Best Portable Projectors for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: April 4th, 2024

🎥Portable projectors have completely changed the way we enjoy movies, games, and even work presentations. Imagine having a big-screen experience that you can take anywhere.

So, we went all out and studied various options to bring you the best portable projectors you can get in 2024. Whether you're after a top-notch all-rounder, a budget-friendly choice, or something designed for outdoor use or bright rooms, we’ve found something that should fit the bill.

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Overall Best: Anker Nebula Mars 3

NEBULA Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector, 1000 ANSI Lumens, AI-Powered Image, Built-In Battery with 5 Hour Playtime, Android TV, 200 Inch Home Theater, Camping, Road Trip, Backyard, or Anywhere

The Anker Nebula Mars 3 takes our top spot for 2024 due to its exceptional combination of portability, brightness, and extended battery life. With 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness, this projector delivers clear and vivid images in various settings, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. One highlight is its robust internal battery that lasts up to 5 hours on Eco mode, so you won’t need to worry about frequent recharging. The projector runs on Android TV, which allows for seamless streaming from popular apps directly. Not to mention, its rugged design is resistant to water, dust, and drops, adding an extra layer of durability. Though it's a bit pricier compared to some alternatives, the premium features and build quality make it a worthwhile investment.

Lowest at Amazon
$849.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$746.69 at AliExpress.com

More Answers

Still curious about the NEBULA Mars 3 Projector? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What is the image quality like on the NEBULA Mars 3?
Hey! So, the image quality on the NEBULA Mars 3 is pretty impressive. From what we've found, people really like its sharp and vibrant display. It’s got a native 1080p resolution and can handle up to 4K input, so even newer high-def content looks great. Perfect for outdoor movie nights or presentations where you want everything to look super clear. Brightness-wise, the Mars 3 does a good job too. The manufacturer says it offers 1000 ANSI lumens, which means the picture stays bright and vivid, even if there’s some ambient light. Super handy if you’re not always in a pitch-dark setting. As for colors and contrast, it's quite good here as well. It uses DLP technology, which tends to deliver accurate colors and decent blacks. According to our research, most users seem happy with the color performance, saying it adds a nice depth to what you're watching. However, just a heads-up—there are some issues with the interface and software. The Android TV 11 system it uses can be a bit sluggish and unresponsive. Some folks actually prefer using external streaming devices like [Apple TV](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB08L8DV7BX%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Fire TV Stick](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB079QHML21%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for smoother performance. Also, it doesn’t natively support [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which kinda sucks. You’d have to use a workaround involving a mobile version of the app and a virtual mouse, which isn’t the best experience. But despite these software quirks, the NEBULA Mars 3 is still a solid pick if you’re after great video quality, portability, a sturdy build, and strong speakers. If top-notch image quality is your priority, it’s definitely worth considering for your outdoor entertainment setup.
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Is the NEBULA Mars 3 waterproof?
Yep, the NEBULA Mars 3 is waterproof. The manufacturer says it's made for outdoor use, so it can handle rain and splashes without any issues. According to our research, folks have found it pretty reliable when it comes to dealing with water. So, if you're planning to take it camping or on any outdoor trips, you don't need to stress about a little rain ruining your movie night.
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Does the NEBULA Mars 3 have Netflix?
The NEBULA Mars 3 doesn't come with [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) pre-installed. Instead, you have to sideload the Netflix app using the Nebula Play app because of some streaming device restrictions. This means you'll need to download the Netflix app from Nebula's virtual store and use a virtual mouse to navigate it. From what we've found, lots of folks think this process is pretty cumbersome and not as user-friendly compared to other devices like the [Amazon Fire TV](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07ZZVX1F2%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Roku](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07ZZZXZGH%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). If you want a smoother Netflix experience on the NEBULA Mars 3, you might want to consider using a streaming stick like Roku or Amazon Fire TV. These devices provide a more intuitive and seamless Netflix experience, and many people have found this workaround to be quite effective. By connecting one of these streaming sticks to your NEBULA Mars 3, you can significantly improve your streaming experience and avoid the hassle of sideloading. So yeah, you can use Netflix on the NEBULA Mars 3 through sideloading, but it's not the easiest way to go about it. An external streaming device could make things a lot better for you.
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Runner-up: Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector

