Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide
Welcome to our guide on outdoor and portable projectors. We review many models from different brands to help you find the best one for your needs—whether for backyard movies or presentations on the go.
Why Portable Projectors Are So Popular
Watching movies on a big screen at home or outside is more popular than ever. Portable projectors make it easy because they work well in lots of places and for different uses.
Beyond the Mancave
In the past, projectors were mostly made for fixed spots like boardrooms or man caves. They were big, heavy, and fragile—great for big, high-quality images but not easy to move.
New Portable Options
Today’s portable projectors, like the NexiGo TriVision Ultra, are small, light, and work well indoors and outdoors. They let you enjoy a theater-like experience almost anywhere.
We have a popular article, Best Outdoor Projectors, that highlights top models and what makes a projector truly portable.
Another favorite, Five Unique Ways to Use a Portable Projector, shows creative uses like van life or work retreats—proving projectors are great for fun and work on the move.
Key Things to Look For in Outdoor or Portable Projectors
When choosing a projector for outdoor or portable use, keep these in mind:
Brightness
Outdoor light can be tricky, so pick a projector with at least 300 ANSI lumens to get a clear picture. Brighter is always better!Power Options
A built-in battery is best—it lets you use the projector anywhere without needing a power outlet. Great for camping or places without electricity.Sound Quality
Good sound matters. Not all projectors have speakers, and some need extra audio gear. For true portability, choose one with:
Built-in speakers
At least 2.1 channel audio
15W or more output to be heard clearly outdoors
Content Access
You won’t always have cables or players with you, so your projector should:
Wirelessly cast from phone, tablet, or laptop
Play from USB or memory sticks
Support streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu
Have Android TV or a similar smart system
Optionally work with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant
Smart projectors with built-in apps and casting make watching easier on the go.
Placement Flexibility
Outdoors means different angles and setups. Look for:
Autofocus
Keystone correction (at least ±40° vertical)
Flexible projection angle (at least 135°)
These help keep the image straight and sharp, even if you can’t set the projector perfectly.
Durability
Outdoor use can be tough on devices. Pick a projector that’s:
Water-resistant (check IPX rating)
Dust-proof
Drop-resistant
Bonus points for a carrying handle or case for easy transport.
With these features, your projector will be ready for anything—from backyard movies to road trips.
2025 Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide – Types of Projectors Included
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll look at projectors with features that make it easy to enjoy entertainment outside your home—like compact size, built-in speakers, smart functions, and a built-in battery.
Movable Projectors
A movable projector is a small, bright, and affordable option you can easily take outside for backyard movie nights or fitness classes. Most movable projectors are made for indoor use but are bright enough and compact enough to work well outdoors for short trips.
If you want to watch in your backyard while the neighbor’s porch light is on, you’ll need a projector with high brightness. Brightness is measured in ANSI lumens — the more lumens, the brighter the projector. A bright projector helps the picture stay clear and colors look vibrant even with some ambient light around.
Good movable projectors like the NexiGo TriVision Ultra offer strong brightness and great picture quality in a small, affordable package.
To compare brightness fairly, you need to measure the same way. The standard is ANSI lumens, which works for all projectors no matter the light source or tech. Some brands use other terms like LUX or LED Lumens, but these don’t have set rules and can confuse buyers. You can only compare projectors accurately if their brightness is measured in ANSI lumens. We explain this more in our article, LUX vs LUMENS.
ANSI Lumens Is the Only Way to Compare Brightness Correctly
You’ve probably heard size matters—and when it comes to projectors, screen size definitely matters. The bigger the screen, the brighter your projector needs to be to fill it with a clear, bright picture for movies, sports, or games outside.
Here’s a simple rule: brightness needs grow with the square of the screen size. For example, a 100″ screen with a 1000-lumen projector is as bright as a 150″ screen with a 2250-lumen projector. Or an 80″ screen at 640 lumens matches a 100″ screen at 1000 lumens.
If you want really bright, vivid colors on a big screen, go for more lumens. But brighter projectors use more power, so most movable projectors don’t have built-in batteries. You’ll need to plug them in outside, and many people don’t mind running a power cord for a super bright image at a party or event.
