When buying a new home theater projector, this price point is where you really start to see a difference in performance, picture, quality, noise level, and clarity. If you are able to spend between $5,000-$10,000, you will be able to get an outstanding projector that will give you many years of high-quality entertainment.

If you need a condensed list of the best home theater projectors, explore our article on the best home theater projectors for 2023.

SONY VPL-XW5000ES

The XW5000ES produced close to its rated brightness of 2000 ANSI lumens even in its most accurate picture modes. Many projectors deliver significantly less than their rated brightness when placed in their most accurate picture mode. It is not uncommon to see the brightness cut in half. The 2000-lumen XW5000ES measured brighter than many calibrated 3000-lumen DLP projectors once they were calibrated.

Due to its projector-optimized X1 Ultimate processor that combines signal HDR analysis and precise modulation of its 2000-lumen laser source, The XW5000ES produces a stunning HDR picture.

While some projectors struggle with a lack of brightness and produce dull HDR video, Sony’s new Dynamic HDR Enhancer works to eliminate this problem. Powered by the X1 Ultimate Processor, this feature measures the average and peak brightness of HDR10 content, and then precisely it adjusts the signal levels in the light/dark areas and laser light intensity automatically to optimize the HDR contrast according to a scene. So, whether viewing HD, 4K or HDR content, the picture quality delivered by the Sony XW5000ES was outstanding right out of the box.

When it comes to native contrast and black level, very few home theater projectors, except for JVC DILA projectors, can match/beat the XW5000ES. I have not come across a single-chip DLP home theater projector that can even come close.

The XW5000ES is equipped with a manual lens with a good amount of zoom and horizontal/vertical lens shift capability, which simplifies installation, especially when trying to replace an older, previously mounted unit.

Sony did a great job choosing the most important performance features to deliver the best bang for the buck from the XW5000ES. With a retail price of $6000, the XW5000ES is more expensive than a DLP-based laser home theater projector, but if you truly care about picture quality and can fit the XW5000ES into your budget, it should be at the top of your list.

Due to its outstanding SDR and HDR picture quality and feature set, the XW5000ES is an amazing value. The XW5000ES is highly recommended.

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JVC DLA-RS1100/NP5

The DLA-RS1100 is equipped with a 65 mm diameter lens which adopts an all-glass design with 17 elements in 15 groups to ensure sharp focus across the entire screen. The motorized 2.0:1 zoom lens assembly also offer tons of horizontal and vertical lens shift to maximize installation flexibility.

In addition, the RS1100 includes dual 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 inputs that can accept 4K@120fps signals. While there is a lot of video content shot at this frame rate, the fact that the RS1100 can accept a 4K/120P signal makes it a good match with the latest gaming consoles.

While RS1100 does not include the laser light sources found in JVC models above it, the JVC RS1100 includes many of the award-winning technologies found on JVC’s more expensive models. Labeling the JVC DLA-RS1100 as an entry-level projector would be a disservice. This projector will probably outperform many manufacturers’ flagship models based on its features and performance. This makes it an excellent option for a home theater enthusiast with a smaller budget that desires a native 4K JVC D-ILA projector.

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JVC NX7 / RS2000

The NX7’s high contrast ratio combined with 4K resolution and JVC’s industry-leading best black levels results in exceptional picture quality.

JVC offers both Consumer and Professional versions of their projectors. The main difference between the two lines is mostly cosmetic. I reviewed the JVC DLA-NX7 from their consumer lineup. The nearly identical Reference Series (professional) version is the DLA RS2000.

Compared to the competition, I have yet to find a single-chip consumer 4K DLP projector that could come anywhere close to the color fidelity, contrast, and black level of the DLA-NX7. Due to its Dynamic Tone Mapping capabilities, the HDR picture quality is outstanding as well. If you are looking for a projector at this price point, the NX7 so be at the top of your list.

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If your budget is between $2,000 – $5,000 you are sure to find a quality 4K capable projector for your home theater. There are several projectors in this price range that will deliver excellent picture quality, good black levels, strong sharpness, and still leave room in the budget to buy quality accessories to support your total home theater experience.

If you need a condensed list of the best home theater projectors, explore our article on the best home theater projectors for 2024.

EPSON HOME CINEMA LS11000

Epson’s proven pixel shifting technology has been improved to deliver more visible resolution than a standard 1080P 3LCD projector. A new Precision Shift Glass Plate is quicker, so the LS11000 can reproduce 8.3 million pixels on-screen, which is double that of older Epson pixel shifting Pro Cinema projectors like the award-winning 6050UB and LS10500. The pixel shifting is so fast it is difficult from a normal viewing distance to differentiate between a native 4K projector and the LS11000.

LS11000 has dual HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps), so it can accept 4K/120fps HDR content. It can also playback not only HDR10 and HLG but also HDR10+ so that you can enjoy both prerecorded and live HDR content.

Epson’s ultimate goal is to deliver the best bang for the buck, and I believe they succeeded, Due to its performance and feature set, we highly recommend Epson Home Cinema LS11000 for anyone looking for a high-quality laser-based home theater projector for under $4000.

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EPSON PRO CINEMA LS12000

The Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 includes most of the features that customers looking for a premium home theater would need at a price far lower than the competitive Sony and JVC models. Currently, you would have to spend double the price of an LS12000 for a native 4K LCoS laser projector like the DLA-NZ7.  Epson’s ultimate goal is to deliver the best bang for the buck, and I believe they succeeded.

Overall, the LS12000 provides a good balance of performance and value. It proves that a good projected image doesn’t have to be overly expensive. Just add a projection screen, and for under $6000 total, you can bring a compelling home theater experience to any room.

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LG CINEBEAM HU710PW

The HU710PW offers accurate, out-of-the-box color reproduction, Dynamic HDR Tone Mapping, and HGiG. It is also equipped with the latest HDMI 2.1 features, including eARC and ALLM.

The HU710PW has horizontal/vertical lens shift and a combination of 4, 9, or 15 points geometry correction to provide exceptional installation flexibility.

The HU710PW is built around the latest LG webOS 6.0 operating system. Smart features are incorporated seamlessly, and the menus are easy to navigate and well laid-out. The HU710PW is loaded with many of the most popular streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and many more. 

The HU710PW has all the smart features customers expect from a smart TV. You can use the smart remote for voice control with its built-in microphone to control basic projector features and control a wide variety of compatible smart devices via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. It also provides comprehensive support for the iOS platform, including Airplay and Homekit.

The HU710PW supports HGiG, which enhances HDR gaming, a nice feature to have.

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LG AU810PB CINEBEAM

The AU810PB offered accurate out-of-the-box color reproduction, and it is one of a few projectors with Dynamic HDR Tone mapping and HGiG. It is also one of the first projectors equipped with the latest HDMI 2.1 features, including eARC and ALLM.

Since the AU810PB was designed to replace a flat panel TV, it has all the Smart features customers expect from a Smart TV. You can use the Smart remote for voice control with its built-in microphone to control basic projector features and control a wide variety of compatible Smart devices via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

The AU810PB is also the first projector we have reviewed that is WiSA-compatible so that it can broadcast sound to multiple wireless speakers. This eliminates the wires and the A/V receiver, so it is easier for anyone to set up a stereo or a full surround system.

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BENQ HT5550

The projector’s six-segment RGBRGB color wheel combined with a built-in cinema filter can reproduce 100% Rec.709 color gamut and 95% DCI-P3. The HT5550 supports both HDR10 and HLG, using auto HDR tone mapping to maximize the projector’s brightness.

This BenQ is a top candidate for the best bang for the bucks in terms of picture quality. You can find great color elsewhere, but not combined with impressive black level performance.

The HT5550 is geared toward serious movie enthusiasts who care about picture quality enough to optimize their rooms for the best picture. The HT5550, like all BenQ CinePrime projectors, works best in rooms with little or no ambient light. The unit’s cinema filter expands the color gamut at the expense of some brightness, but the HT5550 can project some colors that other projectors in its price point simply cannot.

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EPSON HOME CINEMA 5050UB

The HC5050UB supports HDR (high dynamic range) both the HDR10 standard for 4K UHD Blu-ray discs and streaming as well as HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) which is optimized for live broadcast.

When it comes to placement flexibility, you will be hard-pressed to find any projector offering more vertical and horizontal lens shift even at twice the price.

These Epson projectors are great examples of getting the biggest bang for your buck. Razor-sharp 4K content, stunning P3 color, HDR reproduction, and an extensive feature set, truly sets the 5050UB apart from the competition. For a list price of $2999, owners will get to enjoy some excellent picture quality, with best in class black levels for great handling of really dark scenes.

With proprietary dedicated processors for resolution enhancement, HDR, and image processing – the result is incredible brightness, color accuracy, and image detail – faithfully displaying all your favorite content from the classics to the latest blockbusters.

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JVC LX-NZ30 4K DLP

To start with, JVC has upgraded the projector BLU-Escent laser light source. This new projector features an upgraded 105-watt BLU-Escent blue laser diode that outputs an additional ten watts over the previous model. This boost in power enables the light output of the NZ30 to increase to 3,300 ANSI lumens, 300 lumens more than the previous model's 3,000 ANSI lumens of rated brightness. You may be rolling your eyes and thinking, "Phil, who cares about an additional 300 lumens of brightness?". Three hundred lumens of additional brightness when a projector is already in the 3,000-lumen range can sometimes result in a visible difference in luminance, color, and contrast. This brighter light source also improves peak brightness when projecting HDR content.

The LX-NZ series has consistently delivered high-quality video, even in rooms where ambient light can't be fully controlled, but the new LX-NZ30 takes this one step further.

One of the most significant changes to the LX-NZ30 4K laser projector is that JVC has tossed its hat into the gaming segment with a compelling performance boost. JVC has improved the LX-NZ30 to support 120 Hz and 240 Hz gaming at 1,080P. In addition, the projector's lowest latency mode is less than 1.5 frames (at 4K 60 Hz), enabling smooth, low-lag images even on screens much bigger than 100 inches, offering large-screen gaming to what was already a high-quality home theater experience. The LX-NZ30 supports input lag ratings such as 4K 60@25 ms, 1,080P 60@25 ms,1,080P 120@12.5 ms, and 1,080P 240Hz@6.25 ms.

