If you don’t own one already, you’re going to want to get a smart projector! These use the latest display technologies to make everything from viewing movies and television to sorting through photos more enjoyable. They can stream straight from your phone and are capable of doing everything a smart tv does, but on a larger screen. These use LED lights, which provides for a longer life span. LED technology also prevents dimming issues and runs quieter because they don’t require a fan to keep them cool. Our experts have found the best smart projectors that are available for online purchase! Take a look at our buying guide below!
Frequently Asked Questions?
What are lumens?
When it comes to lighting, there are a lot of different terms, but lumens are one that you should understand. Lumens have to do with how much brightness is supplied by the light source. In other words, they are a measure of the total amount of visible light as seen by the human eye. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light will be. For reference, the light that is created by a conventional 60 watt bulb will be achieved by an LED lamp that has between 800 and 850 lumens. In the past, wattage has been used to describe brightness, when in fact, they actually measure energy use. Experts say that consumers should be more focused on lumens than watts. Simply put, watts refer to how much energy a device is using and lumens refer to how much light you are getting from it while it is illuminated. The higher the lumen, the brighter the bulb.
What are LED lights?
LED stands for light emitting diode. LEDs produce light very efficiently and cheaply compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and emit much less heat during the process. The heat that LEDs emit is absorbed during use into a “heat sink” that dissipates thermal energy into the ambient air. The bright “white” light that LEDs are known to produce is created by a phosphor material – a yellowish substance that is used to coat the LED, allowing it to produce the kind of light typically preferred in households. The light itself is produced when electrical current passes through a microchip. This chip contains two electrodes – typically, energy flows in through the anode and out through the cathode. In addition to giving off much less heat than traditional bulbs, LEDs last much longer and don’t “burn out” like glass bulbs. They will eventually experience “lumen depreciation,” which means that they dim over time. That said LED bulbs can often last for up to a decade!
Buying Guide
There are many things to consider when purchasing a smart projector. Here are some tips to keep in mind while you are shopping.
- Price: The price tag on these projectors really runs the gamut. The good news is that there are several models that are relatively affordable, portable and offer high quality video and audio output.
- Short Throw: You no longer have to mount a projector to your ceiling. “Short throw” is important if you want to put the projector on your coffee table and “ultra short flow” allows you to place it even closer to the wall.
- Ports and connections: If you aren’t streaming from your phone, you’ll want to have HDMI 2.0 capability because they offer better support for 4K UHD content. USB-C connections allow you to charge your phone while mirroring your screen at the same time.
Wemax Smart Laser Projector
Best Overall
Superior Resolution
With 2100 lumens of brightness, this projector will give you 4x the resolution of full HD or 1080p. This is built with industry leading patented ALPD 3.0 and TI DLP technology. ALDP allows for light to be used more efficiently for finer detail across a wider color gamut and deeper vibrance for breathtaking video resolution. Short throw projector reduces eye strain by diffusing light without losing picture quality. Choose from 4 different projector sizes. These are 80 inches, 100 inches, 120 inches and 150 inches. The 8-Point keystone system correction dials in image quality, making micro adjustments for the perfect home cinema experience.
Pros:
- Tabletop mount
- Ultra short throw ratio
Cons:
- Pricey
The Nova laser projector boasts powerful 30W Dolby Audio DTS HD speakers that provide crystal clear audio precision tuned to accentuate the home theater experience. This comes loaded with thousands of apps powered by Android TV. Stream your favorite shows from Hulu, HBO Max, Showtime, Disney+ and more. This is multi-device compatible, comes with a remote control, a power cord, a cleaning cloth and a user manual.
Nebula Mini Projector
Best Design
Powerful Hardware
This model offers remarkable clarity and contrast. DLP’s advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a 100 ANSI lumen image. An omnidirectional speaker pumps sound out 360 degrees. Enjoy all of your favorite movies, TV shows and more up to 100 inches anywhere in your home. A single charge provides 4 hours of fun wherever you go with this tiny theater that projects every image in vivid detail.
Pros:
- Immersive sound
- Very portable
Cons:
- Recommended for use in dimmer environments
Turn any space into a movie theater with this soda can sized projector. The Android 7.1 operating system will run streaming apps flawlessly. Use inside or outside and experience brighter images, advanced AI and powerful hardware.
Kodak Portable Projector
Best Compatibility
Cinema Quality Display
This is the premier choice for DLP projection. This model uses breakthrough technology to render HD video and imaging with stunning color, clarity and LED-Lumen brightness. Use for up to 150 inches. Turn your smartphone into a remote control and discover the ultimate all-inclusive multimedia experience with onboard Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, screen mirroring, HDMI and USB for phone, laptop, tablet, streaming through downloaded apps, Blu-Ray, consoles and much more.
Pros:
- Creates a theater like viewing experience
- Built in speakers
Cons:
- Remote can only turn off the projector
The slim profile of this device makes it easy to take with you and no external equipment is needed to operate it. This runs on lithium ion batteries that are included. Weighing under 2 pounds, this fits in the palm of your hand and can sit right on a tabletop during use. Use this with USB drives to look at photos or videos.
Vimgo Portable Projector
Best Sound
Full HD Viewing Experience
This is not only a movie projector, but also a smart device with an Android 9.0 operating system. This will provide a smooth surfing experience and has built-in dual 5W speakers that bring you theater quality sound in 360 degrees. Offering a remarkably bright and clear display, this projector supports 4K input videos. This product will showcase rich detail and vibrant colors – even during daytime. This product is dustproof, has no thermal issues and offers a 30,000 hour lifespan.
Pros:
- User friendly design
- Comes with a remote control
Cons:
- Paid streaming apps have copy protection that prevents mirroring from mobile devices to all projectors due to policies enacted and enforced by content owners.
Versatile connections allow you to plug and play your favorite media content. Bluetooth Connection allows the P10 to be used as an external speaker and a powerful processor allows games to run smoothly without lag.
FATORK Mini Projector
Easiest to Use
Enjoy a Bright Clear Image
This projector is very tiny, but very powerful. It can project up to 114 inches at a projection distance of 1.64 to 9.85 feet. Enjoy your favorite movies anywhere in your home or outdoors. This wireless model has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts for 2.5 hours on one charge. Connect once to WiFi and you can connect your divide to your home projector wherever you want. It is compatible with IOS and Android.
Pros:
- Closed technology means that it is dust proof
- Equipped with HDMI and USB ports
Cons:
- Battery life may be short for some movies
It can easily connect to smartphones, iPads, laptops, TV boxes, DVD players, game consoles, USB drives, and more for home theater, video games, parties, and outdoor events.