Transportable Projectors
If you want to take the fun beyond the backyard, you need a truly portable projector. That means not just carrying it easily but having built-in speakers, smart features, durability, and a battery.
Forget old, heavy projectors the size of car engines—today’s compact and even pocket-sized projectors can offer great brightness and picture quality. If you’re already packing camping gear, you’ll love a projector with a handle or one small enough to fit in a backpack.
A Handle Makes Carrying Easy
A handle helps you carry your projector easily from place to place.
Sound Matters
Unless you like silent movies or are just showing slides, sound is a big part of the experience. The bigger the space and audience, the louder you’ll need. Many projectors don’t have built-in speakers. Some do, but the speakers might be too small or not powerful enough to fill an outdoor area. When buying an outdoor projector, check if the built-in sound is good or if you’ll need extra speakers.
Connection Options
Projectors offer different ways to connect your devices. The more ports, the better. Can you connect your phone via Bluetooth? Can you use USB to play files? Can you plug in an Apple TV or a laptop with an HDMI cable?
Durability for Outdoors
If you plan to use your projector at sports practice, the beach, or around kids, look for a rugged model that can handle bumps and splashes. Some projectors are water-resistant and built tough for outdoor use.
Smart Features
Some outdoor projectors work like smart TVs, with built-in apps for streaming Netflix and more. This makes it easy to enjoy your projector anywhere.
Ultra-Portable Power
Besides size and easy carrying, power options matter. Running a power cord in your backyard is easy, but for camping or tailgating, you’ll want a projector with a strong built-in battery. Not needing to be plugged in is a big plus.
A built-in battery plus smart features make a projector truly ultra-portable.
A built-in battery lets you watch a full movie without needing a power outlet.
What’s Inside Our Buyer’s Guide
This year, we looked at dozens of projectors and picked about 20 that are great for outdoor use (like backyard movie nights) and portable fun (like tailgating, camping, or sports events). In this guide, you’ll find easy-to-understand overviews of each projector, plus links to full reviews if you want more details.
Many projectors come in similar versions with small differences, like better resolution or extra features. This guide shows a sample of the hundreds of models out there.
We focus on how you’ll use the projector, not just specs. Our awards go to projectors that perform well in real life and for specific needs. This guide will be updated regularly to include the newest outdoor and portable projectors.
How We Pick Projectors
We carefully choose which projectors to review and feature here. We aim to show the best projectors in each price and feature range.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect projector for your outdoor and portable needs. Taking your entertainment outside is a great way to enjoy movies and events anywhere. Companies like BenQ are always improving these projectors, and we’ll keep updating this guide as new models come out. Check back often for the latest!
2025 Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide – Moveable Projectors
BRIGHT AND AFFORDABLE MOVEABLE PROJECTORS
Let’s start with “moveable” projectors. If you can easily take your projector outside and it’s bright enough to beat outdoor light, then it’s a moveable projector. This part of our guide focuses on bright, budget-friendly models that are easy to carry—at least for short trips.
To be called moveable by Projector Reviews, a projector needs:
Good brightness
Affordable price
Compact size
If you want to buy any projector we mention, please use the links in the article. Projector Reviews gets a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Epson EpiqVision Flex CO-W01
EpiqVision Flex CO-W01
Price: $429 MSRP
Brightness: 3000 Lumens
Resolution: 1280 x 800 (WXGA)
Light Source: Laser (Lamp-based)
Weight: 11.5 lbs
Built-in Battery: No
Smart Features: No
Sound: 2 x 15W Dolby Audio/DTS-X
The EpiqVision Flex CO-W01 is a lamp-based portable projector designed for today’s hybrid work style, where people work both from home and the office. It offers bright 3000-lumen images in a compact size. Unlike many DLP projectors, it delivers vibrant colors even in rooms with some light because it balances color and white brightness.
The native resolution is WXGA (1280×800), but it can show videos up to Full HD (1920×1080). It’s not a smart projector, so to stream from services like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, or Disney+, you’ll need to connect a streaming device via HDMI. If you want built-in streaming, Epson also offers the EpiqVision Flex CO-FH02, a $629 Full HD smart version with Android TV.