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EPSON PRO CINEMA 6050UB

Epson’s UB series (Ultra Black) projectors use special high contrast 3LCD panels that aren’t used in any of Epson’s other home or commercial projectors, except the near-identical Home Cinema 5050UB. Epson Pro Cinema 6050UB includes a spare lamp, a ceiling mount, and a cable cover, and those goodies are not included with the HC5050UB. The Pro Cinema 6050UB also gets an upgraded warranty – three years parts and labor with a rapid replacement program.

The Pro Cinema 6050UB had good color reproduction “right out of the box.” The black levels were better than most competitive home theater projectors. The PC6050UB supports HDR (high dynamic range), both the HDR10 standard for 4K UHD Blu-ray discs and streaming, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), which is optimized for live broadcast.

When it comes to placement flexibility, you will be hard-pressed to find any projector offering more vertical and horizontal lens shift even at twice the price.

These Epson projectors are great examples of getting the biggest bang for your buck. Razor-sharp 4K content, stunning P3 color, HDR reproduction, and an extensive feature set truly sets the 6050UB apart from the competition. For a list price of $3999, owners will get to enjoy some excellent picture quality, with best in class black levels for great handling of really dark scenes.

With proprietary dedicated processors for resolution enhancement, HDR, and image processing – the result is incredible brightness, color accuracy, and image detail – faithfully displaying all your favorite content from the classics to the latest blockbusters.

Due to its performance and feature set, the Pro Cinema 6050UB or the less expensive HC5050UB will remain our top recommendations in this price range.

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LG GRU510N

The LG GRU510N is an HDR-compatible DLP home theater laser projector that retails for $3999. It utilizes a single DLP (0.47” DMD) chip to reproduce 4K UHD resolution (3,840 x 2,160). The unit’s laser phosphor light engine can deliver 5,000 ANSI lumens of light output and has a rated life of 20,000 hours in Standard (high power) mode.

The GRU510N is part of LG’s ProBeam series of projectors, which were initially developed for professional applications. The GRU510N is nearly identical to the LG BU50NST business projector we reviewed earlier this year. The only difference between the two units is the model number, and the BU50NST has a longer 3-year warranty.

The LG GRU510N is a 5000-lumen UHD (3840 x 2160) DLP projector with laser-phosphor illumination rated to deliver 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation with no lamp replacements. It offered accurate out-of-the-box color reproduction, and it is one of a few projectors with Dynamic HDR Tonemapping.

The combination of high output, high resolution, and smart wireless capabilities present a great value along with a very pleasing and flexible image. Compact size, HDBaseT, horizontal and vertical lens shift backed up by 12-point geometry correction combine to provide exceptional installation flexibility in this projector class.

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JMGO N1 Ultra 4K Triple Laser Projector

The N1 Ultra projector features integrated gimbal solutions for optimum adaptability. Its Ultra-Thin 2-axis Gimbal System allows up to 135° vertical adjustment and 360° horizontal adjustment. I cover this more in the HARDWARE section of this review, but this projector offers an attractive and functional design that I like very much.

The N1 Ultra is a Digital Light Processing (DLP) projector using a 0.47-inch Texas Instruments Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) with Extended Pixel Resolution (XPR) technology. The DLP chip is a (1920 x 1080 x4) imager and can display a 4K image. 

The N1 Ultra also fully supports 3D for both movies and gaming as long as the user has a compatible pair of 3D glasses which JMGO sells as an option.

The N1 Ultra features a discrete RGB triple laser light source called NUMB12T. This high-tech laser was developed In collaboration with Nichia using an industry-leading 9-chip laser, the first of its kind to successfully integrate multiple RGB laser light sources. Compared to existing 14 or 28-chip lasers, the NUMB12T offers higher optical efficiency, a 40% smaller package size, and better heat dissipation at a 30% lower cost.

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BENQ W4000i/HT4550i 4K 4LED

The BenQ W4000i's 4LED light source really is the heart of this new projector providing a wide yet accurate color capability. BenQ says this new projector shows true colors as originally filmed. BenQ calls this CinematicColor an exclusive design that provides users with accurate color reproduction. BenQ is also providing users with a new WIDE COLOR GAMUT (WCG) mode that, when enabled in HDR mode, reproduces 100% DCI-P3 color performance that is 1.3X wider than other DLP 4K projectors with Rec. 709 color gamut. Whether you're watching movies or your favorite shows, the picture quality is top-notch, with vibrant colors and incredible detail in bright and dark scenes.

ver the past few years, BenQ has pushed the envelope with its 4LED technology's ability to produce higher and higher brightness. The W4000i exceeds their award-winning X3000i gaming projector by offering a manufacturer rated 3,200 ANSI lumens of brightness. BenQ has not only increased the brightness of the W4000i but has done so while using a larger 0.66" DLP imager.

The new DLP imager used in the W4000i I achieves what BenQ calls true 4K that displays 8.3 million distinct pixels regardless of the number of native pixels on the DMD chip. This larger chip must only double the DMD's native 2,716 x 1,528 pixels, unlike 0.47" DLP imagers that must quadruple 1,920 x 1,080 pixels to display 8.3 million pixels on the screen.

Whether you're watching movies or your favorite shows, BenQ's exclusive CinematicColor and HDR-PRO technologies should provide accurate color reproduction and an exceptional range of brightness in both bright and dark scenes. This is accomplished by leveraging BenQ's enhanced HDR tone mapping via the company's DYNAMIC BLACK technology. While most modern 4K DLP home projectors support correct HDR specs, BenQ goes much further on the W4000i by adding their Dynamic Black technologies to increase contrast and dynamic range in HDR mode.

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BenQ X3100i Flagship Gaming Projector

BenQ produces three distinct projector series designed with gaming in mind: the X Series, TK Series, and TH Series.The X3100i is one of three new X Series projectors now part of BenQ's Console Gaming Projector Series. X Series projectors, such as the BenQ X3100i, are designed for cinematic immersion in gameplay with 4LED HDR-PRO for authentic colors with dynamic virtual 3D sound from various directions. The X Series projectors are designed with premium gaming consoles such as the PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch in mind. The new X3100i adds to all the best technology from previous projectors in the series, creating the most immersive gaming experience available on a BenQ gaming projector.

BenQ has upgraded the X3100i's light source from lamp-based technology to a modern 4LED light source. This new 4LED light engine produces 3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness, which is more than enough to create an excellent picture in a range of spaces, from light-controlled rooms to rooms where lights-on viewing is required.

LED light sources, especially BenQ's 4LED light engines, offer incredible perceived brightness. Because LEDs appear but don't measure brighter than other light sources, many manufacturers have developed a new LED lumens rating to avoid pre-judging an LED-powered projector based on its ANSI lumens rating. At Projector Reviews, we only calculate and report brightness in ANSI lumens. With the introduction of high-brightness projectors like this one, the performance gap between LED and laser light sources is rapidly closing.

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ViewSonic X2-4K Gaming Projector

I will start with a brief overview of the X2-4K, followed by some of the projector's notable features. I will then take you through the projector's hardware and discuss performance. From there, I will sum it all up for you on the last page. Hopefully, by the end of this review, I will have given you the information needed to decide if the ViewSonic X2-4K is the right projector for your console gaming, home theater, and streaming needs.

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If you are looking for an entry-level home theater projector under $1,000, there are several solid projectors that will fit your budget. You won’t get nearly all the bells and whistles of a more expensive projector, of course, but you can still get a decent picture that can be used in a variety of ways, such as for outdoor movie night, or a highly portable projector you can take just about anywhere, etc.

If you need a condensed list of the best home theater projectors, explore our article on the best home theater projectors for 2024.

PHILIPS PICOPIX MAX

PROJECTOR SPECS

The Philips PicoPix Max is a portable DLP projector that offers Full HD (1,920×1,080) resolution. The LED light source is rated for over 30,000 hours of use. Philips describes the PicoPix Max as “the Smart & fully wireless native Full HD projector with an ultra-vivid picture made for use anywhere.” It has a built-in 3-hour battery, Android OS, a top touchpad, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth casting, and USB-C connectivity.

Portability stands out as the most prominent advantage for this projector. Anyone living in a dorm, barracks, or tiny apartment would appreciate having a variety of viewing options comparable to most Smart TVs in such a compact portable package.

With an MSRP of $899, the Max is the most powerful (and most expensive) of the Philips PicoPix line of projectors. The PicoPix Max is an excellent choice for anyone who wants the functionality of a Smart TV with a paperback novel’s portability.

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EPSON EF12

PROJECTOR SPECS

While the EF12 is compact, it has a custom-designed speaker system built by Yamaha that sounds better than most flat-panel TVs and can rival many small soundbars.

While many DLP-based portable projectors can deliver 4K resolution, the EF12 is a 1080P unit. However, the Epson EF12 delivered more accurate colors, better black levels than most portable smart DLP projectors we have reviewed.

The EF12 is a user-friendly plug-and-play machine with a compact design that makes it suitable for everything from binge-watching your favorite show in any room of the house to hosting an outdoor movie night.

While we have reviewed several lamp-based home entertainment projectors that are brighter and cost the same or less than the EF12, those models do not offer all of the Smart features, and they aren’t equipped with a high-quality sound system.

So, while you can get a brighter “dumb” lamp-based projector for less, if you want all the Smart features, the upgraded sound system and the advantage of a laser light source, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Laser Projector is an excellent option.

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VIEWSONIC M2

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EPSON HOME CINEMA 880

PROJECTOR SPECS

The unit houses Epson’s 3LCD technology for best-in-class color brightness and a dynamic contrast ratio up to 16,000:1, which allows for rich detail in dark scenes.

The Home Cinema 880 is a very basic 1080P projector, it utilizes a lamp-based light source, and it doesn’t have many smart features. However, at $599, it is very affordable and produces good picture quality for its price. The HC880 walks a fine line between convenience, performance, and value. The projector delivers a bright picture with accurate colors.

While the Home Cinema 880 is a lamp-based projector in ECO mode, its 210-watt UHE bulb is rated to last 12,000 hours while still producing more than enough brightness to fill a 120” screen with a bright, vibrant picture.

While they are less expensive home entertainment projectors on the market, spending a few $100 more on a reputable brand model like Epson will provide a much better viewing experience.

The Epson Home Cinema 880 can produce up to 3,300 lumens of brightness and good color accuracy, making the unit a good option for an entry-level home theater.

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Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-11

PROJECTOR SPECS

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.

