Best Projectors Under $1,000 For 2025

The GS50 stands out as a part of BenQ's GS lineup, boasting a 1080p Full HD resolution with a brightness of 500 ANSI lumens. A unique feature of both the GS50 and GV30 is their 2.1 channel Bluetooth speaker with "Extra Bass." This highlights BenQ's commitment to merging excellent video and audio quality in their portable projectors.

Designed for durability, the GS50 is both splash-resistant (IPX2) and can withstand drops of up to 2.3 feet. Its integrated battery offers 2.5 hours of use, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.

In a direct comparison between the two models, while the GS50 delivers superior sound and image quality, it is a bit heavier. The GV30, priced slightly lower at $599, provides a resolution of 720p and is designed for greater portability. Each projector comes with a built-in 2.5-hour battery, BenQ's QS01 Android TV Dongle for streaming, and a stylish Heather Grey carrying case. The GS50 stands out with its rugged design, compatibility with HDMI ARC, and ease of mounting on tripods. All in all, both models serve well as the best projectors under $1,000.

Its compactness makes it convenient for relocation, and its 180-degree base ensures easy projection on almost any surface. Auto-focus and keystone correction automatically adjust when the unit is angled. While there isn't an integrated battery, Samsung offers a Freestyle Battery Base, which powers the device for up to three hours and can simultaneously charge a mobile device. The projector also functions with a sizable third-party power bank via its USB port.

Samsung's accessory lineup includes a Socket Adapter, letting the Freestyle get powered by standard light sockets in homes. Users can mount it in lamps or ceiling fixtures for versatile video playback. Other available accessories include a carrying case and colorful skins for customization.

The Freestyle operates on the Tizen OS, similar to Samsung's latest flat-panel TVs. It's compatible with prevalent voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Bixby. Users can access various streaming platforms, making external connections rarely necessary. Nevertheless, there's a micro-HDMI input for external devices, like gaming consoles. Its Ambient Mode transforms it into a video wallpaper or mood light when not projecting content, and it boasts a 5-watt sound system suitable for various settings.

The GS50 stands out as a part of BenQ's GS lineup, boasting a 1080p Full HD resolution with a brightness of 500 ANSI lumens. A unique feature of both the GS50 and GV30 is their 2.1 channel Bluetooth speaker with "Extra Bass." This highlights BenQ's commitment to merging excellent video and audio quality in their portable projectors.

Designed for durability, the GS50 is both splash-resistant (IPX2) and can withstand drops of up to 2.3 feet. Its integrated battery offers 2.5 hours of use, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.

In a direct comparison between the two models, while the GS50 delivers superior sound and image quality, it is a bit heavier. The GV30, priced slightly lower at $599, provides a resolution of 720p and is designed for greater portability. Each projector comes with a built-in 2.5-hour battery, BenQ's QS01 Android TV Dongle for streaming, and a stylish Heather Grey carrying case. The GS50 stands out with its rugged design, compatibility with HDMI ARC, and ease of mounting on tripods. All in all, both models serve well as the best projectors under $1,000.

However, for those seeking portability without compromising on quality, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 is the ideal choice. It is a Smart Full HD projector that can project 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness. It incorporates Android TV, offering all the features of a Smart TV, including Wi-Fi. The EF12 also boasts a custom-designed speaker system by Yamaha, which surpasses the audio quality of many flat-panel TVs. Despite being a 1080P unit, its color accuracy and contrast make it stand out amongst other DLP-based portable projectors. The Epson EF12 has received a Hot Product Award due to its excellent image and sound quality.

Priced at $999.99, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 just qualifies for the best projectors under $1,000. Especially as it is a laser projector that includes Android TV, Yamaha sound system, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. It offers Full HD resolution and a 1,000-lumen laser light source that lasts up to 20,000 hours. Its Android TV interface provides access to various streaming apps, and it supports Chromecast and Google Assistant voice control. It's worth noting that while the EF12 is slightly heavier and pricier than the EF11 model, it offers a more comprehensive range of features, particularly its superior Yamaha sound system. Both models employ Epson’s cutting-edge MicroLaser™ Array Technology and automatic setup features.

The HC880's HDMI input facilitates connections with various devices, such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. Notably, it supports Miracast, enabling wireless projection or mirroring from devices like smartphones or laptops without additional software. A standout feature is its two-dimensional keystone correction, minimizing the trapezoid effect when placed off-center. Users can adjust this automatically or manually, with the Corner Fit option available for individual corner adjustments.

Its wired LAN capability allows management through a computer when on the same network, and it's compatible with multiple projector control systems like Crestron and AMX. While the HC880 is basic, lacking many smart features, its affordability and commendable picture quality make it an attractive choice. In fact, its brightness and color accuracy surpass some pricier DLP laser projectors, making it a leading value choice in the market.

Integrated with LG's ThinQ AI webOS, used in its smart TVs, the PF610P provides access to a plethora of apps and guarantees years of hassle-free operation. Audio-wise, the projector doesn't skimp on quality, featuring Dolby Atmos support and an internal 6W stereo system. Its varied connectivity options include two HDMI inputs, two USB Type-A connectors with HID functionality, a 3.5 mm audio out, and an S/PDIF Optical connection.

A standout feature is its ability to project a 120-inch diagonal image, with LG emphasizing the cinematic quality of the visuals. Using a 4-channel LED Light Source, combined with LG's Dynamic Green technology, the PF610P outperforms typical three-channel LED projectors by delivering sharper, brighter, and more vivid images.

Additionally, the projector runs on the latest webOS 5.0 platform, compatible with major streaming platforms, Apple AirPlay 2, and MiraCast. The PF610P's 4-corner keystone adjustment and 1.195 throw ratio ensure clear images from various angles. Given its 3.7 lbs weight and compact design, it's perfect for mobile entertainment.

The Elfin is portable, featuring a completely redesigned horizontal chassis. This design choice makes the device even more compact, measuring at 7.5” W x 1.96” H x 7.5” D and weighing only 2 lbs. Chief Marketing Officer Tex Yang emphasized that the Elfin's sleek design aligns with the aesthetics of modern personal electronic devices, making it as portable as a laptop.

It's equipped with built-in 3-watt Harman/Kardon speakers and can be easily set up for viewing anywhere with a power outlet and a flat surface. Under the hood, the Elfin employs a 0.33-inch DMD Texas Instruments DLP chipset for its display. When comparing the Elfin to XGIMI's other offerings, such as the Halo and Horizon, the Elfin stands out for its portability. However, each model has its unique advantages.

The reviewer appreciated the Elfin's portability, noting it fits easily into a backpack. It's capable of projecting up to 200-inch images, with clarity reducing beyond that size. Notable features include auto screen detection, built-in Chromecast, 3D readiness, and AI-powered object detection. The projector also comes with a 15-day return and exchange policy.