Hisense C1 4K UHD Triple Color RGB Laser Portable Mini Projector, up to 300", Viddà OS, Dolby Vision HDR10, 110% BT.2020 Color Gamut, 20w JBL Sound, Netflix, Auto Keystone Correction, MEMC Prussian blue

The Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector is a fantastic runner-up choice, primarily for its vibrant image quality and advanced laser projection technology. Providing a sharp 1080p resolution and equipped with smart TV features, this projector is geared for effortless streaming and diverse connectivity options. While it is on the bulkier side for a portable device, the wealth of features and high-quality image it offers make it a compelling option for home use or even light outdoor setups. If you're seeking a robust, high-quality portable projector, this is a strong contender.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,697.97 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Hisense C1 Portable 4K Projector? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Hisense C1 have optical zoom or lens shift?
So, the Hisense C1 4K UHD Triple Color RGB Laser Portable Mini Projector can project images up to 300 inches and has some cool features like TriChroma laser tech. According to the manufacturer, it covers 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut and supports [Dolby Vision](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddolby%2Bvision%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [HDR10](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhdr10%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), so the colors should look pretty vibrant and the picture quality is enhanced for both dark and bright scenes. Sounds like a solid choice if you're after a cinema-like experience at home. According to our research, folks are generally happy with its brightness and clarity—you can even use it in semi-lit rooms, although it's best in the dark. It also has Auto Keystone Correction and autofocus, making setup easier, which people seem to appreciate. Now, about your question—unfortunately, the Hisense C1 doesn't have optical zoom or lens shift. This means you'll have to be careful about where you place the projector to get the best image. Ideally, it should be mounted at ceiling level or at the bottom of the projection area. This lack of flexibility can be a bit annoying because you'll need to manually adjust it to get the right image size and focus. Also, our research suggests that while the built-in sound system is okay, it’s not as good as a dedicated audio setup, especially during louder scenes. So you might want to think about adding an external sound system if the audio is important to you. Overall, if you can live with the placement limitations and don't mind spending a bit of time setting it up, the Hisense C1 could be a good addition to your home entertainment lineup. It comes with smart TV functionalities and supports major streaming services like [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is a nice bonus.
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What is the contrast ratio of the Hisense C1 projector?
The Hisense C1 projector has a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. This means it can show deep blacks and bright whites, which is pretty great for watching movies or playing games where you want those details to pop. According to our research, this high contrast ratio helps a lot to clearly see dark and light areas in scenes. If you need more details on its features or have any other questions about the projector, let me know!
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Can the Hisense C1 be ceiling mounted?
Yep, you can definitely mount the Hisense C1 on the ceiling. Our research shows that this projector is pretty flexible when it comes to setup options. Just a heads-up, though—since the C1 doesn't have lens shift or optical zoom, you'll need to be a bit careful about where you place it to make sure you get the best picture quality. On the bright side, it does have features like automatic keystone correction and focus adjustment to help you out, but getting the position right is still super important for the best viewing experience.
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Budget Pick: XGIMI MoGo 2

XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector, Mini Projector with Wifi and Bluetooth, 400 ISO Lumens Movie Projector, Android TV 11.0, 2X8W Speakers, Auto Focus, Object Avoidance, and Screen Adaption