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JMGO N1 Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

JMGO is not new to the projection category; the company has been designing and manufacturing projectors since 2011. JMGO (pronounced Jim Go) has brought a range of projectors to market for the past eleven years. Still, it's in recent years, with the introduction of its two ultra-short-throw laser projectors, that JMGO has been getting a lot of positive recognition in markets worldwide, including the US. In addition to this JMGO N1, I have reviewed the JMGO 01 PRO and the JMGO U2. You can read those full reviews by clicking on the model number links.

The N1 is a Digital Light Processing (DLP) projector using a 0.33-inch DMD (Digital Micromirror Device)  that can display a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. The N1 also fully supports 3D for both movies and gaming as long as the user has a compatible pair of 3D glasses which JMGO sells as an option.

The like all the JMGO N1 Series projectors the N1 is equipped with the latest laser technology: the NUMB12T, a discrete RGB triple laser light source developed in collaboration with Nichia. This cutting-edge laser boasts an industry-leading 9-chip design, making it the first to successfully integrate multiple RGB laser light sources. Compared to other lasers with 14 or 28 chips, the NUMB12T offers higher optical efficiency and a 40% smaller package size while dissipating heat at a 30% lower cost.

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BenQ HT2060 LED 1080P Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

The BenQ HT2060 is the most recent addition to the company's growing family of LED-powered projectors. BenQ has dominated the sub $1,000 entry-level projector class for years – going back to models like the W1070A, HT2050A, and HT3050. BenQ has consistently introduced entry-level projectors at a $999 price point with features and performance often found in more expensive models.

The new HT2060 projector looks to continue this trend and even step it up a notch. If a Full HD (1920 x 1080p) projector is enough resolution for you, then the BenQ HT2060 could be the projector for you and is certainly worth a closer look.

This projector is perfect for customers looking to create their first cinema-quality big-screen home theater and is ideal for a small to medium-sized home theater or living room. And, if past performance is any indication, the HT2060 will work well in rooms with moderate amounts of uncontrolled ambient light thanks to the company's 4LED light engine.

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Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 Portable Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

"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.

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Optoma ML1080 Portable RGB Laser Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

There are portable 4K projectors on the market that cost less than the Optoma ML1080 but most can't deliver the color reproduction, onscreen contrast, and brightness of the ML1080. So, while the ML1080 displays less resolution, its picture quality makes it stand out against the competition.

The unit's premium RGB triple laser light source can deliver up to 1200 lumens of brightness (550 ANSI Lumens) while reproducing colors that many more expensive projectors and flat panel displays cannot. The ML1080 can reproduce up to 105% of the BT.2020 color gamut.

The projector's ability to display a wide color gamut is especially beneficial when displaying HDR (High Dynamic Range) material. The ML1080 supports both HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG).

Due to the projector's energy-efficient RGB triple laser light source, the ML1080 can deliver up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation while maintaining its brightness and color saturation. The RGB laser light source also reduces the unit's power consumption by up to 58% compared to Optoma lamp-based projectors at the same brightness levels.

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LG CineBeam PF510Q Portable Smart Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

The PF510Q is one of the newest models from LG and is part of LG's CineBeam lineup of projectors designed to make projection more accessible and appealing to a broader range of consumers. The PF510Q is Bluetooth capable, meaning you can wirelessly stream sound directly from the PF510Q projector to a Bluetooth-compatible sound system like headphones, home audio speakers, or portable speakers.

The PF510Q has a built-in 5W mono speaker and is Dolby Atmos compatible (Pass Through). The projector has a 3.5mm audio output jack and two HDMI inputs (One ARC). The projector also has a USB 2.0 Type-A connector featuring HID (Keyboard, Mouse, Gamepad) connection through USB functionality and a LAN port. 

Best of all, the LG PF510Q has LG's exclusive Smart TV platform, which is easy to set up and offers an effortless discovery of premium content from some of the most popular providers. Furthermore, since the PF510Q uses LG's User Interface (UI), which was developed over numerous years and is used in millions of LG TVs worldwide, the projector is seamless, easy to navigate, and well laid out.

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XGIMI Halo+ Portable Smart LED Projector

PROJECTOR SPECS

XGIMI sent Projector Reviews a pre-production Halo+ for demonstration purposes. As always, I’m bringing you an independent and honest review. In addition, I have a full review of the XGIMI Halo and a “First Look Review” on the XGIMI Horizon on the Projector Reviews website.

The XGIMI Halo+ is an FHD (1080p) portable smart projector with a built-in 59W battery rated to last up to two hours. The Halo is rated at 800 ANSI lumens, and XGIMI stated at the time, the Halo was the brightest projector in its class. Well, the Halo+ just took over the throne with its rated brightness of 900 NASI lumens. The Halo+’s extra brightness claim will put that to the test later in this review.

The Halo+ also runs Android TV 10.0 which is the latest version and it offers native support for Netflix which the older Halo does not.

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In this report, we look at all the home theater projectors and home entertainment projectors we have reviewed over the past year. 2023 was another great year for home theater enthusiasts, and there are some exciting new projectors and technologies on the horizon as we enter 2024.

While the prices of large flat panel TVs continue to drop, there are reasons why companies like Sony continue to manufacture projectors. If you are a home theater enthusiast who desires a massive immersive image, a good home theater projector still delivers the best value per inch.

An 85” flat panel TV is a large image, but anyone looking for a large screen is looking for a MASSIVE-size screen measured in feet, not inches. This is why there is still a demand for good home theater projectors. Are you debating between a projector or a large flat panel? Check out our article entitled Projector or Flat Panel: Things to Consider When Choosing a Display

Whether you are looking for a value projector to use for backyard movie nights or a premium unit for your dedicated home theater, you should be able to find an option that fits your budget and application.

In this year's report, we have broken the projectors down into these categories:

• Projectors under $1,000
• Projectors between $1,000 - $2,000
• Smart projectors between $1,000 - $2,000
• Projectors between $2,000 - $5,000
• Projectors between $5,000 - $10,000
• Projectors over $10,000

The purpose of this comprehensive guide is to assist you with insight and information as you enter your Home Theater projector-buying journey and ensure you find the best suited to your unique needs.

This guide includes all the Home Theater and Home Entertainment-focused projectors currently on the market that we have reviewed over the past few years. If you need a condensed list of the best home theater projectors, explore our article on the best home theater projectors for 2023-2024.

More and more manufacturers are introducing 4K capable ultra-short-throw smart projectors commonly referred to as “Laser TVs”. Laser TVs are easy to install and offer an unbelievable picture in a much larger image than a traditional flat-panel TV. They can produce a really big image in your living room, family room, and other “common” areas of your house while sitting only inches from the screen. These projectors are intended to be TV replacements, so they include all the smart features and apps found in a modern TV along with an upgraded, built-in sound system. With the number of ultra-short throw (UST) projectors continuing to grow in popularity and the significant increase of USTs available in the market, we have created a separate UST buyer's guide dedicated to that category.

Also, when many people think about projectors, they visualize them in a dedicated home theater or man cave. Since many projectors are specifically designed for those types of spaces, they include technologies designed to deliver amazing picture quality on a larger screen so they can be larger, bulkier, and sometimes sensitive pieces of equipment.

However, an increasingly popular way to use a projector is outside, so we also have an Outdoor/Portable Projector Buyers Guide, which not only covers our favorite models but also goes into more detail and describes the technologies that make a projector truly “portable” and not simply “movable.”

WHAT'S INSIDE OUR HOME THEATER PROJECTOR BUYER'S GUIDE

This year, we considered dozens of projectors and decided to feature those we found would best fit the needs of a home theater or home entertainment user. Breaking them down by price point and features (in the case of the Smart projectors) we hope to make this guide easy-to-use.

You will also see several award-winning projectors throughout this report — these are the projectors that caught our attention for different reasons throughout the year. Projectors focused on home entertainment are often announced at one of two major US trade shows which are CEDIA in September, and CES in January. We will continue to update this report well into 2024 as new home theater projectors are announced and reviewed throughout the year.

You will not find the full reviews for any of the projectors featured here. However, there are links to all their reviews if you want to learn more.

We would, once again, like to thank Sony for sponsoring this guide and you will see several Sony models throughout, including some of the best projectors available on the market today. Be sure to check out their full line-up in addition to all their projectors we reviewed in 2023.

Looking forward to another great year of Home Theater here at Projector Reviews! Thank you for being a part of it.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II is easily one of the best action First Person Shooter (FPS) for 2022. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II has players deeply embedded in an extraordinary global conflict that features the return of the iconic Operators of Task Force 141. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II can be played single-player in Campaign mode, which is a global campaign tracking down a terrorist who’s looking to do some not-so-nice things with ballistic missiles. During the campaign, Modern Warfare II displays the care and effort that went into the game with some of the best video game cinematics I’ve seen this year. You can also jump into multiplayer game modes online with up to 64 other players. Lastly, you can team up and play in Cooperative mode, where you can do special missions like Gun Game: Mt. Zaya, Denied Area, and High Ground.

Call of Duty is an FPS video game franchise first published by Activision in 2003. The original Call of Duty was set against the backdrop of World War II. As far as the main series goes, Call of Duty has four. The World War II series, Modern Warfare series, Black Ops story series, and some standalone games like Call of Duty: Ghost, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. I counted at least 21 Call of Duty video games, including the remastered video games. Call of Duty has gone from World War II, modern times with the Modern Warfare series, to a futuristic setting with Advanced Warfare. Whatever video game warfare you’re into, Call of Duty has you covered.

BenQ sent Projector Reviews demo samples of the TK700 and X3000i gaming projectors to write our monthly gaming on projector articles. Speaking of gaming, BenQ also owns ZOWIE, the maker of gaming monitors for eSports. ZOWIE is BenQ's brand dedicated to developing professional eSports equipment. I recently discovered that eSports and Call of Duty go hand in hand. Did you know there’s a Call of Duty eSports League? The Call of Duty League website states, “Over ten years of Call of Duty eSports history has led to this moment. Call of Duty League™ launches in 2020, featuring the world’s greatest Call of Duty esports players representing 12 teams across four countries, battling for a Championship title.” But I digress; let’s get back to projector gaming.

I connected my PS5 to the BenQ TK700 4K HDR Gaming Projector for gaming on a projector article via a 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 cable. I then projected it onto a 100-inch (16:9) Elite Screens Aeon fixed frame projection screen with Elite’s Edge Free technology and Elite’s CineWhite UHD-B screen material. The CineWhite UHD-B (Tensioned Matte White) is a 1.3 gain flexible front projection screen material that is ISF certified for achieving accurate color reproduction and image fidelity.

