Top 6 Portable Projectors of 2025 Revealed

The best projectors offer an immersive cinematic experience right in the comfort of your home. However, traditional projectors often come with the drawbacks of being large, bulky, and sometimes requiring mounting, which makes them less versatile. Fortunately, the market is filled with portable projectors that cater to a variety of needs, from camping trips to cozy dorm room movie nights.

Many portable projectors come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, making setup a breeze. Even without an internet connection, the availability of Bluetooth and HDMI support in most models allows you to stream content from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Top-tier portable projectors often feature a battery that can last through an entire movie or can be powered by the best power banks, eliminating the need for a wall outlet.

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 AmazonWhile portable projectors offer incredible convenience, they come with certain trade-offs. Their brightness and picture quality often fall short of larger models, making them best suited for dark environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates, low input lag, and specialized gaming modes found in the best gaming projectors are typically absent. Nonetheless, for those constrained by space yet craving a big-screen experience, portable projectors are unbeatable.

Explore our top picks below. Whether you're looking for a compact and affordable option or a slightly larger model that delivers vibrant details and accurate colors, we've selected some of the best portable projectors on the market.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as the ultimate portable projector, offering a full HD picture with a brightness of up to 900 ANSI lumens and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at XgimiProduct SpecificationsResolution1920x1080 pixels (DLP, HDR 10)Brightness900 ANSI lumensThrow range1.2:1 (5.21 ~ 10.46 feet)Max image size120 inchesBatteryYes – 2 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5, 1x HDMI, 1x USB, 3.5mm audio jack, DC powerWeight3.53 lbsDimensions4.47” x 5.71” x 6.75”PROSSharp pictureIncludes Android interfaceCONSColor accuracy could be betterThe Xgimi Halo+ is a powerhouse in the portable projector world, boasting a 2-hour battery life and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. It delivers a 1080p resolution with up to 900 ANSI lumens, making it perfect for nighttime outdoor viewing. The built-in Android interface with Chromecast, along with 2GB of memory and 16GB of flash storage, adds to its versatility.

Features like automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup effortless in any environment. Additionally, it offers a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for those impromptu gaming sessions on the go.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0The ViewSonic M1X is a budget-friendly, ultra-portable projector with a convenient stand and robust Harman Kardon speakers. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution854x480 pixels (LED)Brightness360 LED lumensThrow range2 feet ~ 8 feet, 8 inchMax image size100 inchesBatteryYes – up to 4 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi , Bluetooth, 1x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMIWeight1.7 poundsDimensions2.1" x 6.5" x 5.4"PROSConvenient standFour hour battery lifeCONSLimited resolutions and brightnessWhile there are cheaper portable projectors available, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value in a compact form. Weighing under 2lbs with up to four hours of battery life, it's perfect for camping or work trips. Its built-in stand ensures a stable picture at various throw distances, while horizontal and vertical keystoning along with automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand also serves as a lens cover for safe transport.

Though not ideal for gaming or as a full TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it's excellent for presentations or movies. With Wi-Fi support and multiple ports, including HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C, it's highly versatile. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers further enhance its appeal, doubling as a great Bluetooth speaker.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0The Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser delivers a crisp 1080p resolution with excellent color accuracy and great contrast, albeit at a lower brightness of 300 ANSI lumens. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1920×1080 pixels (DLP, HDR10)Brightness300 ANSI lumensThrow range2.2 ~ 10.5 feet Max image size120 inchesBatteryYes – 2.5 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1x HDMI, 1x USB-C, 1x Aux outWeight2.1 poundsDimensions3.3” x 3.3” x 6.7”PROSExcellent color accuracy8W speakers with Dolby Digital PlusCONSLow brightnessThe Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers a stunning 1080p resolution with a 300 ANSI lumens lens, best used in low-light conditions for optimal picture quality. Its compact size, slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs, houses a 2.5-hour battery and 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus. These speakers can also function independently as Bluetooth speakers.

Android TV 11 is integrated for easy streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi. However, its Full HD resolution and functionality come at a cost of $800, aligning it with the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels in sound quality with dual 8W speakers, offering an excellent Full HD picture for a midrange portable projector. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1920 x 1080 pixels (DLP)Brightness400 ANSI lumensThrow rangeNot listedMax image size150 inchesBatteryYes – up to 2.5 hoursConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMIWeight3.7 poundsDimensions5.2" x 4.8" x 7"PROSExcellent sounding dual 8W speakers Sleek, durable designCONSPoor HDR performanceSound quality is often overlooked in portable projectors, but the Nebula Mars 3 Air prioritizes it with dual 8W speakers. These speakers deliver rich, well-rounded sound, perfect for outdoor movie nights and road trips, and support Dolby Audio. When not projecting, the Mars 3 Air can serve as a Bluetooth speaker, offering up to eight hours of playback.

The projector's sleek and durable design includes a carrying strap for easy transport. With Google TV built-in and Wi-Fi support, streaming is seamless. Additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth. The Full HD picture, while best viewed in low light, remains crisp and detailed, though HDR performance is not its strongest suit.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

0The Xgimi Horizon S Max boasts an impressive 3,100 ISO lumens, making it one of the brightest portable projectors available, perfect for 4K viewing. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution3840 x 2160 pixels (DLP)Brightness3100 ISO lumensThrow range1 feet, 8 inch ~ 15 feetMax image size200 inchesBatteryNoConnectivityWi-Fi , Bluetooth, 2x USB, 1x HDMI (eARC), 1x DCWeight10.6 poundsDimensions9.2" x 10.7" x 6.9"PROSBright for easy viewingLoaded with features for a simple setupCONSNo batteryThe Xgimi Horizon S Max shines with 3,100 ISO lumens, allowing for vibrant viewing in various environments. Its solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp 4K resolution ensure a rich and detailed viewing experience. The projector supports multiple HDR modes and features a dual light source of laser and LEDs for customizable viewing preferences.

Though not as compact as other options, it's portable enough for use in different rooms or on road trips. A gimbal mount facilitates easy positioning, while built-in features like autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. While it lacks a battery, Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable quick streaming. An HDMI port accommodates gaming consoles, and dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent sound for any room.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1The Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology to deliver accurate colors and rich details, making it a standout choice among portable projectors. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution1280x800 pixels (VGA; Full HD)Brightness1,200 ANSI lumensThrow range5.2 feet ~ 8.7 feetMax image size100 inchesBatteryNoneConnectivity1 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 3.5mmWeight2.3 lbsDimensions 6.18" x 5.31" x 2.68"PROSStunning pictureTime-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correctionCONSNo batteryThe Optoma ML1080 utilizes RGB laser technology for superior color accuracy and detail, offering a stunning picture quality rare in projectors of this size. Its energy efficiency and 1,200 ANSI lumens brightness make it suitable for various lighting conditions. Full HD resolution, Time-of-Flight (ToF), and four-corner correction ensure a perfectly projected image.

While it lacks a built-in battery, the USB-C power input allows for use with portable chargers, making it highly portable.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Before purchasing a portable projector, consider the spaces where you'll use it most frequently. Check the throw range of each model to ensure it fits your desired image size within your space. For outdoor use, assess the levelness of your viewing area, although automatic keystone correction can help.

Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing, and is measured in ANSI lumens. We recommend at least 800 ANSI lumens for nighttime outdoor use. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K; choose a higher resolution for larger images to maintain clarity. A 60-inch image at 1080p, for example, is more than sufficient.

Battery: If you plan to use the projector only in your backyard with access to power outlets, a battery might not be necessary. However, for use in locations without power, opt for a model with a battery. Most batteries last at least 90 minutes, with some offering hours of viewing time.