Best portable projectors 2025 for home, travel, camping and small spaces

TechTvsBest portable projectors 2025 for home, travel, camping and small spacesGreat as TV alternatives, these mini and portable projectors are space-saving and travel-friendlyWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Great as TV alternatives, these mini and portable projectors are space-saving and travel-friendly

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Getty)

Portable projector outdoors

(Image credit: Getty)

The best portable projects can allow you to set up your very own movie theatre in your home or garden - all you need is the popcorn! \but what should you be looking for when investing in one?

There are so many projectors on the market now that it can seem like a minefield when sifting through the ones that are actually good enough to invest in. While it can be tempting to opt for one of the cheaper options available, it might not deliver everything you’d hoped for in terms of features and performance, so it’s best to do your research and set a realistic budget to make sure you get what you want.

To save you the hassle, we’ve curated a list of the best portable projectors in 2023, to help you make an easy decision on what suits your needs, from budget to features and specs, we’ve detailed everything you need to know before you buy.

If you’re looking for something bigger, brighter or with more resolution, try ourbest projector guidefor 4K and HDR models.

Our top 3 projectorsXGIMI Halo+ projector$799.99$749.99ViewSee all pricesHP CC200$137ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

Our top 3 projectors

XGIMI Halo+ projector$799.99$749.99ViewSee all pricesHP CC200$137ViewSee all prices

XGIMI Halo+ projector$799.99$749.99ViewSee all prices

XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable…

XGIMI Halo+ projector

Amazon

$799.99$749.99View

$799.99$749.99

$749.99

See all prices

HP CC200$137ViewSee all prices

Hp CC200 Video projector 200…

HP CC200

Back Market (US)

$137View

$137

See all prices

We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

The best portable projectors in 2025, ranked

Why you can trust T3Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.Find out more about how we test.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi Elfin portable projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi ElfinThe best portable projector for most peopleOur expert review:SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::800 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::7.56 x 7.85 x 1.9 inchesToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Keystone correction is intuitive and works well+Bright 800 ANSI Lumens 1080p projectionReasons to avoid-No built-in battery-Netflix is no longer supported
Xgimi Elfin

1. Xgimi Elfin

The best portable projector for most people

Our expert review:

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::800 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::7.56 x 7.85 x 1.9 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::800 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::7.56 x 7.85 x 1.9 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::800 ANSI Lumens

Battery::None

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0

Size::7.56 x 7.85 x 1.9 inches

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Keystone correction is intuitive and works well+Bright 800 ANSI Lumens 1080p projection

+Keystone correction is intuitive and works well+Bright 800 ANSI Lumens 1080p projection

Keystone correction is intuitive and works well

Bright 800 ANSI Lumens 1080p projection

Reasons to avoid-No built-in battery-Netflix is no longer supported

-No built-in battery-Netflix is no longer supported

No built-in battery

Netflix is no longer supported

On a price to performance ratio, the Xgimi Elfin is the undeniable winner. This smart projector might not be the most compact – and technically, Xgimi classifies it as a smart home projector, rather than a portable one – but its small and squarish pancake design still makes it an excellent travel companion. That’s whether you’re hopping on a transatlantic flight or driving across the country.

Better than being portable, however, it’s one of the best performing yet surprisingly affordable smart projectors we’ve tested. As we say in ourXgimi Elfin review, it is “surprisingly robust, capable and effortless to use for one that you can easily slip into your tote bag or backpack.”

It’s not just snappy in performance. Its 800 ANSI lumen brightness and X-Vue 2.0 image engine deliver such bright, vibrant visuals and excellent picture quality that you will start to wonder why you still have a massive TV taking up a lot of space in your living room. Meanwhile, its Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) technology makes manual keystone adjustments practically unnecessary. In fact, this projector has perhaps one of the most intuitive auto keystone corrections we’ve ever encountered. And, those are just to start.