BenQ states the TK700 is a 4K lamp-based gaming projector designed for competition console gaming. The TK700's lamp light source brightness is rated at 3,200 ANSI lumens and covers 96% of the Rec.709 color gamut. The TK700 is also fine-tuned to provide a smooth, responsive gaming experience with clear images to better arm you for competition gaming or casual gameplay. The TK700 has BenQ's Black Detail Enhancement; it's found under Game Settings. BenQ’s exclusive Black Detail Enhancement accentuates fine details in dark scenes without sacrificing color performance in brighter areas. With BenQ's HDR Game mode and Black Detail Enhancement, gamers can detect and react faster to threats in dark or bright areas.

The TK700 has a Picture Mode preset called HDR Game mode. HDR Game mode has audio, visual, and optimized latency settings perfect for action and fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. The projector’s HDR rendering allowed better color definitions for greater image fidelity on my ISF-certified projector screen.

Switching the TK700's Picture Mode from HDR10 to HDR Game also allows you to go into Game Settings, where it gives the choice of turning Fast Mode on or off. With Fast Mode turned set to On, the TK700 minimizes the response time between the input source and the displayed image.

Low input lag conveys your sight, hearing, and thoughts into action with minimal delay. The TK700 gaming projector I utilized for this article has 4.16ms input lag in 1080p@240Hz, 8ms in 1080p@120Hz, and 16.67ms in 4K@60Hz. The TK700 has a 1.3x zoom lens and produces a 150-inch image at 12.03 feet from the projection surface. Low input lag and a massive projector screen to see the opposition will give you a leg up on your adversaries in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II.

The sound quality of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is what you would expect from Activision and Infinity Ward. Not only are gunshots and explosions realistic sounding, but so are the quiet footsteps of a player sneaking around. You don’t want an adversary to easily walk up behind you and stab you in the back with a combat knife. A good audio setup allows you to hear those footsteps approaching your location better.

You’ll want an audio sound system or high-end headset for this game due to all the directional sounds. BenQ states that the TK700 has a built-in single 5-watt chamber speaker to provide basic audio functionality. However, I believe BenQ was cautious in their wording about the TK700's 5-watt chamber speaker. While playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, that single speaker sounded surprisingly good for its tiny size. I do, however, understand BenQ's careful speaker rhetoric; for a gamer to be genuinely enveloped in sound, they may want more speakers and a more powerful sound.

Some projectors like the TK700 have enhanced audio capabilities for those who want to ditch built-in projector speakers for an even more immersive sound from the game. For example, the TK700 has what BenQ calls Audio Return+. Audio return port number two (HDMI 2) with eARC allows 7.1 channel and Dolby Atmos audio pass through, transmitting the original full-resolution audio signal to your sound system via a single HDMI cable. Grab yourself a projector that supports eARC to take full advantage of the cinematic sounds built into many modern games.

Modern Warfare II launched with a globe-trotting single-player campaign, immersive Multiplayer combat where you can jump into combat vehicles, and an evolved Special Ops game mode featuring tactical co-op gameplay. Modern Warfare II connects with the new Call of Duty: Warzone^TM 2.0 experience and the evolution in Battle Royale with a brand-new play space and Sandbox mode. Activision states to expect a massive calendar of free content post-launch featuring gameplay with new maps, modes, seasonal events, community celebrations, and much more. I personally enjoy the content that is out right now and can’t wait to see what else will be added to Modern Warfare II.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is an action FPS video game at its core. However, Modern Warfare II has added 3^rd Person Mode for a new perspective that makes it easier to spot rivals near you thanks to the broader view of your surroundings 3^rd Person Mode provides. You can also change the camera’s position with Shoulder Swapping and revert to first-person precision, aiming down your weapon’s sight. The more expansive view is excellent, but 3^rd Person Mode is not for me, but it may be perfect for you. I tried 3^rd Person Mode a few times and couldn’t get used to the viewpoint. For now, I’ll stick to first-person shooting.

Almost every aspect of Modern Warfare II depends on target acquisition and your ability to identify and react to threats quickly. Modern Warfare II is an intense test of your reflexes. To be successful at Modern Warfare II requires a low input lag system; there’s no way around that fact if you want to win. The BenQ TK700's 4.16ms input lag in 1080p@240Hz, 8ms in 1080p@120Hz, and 16.67ms in 4K@60Hz were so fast that I never worried about getting outshot when I ran around a corner and came face to face with a rival. As soon as I recognized the threat, I was on the trigger, and my character immediately put rounds into my target. You won't survive Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II without a low input lag projector, monitor, or TV.

Look at the Perk Package tab before selecting your weapons. You can choose Assault Package, Phantom Package, Hunter Package, Deadeye Package, Support Package, or Sniper Package. Choose wisely based on your playstyle. The package you pick will have an impact on your operator’s in-game characteristics. For example, Deadeye Package allows you to carry two primary weapons, and your operator’s vision pulses when spotted by an enemy player outside of view. In contrast, the Hunter Package allows your operator to see footprint trails left behind by your enemies so you can track them down.

Primary weapons include Assault Rifles, Battle Rifles, SMGs, Shotguns, LMGS, Marksman Rifles, Sniper Rifles, and Melee (Riot Shield). Secondary weapons include Handguns, Launchers, and Melee (Combat Knife). The more you level up a weapon, the more you can customize it and unlock other weapons. All weapons are customizable with the Gunsmith option. Once in the Gunsmith tab, you can modify your weapon’s optics, stock, barrel, muzzle, ammunition type, and more. You even customize your weapon’s color schemes; you have almost 200 camo collection options to choose from.

I think Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II with a gaming projector and large projector screen is the way to go. Modern Warfare II’s immersive global campaign and multiplayer combat combined with the FPS perspective made me feel like I was in the game thanks to the gaming projector, 100-inch (16:9) projector screen, and video game all seamlessly working together.

Some players like to hide in the distance, and I mean way off in the distance, and snipe from the same spot all game long. Having a massive projector screen allows you to see those snipers easier. To that point, I broke out a tape measure and took some in-game measurements. My operator and adversaries were up to 39-inches tall. However, one of the best parts about gaming with a gaming projector and massive screen for an FPS game is the size of your aiming reticle. My sniper rifle scope reticle was a whopping 44-inches! The large aiming reticle made it much easier to counter-snipe enemy snipers.

A critical element of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is the ability to quickly see and target your adversaries and use the environment for cover and concealment. The easier you can see your enemies, the easier it is to target them. The easier it is to see your environment, the quicker you can find suitable cover and concealment while under fire. Modern Warfare, a gaming projector, and a large projector screen are for you if that sounds good. Suppose you enjoy having your family and friends gather around as you game as if they were watching a big-screen movie, or you like Modern Warfare II’s multiplayer split screen so you can go against another player in your household. In that case, gaming with a projector and a massive projector screen is definitely for you. Modern Warfare II multiplayer split screen on a 100-inch projector screen gave me two player screens that measured approximately 84-inches (7 Feet) wide and 24-inches (2 Feet) tall. You won’t get that size of split screens with a monitor or TV. The experience of gaming with a gaming projector and a big screen is easily one of the best upgrades to my gaming setup.

I’ll leave you with this. Even if you’re not a campaign type of player, I highly encourage you to complete the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II campaign anyways. You may be pleasantly surprised by the attention to detail in the weapons handling, the outstanding cinematics, and the captivating storyline. Without spoiling the ending, know that your ability to aim and scale a building at the same time will be put to the test. Also, polish up your sniper skills; you’ll need them. Squad up and get in the game!

We’ve covered Rainbow Six Extraction, Horizon Forbidden West, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland, Elden Ring, Gran Turismo 7, Dying Light 2: Stay Human, Saints Row: Self-Made, Halo Infinite, Far Cry 6, and now Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. Best of all, it looks like we will keep our monthly gaming on a projector articles next year based on your continued support and interest. Stay tuned for our 2023 initial gaming impressions on a projector with games like Hogwarts Legacy. Keep checking back for more gaming on a projector articles.

We continue our series focused on gaming on a projector. This month we’re looking at Ubisoft’s Far Cry 6. Ubisoft has been publishing Far Cry games since 2004, with Far Cry (2004), Far Cry 2 (2008), Far Cry 3 (2012), Far Cry 4 (2014), Far Cry 5 (2018), and Far Cry 6 (2021).

Far Cry 6 is a massive open-world, first-person shooter (FPS) game. Far Cry 6 can be played single-player or co-operative online, where you can turn “Friendly Fire” Off or On for more realistic gaming. Far Cry 6 is published by Ubisoft and was released on October 07, 2021. It is available on PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Stadia, Amazon Luna, and Microsoft Windows PCs. For PS5 and PS4, Far Cry 6 - Standard Edition can be purchased for $59.99 and is just the base game. Far Cry 6 – Deluxe Edition can be had for $79.99 and includes the Vice Pack, Jungle Expedition Pack, and Croc Hunter Pack. Far Cry 6 - Gold Edition includes the base game and a Season Pass for $9.99. Lastly, Far Cry 6 – Game Of The Year Edition is $119.99. The Game Of The Year Edition includes everything in the Deluxe Edition and Gold Edition plus Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon Classic Ed., 3 DLC episodes, and Lost Between Worlds (coming soon).

BenQ sent Projector Reviews demo samples of the X3000i and TK700 gaming projectors to write our monthly gaming on projector articles. BenQ is deeply embedded in the gaming world. BenQ owns ZOWIE, the maker of gaming monitors for eSports. ZOWIE is BenQ’s brand dedicated to developing professional eSports equipment. So, having a series of gaming projectors from BenQ provides us gamers with some great gaming options.

I paired Far Cry 6 with the BenQ X3000i gaming projector for this gaming with a projector article. The BenQ X3000i retails for $1,999 and is a 4K HDR 4LED gaming projector with 3000 ANSI lumens and dual integrated 5-watt chamber speakers.

BenQ states the X3000i was designed for use with PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch. BenQ also says the X3000i 4K 4LED gaming projector is designed for cinematic immersion in gameplay with 4LED HDR-PRO™, for grand scenery in authentic colors with dynamic virtual 3D sound from various directions.

