Top 6 Portable Projectors for 2025

Enjoy the magic of the movies anywhere with the best portable projectors! Unlike their bulky, hard-to-move counterparts, these compact powerhouses let you transform any space into a personal cinema. Whether you're camping under the stars, cozying up in a dorm room, or simply craving a change of scenery, a portable projector delivers the big-screen experience you crave.

Many portable projectors boast built-in Wi-Fi and streaming apps for effortless setup. Even without internet access, Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity ensure seamless streaming from your phone, tablet, or laptop. And forget about hunting for outlets – top-tier portable projectors often include long-lasting batteries or are compatible with power banks, ensuring uninterrupted movie marathons.

TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:

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Our Top Pick: Xgimi Halo+

ViewSonic M1X

Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Nebula Mars 3 Air

Xgimi Horizon S Max

Optoma ML1080

While compact projectors offer incredible convenience, it's important to note that brightness and picture quality may not match larger models. Optimal viewing is usually achieved in darker environments. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag, common in gaming projectors, are typically less prevalent in portable options. However, for space-conscious movie lovers, a portable projector remains unbeatable.

Explore our top picks below. Whether you prioritize portability and affordability or crave richer detail and vibrant color, we've curated a selection of exceptional portable projectors to suit your needs.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

The Xgimi Halo+ delivers a stunning Full HD picture (1920x1080 pixels) with up to 900 ANSI lumens of brightness, powered by two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. Features like automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup a breeze. Its Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage adds to its versatility. Even a low-latency gaming mode is included.

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

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

The ViewSonic M1X offers incredible value in an ultra-compact form factor. Weighing under 2lbs and boasting up to four hours of battery life, it's perfect for travel. Its built-in stand, horizontal and vertical keystoning, and automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand even doubles as a lens cover for protection.

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 resolution and brightness

3. Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

Despite its compact size, the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser delivers a crisp 1080p resolution (1920×1080 pixels) with 300 ANSI lumens. It impresses with its color accuracy and contrast. Its 2.5-hour battery life and 8W Dolby Digital Plus speakers add to its appeal. Android TV 11 provides easy access to streaming services.

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

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

The Nebula Mars 3 Air prioritizes audio quality with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound. Its Full HD picture (1920 x 1080 pixels) and sleek design add to its appeal. Google TV integration simplifies streaming, and it also functions as a Bluetooth speaker (up to 8 hours of playback).

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

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

With a dazzling 3,100 ISO lumens, the Xgimi Horizon S Max delivers vibrant images even in bright environments. Its 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), accurate colors, and sharp detail ensure a stunning viewing experience. A gimbal mount, autofocus, and auto keystone adjustment simplify setup.

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 simple setup

Cons: No battery

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

The Optoma ML1080 utilizes RGB laser technology for accurate colors and rich details. Its 1,200 ANSI lumens ensure a bright picture, even in moderately lit rooms. Full HD resolution (1280x800 pixels) and features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction optimize image quality. It’s powered via USB-C.

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

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Consider your viewing area and the projector's throw range to ensure it fits your space and desired image size. Outdoor use requires a level surface, although automatic keystone correction can help.

Brightness and Resolution: Brightness (ANSI lumens) is crucial, especially outdoors. Aim for at least 800 ANSI lumens for nighttime outdoor viewing. Resolution (720p to 4K) should match your image size; higher resolution is needed for larger images.

Battery: A built-in battery is essential for portability, providing power for at least a 90-minute movie, with some offering several hours of use.