Other praise-worthy features here are its Android TV 10.0 OS, plethora of connectivity options, and 16GB of storage, which should come in handy when Wi-Fi isn’t available. It also boasts a whopping 200-inch maximum projection so you can also use it in larger rooms during a Super Bowl or FIFA World Cup party. Sadly, there’s no built-in battery and Xgimi still hasn’t obtained certification for Netflix support, but those aren’t exactly deal-breakers considering everything else you’re getting.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi Halo Plus smart projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi Halo+The best premium portable projectorOur expert review:SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to two hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::4.46 x 5.70 x 6.75 inchesToday’s Best DealsView at Best Buy(HDR)View at Amazon(Black)View at Walmart(Black)Reasons to buy+Fast and powerful performance+Impeccable picture qualityReasons to avoid-Can be a little loud-Not cheap
Xgimi Halo+

2. Xgimi Halo+

The best premium portable projector

Our expert review:

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to two hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::4.46 x 5.70 x 6.75 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to two hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0Size::4.46 x 5.70 x 6.75 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::900 ANSI Lumens

Battery::Up to two hours of playtime

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 10.0

Size::4.46 x 5.70 x 6.75 inches

Today’s Best DealsView at Best Buy(HDR)View at Amazon(Black)View at Walmart(Black)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Best Buy(HDR)View at Amazon(Black)View at Walmart(Black)

View at Best Buy(HDR)

View at Best Buy

(HDR)

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at Walmart(Black)

View at Walmart

(Black)

Reasons to buy+Fast and powerful performance+Impeccable picture quality

+Fast and powerful performance+Impeccable picture quality

Fast and powerful performance

Impeccable picture quality

Reasons to avoid-Can be a little loud-Not cheap

-Can be a little loud-Not cheap

Can be a little loud

Not cheap

If you want the best portable projector bar none, then our pick would be the Xgimi Halo+, which takes everything we love about the Elfin, bumps it up a notch, and crams everything in a robust yet incredibly compact package. And, really, the only reason why this hasn’t made it to the top of the pile is because its steep price does put it out of many consumers’ reach.

However, if you do have the budget for it, you won’t be disappointed. Also boasting Xgimi’s X-VUE 2.0 image engine as well as its integrated 60Hz motion compensation technology (MEMC) and 900 ANSI lumen brightness, you’re getting a viewing experience that’s more elevated than, dare we say, anything else on this list. As ourXgimi Halo+ reviewsays, it “manages to stand out from the crowd of smart portable projectors out there. It’s so close to perfection, in fact, that you’ll be hard-pressed to find fault in it.”

You’re not just getting bright, vibrant, and sharp images, you’re also getting smooth and clean visuals. That’s on top of its snappy performance when opening apps and starting content. You can even adjust the refresh rate, if you’re not feeling the lifelike movements at 60Hz. Of course, it also comes with Xgimi’s intuitive Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance and Intelligent Screen Alignment so you’ll never have to waste time on manual keystone adjustments ever again.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

HP CC200 projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

HP CC200 Citizen CinemaThe best budget portable projectorOur expert review:SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :NoneSize::5.04 x 5.35 x 7.99 mmToday’s Best DealsView at Back Market (US)(White)Check AmazonReasons to buy+More affordable than other portable projectors+Native 1080p resolution with great picture qualityReasons to avoid-No smart TV features-No keystone correction
HP CC200 Citizen Cinema

3. HP CC200 Citizen Cinema

The best budget portable projector

Our expert review:

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :NoneSize::5.04 x 5.35 x 7.99 mm

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :NoneSize::5.04 x 5.35 x 7.99 mm

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::200 ANSI Lumens

Battery::None

Smart TV OS: :None

Size::5.04 x 5.35 x 7.99 mm

Today’s Best DealsView at Back Market (US)(White)Check Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

View at Back Market (US)(White)Check Amazon

View at Back Market (US)(White)

View at Back Market (US)

(White)

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+More affordable than other portable projectors+Native 1080p resolution with great picture quality

+More affordable than other portable projectors+Native 1080p resolution with great picture quality

More affordable than other portable projectors

Native 1080p resolution with great picture quality

Reasons to avoid-No smart TV features-No keystone correction

-No smart TV features-No keystone correction

No smart TV features

No keystone correction

The thing that makes the HP CC200 Citizen Cinema unique, especially compared to other projectors on this list, is that it goes back and sticks to the basics. HP has decided to make this a minimalist portable projector with no smart TV features, and that puts it right in the middle of a severely underserved market and in the perfect position to target budget-minded consumers who want a high-quality portable projector with true 1080p native resolution but cannot afford all those over $400/£400 options.

