The 6 Best Portable Projectors in 2025

The best projectors transform your home into a private cinema, but their size and often-required mounting can make them cumbersome. Fortunately, many portable projectors offer the same cinematic experience without the bulk, perfect for movie nights under the stars, camping trips, or even a cozy dorm room. Many boast built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for easy setup. Even offline, Bluetooth and HDMI support allow seamless streaming from your phone, tablet, or laptop. And forget wall outlets – top models include long-lasting batteries or can be powered by portable power banks.

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 compact projectors offer incredible convenience, it's important to note that their brightness and picture quality may not match larger models. Optimal viewing requires darker environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates, low input lag, and specialized gaming modes found in higher-end projectors are typically absent. However, for space-conscious viewers seeking a big-screen experience, a portable projector is unbeatable.

Explore our top picks below. Whether you prioritize tiny size and affordability or a slightly larger model with rich detail and accurate color, we've curated a selection of excellent portable projectors.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1

A portable projector delivering a full HD picture, up to 900 ANSI lumens brightness, and dual 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers.

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+ boasts a two-hour battery, dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers, and more. It projects 1080p resolution at up to 900 ANSI lumens, ideal for outdoor nighttime viewing. Its onboard Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage nearly completes the package. Automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance simplify setup. It even includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0

An ultra-portable projector with a convenient stand and excellent Harman Kardon speakers.

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

While many cheaper alternatives exist, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value in a premium, ultra-compact form factor. Weighing under 2 lbs and offering up to four hours of battery life, it’s perfect for travel. Its built-in stand ensures a straight picture, while horizontal and vertical keystoning and automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand doubles as a lens cover for protection. While not ideal for gaming or replacing a TV due to limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a presentation tool or portable movie player. Wi-Fi support and HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C ports provide versatile connectivity. Its outstanding dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers also function as a Bluetooth speaker.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0

Enjoy crisp 1080p resolution via a 300 ANSI lumens lens with surprisingly accurate color and contrast.

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 projects crisp 1080p at 300 ANSI lumens, best suited for nighttime viewing. It shines in picture quality, offering excellent color accuracy and contrast. Its compact size (slightly larger than a soda can) and 2.1 lb weight are impressive. It includes a 2.5-hour battery and 8W Dolby Digital Plus speakers that double as Bluetooth speakers. Android TV 11 allows easy streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi. However, its Full HD resolution and features come with a higher price point.

4.Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0

Featuring dual 8W speakers for rich sound and an exceptional Full HD picture, the Nebula Mars 3 Air is an excellent mid-range portable projector.

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 travel. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels here with dual 8W speakers delivering rich, well-rounded audio. These speakers are loud enough for outdoor use, and Dolby Audio support enhances the experience. It also functions as an eight-hour Bluetooth speaker. Its sleek, durable design and carrying strap make it easy to transport. Google TV and Wi-Fi eliminate the need for external streaming devices. An HDMI port, USB port, and Bluetooth offer additional connectivity. While its picture quality matches its mid-range price point (400 ANSI lumens, best for low-light viewing), the Full HD picture remains crisp and detailed with excellent motion handling.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

0

At 3,100 ISO lumens, this 4K portable projector delivers a dazzling picture.

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

With 3,100 ISO lumens, the XGIMI Horizon S Max is incredibly bright, ideal for various environments. Its vibrant picture remains detailed even in ambient light, thanks to solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution. Support for several HDR modes enhances the viewing experience. A dual light source (laser and LEDs) allows customization. While larger than other options, it’s still portable. A gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit feature, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. However, it lacks a battery and requires a wall outlet or high-powered power bank. Android 11 and Wi-Fi enable easy streaming, while an HDMI port and two USB ports support additional devices. Its dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers provide excellent sound.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1

RGB laser technology creates accurate colors and rich details for stunning picture quality.

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 uses RGB laser technology for accurate colors and rich details, exceeding the picture quality of similarly sized projectors. It’s energy-efficient and produces 1,200 lumens, performing well in various settings. Full HD resolution and features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction ensure perfect projection. While lacking a battery, its USB-C power input allows use with a portable charger.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Consider your viewing spaces and the projector's throw range to ensure it fits your needs and desired image size. For outdoor use, assess the levelness of your surface; automatic keystone correction can help.

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

Battery: A battery is essential for portability. Check battery life to ensure it lasts for your viewing sessions.