People’ definition of entertainment has evolved over the years and centuries. Nowadays, you can merge home and portable entertainment into one. Nowadays, you don’t need to have a large and expensive television to watch your favorite movies, series, and videos. Instead, you can have a portable projector and have your entertainment system whether you’re staying indoors or outdoors. And not only that, there are 1080p portable projector options that can even give you high-quality videos.
A few years ago, a portable HD projector pr projector mini was nothing but a dream. But as technologies improved, a small portable projector compact enough to fit your hand is now a reality. Consequently, you have several portable mini projector options in the market. If you are looking for the best projector, it is important to take a closer look at different factors.
The only way to determine the best portable projector 2020 is to test some of the best products in the market today. In this portable projector review, you’ll be getting an unbiased and detailed account of top small portable projector brands in the market today. We tested a variety of portable projector brands to help you find the right one for your needs. Here, you can compare which mini portable projector fits your preference and budget.
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What are Portable Projectors?
Before anything else, what’s a portable projector? A portable projector is a handheld image display device capable of beaming images that can come from different sources. Popular sources include a smartphone, digital cameras, or even a video stored in a USB.
Basic projector portable devices are composed of a few parts including a battery, LED light source, combiner optic, and micromirror devices. How does a portable mini projector work? To simplify the operation of a portable mini projector, its electronic parts turn images into an electric signal which will then be driven to the LED. Unlike bulky projectors, a mini portable projector uses LED to minimize power consumption. If a typical multimedia projector uses 2500 lumens, some of the smallest portable projector models in the market only range around 25 to 1500 ANSI lumens.
Though LEDs in a projector portable minimizes power consumption coming from cooling systems, this can have its drawbacks. Ultimately, a mini portable projector compromises on the image size. It means that you don’t expect to see a small compact portable projector that can match the image size of a wall-mounted projector.
Another downside of the smallest portable projector options is the lack of zoom. It means that you will have to be aware of where you are going to set up the projector.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Portable Projector?
The definition of the best portable projector 2020 differs from one person to the next. After all, it is a personal choice since not all buyers look for the same specifications. Buyers have a different price range and requirement when they buy their projector portable. To make the decision making a lot easier, here are some important factors that you want to consider if you are serious about buying a portable movie projector.
Where do you plan to use the portable projector?
No matter how many portable projector review articles you read, it all boils down to how you plan to use the mini portable projector. The best projector differs from one person to the next mainly because not everyone is going to use it for the same purpose.
Some prefer to have the smallest portable projector since they want to watch movies while they traveling on a plane or when they are outdoors without an actual TV. On the other hand, some are looking for a projector portable unit for their presentations during one on one client meetings.
Once you’ve decided where you plan to use the device, it’s time to take a closer look at the more technical aspect of a portable mini projector.
Throw Distance
The throw distance pertains to the distance between the projected image and your projector. This is an important feature that you have to be very particular with especially if you are looking for the best projector in the market.
Unlike the projectors that are installed in the middle of the room that known for their long-throw capabilities, a portable projector is usually capable of projecting between 0-4 feet.
Screen size
Aside from the regular compact projectors, some even go for portable projector screens to replace TVs and bulky laptops. Here, they can hang these portable projector screens where the image is going to be directed.
Some portable projector screens can reach up to 120 inches. Aside from the screen size of the portable projector screens, you also want to consider a wide variety of formats. Is it capable of showing a 16:9 video format? This is the ideal aspect ratio for a 1080p portable projector. This allows the unit to play HD movies with ease.
Size
Next, you also have to consider the size of the portable mini projector. Portable movie projector options vary in size. Some can fit in your hands while other small portable projector models are comparable to the size of your regular portable speaker.
Resolution
Are you happy watching in 720p? Or maybe, you prefer to watch in 4K? Remember that over the last years, HD has become the minimum video resolution for videos. As a rule of thumb, you want projectors capable of at least doing 720p. This way, you can enjoy movies better. The good news is that some of the best options for the best portable projector 2020 have 4K capability.
Brightness
When picking portable projector screens, you have to be very particular about brightness. One main difference between a portable movie projector and the projector that you set up in a classroom is that the latter have high luminosity.
The reason for the low brightness on a portable movie projector is the fact that it runs on a battery. The higher the lumens, the more that you will need a cooling mechanism for the projector.
Volume
Of course, you are not just watching a silent film. You will have to be particular about the speakers and the sound quality that you get from the portable movie projector. Though it is going to be subjective, this is where a portable projector review can come in handy. A portable projector review can give you an idea about the first-hand experience of users especially when it is all about the sound quality of the portable projector.
How many speakers does the projector have? Also, does it offer a special technology that can enhance the sound of the unit?
Contrast ratio
Another factor that can affect your movie-watching experience is the contrast ratio of your portable movie projector. Let’s assume that a projector has a contrast ratio of 2,500:1. It means that the white image is 2,500 times brighter than a black image. As a rule of thumb when buying for the best projector, choose a small portable projector that has a high contrast ratio. It means that you can see colors and details better when watching the video.
What are the main differences between a portable and non-portable projector?
