The 6 Best Portable Projectors in 2025

The best projectors offer a cinematic experience right in your living room. However, traditional projectors can be large, bulky, and require mounting, making them less than ideal for mobility. Fortunately, there are plenty of portable projectors designed for versatility, perfect for a movie night under the stars while camping or for cozy binge-watching sessions in a dorm room.

Many of these portable projectors are equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi, simplifying setup. Even without an internet connection, Bluetooth and HDMI support enable streaming from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Some top models even include a battery capable of powering through a full-length film, or they can be paired with the best power banks for added convenience.

TL;DR – The Best Portable Projectors:

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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 portable projectors offer great convenience, they often come with trade-offs. Their smaller size typically means less brightness and lower picture quality compared to 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 usually absent. Nonetheless, for those with limited space seeking a big-screen experience, portable projectors are unmatched.

Explore our top picks below, ranging from compact and budget-friendly options to slightly larger models that deliver rich details and accurate colors.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1

The Xgimi Halo+ stands out as a top-tier portable projector, delivering a full HD picture with up to 900 ANSI lumens and enhanced by two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Xgimi

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+ is a comprehensive portable projector, featuring a battery that lasts up to two hours and two 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. It delivers a 1080p resolution with up to 900 ANSI lumens, ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The onboard Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage enhance its functionality. Additionally, automatic keystone adjustment, auto focus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance make setup effortless in any environment. It also includes a low-latency (26.5ms) gaming mode for portable gaming sessions.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0

The ViewSonic M1X is an ultra-portable projector with a handy stand and solid Harmon Kardon speakers. See it at Amazon

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 resolutions and brightness

While there are cheaper portable projectors, the ViewSonic M1X offers exceptional value in a premium, ultra-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 straight picture across various throw distances, and features like horizontal and vertical keystoning and automated four-corner adjustment simplify setup. The stand also doubles as a lens cover for safekeeping. Although not ideal for gaming or as a TV replacement due to its limited resolution and brightness, it excels as a presentation aid or portable movie option, with multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers also make it a great Bluetooth speaker.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0

The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser offers a crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, with excellent color accuracy and great contrast. See it at Amazon

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 delivers a crisp 1080p resolution, though its 300 ANSI lumens make it best suited for nighttime use with minimal ambient light. It excels in picture quality, offering excellent color accuracy and contrast. Its compact size, slightly larger than a can of Coke and weighing just 2.1lbs, includes a battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours and 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus, which can also function as Bluetooth speakers. With Android TV 11, streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi are seamless, though its Full HD resolution and features come at a cost of $800, comparable to the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0

The Nebula Mars 3 Air offers dual 8W speakers for well-rounded sound and an exceptional Full HD picture, making it an excellent midrange portable projector. See it at Amazon

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 road trips or outdoor use. The Nebula Mars 3 Air excels with its dual 8W speakers, delivering rich, well-rounded sound ideal for dialogue and soundtracks. These speakers are loud enough for outdoor movie nights and support Dolby Audio. Even without a movie, the projector can function as a Bluetooth speaker for up to eight hours. Its sleek and durable design, complete with a carrying strap, makes it easy to transport. With Google TV and Wi-Fi support, streaming is straightforward, and additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth. The Full HD picture is crisp and detailed, though HDR performance is less impressive compared to TVs and brighter projectors.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

0

The Xgimi Horizon S Max, with its 3,100 ISO lumens, delivers a dazzling 4K picture, making it ideal for viewing in various environments. See it at Amazon

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 a simple setup

**CONS:**

- No battery

The Xgimi Horizon S Max boasts 3,100 ISO lumens, ensuring a bright and vibrant picture even in environments with ambient light. It offers solid contrast, accurate colors, and sharp resolution, enhanced by support for multiple HDR modes. Its dual light source of laser and LEDs can be adjusted for personal viewing preferences. While not as compact as other models, it's still portable enough for different rooms or road trips. Features like a gimbal mount, autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance simplify setup. Although it lacks a battery, Android 11 and Wi-Fi support enable easy streaming, and an HDMI port allows for gaming console connectivity. The dual 12W Harmon Kardon speakers provide excellent sound, filling most rooms without additional speakers.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1

The Optoma ML1080 uses RGB laser technology to produce accurate colors and rich details, offering stunning picture quality in a compact size. See it at Amazon

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 utilizes RGB laser technology for accurate colors and rich details, delivering stunning picture quality in a compact form. Its energy efficiency is a bonus, consuming less power than lamp-based projectors. With 1,200 ANSI lumens, it performs well in various settings, including those with ambient light. Full HD resolution, Time-of-Flight (ToF), and four-corner correction ensure a perfectly projected image. While it lacks a built-in battery, a USB-C power input allows for use with a portable charger on the go.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

**Space**: Before purchasing a portable projector, consider your typical viewing spaces. Check the throw range to ensure it fits your space for the desired image size. For outdoor use, ensure a level surface, though automatic keystone correction can help.

**Brightness and resolution**: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing. A minimum of 800 ANSI lumens is recommended for nighttime outdoor use. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K; choose based on your intended image size. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution is generally sufficient.

**Battery**: If you plan to use the projector in areas without access to power outlets, a model with a battery is essential. Most batteries last at least 90 minutes, with some offering several hours of use.