Epson says the CO-W01 is a great mix of professional presentation and home movie use. If you want a bright, colorful image for under $500, this projector is a solid choice.
AAXA M8 UST
Price: $529 MSRP
Brightness: 1110 Lumens
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
Light Source: RGB Laser (DLP)
Weight: 11.5 lbs
Built-in Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 2 x 15W Dolby Audio/DTS-X
The AAXA M8 UST is a small, portable projector with an ultra-short-throw (UST) design, meaning it can sit just inches away from the screen and still project a large image. It offers 1,100 lumens of brightness and a good contrast ratio of 2000:1.
This projector balances portability with useful features, making it great for kids, students, first-time buyers, or travelers who want a budget-friendly projector that works well in tight spaces. At $529, the M8 UST is a smart choice for anyone wanting the convenience of ultra-short-throw projection without paying for expensive high-end models. It’s compact, easy to carry, and saves space, making it a solid pick for portable use.
Optoma ML1080
Optoma ML1080
Price: About $800
Brightness: 550 ANSI Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: Tri-Laser RGB (DLP)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Built-in Battery: No
Smart Features: No
Sound: 3W mono speaker
The Optoma ML1080 is a tiny and lightweight Full HD projector that weighs just 2.3 lbs, making it one of the most compact RGB laser projectors around. Unlike many small projectors that use LED lights, this one uses an RGB triple laser, giving it bright and vibrant colors with 550 ANSI lumens of brightness.
It’s great for both home and professional use thanks to its picture quality and portability. If you need more placement options, Optoma also offers a short-throw version called the ML1080ST, which costs a bit more but gives you more flexibility on where you place the projector.
Epson EpiqVision Mini EF11
Epson EpiqVision Mini EF11
Price: $799 MSRP
Brightness: 1000 ANSI Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: Laser (3LCD)
Weight: 2.7 lbs
Built-in Battery: No
Smart Features: No
Sound: 5W mono speaker
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF11 is a small and portable laser projector that costs around $699. It offers bright, clear Full HD images, making it great for home movies, business presentations, or classrooms. Although it doesn’t have 4K or HDR, the picture quality is still impressive.
Its sleek and compact design makes it easy to carry and set up. It has built-in speakers, so you don’t need extra sound equipment. Just add a Chromecast for streaming your favorite shows.
One cool feature is its throw ratio—you can get a big 150” screen from just 14 feet away. Despite its powerful performance, the EF11 is surprisingly small and lightweight, making it a versatile and portable choice.
Moveable Projectors with Sound and Smart Features
In this section, we look at moveable projectors that are easy to carry and bright enough for outdoor use. These models also include built-in speakers and smart features, all packed into a small, portable design. This makes them even better for on-the-go entertainment.
NexiGO TriVision Ultra
NexiGo TriVision Ultra
Price: Around $1,599
Brightness: 2600 Lumens
Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Light Source: Tri-LED Laser Hybrid
Weight: 11.5 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes (Android TV 11)
Sound: 30W built-in speakers with Dolby Audio and DTS-X
The NexiGo TriVision Ultra is a compact 4K projector that’s powerful enough for home entertainment but light and portable enough to move easily. It offers native 4K resolution and supports HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
Its Tri-LED laser produces bright, vibrant colors with 2600 lumens and covers 100% of the BT.2020 color space. The projector comes factory-calibrated for accurate colors right out of the box.
Running on Android TV 11, it lets you stream from apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video. It has built-in 30W speakers for great sound and multiple ways to connect: HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for wireless casting.
With a handy carrying handle, autofocus, and auto keystone correction, it’s easy to set up and carry anywhere. Overall, the NexiGo TriVision Ultra combines 4K quality, smart features, and portability in one package.
BenQ X300G
BenQ X300G
Price: About $1,029
Brightness: 2000 Lumens
Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Light Source: 4LED
Weight: 6.6 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 8W x 2 speakers with passive bass radiator
The BenQ X300G is a portable 4K projector designed mainly for gamers but great for home entertainment too. It’s compact but bright enough with 2000 lumens, making images clear even in rooms with some light.
