Only a few years ago, the concept of having a projector small enough to take with you in your bag, let alone in your pocket, was just wishful thinking. But as projectors have come down in size, portable models have certainly come into their own, making it possible for you to project your data and video anywhere you go. Not only that, but portable projectors encompass a surprisingly wide range in size, brightness, and features. Here, we will help you sort out their differences, as well as highlight our 10 favorite models.
Projectors for Pocket or Palmtop
Pico or pocket projectors are little larger than smartphones. Because they can accommodate videos and photos for on-the-go entertainment, in addition to slides and charts for business or classroom presentations, these models can essentially be thought of as multimedia display systems. Though convenient and snazzy, they tend to be of low brightness and relatively expensive for their performance.
So-called palmtop projectors are larger (and brighter) than pico projectors, typically a bit too large to comfortably fit in the palm of your hand, even with your fingers outstretched. Still, they are lightweight enough that you wouldn't think twice about packing one in a bag or backpack. Most are brighter, and have more connection options, than pico models.
Most pico and palmtop projectors can run files from a USB thumb drive and/or SD card, so you don't need to lug your laptop with them. Some even have 1GB or more of internal memory for storing media files. Many can project content from a smartphone or tablet, either wirelessly or via a Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL)-enabled HDMI port. Several models come with built-in rechargeable batteries so you can use them away from a power outlet.
See How We Test Projectors
Larger, Brighter, but Still Portable
Many manufacturers have introduced LED-based mini projectors that are generally a bit larger than palmtops, but considerably brighter. They pack relatively high (WXGA, or 1,280-by-800) resolution, and their larger frames let them include more connection ports than their smaller brethren. Although a few have internal rechargeable batteries, most run solely off of AC power.
Thin-and-light projectors are as wide, deep, and bright as standard models but barely an inch thick, and weigh in at about 4 pounds. They are highly portable, but you pay a premium for their svelteness, and they usually have a limited set of connection choices.
Finally, some standard projectors are still small and light enough to be easily portable, whether you're moving them between classrooms or taking them on a cross-country flight. Many come with soft carrying cases, but they could just as easily be slipped into a travel bag or backpack.
The projectors we highlight here are relatively lightweight, with the heaviest weighing just over 3 pounds and the lightest less than 8 ounces. They vary considerably in size, brightness, features, and performance. Any one of these could be your favorite travel companion. Be sure to also check out our roundup of the best projectors overall, as well as our favorites for home use.
Featured in This Roundup
Celluon PicoPro
$379.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The Celluon PicoPro projector is easy to use, an excellent companion for a cell phone, and fits in a shirt pocket. Read the full review ››-
LG Minibeam LED Projector (PH550)
$549.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The lightweight and portable LG Minibeam LED Projector (PH550) can project television shows thanks to its built-in TV tuner, has a wealth of connection choices, and boasts very good video and data image quality. Read the full review ›› -
Philips Pocket Projector PPX4010
$299.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% Hardly larger than a Tic Tac case, and rated at 100 lumens, the 3-ounce Philips Pocket Projector PPX4010 is an excellent laptop companion for deskside presentations. Read the full review ›› -
AAXA M5 Mini Projector
$599.00
%displayPrice% at %seller% The AAXA M5 Mini Projector is a good choice if you need a highly portable projector strictly for data presentations, as its video is usable only for very short clips. Read the full review ›› -
Magnasonic LED Pocket Pico Video Projector
$169.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The Magnasonic LED Pocket Pico Video Projector performs surprisingly well considering its low brightness, resolution, and price. Read the full review ›› -
RIF6 Cube
$299.00
%displayPrice% at %seller% The RIF6 Cube, a tiny, elegant projector that can mirror the screens of mobile devices and project content from a microSD card, is good for casual use, although its video quality could be better. Read the full review ›› -
Vivitek Qumi Q6-BU
$599.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The Vivitek Qumi Q6 is a stylish LED-based palmtop projector with built-in Wi-Fi that can display multimedia content, but it's best for showing business presentations to small groups. Read the full review ›› -
XSories X-Project WiFi
$389.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The small and versatile XSories X-Project WiFi is a good choice as a wireless pico projector despite a few operational glitches. Read the full review ›› -
ZTE Spro 2 Smart Projector (AT&T)
$499.99
%displayPrice% at %seller% The ZTE Spro 2 is part projector, part Android device, and part Wi-Fi hotspot, designed to project content like business presentations and YouTube videos over its 4G LTE connection. Read the full review ››