For this article, I connected my PS5 to the BenQ X3000i via a 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 cable. I then projected it onto a 100-inch (16:9) Elite Screens Aeon fixed frame projection screen with Elite’s Edge Free® technology and Elite’s CineWhite® UHD-B screen material. The CineWhite® UHD-B (Tensioned Matte White) is a 1.3 gain flexible front projection screen material that is ISF certified for achieving accurate color reproduction and image fidelity. BenQ proudly boasts the X3000i’s ability to reproduce authentic colors in games utilizing BenQ’s CinematicColor™ technology. For the BenQ X3000i, an ISF-certified screen made sense for this gaming article.

The X3000i is targeted toward casual and hardcore gamers alike. The X3000i has many specifications that make up a good gaming projector for an open-world FPS like Far Cry 6. For instance, the X3000i has dedicated game modes for FPS, RPG, and SPG modes with audio, visual, and optimized latency settings for action-adventure games like Far Cry 6. Changing the X3000i’s Picture Mode from HDR10 to HDR Game gives you access to the projector’s Game Settings, where you can toggle Fast Mode On or Off. With Fast Mode turned on, the X3000i minimizes the response time between the input source and the displayed image. BenQ states the X3000i has 4K graphics with 16.67ms input lag at 60Hz. Switching from 4K to FHD (1080p) drops the input lag to a blazing fast 4.16ms (1080p@240Hz) and 8.3ms (1080p@120Hz).

Far Cry 6 is a massive open-world first-person shooter game that takes place in a fictional Caribbean country called Yara. You choose whether to play as a male, or female local Yaran turned guerilla revolutionary named Dani Rojas. As Dani, it is up to you and your motley group of guerilla fighters to rebel against the fascist dictator of Yara, Antón Castillo, whose oppressive rule has ignited a revolution. To make matters worse, Antón seeks to groom his teenage son Diego to be his heir. You’ll most likely recognize Antón’s voice. Hollywood star Giancarlo Esposito is the voice actor of Antón.

Utilizing the Arsenal menu allows you to customize Dani’s weapons. Do you like precision shooting? If so, grab yourself a sniper rifle. More of a spray-and-pray player? Equip Dani with a light machine gun or an AJM 9 auto-pistol and send rounds down range at 900 rounds per minute. You can also load Dani with various other rifles, submachine guns, shotguns, bows, and grenade launchers. Did I mention that you can equip Dani with a “Resolver Weapon” called the Toastador? It’s a flamethrower that can also be customized!

Dani’s Gear (head, chest, legs, feet, and wrists) can also be accessed under the Arsenal menu. The customization does not stop there; you can customize vehicles using the Rides menu. For example, Dani’s “Rides” include cars, trucks, aircraft, and hovercraft, all customizable in the Rides menu. Dani can also use an animal companion to fight by your side with the Amigos menu. Seriously, who doesn’t want a stealthy jaguar or a self-reviving battle crocodile as an animal companion?

Clicking on Dani’s Journal allows you to track your Operation, Yaran Stories, Treasure Hunts, and Military Targets. Regarding tracking, going to the Map menu will enable you to see a map of Yara. Utilizing the map allows Dani to track Horse Pickup and Vehicle Pickup locations, making your traversing of Yara much easier. Quick tip, if you plan to take to the skies in any of the airborne vehicles, I highly suggest you take out the anti-aircraft sites first. Use the map to find these anti-aircraft sites and take them out, so you don’t find yourself getting shot out of the sky.

You won’t get very far in any game if you can’t accurately see what’s happening around your character during dark and bright scenes. I frequently say, “Nobody likes it when their character is killed by an adversary they had no chance of seeing.” Far Cry 6, like many newer games, has enhanced graphics with HDR. The inclusion of HDR support in games means you see everything in the bright and dark areas. Since the human eye is more sensitive to color and contrast than it is to resolution, having a projector with an HDR game mode like the X3000i is extremely helpful because it allows you to take advantage of these new games with enhanced graphics.

When I press R2 on the PS5 remote to shoot, I want Dani to fire off that shot ASAP! In Far Cry 6, you’ll be quickly taken out by Antón Castillo’s army if you are not using a low-input lag gaming projector/display. I played Far Cry 6 in 4K@60Hz and really appreciated the BenQ X3000i’s low 16.67ms input lag (4K@60Hz). The low input lag definitely contributed to my ability to stay in the game with quick shots at my foes. The X3000i’s low input lag rivals the best flat-panel TVs, ensuring that gameplay will be responsive enough for most gamers and far exceeds the needs of a casual gamer.

To increase your immersion in a game, you’ll need the game’s audio to match the visuals. A projector can project stunning images, but you won’t feel like you are being drawn into the game if the audio is lackluster. Some projectors have enhanced audio capabilities for those who want to ditch built-in projector speakers. The X3000i, for example, has eARC support. Even though the HDMI-2 port on the rear of the X3000i simply says “Audio Return,” the X3000i most definitely has eARC support. With eARC’s added capacity, the X3000i HDMI supports multiple audio outputs, including 2.0, 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos, to an external audio system. In addition, the following audio output formats are provided to achieve your desired audio performance: LPCM supports 2-channel audio output, RAW supports 5.1-channel audio output, and RAW+ supports Dolby Atmos audio output. Get yourself a projector that supports eARC to take full advantage of the cinematic sounds built into many games.

Far Cry 6’s sound effects and music tracks must have taken Ubisoft a significant amount of time and effort to implement. Far Cry 6’s audio draws you even further into the gaming experience. The BenQ X3000i has treVolo tuned full-range speakers built-in, virtual 3D surround sound via Bongiovi DPS technology, and dedicated audio modes fine-tuned to bring out the sound details and directions of various game types and scenes. I switched Far Cry 6’s Audio Dynamic Range from Medium to Full, which provides. The Audio Dynamic Range determines the amplitude between the loudest and quietest in-game sounds. The Full setting ensures a large range.

My newly remodeled projector lab allows me to toggle between a Polk Magnifi Max Sound Bar and a Definitive Technology Studio 3D Mini Sound Bar; both have wireless subwoofers. The sound bars permit me to test ARC/eARC HDMI ports on projectors. Far Cry 6 sounded great when played through the X3000i integrated audio system. Unsurprisingly, Far Cry 6 sounded amazing when utilizing the X3000i’s HDMI eARC port connected to one of the sound bars. I think it goes without saying that the sound bars paired with their respective subwoofer provided a much more powerful audio experience.

One of the best parts about gaming on a huge projector screen is your ability to see enemies coming and quickly lining up your weapon sights on the enemy. Depending on the weapon I was using, my aiming reticle ranged from 3.5-inches to 5.5-inches. It’s pretty hard to miss your target when your weapon sights are so big. Depending on how close I was to NPCs, they ranged in size from 3-inches up to 41-inches inches tall. Since I sit about 11 feet from my 100-inch projector screen, I had quite the immersive gaming experience. It would be difficult to duplicate, even with a large flat-panel display. Sure, you could pull up your gaming chair extremely close to a monitor or TV to feel more immersed in the game. However, all those Nits at close range will quickly fatigue your eyes.

Gaming with a projector and a massive screen is one of the most immersive gaming experiences you can have, minus having it on a Virtual Reality (VR) gaming headset. Still, those get heavy and hurt your head and eyes after a while. My VR gaming headset only comes out when a houseguest specifically asks to try it out. It does not matter if you are a casual gamer, a hardcore gamer, or a competitive gamer; gaming with a gaming projector is an excellent way to upgrade your gaming experience. Gaming with a projector also has the added benefit of possibly turning your household into spectators and early warning systems. You may find your family and friends gathering around as you play. Inevitably, they’ll start yelling warnings when they see danger, especially if you’re too focused on one threat and do not notice the other approaching.

We’ve covered Rainbow Six - Extraction, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland, Horizon Forbidden West, Elden Ring, Gran Turismo 7, Dying Light 2, Saints Row – Self Made, Halo Infinite, and now Far Cry 6. Stay tuned for more gaming on a projector in 2022 with games like Hogwarts Legacy and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide; you won’t want to miss anything.

BRIGHT AND COST-EFFECTIVE MOVEABLE PROJECTORS

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 TH585

Price	$599
Brightness	3500 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	Lamp
Light Source Lifespan	15,000 Hours (Lamp Saving Mode)
Inputs	HDMI x 2, computer in, USB Type-A
Gaming	Input lag 17ms
Portability – size	6.2 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	No smart features
Sound	Built-in 10-watt speakers

The BenQ TH585 is also a 1080p unit with dual HDMI inputs and a USB input. It is a lamp-based DLP projector that offers excellent brightness at 3500 lumens. If your goal is to project outside on a very large screen, the BenQ TH585 has the power to produce a vibrant picture, even with some ambient light.

BenQ says the TH585 can produce 95% of Rec709 due to its RGBW color wheel. It has 8 preset picture modes and several delivered good color reproductions out of the box including the CINEMA, LIVING ROOM, and two USER modes. While most new panel TVs do not support 3D, many projectors are still 3D capable. It is nice that Benq TH585 supports 3D at its low price point because there are some users who still want to take advantage of the 3D movie and gaming content that they already own.

If you are into outdoor gaming, you will want the lowest input lag possible. With projectors, most TVs, and many monitors, there is some level of delay. The highest acceptable input lag for serious gamers is about 55ms. Input lag refers to the amount of time, measured in milliseconds, that it takes for a signal from your source (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, etc.) to travel to the projector and end up on your screen. We have a scale of input lag speeds ranging from acceptable, to excellent.

Acceptable: 41ms to 50ms
Good: 33ms to 40ms
Great: 21ms to 32ms
Excellent: 16ms to 20ms

In our own tests, the BenQ TH585 measured in the 16-17ms range, which is really outstanding. Time to invite the neighborhood kids over for epic pawnage, gamers are going to get smooth gameplay in even fast-paced games.

The BenQ TH585 is relatively compact, measuring 4.33” high and 12.38” wide. It weighs about 6.2 lbs. This projector will sound better when connected to a larger sound system, but it does have 10-watt built-in speakers for a fairly decent sound out of the box.

READ THE REVIEW

EPSON HOME CINEMA 880

Price	$499
Brightness	3300 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x 1080
Light Source	Lamp
Light Source Lifespan	12,000 hours (Eco)
Inputs	1 HDMI, 1 USB Type -A, 1 USB Type-B, Miracast
Portability – size	Weighs less than 6 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	No smart features
Sound	Built-in 2-watt mono speaker

The Epson Home Cinema 880 is the manufacturer’s least expensive Home Theater model. With a suggested retail price of just $499, The Home Cinema 880 can produce up to a whopping 3,300 lumens of brightness., While most of the projectors in its price point are single-chip DLP models, the Home Cinema 880 uses Epson's 3-chip 3LCD technology to deliver bright accurate colors.