It’s a brilliant move, especially because even if you do have to purchase a streaming stick to use with it, you’re still spending a whole lot less than any of the other options here. And, you can enjoy Netflix without going through hoops. If you don’t want to spend anymore, you always have your laptop or a USB flash drive. Don’t let its 200 ANSI lumen brightness turn you off; it’s still plenty bright, even if the dynamic range isn’t very wide. Plus, the colors are vibrant and the images are sharp and clean. It also comes with a remote that has focus buttons, which we do appreciate and have used often during our testing.

Because there aren’t any special features, setup is quick and painless. That’s despite the fact that there’s no auto keystone correction or auto focus. As we say in theHP CC200 Citizen Cinema reviewit “skips the frills, opting to focus instead on picture quality, audio, and affordability.”

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Anker Nebula Solar smart projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Anker Nebula SolarThe best mid-range portable projectorOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::400 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::7.6 x 7.6 x 2.3 inchesToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Pancake design makes it travel-friendly+Sharp, clean imageReasons to avoid-400 ANSI lumen brightness isn’t bright enough for some-Speakers are disappointing
Anker Nebula Solar

4. Anker Nebula Solar

The best mid-range portable projector

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::400 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::7.6 x 7.6 x 2.3 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::400 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::7.6 x 7.6 x 2.3 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::400 ANSI Lumens

Battery::None

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0

Size::7.6 x 7.6 x 2.3 inches

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Pancake design makes it travel-friendly+Sharp, clean image

+Pancake design makes it travel-friendly+Sharp, clean image

Pancake design makes it travel-friendly

Sharp, clean image

Reasons to avoid-400 ANSI lumen brightness isn’t bright enough for some-Speakers are disappointing

-400 ANSI lumen brightness isn’t bright enough for some-Speakers are disappointing

400 ANSI lumen brightness isn’t bright enough for some

Speakers are disappointing

The Anker Nebula Solar looks like it could be a direct rival to the Xgimi Elfin because it’s sporting that same squarish pancake form factor that’s travel-friendly and wobble-resistant. However, a closer look at both projectors’ specs will show you that the Elfin is the superior of the two, with the Solar cutting that 800 ANSI lumens brightness in half, only offering a 120-inch maximum projected display, and not being as snappy in performance.

However, those compromises might be worth it for not-so nitpicky viewers who don’t care about having a massive display, super bright visuals, and blazing fast performance. As ourAnker Nebula Solar reviewsays, “its biggest drawback is that it might not be bright enough, but only for the most discerning viewers.”

That’s especially since the Solar is much cheaper with its sub-$500/£500 price tag. In the world of smart 1080p portable projectors, that’s practically a steal. Even more impressive is that it stays cool and relatively quiet under pressure. As for its picture quality, you’re getting sharp and clean visuals and vibrant colors.

Plus, it comes with its share of unique features like the Bluetooth speaker mode that allows it to function as a Bluetooth speaker (without having to go through the user interface) and a built-in kickstand, both of which should come in handy. The built-in speakers are nothing to write home about, but connect it to a separate Bluetooth speaker, and you’ll get a better audio experience.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Anker Nebula Cosmos Projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Anker Nebula CosmosThe best portable projector for home useOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::11.4 x 7.8 x 3.6 inchesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)Reasons to buy+Brightness at 900 ANSI lumens+Speakers are plenty loud and deliver a 360-degree soundReasons to avoid-Slow to wake-Bigger than other portable projectors
Anker Nebula Cosmos

5. Anker Nebula Cosmos

The best portable projector for home use

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::11.4 x 7.8 x 3.6 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::900 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::11.4 x 7.8 x 3.6 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::900 ANSI Lumens

Battery::None

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0

Size::11.4 x 7.8 x 3.6 inches

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

Reasons to buy+Brightness at 900 ANSI lumens+Speakers are plenty loud and deliver a 360-degree sound

+Brightness at 900 ANSI lumens+Speakers are plenty loud and deliver a 360-degree sound

Brightness at 900 ANSI lumens

Speakers are plenty loud and deliver a 360-degree sound

Reasons to avoid-Slow to wake-Bigger than other portable projectors

-Slow to wake-Bigger than other portable projectors

Slow to wake

Bigger than other portable projectors

The Anker Nebula Cosmos might be the biggest portable on this list, and it’s best-suited for home use, especially when you’re trying to save space and don’t have room for a TV. Still, we’ve stuffed this in a backpack and brought it with us to another location, and we’re happy to report that it definitely still counts as portable. You might not be able to bring it with you on the plane – you can, but it isn’t practical – but you’ll be happy to take it with you on camping trips or take it outside for a movie night under the stars.