Its 4K resolution delivers sharp, detailed pictures that create an immersive experience better than most TVs. Gamers will love the ultra-low input lag and special gaming picture and sound modes.
Overall, the X300G is a solid choice for anyone who wants a bright, high-quality 4K image for gaming or movies.
Nebula Cosmos 4K SE
Nebula Cosmos 4K SE
Price: $1,299
Brightness: 1800 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: LED + Blue Laser
Weight: 9.9 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 15W x 2 speakers
The Nebula Cosmos 4K SE is a portable 4K projector that uses a hybrid blue laser and LED light, delivering 1800 lumens brightness with great color quality. It supports Dolby Vision and features Dynamic HDR tone mapping for better picture quality.
It runs on Google TV, giving access to over 10,000 apps and tons of movies and shows from Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and more. The projector also has powerful 30W speakers with Dolby Audio for clear, rich sound.
With a large handle on top, it’s easy to carry around. The Nebula Cosmos 4K SE is perfect for those who want a portable projector to enjoy movies, games, and more anywhere in the home.
BenQ GP100A
BenQ GP100A
Price: Around $749
Brightness: 1000 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: LED
Weight: 6.4 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 5W x 2 speakers + 10W subwoofer
The BenQ GP100A is a portable Full HD projector with 4LED technology, designed to turn any space into a home theater or gaming spot. It comes with a smart HDMI media stick, so you can easily stream Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and many other Android TV apps.
It also has a quality sound system that works as a Bluetooth speaker. The GP100A offers a great mix of portability, clear picture, and easy setup, making it a top pick for watching movies or playing games on the big screen anywhere.
Yaber V12
Yaber V12
Price: Around $179
Brightness: 700 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: LED (RGB LED)
Weight: 7.8 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 20W Dolby Digital
The Yaber V12 is an LCD projector with a Full HD resolution and RGB LED light source. It runs on a smart Linux system with popular apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube, plus many more available through its app store.
It has a powerful 20W Dolby Digital speaker and Bluetooth 5.2, letting you connect to external Bluetooth speakers or use it as a Bluetooth speaker for your phone or tablet.
The V12 is easy to carry with a soft strap and has a detachable stand for flexible setup. Autofocus and automatic or manual keystone correction make it quick to get the perfect picture anywhere.
Dangbei Atom
Dangbei Atom
Price: Around $699
Brightness: 1200 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: Laser
Weight: 2.8 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes (Google TV)
Sound: 5W x 2
The Dangbei Atom is a small and lightweight Full HD laser projector, easy to carry around thanks to its slim design and low weight. It doesn’t have a built-in battery, but it’s simple to move from room to room or pack in a backpack.
It’s Dangbei’s first laser projector with Google TV, so you can stream from Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and more. Perfect for backyard movies, camping, or even professional presentations. Its 1200 lumens brightness keeps the picture clear and colorful, even in rooms with some light.
LG CineBeam PF510Q
LG CineBeam PF510Q
Price: $599
Brightness: 450 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: 4LED (RGBB)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 5W mono
The LG CineBeam PF510Q is a portable Full HD smart projector with 450 lumens brightness and a long-lasting LED light. It offers bright, clear images and smart features like those on LG’s TVs.
It’s great for people on the go—like military personnel, travelers, RV users, or students in dorms. It’s also perfect for quick movie nights at home or outdoor gatherings after dark. Lightweight and easy to carry, it’s a handy choice for many uses.
JMGO N1
JMGO N
Price: $999
Brightness: 1100 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: RGB Laser
Weight: 4.41 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 5W x 2
The JMGO N1 is a Full HD projector with 1100 lumens brightness and a triple laser light source. It has a unique gimbal-like design that looks great and is easy to use.
The picture quality is impressive, with rich colors and deep blacks, similar to JMGO’s higher-end models. Though it’s not the brightest projector out there, it delivers clear, sharp images and good sound for its price. Overall, the JMGO N1 is a strong choice in its class.
LG HU710PB CineBeam Q
LG HU710PB (CineBeam Q)
Price: Around $799
Brightness: 500 Lumens
Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Light Source: RGB Laser
Weight: 3.3 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 6 Watt
The LG HU710PB, also called the CineBeam Q, is a 4K portable smart projector priced around $999. It uses a 3-channel RGB laser for bright, vibrant colors with wide color coverage (154% DCI-P3) and lasts up to 20,000 hours.