You can easily connect a cable box, Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device to the HC880 via its HDMI input. The HC880 has a USB-A input that can be used to display content stored on a USB memory device. The Epson Home Cinema 880 projector can also support Mira casting with mobile devices such as laptops, smartphones, or tablets. The Miracast feature lets you project or mirror a device wirelessly without any additional software.

This projector does have a built-in 2-watt mono speaker, located on the left rear side of the projector. However, the speaker is not very powerful and lacks bass. If you are using this projector in a large, outdoor area, you will likely want to use the Audio Output connection to connect a more advanced /powerful sound system.

The unit is fairly compact – Width: 11.9 inches (302mm) Height: 3.4 inches (87mm) Depth: 9.8 inches (249mm), weight 5.95 lbs (2.7kg).

The Home Cinema 880 is a very basic projector, it utilizes a lamp-based light source, and it doesn’t have many smart features. However, at $599, it is very affordable and produces good picture quality for its price. With an ANSI Lumens rating of 3,300 and a lamp life of 6,000 hours (12,000 hours in ECO mode), you will get years of outdoor enjoyment.

The HC880 walks a fine line between convenience, performance, and value. The projector delivers a bright picture with accurate colors. With a resolution of 1920×1080, combined with 3,300 lumens, it is a great addition to a home entertainment system or backyard theater.

READ THE REVIEW

AAXA 4K1

Price	$999
Brightness	1500 LED lumens 520 lumens (measured in ECO mode)
Resolution	4K (3840 x 2160)
Light Source	OSRAM Quadcast LED
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI x 2, USB-A, SD slot
Media Player	Onboard
Portability – size	3.8 lbs
Portability – power	No built-in battery
Portability – smart	No smart features
Portability - durability	Solid-state light source resists shocks
Sound	2 x 2W speakers

The AAXA 4K1 was a tough projector to fit into our buyer’s guide. It’s a little more expensive than other projectors in the movable category and definitely not as bright. It is very compact and has dual 2-watt speakers but it lacks smart features and the ultimate convenience of a built-in battery. However, the AAXA 4K1 is a 4K (3840 x2160) DLP projector. This additional resolution really lets you see the detail that would be missed or less crisp at 1080p.

The brilliant LED color saturation makes nature scenes glow with vibrancy. The 4K1 mini projector really takes advantage of the 4K resolution and LED light source. There is also the bonus of no moving parts. LED projectors don’t use a color wheel. As with other DLP projection systems. This allows for fewer parts to break over time. 

At a retail price of $999, the AAXA 4K1 mini projector offers a good value for 4K home entertainment. I was able to easily project a 200” diagonal with brightness and clarity to spare. I chose to use the 4K1 mini projector in eco mode. It was still completely able to fill my screen and provide a good viewing experience. The color saturation of the LED light source really put a rich image on the wall.

There is a media player is also on board the 4K1. You can view video files, music files, and text files from a USB thumb drive or SD card (32GB cap). The media player only supports video files up to 1080, so no 4k from the onboard player.

The AAXA 4K1 mini projector is a good value if you are looking for a LED light source and 4k resolution in a small form factor. There are not many projectors that can deliver a large full 4K UHD image from a package compact enough to fit in a backpack for just $999. It is small enough that you may use it as your go-to projector for football or movie night outside.

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MOVEABLE PROJECTORS WITH SOUND AND SMART FEATURES

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 PF610P CineBeam

Price	$849 MSRP
Brightness	1000 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	4CH LED
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI x 2, USB Type-A
Portability – size	3.7 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	webOS 5.0
Sound	Dolby Atmos 6W

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.

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Philips Screeneo U4

Price	$669 MSRP
Brightness	400 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	4LED
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	Dual HDMI 2.1 (One HDMI ARC) HDCP 2.2 ports
Portability – size	3.0 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	Android TV 11
Sound	Dual integrated 15W speakers

The Philips Screeneo U4 is a compact UST projector that retails for $669. It utilizes a single Texas Instruments (TI) DLP chip for its Full HD (1080p) displayed resolution. In addition, its 4LED light source is rated to deliver 400 ANSI lumens for up to 30,000 hours for many years of maintenance-free usage for a lower overall cost of ownership. According to Philips, their tuning of the Screeneo U4 reaches 108% of the Rec.709 color gamut.

The Screeneo U4’s integrated dual 15-watt speaker audio system means the projector does not need an external audio source. Simply select your Picture Preset and Sound Preset, and you’re all set to enjoy your favorite movies or music. The Screeneo U4’s dual Bluetooth audio functionality allows you to listen to your media audio on two different Bluetooth devices at once. In addition, the end-user can use two pairs of headphones at one time and independently control the volume of each headset.

If you need a UST projector to replace your TV in a high ambient light environment, well then, you may need to look elsewhere. The Screeneo U4’s claimed 400 ANSI lumens is not intended to fight through high amounts of ambient light. The Screeneo U4 is best suited for watching in a dark environment with an 80-inch or smaller projected image, precisely what Philips’ recommends for the Screeneo U4 UST projector. However, the Screeneo U4 is a good option if you want a compact and transportable UST projector. Especially with its good for its tiny size integrated audio system and dual Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities.

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XGIMI Elfin

Price	$649
Brightness	800 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	LED DLP
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours (Lamp Saving Mode)
Inputs	HDMI x 1, USB 2.0
Storage	Built-in media player with 16GB
Portability – size	2 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	Android TV OS
Sound	Harman Kardon 3-watt speaker

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.

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ViewSonic M2

Price	$549
Brightness	500 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	LED DLP
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours (normal use)
Inputs	HDMI 2.0 x 1, USB Type A x 2, USB Type C x 1, Micro USB x 1
Storage	16GB
Portability – size	2.9 lbs
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	Aptoide UI
Sound	3W (x2) Harman Kardon speakers

The M2 relies on an LED RGBB light source designed to deliver a bright color image from a compact package. Due to its light source, the M2 can deliver 500 ANSI Lumens of brightness and reproduce 125% of the Rec.709 color gamut.

The light source also makes the projector essentially maintenance-free and offers over 30,000 hours of use. That is the equivalent of almost 3.5 years of 24/7 use, so it should be very sufficient for the average user. Along with minimal maintenance, lamp-free projection is more environmentally friendly than other options, as there is no mercury used in the manufacturing process, and the projector will consume less power than a typical LCD TV.

The M2 features dual 3 watt Harman Kardon speakers, capable of producing strong enough audio to entertain friends and families out of the house. Harman Kardon is known for their high-quality audio components, and those on the M2 are no exception. They don’t offer much in the way of deep bass, but mids and highs are impressively clear, and comparable to a small to mid-sized mobile Bluetooth speaker.

Like other projectors in this category, the ViewSonic M2 is a smart projector so that you can download popular streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube. The ViewSonic M2 also supports voice control using either Alexa or Google Assistant. The remote control has a built-in microphone so you can use your voice to power the projector on and off, adjust volume, change sources, and even autofocus.

Due to its compact size, LED light source, smart features, and built-in premium dual Harman Kardon sound system, the ViewSonic M2 is an excellent portable projector for outdoor adventures of all kinds.

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AAXA P7+

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 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.

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Formovie P1 Pocket Laser Projector

Price	$399 MSRP
Brightness	800 lumens
Resolution	qHD (960x540)
Light Source	ALPD laser technology by Appotronics
Light Source Lifespan	25,000+ hrs.
Inputs	1 HDMI 1.4 port, a 3.5mm audio jack, a USB 2.0 port, and a USB Type-C power
Storage	Not Listed
Portability – size	1.17 lbs
Portability – power	No
Portability – smart	Android 10 OS
Sound	Mono speaker

The Formovie P1 is the worlds smallest projector with an Advanced Laser Phosphor Display (ALPD) light source designed to provide a bright and colorful image. ALPD is a technology that tackles the disadvantages faced by LED and lamp projectors to display brighter, more vivid images for extended periods of time. Lamp projectors produce sufficient brightness but are prone to overheating and require multiple bulb changes. LED lights solve the problem of maintenance, but they can only produce a limited amount of brightness that affects the quality of the picture. Laser light projectors can achieve a higher brightness level, reach a wider range of colors, and be designed to be much smaller than traditional projectors. 

In addition to measuring less than an inch thick, the Formovie P1 weighs only 10.5 oz. (0.3 kg) and comes with a carrying case capable of holding the projector and its accessories. The whole kit can easily fit into a backpack or a purse for easy transport.

The built-in powered speaker makes this projector the perfect solution to display content in a meeting room or bedroom. When users add a compatible external battery, the P1 can be used for watching movies in the backyard or on a camping trip.

This portable projector does all of the hard work when getting the perfect display. It supports vertical auto-keystone correction, so you can simply place it in the desired spot facing the screen and let the Formovie P1 projector perfectly align the display to the screen. Vertical keystone correction lines up the image to fix distortion at the top or bottom of the screen.

The Formovie P1 has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allowing users to cast various content that is not copy-protected from a compatible iOS or Android device like a phone or tablet. This projector is good for watching movies, displaying photos, or chatting with others on a bigger screen than your phone has.

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Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01

Price	$429 MSRP
Brightness	1000 ANSI lumens
Resolution	WXGA (1280 x 800 pixels)
Light Source	188 Watt UHE Lamp
Light Source Lifespan	6,000 hours (12,000 hours ECO).
Inputs	HDMI ARC port, a USB-B port, a USB-A port
Storage	Not Listed
Portability – size	5.3 lb
Portability – power	No
Portability – smart	No
Sound	5-Watt Monaural

"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.

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Optoma ML1080 Portable RGB Laser Projector

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.

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Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 Portable Projector

Price	$429.00
Brightness	1000 ANSI lumens
Resolution	WXGA (1280 x 800 pixels)
Light Source	188Watt UHE Lamp
Light Source Lifespan	6,000 Hrs (12,000 Hrs ECO)
Inputs	HDMI ARC, USB-B port, USB-A port, 2 USB-C inputs
Portability – size	5.3 lb
Portability – power	No battery
Portability – smart	None
Sound	5-watt mono

Epson has introduced a new 3-chip 3LCD projector named the EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 Portable Projector, retailing at $429.00. They describe it as the perfect companion for both business necessities and an enhanced entertainment experience. The lamp-based EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 offers WXGA (1280 × 800) native resolution but supports video display formats up to Full HD (1920 x 1080). The projector can deliver 3000 lumens of brightness for a compact package. 

