 inch screen. Weighing just 1.26 pounds, it is easy to carry everywhere.
With integrated WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream media or project content from smartphones, laptops and tablets wirelessly. Dual Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers pump out premium quality sound you can hear clearly without any external speakers needed.
An intuitive control wheel makes it easy to adjust brightness and volume or navigate menus. The M1+-2’s optimized short throw lens allows you to project large screen images from short distances. Automatic vertical keystone adjustment ensures a geometrically accurate picture every time.
The sleek, compact design includes a smart cover that doubles as an adjustable stand. Easily pack it into any bag to take the theater-like viewing experience on the road. From impromptu family movie nights to outdoor projections, the M1+-2 portable LED projector delivers vivid, crystal clear entertainment.
Cost: $309.99
4. Nebula Capsule II Portable Projector
The Nebula Capsule II by Anker delivers big screen projections from a remarkably compact, soda can-sized projector. Weighing just 1.6 pounds, this LED projector fits in the palm of your hand yet outputs vivid 720p high-definition images up to 100 inches in size.
With a brightness of 200 ANSI lumens, the Capsule II is suitable for both dim and ambient light conditions. The 600:1 contrast ratio results in sharp, vivid projections with excellent depth and definition. It utilizes advanced DLP projection technology with a 0.30” DLP chip for crystal clear images.
Integrated Android TV allows easy streaming while the 8W speaker provides surprisingly robust audio. Easily connect devices via Bluetooth to project or listen wirelessly. The integrated battery provides up to 4 hours of continuous entertainment.
Designed for maximum portability and convenience, the Nebula Capsule II brings the big screen experience anywhere you want to watch movies, play games, or showcase presentations. Whether projecting at home or on the go, it packs serious projection power into the palm of your hand.
Cost: $399.99
5. KODAK Luma 350 Portable Projector
The KODAK Luma 350 makes it easy to enjoy larger-than-life projections wherever you need them. This ultra compact, 1.1 pound DLP projector delivers bright, vivid images up to 150 inches in size with 200 ANSI lumens brightness. The native 1280 x 720p resolution results in crisp, detailed images perfect for movies or gaming.
This portable smart projector runs on Android TV for quick access to thousands of apps and easy casting capabilities. Easily project content from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more using the HDMI and USB inputs. Built-in WiFi allows streaming wirelessly.
The integrated rechargeable battery provides up to 2.5 hours of projection time on a single charge. The Luma 350 brings big screen entertainment anywhere whether indoors, outdoors, or on the go. Automatic focus and vertical keystone correction optimize the projected image on any surface.
The compact, lightweight design includes a handy carrying case for ultimate portability. Wherever you want to project a giant screen experience, the KODAK Luma 350 delivers with its smart features, vivid HD projections, and go-anywhere convenience.
Cost: $299.99
When shopping for a compact projector, be sure to read reviews and evaluate factors like brightness, resolution, sound, and connectivity options to find the right match for your needs. Pay close attention to the projection technology used. With their easy portability, small projectors enable you to enjoy big screen viewing almost anywhere whether for business or pleasure.