For those seeking an affordable yet reliable option, the XGIMI MoGo 2 stands out as the best budget pick. This compact projector delivers decent image quality at a wallet-friendly price point. Weighing in as ultra-lightweight, it’s easy to take with you wherever you go. Although it lacks an internal battery, it compensates with the capability to charge via USB-C, making it compatible with power banks for on-the-go usage. Key features such as autofocus, image correction, and Android TV support are included, though its limited brightness means it performs best in dark environments. Overall, the XGIMI MoGo 2 offers a solid balance of cost and functionality.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$399.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the XGIMI MoGo 2 Projector? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How good is the picture quality of the XGIMI MoGo 2 in different lighting conditions?
The XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector is pretty impressive when you're using it in dim or dark spaces, mostly because of its 400 ISO lumens brightness. According to the manufacturer's product description, it's designed with a D65 color temperature standard, which makes it great for home theaters where rich colors and contrast really count. However, in a brighter room, the image might not have the same impact due to the brightness constraints. From what we've found, the MoGo 2 delivers a sharp and colorful image in the right lighting—struggling a bit in brightly lit environments. The Verge also notes that it performs its best in complete darkness, which aligns with other feedback we've seen, where folks say the picture quality is at its peak in dimmer settings. The manufacturer suggests it's built for environments with controlled lighting, like evening indoor use. So, if you're thinking about getting this projector, using it mainly in low-light conditions will help you make the most of its clarity and color vibrancy. Overall, while the XGIMI MoGo 2 has good specs for a portable projector, your room's lighting plays a big role in picture quality. It’s not the best fit for bright daytime use, so sticking to darker spaces would enhance your viewing experience. If you need something for outdoor use during the day or in naturally lit rooms, you might want to consider other projectors with higher brightness options.
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What is the battery life of the XGIMI MoGo 2 portable projector?
The XGIMI MoGo 2 portable projector has a built-in battery, and according to the manufacturer, it should last up to around 2.5 hours on a full charge. That's enough to get through a movie or use it for a short presentation if you don't have a power outlet handy. That said, the actual battery life can change based on how you use the projector. If you have it cranked up to full brightness while streaming HD content, you might find the battery drains faster than if you're watching lower-resolution stuff with the brightness turned down. Some folks have managed to squeeze a bit more life out of the battery by tweaking settings—like using eco mode or lowering the brightness. If you're thinking of using it for a longer session, having a power cord nearby can be a good idea, so you won't have to worry about it conking out. Plus, you can plug it in and keep watching without any breaks. In general, the MoGo 2 is great for quick setups or short viewing sessions, especially if you're on the move. But if you need it to last longer without a plug, you might want to think about other models or grab a [portable power bank](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dportable%2Bpower%2Bbank%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to give it some extra juice.
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Does the XGIMI MoGo 2 work with Netflix?
Hey there! So, the XGIMI MoGo 2 projector can definitely work with Netflix, but there's a bit of a catch. You'll need to use a streaming device like a [Chromecast](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dchromecast%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or a [Fire TV Stick](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfire%2Btv%2Bstick%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to make it happen because Netflix isn't pre-installed on the projector due to some licensing issues. Just hook up one of those devices to the projector via the HDMI port, and you'll be all set to binge your favorite shows. A little heads-up, though—the MoGo 2 doesn't have a built-in battery. It's not as portable as some other projectors unless you have access to a power outlet or a power bank. From our research, a power bank with around 27,000mAh can give you about 70 minutes of use, which might just cover a short movie or presentation. So, if you're planning a longer movie night, you'll want to be near a power source. Compared to other models like the [XGIMI Halo Plus](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dxgimi%2Bhalo%2Bplus%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which has a built-in battery, the MoGo 2 is more about sound quality with those 2x8W speakers they've packed in. The speakers provide pretty solid audio for its size, though. All in all, the MoGo 2 is ideal for indoor use or spots where you can easily plug in. Lots of folks are hoping for a built-in battery in future MoGo models to make them more travel-friendly. But for now, if you're after great sound and don't mind setting up a bit for Netflix, the MoGo 2 should suit you fine indoors.
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Best for Bright Environments: Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01

Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 Portable Projector, 3-Chip 3LCD, Widescreen, 3,000 Lumens Color/White Brightness, 5 W Speaker, 300-Inch Home Entertainment and Work, Streaming Ready

If you need a projector that can perform well in bright environments, the Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 is an impressive choice. Thanks to its high brightness levels, this projector ensures your images remain clear and vibrant, even in well-lit settings. While it lacks some modern conveniences like auto keystone correction and a built-in battery, its portability and ability to handle bright rooms make it perfect for office presentations and sunny living spaces. For those prioritizing brightness and clarity in various lighting conditions, the Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 is an excellent pick.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$299.99 at Amazon

Best for Outdoor Use: Anker Nebula Solar Portable

NEBULA by Anker Capsule 3 Laser 1080p, Mini Smart TV Projector with wifi and bluetooth, Outdoor Portable Projector, Dolby Digital, Laser Projector, Autofocus, 120-Inch Picture, 2.5H Built-in Battery

The Anker Nebula Solar Portable is our top recommendation for outdoor use. With a brightness of 400 lumens and a full HD resolution of 1080p, this projector is engineered for an exceptional outdoor movie night experience. It comes with a built-in Bluetooth speaker, allowing it to double as a sound system for added convenience. Although it may not be the brightest projector on the market, its combination of portability, image quality, and additional features make it an outstanding choice for outdoor settings. Its user-friendly design ensures that setting up and enjoying your outdoor screening is a breeze.