With a high contrast ratio and Dynamic HDR, it delivers excellent HDR picture quality. Weighing just 3 pounds, it has a 360-degree rotating handle that makes it easy to carry and doubles as an adjustable stand for different viewing angles—perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
LG PF610P CineBeam
LG PF610P
Price: Around $650
Brightness: 1000 Lumens
Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Light Source: 4LED
Weight: 3.7 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes
Sound: 6 Watt
The LG PF610P is a portable smart projector priced around $849. It uses a 4-channel LED light source that delivers bright and vibrant images with 1000 ANSI lumens.
Running on LG’s latest webOS 5.0, it supports popular streaming apps like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, and YouTube. It also works with Apple AirPlay 2 and MiraCast for easy content sharing from phones.
Designed to be portable and deliver great picture quality, the PF610P is perfect for watching movies and entertainment anywhere with power access.
Formovie Xming Page One
Formovie Xming Page One
Price: $499
Brightness: 300 Lumens
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Light Source: LED
Weight: 3.7 lbs
Battery: No
Smart Features: Yes (Google TV with Netflix)
Sound: 6 Watt
The Formovie Xming Page One is a portable Full HD LCD projector with 300 ANSI lumens brightness and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. It’s the world’s first Google TV LCD projector with a certified Netflix app.
It delivers great sound, comparable to bigger, pricier projectors. Compact and easy to carry, it’s perfect for kids’ rooms, bedrooms, or movie and gaming nights at a friend’s house.
2025 Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide – Projectors with Built-in Batteries
In this section, we’ll look at projectors with built-in batteries, perfect for use outside the home. These compact and easy-to-carry projectors usually don’t have smart features but come with good built-in speakers.
If you decide to buy a projector mentioned here, we’d appreciate it if you use the links in the article. Projector Reviews earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Elite Projector 
The Elite Screens MosicGo 360 is an ultra-short-throw portable projector with 1,000 ANSI lumens and full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. It can project a big 100-inch image from just over a foot away. The MosicGo Sport model ($1199) has a built-in battery that lasts up to 3 hours of video or 30 hours of music playback, while the MosicGo Lite ($899) doesn’t include a battery. It can also work as a Bluetooth speaker and charge other devices via USB-C.
Weighing about 6 lbs alone, the full MosicGo 360 bundle (projector, tripod, screen) weighs less than 20 lbs, making it easy to carry around. It’s spill-resistant (IPX2) and comes with dual 8-watt speakers that deliver clear, loud sound like a good portable Bluetooth speaker.
The projector is great for gaming thanks to its low 17ms input lag, sharp 1080p resolution, and ultra-short-throw design. You can choose packages that include indoor or outdoor screens, a carrying bag, and a tripod for simple setup and easy transport.
Dangbei Freed0
The Dangbei Freedo is a native 1080p Full HD portable projector with an LED light source and 626 lumens brightness. It weighs just under 3 pounds and has a built-in 60Wh battery that lasts up to 3 hours of video or 6 hours as a Bluetooth speaker.
This projector features a built-in gimbal stand that tilts 165° for easy projection on walls, ceilings, or angled surfaces. It runs Google TV, giving you access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, and Disney+.
The Freedo has a 6-watt 360-degree speaker system with Dolby Digital support, so it can also work as a powerful Bluetooth speaker. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a smart, flexible, and portable projector for indoor and outdoor use.
AAXA M7
The AAXA M7 is a portable projector that shows Full HD 1080p and supports 4K at 30 fps. It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 3 hours—long enough to watch a full movie—making it great for camping or beach trips. It can also charge your smart devices like a power bank. Weighing just under 3 pounds, it fits easily in a backpack, though it doesn’t come with a carrying case.
The M7 has a built-in media player, so you can play videos, slideshows, and other files directly. It supports media from a micro-SD card, USB (up to 64GB), HDMI input, and 3.5mm AV input. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output and a USB-C port for screen mirroring.