In fact, it’s ideal for such occasions, especially if you’ve got a few people in your party. Its built-in 20W speakers are designed to deliver 360-degree sound, ensuring that everyone around it gets the same audio experience. And, they can get pretty loud as well. As we see in theAnker Nebula Cosmos review, it delivers, touting great smart features, a snappy performance, and a fairly powerful set of pipes.

Plus, its 900 ANSI lumen maximum brightness means that you can start enjoying movies at sunset, instead of waiting until it’s dark. As for its performance, it might be slow to wake, but it’s snappy when opening apps and playing content. The picture quality is sharp and vibrant as well.

We’re not big fans of its egg-shape design, but that’s a matter of preference. What does matter is its size and weight – be sure that you’re bringing with you a sturdy surface or robust tripod to mount this on.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Kodak Luma 450 projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Kodak Luma 450The best pocket-sized projectorOur expert review:SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to three hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android OSSize::1.26 x 4.90 x 4.90 inchesToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyReasons to buy+Incredibly light and compact+Great build qualityReasons to avoid-Disappointing smart TV features-Middling built-in speakers
Kodak Luma 450

6. Kodak Luma 450

The best pocket-sized projector

Our expert review:

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to three hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android OSSize::1.26 x 4.90 x 4.90 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::200 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to three hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android OSSize::1.26 x 4.90 x 4.90 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::200 ANSI Lumens

Battery::Up to three hours of playtime

Smart TV OS: :Android OS

Size::1.26 x 4.90 x 4.90 inches

Today’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best Buy

Today’s Best Deals

View at AmazonView at Best Buy

View at Amazon

View at Best Buy

Reasons to buy+Incredibly light and compact+Great build quality

+Incredibly light and compact+Great build quality

Incredibly light and compact

Great build quality

Reasons to avoid-Disappointing smart TV features-Middling built-in speakers

-Disappointing smart TV features-Middling built-in speakers

Disappointing smart TV features

Middling built-in speakers

Think of the Kodak Luma 450 as a compromise between the HP CC200 and any of the smart portable projectors on this list, except in a much smaller package. As we say in theKodak Luma 450 review, “next to [this], other portable and mini projectors out there feel like absolute behemoths.” It has some smart TV features, even very rudimentary Netflix app support, but like the CC200, you’re better off porting a streaming stick not just for convenience but to get more apps as well.

Just when you think Kodak couldn’t possibly fit any more in there, it surprises you with built-in speakers and a built-in battery that gives you three hours of viewing time when you’re on eco mode. The on-device user interface isn’t the most seamless, but it comes with Kodak Luma App support, which should improve the way you interact with the projector.

(Image credit: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2

(Image credit: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2Best for Netflix fansOur expert review:SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::500 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::4.53 x 5.91 x 5.91 inchesToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Autofocus and keystone adjustment+Android TV built-in makes it a perfect all-in-one solutionReasons to avoid-Display isn’t the brightest-Speaker lacks bass
Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2

7. Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2

Best for Netflix fans

Our expert review:

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::500 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::4.53 x 5.91 x 5.91 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::500 ANSI LumensBattery::NoneSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::4.53 x 5.91 x 5.91 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::500 ANSI Lumens

Battery::None

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0

Size::4.53 x 5.91 x 5.91 inches

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Autofocus and keystone adjustment+Android TV built-in makes it a perfect all-in-one solution

+Autofocus and keystone adjustment+Android TV built-in makes it a perfect all-in-one solution

Autofocus and keystone adjustment

Android TV built-in makes it a perfect all-in-one solution

Reasons to avoid-Display isn’t the brightest-Speaker lacks bass

-Display isn’t the brightest-Speaker lacks bass

Display isn’t the brightest

Speaker lacks bass

It seems that no brand has mastered finding that price to performance sweet spot quite as well as Xiaomi, at least when it comes to home and lifestyle tech products, so we’re happy to see it hit the portable projectors market as well. The Mi Smart Compact Projector 2 is not just compact and a great performer, making it a top contender if you’re looking for the best portable projector, but it’s beautifully modern and minimalist, which allows it to fit in just about anywhere.