Lowest at Amazon
$659.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$492.99 at Newegg.com

More Answers

Still curious about the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser Projector? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How bright is the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
The **NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector** is quite portable, running on a built-in 52Wh battery. The manufacturer's description says you can expect about 2.5 hours of playtime in standard mode and around 1.8 hours in Eco mode. So, for shorter movie nights or outdoor gatherings without easy access to power, it should work pretty well. But if you're planning a longer session or need the projector's highest brightness, you might want to have a power bank on hand to avoid interruptions. One cool feature is its compatibility with Power Delivery (PD) charging, making it simpler to recharge with a power bank while on the go. From what I found, a lot of folks feel the battery life is sufficient for watching a movie or even short gaming sessions. But, if you plan to use it longer without plugging it in, especially at a higher brightness, having that backup charger nearby could be crucial. Speaking of brightness, it’s a key thing to consider for projectors. The manufacturer promotes its advanced laser tech for bright and vivid images, which sounds promising. However, I came across some feedback mentioning a noticeable drop in brightness when it's only on battery. That's something to think about if you'll use it in a well-lit room. Keeping it plugged in or using an extra power source could help keep the brightness steady and the picture quality good. Overall, the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector is great for flexibility and portability with its battery feature, so it's handy for those casual or short-term setups. Just remember: if you’re going for long and bright sessions, a backup power plan is a smart move to keep the fun going!
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What is the battery life of the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
The NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector is pretty handy if you're on the go, thanks to its built-in 52Wh battery. According to the manufacturer's details, you'll usually get about 2.5 hours per charge in standard mode and around 1.8 hours in Eco mode. It's great for things like outdoor movie nights when plugging in isn't an option. However, keep in mind, if you're relying solely on the battery, the brightness drops by about 40%. This can be a bit of a bummer, especially in places where there's a lot of ambient light. So if you're not using a power source, maybe consider dimming the lights or finding a darker spot to keep the picture looking good. Our research shows that experiences with the battery life can vary. Some folks say it drains faster if they amp up the brightness, which makes sense since more brightness means more battery usage. So, managing those settings is key if you want the battery to last through your viewing session. For longer marathons, having a steady power supply is important. You might want to keep a [power bank](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpower%2Bbank%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) that supports [USB-C PD](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DUSB-C%2BPD%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) charging close by, or just plug it in to keep things running smoothly and ensure maximum brightness. If you're mainly interested in its portability, the Capsule 3 Laser is a solid choice. Just plan on having a backup power option for longer sessions so you don't hit any unexpected interruptions during your movie nights, presentations, or whatever you've got planned.
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Can you use Netflix on the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
You can definitely watch [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) on the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector, but it takes a little extra effort. The projector, made by Anker, doesn't support the native Netflix app directly. Instead, you'll have to sideload it through the Nebula Manager app on your smartphone. This sideloading process involves activating 'mouse mode' on your phone to navigate Netflix, which isn't as smooth as a native app experience. Some folks find this a bit cumbersome, and it can make using Netflix a bit less straightforward compared to other streaming services. Good news is, services like [Amazon Prime](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Damazon%2Bprime%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Hulu](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhulu%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and [Apple TV+](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Btv%2B%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) work just fine on the Capsule 3, thanks to its Google TV OS. They don't need any special tricks and provide a smooth streaming experience. It's just a bummer that Netflix doesn’t fit in quite as easily. According to our research, using Netflix this way on the Capsule 3 might involve some lag or delays because of the extra steps with the phone control. If Netflix is a big part of your viewing habits, you might want to consider whether this setup will work for you. One option is to use an external media player or streaming stick that supports Netflix right out of the box. This way, you can skip the sideloading process and enjoy a hassle-free Netflix experience on your projector. It's a bit of an extra step, but it could make your viewing a lot smoother. In the end, while you can watch Netflix on the NEBULA Capsule 3, it might be worth weighing these options to see what fits your needs best.
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