The projector has two 4-watt speakers on the side, which are loud enough for a small group. For better sound, it’s best to connect external speakers through the audio jack.
AAXA P6X
| Price | $299 | |
| Brightness | 641 Lumens | |
| Resolution | 1280 x 800 | |
| Imager | DLP | |
| Light Source | LED light source | |
| Portability – size | 1.81 lbs | |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 hours | |
| Smart Features | None | |
| Sound | Built-in 4-Watt Stereo Speakers |
AAXA Technologies says the AAXA P6A is the brightest battery-powered Pico projector in the world. It weighs just 1.8 pounds and costs $359. It has a big 15,000mAh (54 watt) battery that lasts up to 4 hours and can also charge your phone or other devices.
The P6X uses high-quality Osram LEDs that last 30,000 hours—six times longer than regular lamp projectors. These LEDs turn on and off instantly, are mercury-free, and more eco-friendly. The solid-state light source is tough and can handle bumps and drops better than traditional projectors.
This small, bright, durable, and affordable projector is great for outdoor fun like backyard movies or camping. Its portability also makes it perfect for students, military members, and salespeople who travel a lot.
The built-in speaker isn’t very powerful or clear but works fine for casual use. You can also connect better speakers through the 3.5mm audio jack.
AAXA P7+ Projector
| Price | $279 | |
| Brightness | 390 Lumens | |
| Resolution | 1920 x1080 | |
| Imager | DLP | |
| Light Source | LED light source | |
| Portability – size | 1.17 lbs | |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 hours | |
| Smart Features | Yes | |
| Sound | 2-Watt Stereo |
The new AAXA P7+ is one of the latest ultra-portable LED DLP projectors with a built-in battery, released in 2023. It costs $389 with a solar charger and is available on AAXA’s website and major online stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H.
The P7+ looks similar to other AAXA projectors like the P400, sharing the same size, features, and design.
I’ve tested several AAXA projectors over the years, and they usually deliver solid hardware and software. The preproduction model had a few app issues, but that’s not a big problem because most people will stream content from their phones or tablets. Plus, for about $20, you can buy a smart media stick (like from Walmart or Amazon), plug it into the projector’s HDMI port, and get access to tons of apps and features.
2025 Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide – Ultra-Portable Projectors: Smart Features and a Battery
The final part of our Buyer’s Guide highlights the best ultra-portable projectors. These projectors have built-in sound, smart features, and are durable—with the added convenience of a built-in battery. The top models don’t need extra video devices, power cords, or external speakers.
If you decide to buy any projector mentioned here, we’d appreciate it if you use the links in the article. Projector Reviews earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Dangbei Freedo
| Price | $549 | |
| Brightness | 626 Lumens | |
| Resolution | 1920 x1080 | |
| Imager | DLP | |
| Light Source | LED light source | |
| Portability – size | 2.99 lbs | |
| Battery Life | 3 hours of video 6 hours of music | |
| Smart Features | None | |
| Sound | Built-in 4-Watt Stereo Speakers |
The Dangbei Freedo is a native 1080p Full HD smart projector with a 450-lumen LED light. It’s a portable and versatile device made for both indoor and outdoor use. Weighing just over 3 pounds, it has a built-in 60Wh battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours for video or up to 6 hours as a Bluetooth speaker.
It features a built-in gimbal stand that tilts 165° for easy projection on walls, ceilings, or angled surfaces. Running Google TV, it gives access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, and Disney+. The 6-watt 360-degree speaker supports Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus, and the projector can also work as a Bluetooth speaker.
The Dangbei Freedo is a top choice for those who want smart features, flexible setup, and all-in-one use in a small, portable design.
BenQ GS50 Portable LED Smart Projector
The BenQ GS50 is the bigger sibling of the GV30 and shares many features with it. It’s brighter, with 500 ANSI lumens, and offers Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution. Both the GS50 and GV30 have built-in batteries that last up to 2.5 hours. They come with BenQ’s QS01 Android TV dongle for easy streaming via HDMI.
The GS50 has a strong 2.1 channel sound system, including two 5-watt tweeters and a 10-watt woofer, and can also work as a Bluetooth speaker.