If you are serious about having the best projector, you have to know the difference between a portable projector and a full-size projector. One of the key differences between a portable projector and a full-sized projector is the price range. A high-end portable HD projector costs around $500. If you are on a tight budget, a good 1080p portable projector could cost around $300 to $400.
On the other hand, a full-sized projector costs twice or even thrice of the best portable projector brands. Full-sized projectors could cost above the $1,000 range. Apart from the price, as the name suggests, the best mini projector brands can easily fit in your hands. You can keep it in your luggage and have the portable HD projector with you while traveling.
But there are some areas where a portable HD projector couldn’t compete against a full-sized projector. For instance, full-sized projectors have better contrast ratio and brightness than any of the best mini projector brands. The reason why even the best portable projector can’t compete in these areas against a full-sized projector is due to the limitation in its size. By design, a small portable projector makes use of LED to illuminate the image. Compared to a full-sized projector, even the best mini projector is no match to what a full-sized projector can do when it comes to brightness.
But since it only makes use of LEDs, a battery is enough to power an entire projector portable unit. In some instances, there are portable HD projector brands that have rechargeable batteries that you can power using a USB port.
What are the best portable projectors?
The debate for the best portable projector 2020 continues online. Depending on the portable projector review that you will read, different sites will give you different insights as to the best small portable projector in the market.
As for the best projector that fits in small spaces, there are a lot of small portable projector options in the table today. Each has its pros and cons. The following projector portable products that we’ll mention fit in different categories.
Best Overall Portable Projector – Nebula Capsule
Nebula Capsule, by Anker, Smart Wi-Fi Mini Projector, Black, 100 ANSI Lumen...
- Remarkable Clarity and Contrast: DLP's advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- 360° Speaker: Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around.
- Remarkable Clarity and Contrast: DLP's advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- 360° Speaker: Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around.
- Home Entertainment: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and more up to 100 inches big anywhere in your home thanks to Capsule’s soda can-sized design.
- Android 7.1: Run streaming and media apps flawlessly. Seamlessly display content from Netflix, Youtube, and more on your mini projector for endless entertainment.
- NOTE: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CAN NOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Capsule portable projector to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. For peak performance, please update to the latest firmware.
Specs and Details
- 100 ANSI Lumens
- Quality: 854×480 (16:9)
- 360-degree speakers
- 4-hour playing time
- 100-inch picture
- HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Screen Mirroring
Features
The Nebula Capsule* is considered by many as the best portable projector for good reasons. It features great visuals and audio that can give users remarkable viewing experience. Among other portable movie projector options, this unit makes use of DLP’s advanced IntelliBright Algorithm. With 100 ANSI lumens, it is relatively brighter than most small portable projector brands in today’s market. Plus, The Nebula Capsule has an image projection that is 100 inches big.
Though it isn’t the smallest portable projector in the market, it weighs 15oz which isn’t bad for a portable movie projector. And in terms of performance, this small portable projector can run smoothly with its Android 7.1 OS.
But what sets this apart from other portable movie projector products is its overall construction. It is made of aluminum which means that it can take a few bumps considering that a lot of users prefer to bring their portable mini projector with them wherever they go.
What it can be used for?
It can be used to watch YouTube, Netflix, and other apps. The Nebula Capsule is perfect not only for watching videos but also for gaming. And for this mini portable projector, given its size, many are using the Nebula Capsule projector as their entertainment when going outdoors.
FAQ
- How long does it charge?
The Nebula Capsule needs 2.5 hours to get fully charged.
- How long can it last playing continuously?
If you are going to play music, the unit can last up to 30 hours. As for videos, the Nebula Capsule can last for up to 4 hours.
- Does it allow screen mirroring Netflix and other premium content?
Unlike other 1080p portable projector options in the market, you can’t mirror apps such as Hulu and Netflix. Instead, you will have to download the app on the Nebula Capsule.
- How much does it weigh?
It weighs 15oz or around less than half a pound.
- Does it have an app?
The Nebula Capsule has a dedicated app that you can download from Google Play and App Store that makes it easier to use the portable HD projector unit.
The Premium Option – Nebula Mars II Pro
Nebula by Anker Mars II Pro 500 ANSI Lumen Portable Projector, Black,...
- Brighter is Better: DLP IntelliBright technology projects a radiant 500-ANSI-lumen image at razor-sharp 720p for breathtaking video clarity. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- Cinematic Sound: Dual 10W audio drivers work together to deliver sensational sound and deep, resonant bass for a truly immersive outdoor projector movie experience.
- Brighter is Better: DLP IntelliBright technology projects a radiant 500-ANSI-lumen image at razor-sharp 720p for breathtaking video clarity. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- Cinematic Sound: Dual 10W audio drivers work together to deliver sensational sound and deep, resonant bass for a truly immersive outdoor projector movie experience.
- Expand Your Entertainment: Plug and play your favorite HDMI and USB 2.0 devices, including laptops, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and more.
- All Your Favorites: Watch YouTube, Netflix, and more with Android 7.1 for hours of awesome content on your portable projector.