Epson's EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 is designed to cater to the evolving hybrid work culture where employees split their work week between home and the office. This kind of lifestyle, including full-time work from home, can be significantly elevated with devices tailored specifically for professional and leisure purposes. Epson proposes that the EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 projector model perfectly balances the needs of professional presentations and the pleasure of an immersive home movie experience.

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In this section, we will take a deep dive into projectors suitable for use outside the home due to a built-in battery. While lacking smart features, these compact, easy-to-carry projectors usually includes a good built-in sound system.

Elite Projector MosicGO

Price	$1199 ($899 without Battery)
Brightness	1000 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x 1080
Light Source	LED
Light Source Lifespan	25,000 fours
Inputs	HDMI x 2, USB-A x 2, USB-C
Portability – size	Weighs about 6 lbs (bundle with projector, tripod, screen weighs 25lbs)
Portability – power	30 hours of music, 3 hours of video playback, can charge other mobile devices via USB-C
Portability – durability	IPX2 spill-proof
Sound	Dual 8-watt built-in speakers

The Elite MosicGO is an ultra-short-throw projector with 1,000 lumens The projector has full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080), and because it’s an ultra-short-throw projector, you can wow your guests by projecting a 100-inch image from just over a foot away. The MosicGo Sport ($1199) has a built-in battery while MosicGo Lite ($899).

A built-in battery offers up to 3 hours of video and up to 30 hours of music. You can enjoy at least one regular-length movie, or hours of video games, before needing to charge the projector. During our review, the battery also lasted over 3 hours while powering an Amazon FireTV stick via USB that we used to watch a football game via Hulu TV outside on the deck. MosicGO 360 can also function as a wireless speaker via Bluetooth connection and a power charging hub for a variety of portable devices.

The Elite MosicGo is great for gaming, with a low input lag of just 17ms. During our review, we used a Bodnar lag tester to verify Elite Projector’s claim and we actually measured a slightly lower 16.8ms. The very low input lag, combined with the projector’s 1080 resolution and ultra-short throw design, makes the MosicGo ideal for gaming on the go.

The MosicGo has dual 8-watt built-in speakers located on the left and right sides of the projector. They can play more than loud enough for everyone sitting around the projector to hear. The overall sound quality matched that of a decently sized portable Bluetooth speaker. If higher quality audio is needed, the projector has a mini-jack audio output that can be used to connect to an external audio system.

There are several MosicGO packages available that include an outdoor screen and/or an indoor screen. You will also get a carrying bag for storage and transportation and a tripod stand for easy setup.

The projector, tripod, and screen can be neatly packed into the carrying cases, which were clearly designed with portability in mind. When packed up, the MosicGO 360 with included tripod and the 58” portable screen together weigh less than 20 pounds. This unit is IPX2 spillproof certified to protect from changes in weather for outdoor/indoor use.

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AAXA M6

Price	$599
Brightness	1200 ANSI lumens
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	LED DLP
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI x 1, USB
Media Player	Yes, great for PC-free presenting
Portability – size	2.5 lbs
Portability – power	Up to 90 minutes
Portability – smart	None
Sound	Built-in 2-watt stereo speakers

The AAXA M6 is a bright, single-chip DLP pocket-class projector with LED technology. Instead of a lamp, the 1,200 lumen M6 features three LED lights – one for each color (red, green, and blue to recreate the color spectrum. The M6 has 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080) and claims 1200 lumens when plugged in, 500 when running on battery power – that’s pretty good for a projector this size. At $599, it’s rather aggressively priced for a 1080p resolution, small LED projector.

The AAXA M6 is a small pocket projector that weighs a mere 2.5 pounds. It is only 7 inches wide, 7 inches long, and 2.1 inches tall. The projector comes with a black carrying case with handles and is notably smaller than a laptop. Now that’s portable!

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AAXA M7

Price	$488
Brightness	1200 LED lumens (626 ANSI lumens measured)
Resolution	1920 x1080
Light Source	DLP w/ LED light source
Light Source Lifespan	20,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI x 1, USB A, USB C
Media Player	Yes, great for PC-free presenting
Portability – size	2.99 lbs
Portability – power	Up to 3 hours
Portability – smart	None
Sound	Built-in 4-Watt Stereo Speakers

The AAXA M7 is a portable projector that delivers big-screen projection at Full HD 1080p and it is 4K 30 fps ready. Thanks to a 3-hour built-in battery capable of showing an entire movie, this is a great projector for outdoor adventures like camping trips or beach parties. The projector can also act as a power bank for charging your smart devices. Although it doesn’t have a handy case like the AAXA M6, it weighs just under 3lbs and fits easily into a backpack.

If you’re wondering how you are going to play content while out of the home, the AAXA M7 includes an onboard media player capable of playing videos, picture slide shows, and other media. The M7 can accept media from a micro-SD card, USB (up to 64GB), or through its HDMI video or 3.5mm AV input. It also outputs audio via a 3.5mm headphone jack. A USB-C compatible input port allows for screen mirroring from USB-C compatible devices.

Although the AAXA M7 comes equipped with two 4-watt speakers placed side by side on the right side of the projector, we found the positioning is not optimal for good stereo reproduction. The speakers may be loud enough for a small audience, but we recommend connecting the M7 to external audio via the included 3.5-inch audio jack.

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AAXA P6X

Price	$359
Brightness	1100 LED lumens (641 ANSI lumens measured)
Resolution	WXGA 1280x800
Light Source	Solid state light source
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI x 1, USB x 1
Media Player	Onboard
Portability – size	1.81 lbs
Portability – power	Up to 4 hours (ECO mode)
Portability – smart	None
Portability - durability	Solid state light source resists shocks
Sound	Built-in speaker

AAXA Technologies claims the AAXA P6A is the world’s brightest battery powered Pico Projector. The PX6 weighs just 1.8lbs and retails for $359. The large 15000mah (54 watt) lithium ion battery provides up to 4 hours of battery life and you can also use it to charge your phone or other mobile device.

The AAXA P6X is powered by premium 30,000 hour Osram LEDs – more than 6x the average life-span of lamp-based projectors. LEDs allow instant ON and OFF Projection and are mercury-free and more environmentally friendly. Suitable to the bumps and knocks of travel, a solid state light source resists shocks and falls much better than traditional lamp-based projectors.

This bright, tiny, long-lasting, rugged, and affordable projector would be a great solution for many outdoor entertainment applications whether is in the backyard at a campsite. I can also see how the ultra-portability would be appealing to college students, military members, and salespeople who are always on the go.

The speaker isn’t the best in terms of clarity and bass, but it is more than adequate for casual viewing, and the 3.5mm jack allows for external sound devices to be easily connected. 

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AAXA P300 NEO

Price	$294
Brightness	420 lumens (claimed) 208 lumens (tested)
Resolution	720p (1280 x 720)
Light Source	LED
Light Source Lifespan	Up to 30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI, USB
Media Player	Onboard
Portability – size	Weighs less than a pound
Portability – power	2.5 hour battery life
Portability – smart	None
Sound	1-Watt mono speaker

The AAXA P300 Neo is a tiny, portable projector with an LED light engine, as is typical of pico and pocket projectors. It is so small that it sits comfortably in the palm of my hand and would easily fit into a small or medium sized purse – possibly even a man’s back pocket. This itty-bitty projector weighs less than a pound and only measures 4” x 3.5” x 1.2”. The P300 Neo has 720p native resolution – the lower end of HD.

The manufacturer claims 420 lumens but our own tests didn’t measure anywhere close. This projector really isn’t bright enough for most people. It might be okay in a very dark room but it would struggle to combat the ambient light of a typical back yard (including the neighbor’s porch light or you know, the stars). The smaller the image, the brighter the projector.

The combination of exceptionally small size and decent 2.5 hour battery life do make this projector a mobile option. It also has an onboard media player via the USB port on the back.

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ViewSonic M1 Pocket Projector

Price	$337
Brightness	250 lumens
Resolution	WVGA 854x480
Light Source	DLP with LED light source
Light Source Lifespan	Up to 30,000 hours
Inputs	HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, MicroSD
Internal Storage	16GB
Portability – size	1.5 lbs
Portability – power	Between 4-6 hours
Portability – smart	None
Sound	Dual 3-Watt Harmon Kardon speakers

The ViewSonic M1 is a pocket projector boasting exceptional audio quality, with a fairly low price of just $337.  As with most small pocket and pico projectors, the M1 has limited options and has its tradeoffs in favor of audio quality and portability.

The ViewSonic M1 is a small pocket projector that weighs just 1.5 lbs, and measures only 1.6 inches high, 5.8 inches wide and 5 inches deep. In terms of performance, the ViewSonic M1 is not bright enough to be used outside of a truly darkened room or at nighttime with the lights out; it does not handle any ambient light well. At a claim of 250 lumens, though, this is to be expected.

This ViewSonic projector offers an onboard media player with built-in 16GB storage. The Harman Kardon speakers deliver outstanding audio quality for such a small projector and the internal battery provides up to 6 hours of run-time depending on use. I tested the battery at full power and found the battery lasted just over three hours – not bad at all! The claim is obviously based on running the projector in battery saving mode. The rear of the projector features an external battery meter for quickly referencing the charge remaining. If you are using this projector for gaming, you can easily see the remaining battery life at a glance and reach safety to pause or save their progress before the battery dies unexpectedly.

The unit has a sleek design and comes with a carrying case and USB-C cable. The included Smart Stand is functional and looks great. Many tiny Pico projectors do not have adjustable feet and either need to be mounted on a mini-tripod or have something wedged beneath it to get just the right angle on the screen – the ViewSonic M1 solves that problem! The Smart Stand pivots 360 degrees, allowing you to project just about anywhere, any way you want to; +40 degree keystone correction assists in that venture.

The Smart Stand doubles as a lens cover to protect the glass lens while transporting. Coupled with the Eye Protection setting being enabled, the Smart Stand will turn off the light engine and, when rotated into the lens cover position, quickly put the projector into standby mode for battery saving.