The best part about this 1080p projector, however, is its Netflix app support. While most of the other smart projectors out there are struggling to get it, this one’s certified for official Netflix app support. In fact, it’s the first-ever Android TV projector to secure it. That makes it ideal for all the loyal Netflix fans.

As we say in theMi Smart Compact Projector 2 review, While its capable of large screen sizes, you’ll need to dim the lights to enjoy it as the brightness is a little lacking but for the bedroom or movie night on the sofa, it’s ideal.

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi MoGo Pro+ projector

(Image credit: Michelle Rae Uy)

Xgimi MoGo Pro+Best for travelingOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::300 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to 4 hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::5.75 x 4.15 x 3.7 inchesToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Android TV UI and Google Assistant make navigation effortless+Built-in batteryReasons to avoid-Not very stable-Keystone correction needs a bit of work
Xgimi MoGo Pro+

8. Xgimi MoGo Pro+

Best for traveling

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsResolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::300 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to 4 hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::5.75 x 4.15 x 3.7 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080Brightness::300 ANSI LumensBattery::Up to 4 hours of playtimeSmart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0Size::5.75 x 4.15 x 3.7 inches

Resolution::1920 x 1080

Brightness::300 ANSI Lumens

Battery::Up to 4 hours of playtime

Smart TV OS: :Android TV 9.0

Size::5.75 x 4.15 x 3.7 inches

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Android TV UI and Google Assistant make navigation effortless+Built-in battery

+Android TV UI and Google Assistant make navigation effortless+Built-in battery

Android TV UI and Google Assistant make navigation effortless

Built-in battery

Reasons to avoid-Not very stable-Keystone correction needs a bit of work

-Not very stable-Keystone correction needs a bit of work

Not very stable

Keystone correction needs a bit of work

If we were to pick a 1080p projector we’d want to bring with us on our long travels, we’d pick the Xgimi MoGo Pro+. It might not be as small as the Kodak Luma 450, but it’s the second smallest on this list. Better yet, it comes with excellent features that only adds to its portability, including a built-in battery that gives you up to four hours of playtime, dual Harman-Kardon speakers with enough volume to fill a small room, and Android TV for smart TV viewing. That’s not to mention 16GB of storage space that can store up to 10 movies and 1,000 songs.

Performance-wise, it delivers true 1080p display resolution, a 76-inch projected display at two meters, and immersive image quality. Even if it’s just at 300 lumens, you can enjoy viewing at dusk. And, while it might not come with the Elfin and Halo+’s intuitive screen alignment and obstacle avoidance technologies, it comes with its own keystone correction function that minimizes manual adjustments from your end.

Because it is lightweight and has a cuboid form factor, it’s not exactly the most stable. So, be sure to place it on a very secure, solid surface; lest, you risk a wobble-filled night of streaming. As we say in theXgimi MoGo Pro+ review, “If you’re looking for a mini projector that you can take and play just about anywhere, it can’t get better than this.”

(Image credit: Future)

Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector

(Image credit: Future)

How we test projectors

What to look for in the best portable projector

Price is certainly one of the biggest factors to consider when you’re shopping around for the best portable projector for your needs. However, know that these projectors aren’t going to be cheap – at least not the great quality ones, and especially not the ones with smart TV capabilities.

While we’re on that topic, not all portable projectors come with that smart TV functionality. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not worth a look, especially if they save you quite a bit of money. After all, there are a number of cheap streaming sticks out there that you store in your pocket and can easily port into projectors via their HDMI port.

Be prepared to invest more than $200/£200 of your money. If you find something that’s under that, then likely it’s not powerful enough or it has a resolution of under 720p – essentially, a toy. You’re better off saving up for something that’s better quality.

In terms of what you should look for in a portable projector, you need to take a good look at the resolution, projected display size, maximum brightness, and projector size. Most options out there come with 1080p resolution and up to 120-inch projection, but you’ll find some great 720p and 4K offerings as well as a handful that can deliver a 200-inch display size.

When it comes to maximum brightness, we’ve noticed that the higher a projector’s maximum brightness is, the more expensive it is. So, if you’re trying to save money, something with 200 to 500 ANSI lumens should be enough to use with the lights off. If you’re more flexible with your budget, pick something that’s around 800 to 900 ANSI lumens. And, if you’ve got deep pockets, you’ll find some pricey options that will blast your eyeballs with over 2,000 ANSI lumens.

