Top 6 Portable Projectors of 2025 Revealed

The best projectors can transform your home into a cinematic haven, offering a theater-like experience right at your fingertips. However, traditional projectors are often large and cumbersome, requiring mounting and making them less portable. Fortunately, the market is filled with compact, portable projectors that are perfect for outdoor movie nights or cozy binge-watching sessions in a dorm room.

These portable projectors often come equipped with built-in streaming apps and Wi-Fi for easy setup. Even without an internet connection, you can still enjoy your favorite content thanks to the Bluetooth and HDMI support found in most models. Plus, many of the top portable projectors feature a battery that can last through an entire movie, or they can be powered by the best power banks, making them ideal for on-the-go entertainment.

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 convenience, they often come with trade-offs. Their smaller size can mean reduced brightness and picture quality compared to larger models, making them best suited for darker environments with minimal ambient light. Features like high refresh rates and low input lag, typically found in the best gaming projectors, might also be absent. Nonetheless, for those short on space but craving a big-screen experience, portable projectors are unparalleled.

Explore our top picks below, whether you're looking for a compact and budget-friendly option or a slightly larger model that delivers vibrant details and accurate colors.

1. Xgimi Halo+

Best Portable Projector Overall

Our Top Pick### Xgimi Halo+

1The Xgimi Halo+ offers a full HD picture, reaching up to 900 ANSI lumens, and comes with 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+ stands out as a versatile portable projector, boasting a battery life of up to two hours and dual 5W Harman Kardon stereo speakers. It delivers a 1080p resolution with a brightness of up to 900 ANSI lumens, ideal for nighttime outdoor viewing. The built-in Android interface with Chromecast, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of flash storage make it a comprehensive entertainment solution. Features like automatic keystone adjustment, autofocus, and Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance enhance its ease of use in various settings. Additionally, it offers a low-latency gaming mode at 26.5ms, perfect for portable gaming sessions.

2. ViewSonic M1X

Best Budget Portable Projector

### ViewSonic M1X

0The ViewSonic M1X is an 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 brightnessThe ViewSonic M1X is a budget-friendly choice that doesn't compromise on portability or utility. Weighing less than 2 pounds and offering up to four hours of battery life, it's perfect for camping or work trips. Its built-in stand ensures a stable projection, while features like horizontal and vertical keystone adjustments and automated four-corner correction simplify setup. Although it may not match the resolution and brightness of higher-end models, it excels as a presentation aid or portable movie projector, especially with its connectivity options like Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C. The dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers also make it a great Bluetooth speaker when not in use as a projector.

3. Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

Best 1080p Portable Projector

### Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

0Experience crisp 1080p resolution through a 300 ANSI lumens lens, with exceptional color accuracy and contrast. 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 crisp 1080p resolution and 300 ANSI lumens, making it best suited for nighttime viewing with minimal ambient light. Its compact design, comparable to a can of Coke, and weighing only 2.1 pounds, includes a battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours. The 8W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus enhance its audio capabilities, doubling as Bluetooth speakers. Running on Android TV 11, it supports easy streaming and light gaming over Wi-Fi, although its $800 price point matches that of the Xgimi Halo+.

4. Nebula Mars 3 Air

Best Portable Projector for Sound

### Nebula Mars 3 Air

0The Nebula Mars 3 Air combines excellent sound quality with a Full HD picture, making it an outstanding midrange option. 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 performanceThe Nebula Mars 3 Air excels in audio quality with its dual 8W speakers, providing rich and clear sound perfect for outdoor movie nights. These speakers support Dolby Audio and can function independently as Bluetooth speakers for up to eight hours. The projector's sleek and durable design, along with a carrying strap, makes it easy to transport. With Google TV built-in and Wi-Fi support, it's ready for streaming without additional devices. While its HDR performance may not be the strongest, the Full HD picture remains sharp and detailed, ideal for dark viewing environments.

5. Xgimi Horizon S Max

Best Portable Projector for Brightness

### Xgimi Horizon S Max

0With a brightness of 3,100 ISO lumens, this 4K portable projector offers a stunning picture in any environment. 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 is exceptionally bright at 3,100 ISO lumens, ensuring a vibrant picture even in well-lit environments. It supports multiple HDR modes and features a dual light source of laser and LEDs for customizable viewing. While not the most portable due to its size and weight, it's manageable for different rooms or road trips. Features like autofocus, auto keystone adjustments, and obstacle avoidance make setup straightforward. Despite lacking a battery, it includes Android 11 and Wi-Fi for streaming, along with dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers for excellent audio.

6. Optoma ML1080

Best Laser Portable Projector

### Optoma ML1080

1Using RGB laser technology, the Optoma ML1080 delivers accurate colors and detailed images, rare in such a compact size. 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 precise colors and detailed images, offering a brightness of 1,200 ANSI lumens suitable for various lighting conditions. It supports Full HD resolution and features like Time-of-Flight (ToF) and four-corner correction for optimal image quality. Although it lacks a built-in battery, its USB-C power input allows for use with portable chargers, making it highly portable despite the absence of a battery.

What to Look for in a Portable Projector

Space: Before purchasing a portable projector, assess your typical viewing spaces. Consider the throw range to ensure it fits your space's dimensions and desired image size. For outdoor use, check if the surface is level enough, though automatic keystone correction can help.

Brightness and resolution: Brightness is crucial, especially for outdoor viewing, and is measured in ANSI lumens. A minimum of 800 ANSI lumens is recommended for nighttime outdoor use. Resolution ranges from 720p to 4K, and the larger your intended image, the higher the resolution you should aim for. A 60-inch image at 1080p resolution, for example, should suffice.

Battery: If you plan to use the projector in areas without access to power outlets, consider a model with a battery. These typically last for at least a 90-minute movie, with some offering hours of playback.