Designed for active use, the GS50 is splash-resistant with an IPX2 rating, meaning it can handle light water splashes from a 15° angle. It’s also tough enough to survive a 2.3-foot drop, thanks to its protective inner layer and durable outer shell.
BenQ GV30 Portable LED Smart Projector
The BenQ GV30 is a smart, portable HD projector with a 1280 x 720 resolution and 300 ANSI lumens brightness. It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours. Weighing just 3.5 pounds and with a handy carry strap, it’s easy to take to block parties, outdoor workouts, or office events.
The GV30 supports popular streaming apps like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. You can also cast content directly from your phone, tablet, or PC. It has good sound quality for movies and music and can even work as a Bluetooth speaker. The GV30 is a great all-in-one, lightweight projector with 2.1 channel sound and battery power for easy portability.
BenQ released the GV31 as an updated version of the GV30 portable projector. The GV30 has a 720p (HD) resolution, while the GV31 offers a sharper 1080p (Full HD) resolution. The GV30’s brightness is 300 ANSI lumens, but the GV31 is brighter at 450 ANSI lumens.
For sound, the GV30 features 2.1-channel Bluetooth audio with a built-in subwoofer for richer bass, while the GV31 has 2-channel stereo sound without a subwoofer, so its bass is less powerful.
Both have a similar portable, cylindrical design with built-in batteries. The GV30 is more versatile with a 360-degree tilt and stand to project at different angles. The GV31 costs more because of its better resolution and brightness.
Nebula Capsule 3
The Capsule 3 is the newest model in Nebula’s small and portable Capsule projector series. It offers a true movie-theater experience anywhere, even outside. The Capsule 3 is very compact—about half the size of similar projectors from other brands—and easy to carry.
It runs on Google TV OS, giving you direct access to many streaming apps right from the projector. With its smart features, solid build, and great portability, the Capsule 3 is a top pick for anyone wanting entertainment on the go.
Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser is a small, portable projector with a built-in battery, selling for $799.99. It shows sharp Full HD (1920×1080) images up to 120 inches. Unlike most portable projectors that use LEDs, this one uses a laser light source with 300 ANSI lumens, which is great for its size.
About the size of a soda can, the Capsule 3 Laser is easy to carry around. It also has smart features like auto-focus and keystone correction to keep the picture clear, even if you move it or point it at an angle.
XGIMI Halo+ Portable LED Projector
The XGIMI Halo+ is a smart 1080p DLP projector with a bright LED light source, making it great for portable use. It runs Android TV, giving you easy access to popular apps like Hulu, HBO Max, and YouTube right away.
It has two built-in 5-watt Harman Kardon speakers that deliver good sound loud enough for a medium-sized room. You can see the volume level on-screen when you adjust it with the remote.
The Halo+ has a 59W battery that lasts about 2 hours. It offers 700 lumens on battery power and 900 lumens when plugged in. Its battery makes it perfect for outdoor movie nights in the backyard or at a campsite.
ASUS ZenBeam L2
The ASUS ZenBeam L2 is a small, portable smart projector with 1080p resolution and 960 LED lumens brightness. It’s perfect for watching movies on the go, whether at home or away. The design is sleek and compact, making it easy to carry with the included handle and carrying case.
The projector has a built-in 10-watt Harman/Kardon speaker and a battery that lasts up to 3.5 hours. It comes with USB and HDMI ports for connecting devices. The smart features run through an included Android TV box, which isn’t the smoothest experience but still gives you access to streaming apps. Overall, it’s a great lightweight projector for travel and casual use.
Nebula Mars 3
The Nebula Mars 3 is a portable smart projector priced at $1099. It offers Full HD 1080p resolution and 1000 lumens brightness. With a big built-in battery, it can last up to 5 hours and also charge your phone or other devices.
Made by Anker, the Mars 3 stands out for its bright picture, long battery life, and strong 40-watt stereo speakers. It’s perfect for outdoor use like camping, road trips, or backyard movie nights. Running Android TV 11, it gives you easy access to streaming apps, making it a complete all-in-one portable home theater.
The Nebula Mars 3 is a portable smart projector priced at $1099. It offers Full HD 1080p resolution and 1000 lumens brightness. It has a big built-in battery that lasts up to 5 hours and can also charge your phone or other devices.