- NOTE: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CANNOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Mars to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. For peak performance, please update to the latest firmware.
Specs and Details
- 500 ANSI Lumens
- HD picture quality (1280×720 (16:9, HD))
- 2 10W speakers
- Android 7.1 OS
- Autofocus technology
- HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Screen Mirroring
- 3 hours playing time
Features
If you wish to have the best portable projector, don’t forget to include the Nebula Mars II Pro* on your list. The Nebula Mars II Pro could easily be the best projector in the market today if you will consider compatibility and image quality.
Though it isn’t exactly the smallest portable projector, it’s a favorite even among critics when it comes to the best portable projector 2020. What makes it worthy to be part of the best portable projector 2020 lists online?
First, it’s no secret that brightness matters. It makes use of an LED lamp that has a brightness rating of 500 ANSI lumens. In addition to this, the Nebula Mars II Pro offers the ideal angle with its horizontal and vertical keystoning. It simply means that you get a stable image at any angle. Next, it’s a runaway winner for the best portable projector 2020 in most websites simply because of its razor-sharp high definition image (1280×720 (16:9, HD)). As a 720p portable projector, you get to see a huge difference between mediocre small projectors and this particular product.
Apart from video quality, users also enjoy the great sound of this HD portable projector thanks to the dual 10W speakers on the Nebula Mars II Pro. And lastly, it’s a favorite by critics on their portable projector review articles because of the extensive compatibility that this unit has. You get to enjoy videos using HDMI, USB or choose to mirror content using your phone.
What it can be used for?
It is one of the best portable projector units in the market today simply because it offers high-quality video and audio. It offers a great leap compared to other portable projector screens. If you will read a portable projector review, you’ll notice that usual brightness runs from 100 to 200 ANSI lumens. This isn’t the case with the Nebula Mars II Pro. One reason why it’s being considered by some critics as the best portable projector 2020 is the fact that you can enjoy 500 ANSI lumens plus superior audio quality from this unit.
It’s a perfect portable projector for those who live in small spaces. Also, it’s a great handy portable projector for users who plan to travel or go outdoors.
FAQ
- How many hours does it last?
Once fully charged, the unit can last for 3 hours.
- What is its projection size?
The projection size ranges from 30 to 150 inches
- Can you mirror Netflix and Hulu on Nebula Mars II Pro?
No. It doesn’t mirror Netflix or Hulu. You will have to have the app on the Nebula Mars II Pro to use premium content.
- Does it offer 500 ANSI Lumens even if it isn’t plugged?
It offers 500 ANSI lumens if the battery life is above 20% or if it is plugged into a power source. It reverts to 200 ANSI lumens if the battery is below 20%.
- How much does it weigh?
The unit weighs close to 4 pounds.
Conclusion
Each person has a different reason why they prefer to have a projector. Some invest in portable versions mainly because they have a small space while others prefer to buy the mini projectors to have portable entertainment whenever they are traveling. Also, there are people with different preferences when it comes to their projector.
The good news is that you have a variety of options when it comes to buying a portable projector or a portable projector screen. You can select based on your budget, requirements, and your personal preference especially when it comes to their specs.
For instance, some users prefer to have a projector that can have an app such as Netflix installed in the unit. On the other hand, other users think size matters the most. Try to compare each product to make sure that you get the best choice. This way, you will have a clearer picture of what you should buy. If you enjoyed this article, you might be interested in our article on portable document scanners and portable monitors.
Here are all the featured products again:
Nebula Capsule, by Anker, Smart Wi-Fi Mini Projector, Black, 100 ANSI Lumen...
- Remarkable Clarity and Contrast: DLP's advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- 360° Speaker: Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around.
- Remarkable Clarity and Contrast: DLP's advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- 360° Speaker: Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around.
- Home Entertainment: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and more up to 100 inches big anywhere in your home thanks to Capsule’s soda can-sized design.
- Android 7.1: Run streaming and media apps flawlessly. Seamlessly display content from Netflix, Youtube, and more on your mini projector for endless entertainment.
- NOTE: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CAN NOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Capsule portable projector to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. For peak performance, please update to the latest firmware.
Nebula by Anker Mars II Pro 500 ANSI Lumen Portable Projector, Black,...
- Brighter is Better: DLP IntelliBright technology projects a radiant 500-ANSI-lumen image at razor-sharp 720p for breathtaking video clarity. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- Cinematic Sound: Dual 10W audio drivers work together to deliver sensational sound and deep, resonant bass for a truly immersive outdoor projector movie experience.
- Brighter is Better: DLP IntelliBright technology projects a radiant 500-ANSI-lumen image at razor-sharp 720p for breathtaking video clarity. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
- Cinematic Sound: Dual 10W audio drivers work together to deliver sensational sound and deep, resonant bass for a truly immersive outdoor projector movie experience.
- Expand Your Entertainment: Plug and play your favorite HDMI and USB 2.0 devices, including laptops, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and more.
- All Your Favorites: Watch YouTube, Netflix, and more with Android 7.1 for hours of awesome content on your portable projector.
- NOTE: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CANNOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Mars to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. For peak performance, please update to the latest firmware.