Size-wise, we’re defining “portable,” for the sake of this buying guide, as something you can conveniently put in a bag and travel with. Decide early on what size is best for your needs. If you plan on taking your portable on flights, for example, you shouldn’t get anything that might take up more than a quarter of the space in your carry-on luggage. However, if you need one for your summer RV road trips, getting a bigger one isn’t going to be an issue.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you require a built-in battery. Although it seems like a given, considering their portable nature, not all portable projectors have a built-in battery. If you plan on using yours in places where outlets aren’t readily available, definitely consider getting one with a battery. Know though that you’ll just have anywhere from two to four hours of video playback per charge.

Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts

Honor Magic 7 Pro

Honor launches the Magic 7 Pro with one feature you won’t find anywhere elseThis device could be keen competition for brands like Samsung and OnePlus

This device could be keen competition for brands like Samsung and OnePlus

Waking up for work is tough in the winter – but smart tech can help you avoid that snooze buttonHow smart tech makes winter mornings run smoother

How smart tech makes winter mornings run smoother

TCL Playcube

TCL Playcube is a portable projector with a twistWith Google TV on board, this stylish projector was an unexpected addition

With Google TV on board, this stylish projector was an unexpected addition

Sony VPL-XW5000ES lifestyle shot

Sony VPL-XW5000ES review: an affordable native 4K laser projectorSony’s latest projector sets a new entry point for native 4K laser-powered beamers

Sony’s latest projector sets a new entry point for native 4K laser-powered beamers

Optoma UHZ50

Optoma UHZ50 4K projector review: a ray of light?We review how Optoma’s UHZ50 4K HDR projector fares in both daytime and night conditions

We review how Optoma’s UHZ50 4K HDR projector fares in both daytime and night conditions

Acer C250i review: woman and child watching TV on the ceiling

Acer C250i review: a portable projector with excellent autofocusThe Acer C250i will fit in your backpack and it has 5 hours of battery life

The Acer C250i will fit in your backpack and it has 5 hours of battery life

Xgimi Halo Plus smart projector

Xgimi Halo+ smart projector review: a practically perfect smart projectorSmart portable projectors are a dime a dozen, but the Xgimi Halo+ manages to set itself apart from the rest

Smart portable projectors are a dime a dozen, but the Xgimi Halo+ manages to set itself apart from the rest

HP CC200 projector

HP CC200 Citizen Cinema projector review: the affordable and stripped-down optionGoing for the more minimalist approach, HP’s CC200 Citizen Cinema projector isn’t feature-rich. But, bringing it back to the basics also has its perks

Going for the more minimalist approach, HP’s CC200 Citizen Cinema projector isn’t feature-rich. But, bringing it back to the basics also has its perks

Kodak Luma 450 projector

Kodak Luma 450 projector review: pocket-sized projectorThe Kodak Luma 450 is a little slim on smart features, but it’s also slim and small enough to fit in the pocket of a coat or bag

The Kodak Luma 450 is a little slim on smart features, but it’s also slim and small enough to fit in the pocket of a coat or bag

Anker Nebula Solar smart projector

Anker Nebula Solar review: a respectable mid-range projectorThe Nebula Solar offers a large 1080p projection for an affordable price, making it ideal for watching films on a big screen

The Nebula Solar offers a large 1080p projection for an affordable price, making it ideal for watching films on a big screen

The best portable projectors in 2025, ranked#

1. Xgimi Elfin#

2. Xgimi Halo+#

3. HP CC200 Citizen Cinema#

4. Anker Nebula Solar#

5. Anker Nebula Cosmos#

6. Kodak Luma 450#

7. Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2#

8. Xgimi MoGo Pro+#

How we test projectors#

What to look for in the best portable projector#

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox#

The best portable projectors in 2025, ranked

1. Xgimi Elfin

2. Xgimi Halo+

3. HP CC200 Citizen Cinema

4. Anker Nebula Solar

5. Anker Nebula Cosmos

6. Kodak Luma 450

7. Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector 2

8. Xgimi MoGo Pro+

How we test projectors

What to look for in the best portable projector

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox