First, let’s talk about “moveable” projectors. If you feel comfortable taking your projector outside and it’s bright enough to overcome outdoor ambient light, well, you have a movable projector. In this section of our buyer’s guide, we are going to concentrate on bright, cost-effective models that can be conveniently carried…at least short distances.
For a projector to be considered movable at Projector Reviews, it must have the following features:
Substantial brightness
Affordability
Relatively compact size
BenQ X300G
Price
$1,399 Street Price ($1,799 MSRP)
Brightness
2000 ANSI lumens
Resolution
3840 x 2160
Light Source
4LED
Light Source Lifespan
30,000 Hours
Inputs
Single HDMI Connection and USB Type-C and USB-A Port
Gaming
4.16ms 1080P@240Hz, 8ms 1440P@120Hz, 16ms 4K@60Hz
Portability – size
6.6 lbs
Portability – power
No battery
Portability – smart
Yes
Sound
TreVolo tuned 8-Watt x 2 with passive bass radiator
The BenQ X300G is a cutting-edge, portable, 4K gaming projector that also appeals to home entertainment enthusiasts. At a current street price of $1,399, ($1,799 MSRP), the X300G offers a blend of advanced features and robust performance that makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an immersive gaming and entertainment experience. Even though the X300G is compact, it can deliver 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness, which ensures that images remain vivid and clear even in moderately lit environments.
The projector’s 0.47" Digital Light Processing (DLP) Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) with XPR technology delivers a 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) onscreen resolution which makes it ideal for not only playing video games, but also watching movies and videos. The projector’s 4K resolution ensures that every detail is sharp and clear while providing an immersive viewing experience that cannot be matched by most flat-panel television sets.
Gamers looking for a large, high-quality display will appreciate the projector's ultra-low input lag and dedicate gaming picture/sound modes. While the BenQ X300G's target customers are gaming enthusiasts, users will find the X300G’s high brightness and 4K resolution deliver an immersive cinematic experience as well.
USB-C port supports DisplayPort output (DP Alt Mode) and power delivery (PD inputs and outputs)
Gaming
26.5ms @ 1080/60p
Portability – size
6.4 lbs
Portability – power
No battery
Portability – smart
Bundled with a QS02 smart media stick
Sound
5W x2 + 10W
The BenQ GP100A is a Full HD (1920x18080) 4LED portable projector that retails for $899 MSRP. The GP100A is BenQ's best portable smart projector which is designed to transform any space into a personal cinema or gaming hub. The projector’s LED light source has a manufacturer’s rated brightness of 1000 ANSI Lumens. Its compact form factor, measuring approximately 7.60" x 6.70" x 8.40", and its relatively lightweight construction (about 6.4 lbs.) make it highly portable.
The GP500, like other BenQ i-series projectors, comes with a smart HDMI media stick BenQ calls the QS02. The QS02 plugs into a hidden HDMI input that can be accessed by removing the projector's top panel. Users can enjoy Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video and access all the latest compatible Android TV apps.
The GP100A features a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort output, making it compatible with a Nintendo® Switch, mobile devices, or laptops. Additionally, the BenQ GP100A can charge a Nintendo Switch or mobile device while simultaneously projecting content from these devices. Although the GP100A lacks an internal battery, it can be powered using a compatible USB battery bank, allowing users to project content anywhere, making it perfect for mobile entertainment.
The unit’s high-quality sound system is not only beneficial when watching video, it also enhances the overall gaming experience, especially when playing in a group. You even utilize the projector as a Bluetooth music speaker.
The GP100A’s blend of portability, impressive image quality, and user-friendly design, coupled with its connectivity options, makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy big-screen entertainment anywhere.
he Yaber V12 is a 700 ANSI lumen (manufacturer-rated) RGB LED light source-based projector with a 20,000:1 dynamic contrast that uses a single TFT LCD as its imager to produce a Full HD (1,920 x 1,080p) resolution image. Yaber has loaded the V12 with a smart Linux-based operating system with premium native streaming applications like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube, along with a range of other entertainment and informational-based applications via a dedicated app store.
Yaber has included a big-sounding 20-watt Dolby Digital sound system with Bluetooth 5.2 bi-directional connectivity that allows the projector to be wirelessly connected to an external Bluetooth sound source or lets the projector function as a Bluetooth speaker for a smartphone or tablet.
The Yaber V12 is designed to be moved from the living room to the bedroom, to any other destination via a soft carrying strap attached to the projector. The detachable tilting stand provides a gimbal-like experience and allows the V12 to be easily positioned. The projector's autofocus and auto or manual digital horizontal and vertical keystone make setup a breeze.
The V12 is available from retailers online and sells for an MSRP of $399.99.
The Dangbei Atom retails for $899 and is a compact, portable, smart Full HD laser projector. It utilizes a single DLP (0.33” DMD) chip that can deliver 1080 x1920 onscreen resolution. The projector's slim 1.87-inch profile and lightweight design (2.82 pounds) make it ultra-portable. While it lacks an internal battery, you can easily move it from room-to-room or toss it in a backpack to take with you.
The Atom's ALPD Laser Light source can deliver up to 1,200 lumens of brightness and is rated to last up to 30,000 hours in eco mode. The projector's Advanced Laser Phosphor Display (ALPD) light source ensures a bright, speckle-free, and color-fringe-free image. It offers users enhanced customization with three color temperature presets and RGB gain adjustments, catering to individual preferences.
The Atom is Dangbei's first Google TV™ equipped laser projector, so you can access a wide range of streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. Compared to the Android TV platform utilized on many smart projectors, Google TV offers a step up in features and functionality.
Emphasizing user-friendliness, Google TV also incorporates features like Watchlist, Multiple Profiles, Google Assistant, and Chromecast built-in. The Atom supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1 to ensure seamless connectivity.
The LG CineBeam PF510Q is a Full HD, $599.99 portable, 4Ch (RGBB) LED smart projector with 450 ANSI lumens. In addition, the PF510Q is an HDR-compatible projector, and the 4-channel (RGBB) LED light source is rated to last up to 30,000 hours. The LG PF510Q portable projector utilizes a single DLP chip to deliver its Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080).
While the PF510Q's claimed 450 ANSI lumens is not intended to cut through excessive amounts of ambient light, the PF510Q does well enough when there's a reasonable amount of ambient light leaking into the viewing room. The PF510Q, however, is best suited for watching and gaming in a dark environment.
LG, a leading manufacturer of Smart TVs, has a lineup of CineBeam portable projectors. These projectors include the PF510Q and combine all the smart capabilities of current flat panel TVs with the long life of a LED light engine with vivid images to create a great portable projector solution.
The PF510Q's integrated mono 5-watt speaker audio system means the projector does not need an external audio source
The PF510Q could be perfect for military members constantly on the move, road warriors, RVers (recreational vehicle users), or students living in a dormitory. If you're a homeowner, a parent, or anybody else who could use a portable smart projector for a quick movie night setup or an after-dark street party in the cul-de-sac, then the LG PF510Q projector could also be for you.
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF11 is a compact and portable laser projector, which retails for $699 and delivers stunning image quality in a variety of settings. With its 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness and Full HD resolution, the EF11 is a good portable solution for both home entertainment use, as well as for business presentations and classrooms. Despite the lack of 4K or HDR features, this projector manages to deliver impressive brightness and image quality.
The EF11 features a sleek, modern compact design that makes it easy to transport and set up. It also has a built-in speaker system, so you can take advantage of an all-in-one setup without having to connect to external speakers. A simple Chromecast device is the only thing you need to begin streaming.
One of the best things about the EF11 is its throw ratio. You can get up to a 150” screen at only 14 feet away. The projector is much smaller than you’d think it would be, with the length and height being smaller than many smartphones. It’s an all-around lightweight and versatile projector that punches far above its size.
The JMGO N1 is one of two new Full HD additions to the company N1 projector lineup, offering 800 CVIA lumens, a triple laser light source, and JMGO gimbal-like design. The N1 is available from Amazon or purchased directly from JMGO for an MSRP of $999.
JMGO is a projector manufacturer fast becoming known for building high-quality, feature-rich video projectors that give consumers compelling alternatives to the products provided by today's mainstream manufacturers. I was very impressed with the video quality of the JMGO N1 Ultra so I'm very intrigued to see how this projector performs compared to its bigger 4K brother. If you are interested in reading my full review of the JMGO N1 Ultra, click on the model number link. Let's get into the details of the new JMGO N1 to find out if this projector is worth your purchase consideration.
In the last section, we discussed movable projectors which are easy to carry and bright enough to be used in outdoor applications. In this section, we explore projectors that add built-in sound and smart features to a small and compact chassis, greatly enhancing portability.
LG HU710PB CineBeam Q
Price
$999.99
Brightness
500 ANSI lumens
Resolution
3840 x 2160
Light Source
RGB Laser
Light Source Lifespan
20,000 hours
Inputs
USB-C port supports DisplayPort output (DP Alt Mode) and power delivery (PD inputs and outputs)
Portability – size
3.3 lbs
Portability – power
No battery
Portability – smart
webOS 5.0
Sound
Dolby Atmos 6W
The LG HU710PB, also known as the CineBeam Q, is a 4K portable smart projector that retails for $999. It offers an impressive blend of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and class-leading picture quality.
The HU710PB utilizes a single DLP (0.47” DMD) chip to reproduce 4K UHD resolution (3,840 x 2,160), which ensures crisp and vivid images. It employs a 3-channel RGB laser light source, offering a wide color gamut coverage of 154% DCI-P3, and it is rated to last up to 20,000 hours.
Combining wide color reproduction with a dynamic contrast ratio of 450,000:1 and effective Dynamic HDR Tonemapping results in class-leading HDR picture quality.
Weighing just 3 pounds and featuring a 360-degree rotating handle, the CineBeam Q is designed for easy transport. The handle also doubles as a stand, which can be adjusted to project images at different angles, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
The LG PF610P is an $849 MSRP, Full HD LED portable smart home theater projector. LG designed the PF610P to be transportable while delivering a high-quality image, allowing users to easily show movies and other entertainment anywhere with access to power.
The LG PF610P uses a Texas Instruments Digital Light Processing Projector (DLP) imaging chip to project a 120-inch diagonal image. You can project a larger image, but 120 inches is the maximum recommended size. LG has designed the PF610P to deliver a picture they refer to as cinematically immersive, whatever that means. I will be sure to let you know how immersive the image appears to me.
The LG PF610P uses an LED light source rated to produce 1,000 ANSI lumens of brightness which is not bad for such a portable projector. LG talks a lot about vivid shades and striking clarity in its marketing release. I’m pretty sure they are referring to color performance. The PF610P uses a 4 Channel LED Light Source, referring specifically to the projector’s discrete Red, Green, and Blue (RGB) LEDs combined with LG’s Dynamic green technology. Using these two technologies in the PF610P is designed to improve the 610P’s brightness and image sharpness compared to conventional LED projectors that use three-channel LED light sources. Because of this, LG says this new LED CineBeam projector delivers more vibrant images than conventional projectors. Eliminating the traditional DLP color in favor of LED technology overcomes conventional projectors’ defects such as discoloration of LCD and the irritating DLP rainbow effect.
The LG610P is a smart projector running LG’s most recent webOS 5.0 platform. LG webOS 5.0 provides access to popular streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, YouTube, and many more. It is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and MiraCast for Android users, allowing viewers to share content from smartphones.
The PF610P features a 4-corner keystone adjustment that allows users to adjust the projected image from four different points. This helps users achieve a squared image from virtually any angle. Additionally, the PF610P features a 1.195 throw ratio, allowing large screens to be projected even from close range.
On paper, the LG PF610P seems to fit a tremendous amount of performance and features into a small (8.9-inch x 7.6-inch x 2.7-inch) body combined with a mere 3.7 pounds of weight. Using this projector as an on-the-go device should not be an issue.
The Elfin is a Smart all-in-one Full High Definition (FHD) 1920 x 1080p portable Digital Light Processing (DLP) short-throw projector. XGIMI rated the Elfin’s brightness at 800 ANSI lumens. The Elfin features a redesigned horizontal chassis that measures just 7.5” W x 1.96” H x 7.5” D and weighing just two pounds. Tex Yang, chief marketing officer for Xgimi, says, “The Elfin delivers a fresh style more comparable to the current sleek personal electronics devices on the market and is made to slide in your bag as easily as a laptop.” During my earlier review of this product, I noted that the Elfin was the perfect size to toss into my backpack and take on the road with me. In addition, a threaded tripod socket is located under the projector to make placement even more effortless.
Neatly solving the issue of how to get content while on the go, the Elfin is powered by Android TV with 5000+ native apps. Users can play video games or stream directly from the Android TV interface. Note that while you can download the Netflix app from the Google Play store. The Elfin has a built-in media player with 16 GB of internal storage. The internal storage could be used to store music or some of your favorite movies on the projector.
The Elfin is a portable projector that comes equipped with decent sound quality. XGIMI has partnered with Harman Kardon and the single forward-firing 3-watt Harman/Kardon speakers sound great for how tiny the unit is.
The new AAXA P7+ is small but displays a stunning picture for its size.
Price
$389 MSRP
Brightness
390 ANSI lumens (Measured)
Resolution
1920 x1080
Light Source
RGB LED
Light Source Lifespan
30,000 hours (normal use)
Inputs
A wide range of inputs, including USB Type-C and Type-A connections
Storage
Not Listed
Portability – size
1.17 lbs
Portability – power
150 minutes run time (ECO mode)
Portability – smart
Android 10 OS
Sound
Built-in 2-watt stereo speaker
The new AAXA P7+ is small but displays a stunning picture for its size.
The AAXA P7+ is an Android 10, LED-powered, smart DLP projector capable of displaying a native 1,920 x 1,080p image at a maximum screen size of 200 inches diagonally, according to the company's website.
The AAXA P7 is available in three different packages/configurations. AAXA sells the P7 as a standalone projector with a built-in battery. AAXA offers the P7+ with added Wi-Fi 5 connectivity and Android 10 smart capabilities. Lastly, AAXA offers the P7+ with all the features above and an included fold-up solar charger allowing users to charge the projector using sunlight when a power outlet is unavailable.
Projectors' RGB LED light sources have dramatically improved over the past several years. New and improved LED light sources allow projectors to display brighter, more colorful images. I've recently reviewed home theater projectors with LED light sources capable of generating 3,000 plus ANSI lumens of brightness. AAXA looks to have doubled the light output of the P7+ to 550 LED lumens of brightness, almost double that of the equivalent previous model.
The P7+'s LEDs are incredibly efficient and require only 35 watts running on a 12 V power adapter. It is one of the big reasons this projector can easily be charged from the solar charging panel included in this package.
The P7+ LED light source is rated to deliver 550 LED lumens for up to 30,000 hours. The LED light source's long life means you can watch content eight hours a day for over ten years. Also, LED light sources tend to make images look brighter than their measured ANSI lumen brightness.
The P7+ Mini Projector is one of the newest generations of solid-state mini projectors introduced by AAXA. With its size, the P7+ easily works in various environments like the home for movies and casual gaming. The P7+ also suits business and education environments.
"As today's hybrid lifestyles continue to evolve, it is important that professionals are equipped with solutions that are easily adaptable to various environments and suitable for a range of applications,” said Kenny Tang, Product Manager, Projectors, Epson America, Inc. "Whether presenting to peers during the day or hosting a movie night with friends, larger and more immersive viewing makes a big difference. With the EpiqVision Flex projectors, users will experience the best of both worlds with technology that offers convenience, versatility, and most importantly, incredibly bright and engaging big-screen images."
Epson asserts that their new EpiqVision Flex projectors are tailored to "own any room.” They mean that the Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 grants hybrid workers the luxury of owning a projector that not only displays bright, intricate visuals for work-related content such as PowerPoint presentations, but also has the picture quality necessary to enjoy popular movies and TV shows.
Epson states that the EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 has the capacity to project images over 300 inches. I do not have a 300 inch projector screen, but when put to the test in my projector lab, it exhibited superb performance at 100 inches. The vertical and horizontal keystone correction of the EpiqVision Flex CO-W01, combined with its zoom and manual focus capabilities, makes it an ideal choice for individuals who frequently need to relocate the projector.
The Epson EpiqVision Flex series aims to captivate audiences with striking visuals, whether for work-related content or entertainment purposes. In contrast to its DLP rivals, the 3LCD EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 boasts an equal number of color lumens and white lumens, which allows colors to stand out vibrantly, even under ambient light conditions. The CO-W01 features a white brightness of 3,000 ISO lumens and a color brightness of 3,000 lumens, as claimed by the manufacturer. This is determined by color light output measured in compliance with IDMS 15.4 and white light output as per ISO 21118; as per page 10 of the User’s Guide. Epson does note that both the color and white brightness will fluctuate depending on usage conditions.
It's important to highlight that Epson evaluates the white output of the EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 using ISO Lumens, as defined by the International Organization for Standardization, rather than ANSI Lumens, the standard set by the American National Standards Institute. Both ISO Lumens and ANSI Lumens are utilized in the projector industry as units to measure the brightness, or light output, of a projector. While they serve the same basic function, their measurement methodologies do differ. For more detailed insights on the distinctions between ANSI and ISO Lumens, please refer to the Brightness section of this review.
The Optoma ML1080 is a premium portable projector that delivers excellent picture quality
Price
$999
Brightness
550 ANSI Lumens
Resolution
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source
RGB Laser
Light Source Lifespan
30,000 hours
Inputs
1 HDMI, 1 USB Type -A, 3.5mm audio jack, 2 USB-C inputs
Portability – size
2.2lbs (0.9 kg)
Portability – power
No battery
Portability – smart
Media Player
Sound
Single 3-watt speaker
The Optoma ML1080 is an ultra-compact RGB laser full HD 1080p projector that retails for $999.00. While it is one of Optoma’s most compact and portable projectors, the ML1080 includes several notable features that make it an excellent solution for consumer and professional applications.
While most projectors its size utilize LED light sources, the ML1080 is equipped with an RGB triple laser light source that can deliver 1200 lumens of brightness (550 ANSI Lumens), and it can reproduce a vast range of colors. It had been several months since I saw the ML1080 at InfoComm 2023, so I had forgotten how lightweight and compact it is. The projector weighs just 2.3 lbs and is the most compact RGB laser projector I have ever reviewed.
The projector’s compact form factor brightness, picture quality, and feature set make the ML1080 flexible enough to use at home, on the go, and in various professional applications. Optoma also offers a short-throw version of the projector called ML1080ST ($1149 SRP) to provide more placement flexibility.