Made by Anker, the Mars 3 delivers great brightness, long battery life, and powerful 40-watt stereo speakers. It’s perfect for outdoor use like camping, road trips, or backyard movie nights. With Android TV 11 built-in, you get easy access to streaming apps. Overall, it’s a complete all-in-one portable home theater you can take anywhere.
Samsung The Freestyle
The Samsung Freestyle is a portable smart LED projector priced at $799. Although its basic specs seem simple, it stands out as one of the best portable projectors we’ve reviewed and is on our list of best projectors under $1000.
Samsung, known for making top TVs, designed the Freestyle for people who want more flexibility than a traditional projector. It’s made to be fun and versatile, fitting different lifestyles and spaces with ease.
Simon Sung from Samsung says the Freestyle is built for ultimate flexibility, letting users enjoy projection in any way they like—without worrying about space or setup limits. It also has an optional battery base that lasts up to 3.5 hours。
2025 Outdoor & Portable Projector Buyer’s Guide – Screens
Let’s finish by talking about screens. You can point a projector at a plain white wall or sheet, but the picture won’t be as good as with a proper screen. Walls and sheets aren’t perfectly smooth, so a smooth projector screen helps make the image clearer and sharper.
Besides picking a projector bright enough to fight any light around you, you can also get a special screen that blocks some of that light. These are called ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens. The right screen for your outdoor movie setup can be just as important as the projector itself.
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Elite Screens Yard Master 2 Series (Ranging from $149-$557, Depending on Size)
The Elite Screens Yard Master 2 is a great choice for your outdoor home theater.
It’s a fast-folding outdoor projection screen with a lightweight aluminum frame that’s easy to set up in minutes. Just unfold the frame, attach the screen and legs, and start projecting. The Yard Master 2 comes in several sizes, from 58” up to 135”.
This 100-inch screen has a 16:9 ratio and uses CineWhite® UHD-B matte white material for clear, bright images. You can also get an optional WraithVeil material for rear projection. Black borders around the screen help improve contrast. It works with standard, short, and ultra-short throw projectors.
Elite Screens Tripod Projector Screen (Ranging from $106-$205, Depending on Size)
Elite Screens Tripod Series screens are strong but lightweight, with black or white metal cases. They’re easy to store in a garage or closet. The manual pull-up design lets you set it up in minutes. The MaxWhite 2 screen material is easy to clean with mild soap and water. These screens come in sizes from 50” to 120”.
This 100-inch screen has a 16:9 ratio and uses MaxWhite 2 material with 1.1 gain for bright images. Black borders improve picture contrast. The stand is height-adjustable. It works with standard, short, and ultra-short throw projectors.
Vivohome 14 Ft Inflatable Movie Projector Screen ($149)
The Vivohome Inflatable Screen is perfect for outdoor use.
Made from strong, durable 210D Oxford cloth, it has a smooth, theater-quality screen. A quiet blower inflates the screen quickly and keeps it steady during your movie. The weather-resistant material works well indoors or outdoors.
It’s easy to set up, take down, and secure in windy conditions.
Product size: 10.7ft x 3.9ft x 8.4ft
Screen size: 8.5ft x 4.8ft
The main advantage of this inflatable screen is that it gives you a big movie screen that packs down small for easy storage. The downside is that the blower must run all the time to keep the screen tight and clear, which uses power and limits portability.
Elite Screens Pop Up Cinema Series ($75-$120, Depending on Size)
Elite Screens Pop-Up Cinema Series
The Elite Pop-Up Cinema Series is a portable, spring-framed projector screen that sets up instantly for indoor or outdoor use. Its lightweight metal frame “pops up” quickly to hold the SilkWhite screen material with a black mesh border. The SilkWhite fabric is strong enough for outdoor use and also works great indoors.
Sizes available: 84” and 92” diagonal, 16:9 format
Works with both standard and short throw projectors
Light and flat design, easy to carry
Comes with a 32” carrying case for all parts
Can handle light wind
Spring-loaded frame unfolds easily
Sets up in seconds with no tools
Includes stakes, net base, and support rods for extra stability