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AAXA P7+ Projector

Price	$389 MSRP
Brightness	390 ANSI lumens (Measured)
Resolution	1920 x 1080 pixels (1080p)
Light Source	RGB LED
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours
Inputs	USB Type-A, USB-C, HDMI, DC input, Mini-SD, 3.5mm headphone
Internal Storage	Not Listed
Portability – size	1.17 lbs
Portability – power	150 minutes run time (ECO mode)
Portability – smart	Yes
Sound	2-Watt Stereo

The new AAXA P7+ is one of the latest ultra-portable LED DLP, ultra-portable with built-in battery projectors the company introduced in 2023. The P7+ with solar charger sells for an MSRP of $389 and is available from the company's web store and from major online resellers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo, to name a few.

On the outside, the P7+ looks like a typical AAXA projector sharing a similar size, feature set, and design language with AXXA projectors such as the P400 that we recently reviewed. Click on the model number/link to see our full review of the P400.

I've reviewed multiple AAXA projectors over the past few years, and they deliver regarding hardware and software implementation. The preproduction unit had a few third-party app issues, but honestly, this is not a deal breaker for me, and it should not be for you. Here's why.

Most users are likely to be casting content from Android or iOS. Also, for around $20, you can buy any number of smart media sticks from Walmart, Amazon, and even Google, plug them into the projector's HDMI input and gain access to a world of apps and functionality.

Let's look at why the AAXA P7+ is worth your consideration.

READ THE REVIEW

AAXA P8 Smart Mini Projector

Price	$249 MSRP
Brightness	430 LED Lumens
Resolution	qHD (960x540)
Light Source	LED light-source
Light Source Lifespan	30,000 hours in ECO mode
Inputs	USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm headphone
Internal Storage	Not Listed
Portability – size	0.6 lbs
Portability – power	Not listed
Portability – smart	Android 10.0
Sound	Built-In 2-Watt Speaker

The AAXA P8 Mini HD Projector features an ultra-compact 4th generation Texas Instruments DLP imager along with Google's Android 10.0 operating system. The P8 supports wireless screen mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, and video streaming. 

In this review, I’m going to give you a detailed look at the AAXA P8 smart mini LED projector. I’ll briefly provide what I think are the projectors notable features and then move onto the hardware choices AAXA used in the P8. I’ll then move onto discussing picture quality and performance including brightness, contrast and color and then I’ll provide my final thoughts in the summary section.

We will take a look at AAXA’s LED light source and how it performs in a variety of lighting scenarios. The P8 uses a native 960x540 (qHD) Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) DLP imager. The P8 is rated to deliver up to 480 LED lumens and is available for sale at www.aaxatech.com for $249. 

READ THE REVIEW

In this buyer’s guide, we will be looking at projectors that offer a range of features that facilitate entertainment enjoyment out of the house, including chassis size, built-in sound, smart features, and built-in battery.

Movable

A moveable projector is a small, bright, and budget-friendly option that can be carried outdoors for awesome backyard movie nights or a fun and energetic fitness class. A great number of “movable” projectors are intended to function indoors but are bright enough to work well outdoors and have a small enough form factor to conveniently carry a short distance. 

If you want to use your projector in the backyard with the neighbor’s porch light shining over the fence, you will need a projector with high brightness. You need enough brightness to overcome any ambient light and make colors look vibrant on a large screen. The standard for brightness is measured in ANSI lumens – the total amount of light visible to the human eye from a lamp or light source. The higher the lumens, the brighter the projector, and the easier it will be able to cut through ambient light.

In order to get an accurate representation of brightness, you have to measure apples to apples. As mentioned, the standard for brightness is ANSI lumens. This measurement is independent of light source or projection technology, it is universal for all projectors. Some manufacturers use other measurements for their brightness claims, like LUX, Light Source Lumens, or LED Lumens. However, there are no industry standards for any of these terms and it can be misleading and confusing for shoppers. It’s just not possible to compare the brightness of projectors unless they are measured to the same standard. We talk about this in great detail in our recent article, LUX vs LUMENS.

You may have heard that size matters…well, screen size DEFINITELY matters. The larger the screen, the brighter the projector needs to be to properly fill it with a sufficiently bright image to enjoy movies, sports, games, or other content you want to enjoy outside. The rule of squares applies. A 100″ diagonal screen with a 1000 lumen projector will be as bright as a 150″ inch diagonal screen, with a 2250 lumen projector simplified: 1×1 = 1 1.5*1.5 = 2.25. Similarly, a projector projecting onto an 80″ diagonal projector with 640 lumens is as bright as a 100″ diagonal screen being hit by 1000 lumens.

If you want really good bright vivid colors on a large screen, the brighter the better. But higher brightness sucks power so most moveable projectors don’t usually include a built-in battery option. You will need a power outlet to enjoy this type of projector in the backyard. There are many people willing to drag a power cord across the yard to have a super bright gigantic image at a kid’s birthday or neighborhood block party.

Transportable

If you want to take the party out of the backyard and into the great outdoors, you are going to need maximum portability – not just the ability to lug the projector but the addition of built-in sound, smart features, durability, and a built-in battery.

Gone are the days when a great projector had to be the size and weight of a full-size Buick engine. You may be surprised at the picture quality and brightness of an ultra-compact or even pocket-sized projector. If you are already hauling a tent, sleeping bag, cookstove, and lantern, you may appreciate a projector with a handle or that would easily fit into a backpack.

Unless you like silent films or you’re doing a PowerPoint presentation in the backyard, sound is half of the experience. The bigger the space and the bigger your audience, the more volume you’re going to need. Many projectors lack built-in speakers. Other projectors have built-in speakers but the speakers may be too small and lack adequate power to fill an outdoor space with compelling and enjoyable audio. When you are shopping for outdoor projectors, consider both the quality of the built-in sound or if you need to purchase any additional components to playback the audio.

Ultra-portable

In addition to the size of the projector and how easy it is to carry on a camping trip, or up a mountain, you have to consider the options for power. Running a power cord out to your backyard is probably not an issue but you’re going to need a fairly beefy battery to enjoy an outdoor projector in the middle of the woods on a family camping trip or while tailgating at a college ball game. Not being tethered to a power supply is a big deal. Projectors that include the convenience of a built-in battery are worth the investment.

Combining a built-in battery with smart features makes a projector ultra-portable.

What's Inside Our Buyer's Guide

This year we considered dozens of projectors and chose around 20 projectors we felt were best suited for outdoors (like backyard movie nights) and portable applications (tail-gating parties, camping trips, sports banquets). In this buyer’s guide you will find a detailed overview of each of these projectors with links to their in-depth reviews if you want more details.

Many of the projectors reviewed may have similar models available in the same lineup. Many times, the models in the lineup are very similar to the project we reviewed, but with varying resolution or with additional features, or possibly slightly brighter. The purpose of this buyer’s guide is to show you a sample of the hundreds of different models currently available.

In this buyer’s guide we focus on “usage.” It’s not a specs competition. Our awards go out to great projectors and some that are great for certain applications, environments, etc. This guide will be a living article, continuously upgraded and up to date with the latest of outdoor and portable projector models.

Welcome to Our Annual Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide.

In this guide, we will discuss a wide variety of projectors suitable for outdoor and other portable applications. When we are reviewing projectors as well as when choosing award winners for this guide, we consider several different projectors from different manufacturers and how they are best used in different situations.

More and more people are loving the idea of enjoying a movie on a big screen in the comfort of their home or backyard. Portable projectors make that experience even more possible since they can be used in so many locations and for a variety of applications.

Typically, when you think about a projector, you may visualize a board room, museum exhibit, or man cave because a great many projectors are specifically designed for those types of spaces. It’s safe to say most projectors are designed to be the opposite of portable. Many projectors are big and bulky and extraordinarily sensitive pieces of equipment, with carefully considered technologies designed to deliver amazing picture quality with a larger format screen capability.

Of course, an increasingly popular way to use a projector is outside. In fact, one of our most popular articles is titled Best Outdoor Projectors which you can read here. This comprehensive article not only covers our favorites but also goes into more detail and describes the technologies that make a projector truly “portable” and not simply “movable.”

We also wrote an article covering five unique ways to use a portable projector that you can read here. From #VanLife to office retreat, a projector is a fantastic tool to enhance any adventure with a large screen experience.

We wish to thank BenQ for sponsoring the 2023-2024 Outdoor & Portable
Projector Report and Buyer’s Guide.

Features to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor/Portable Projector

Brightness

This should go without saying, but having enough Brightness is extraordinarily important when considering a projector you’ll likely use outside or in another unpredictable lighting environment. We recommend something that can comfortably deliver at least 300 ANSI lumens, which will ensure the proper delivery of the image on the go.

Power

Further, we need to address the situation of power. While there are more opportunities to remotely power products than ever before with the latest camping equipment and vehicles, it’s still a good idea to consider a projector with a built-in battery. This reduces headaches when it comes to projecting truly anywhere and is an important consideration when you want an option that is truly portable.

Sound Quality

Next, we need to address Sound Quality. Yes! When you take a projector with you somewhere, you expect it to sound great. It’s not always assumed that projectors come with built-in speakers, and in the case of higher-end models, they don’t. For a truly portable projector, it needs to have great-sounding speakers built into it so your friends and family can hear just as well as they can see, no matter where the projecting is taking place. We recommend identifying something that has at least a 2.1 channel capability, giving you great-sounding treble and bass and at least 15W of power to ensure everyone around the campfire can hear what’s being said on screen.

Content

Access to the latest content is another critical factor when discussing portable projectors. If you’re out in the woods, chances are you’re not going to have your cable box or DVD player handy. You definitely won’t want to lug a PC, set of cables, or any other additional device. At a minimum, you will need to play something off a memory stick or USB or cast to the unit from your smartphone.

Placement Flexibility

Also, knowing that you’ll be taking a projector with you to strange new environments does present some unique challenges when it comes to projection. Namely, the ability to properly autofocus, keystone, and project at an angle. We recommend identifying a projector that offers maximum flexibility for these factors, including at least 135-degrees of projection angle and +/- 40 degrees of vertical keystone for placement.

Durability

Finally, for portable projectors to be considered truly portable, you need to consider something that is life-proof. Between destructive kids, pools, lakes, rivers, rain, and everything in between, taking projectors outdoors does require a bit of a tougher build than a traditional projector. We recommend identifying something with an IPX rating, which determines the amount of water and drop-proof a product is. It should effectively protect the projector against accidental spills, drops, and dust from being outdoors. Bonus points if you can get one with a carrying bag and handle, which makes it even easier to tote around with the remainder of your gear.