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Best Projector for Small Room
Upgrade your movie night with the perfect projector for a small room in May 2024! With so many options on the market, narrowing down what you need can be daunting. From portability to brightness and resolution - let us help guide you through choosing an ideal solution that will bring big-screen entertainment into your home.
Don't let a small room limit your movie-watching experience! A projector is the perfect way to transform any space into an immersive home theater.
If you're short on time, here are my 2 top projectors picks for small apartments:
Table of contents:
- Best Projectors for Small Room - Buyer’s Guide
- Best Projectors for Small Rooms: TOP 5
- Small Room Projectors: Comparison
- Optoma HD146X
- XGIMI HORIZON XM13N
- BenQ GV1 Mini
- ViewSonic M1
- BenQ TH671ST
- FAQ about Small Room Projector
- Best Projector for a Small Room: Conclusion
Best Projectors for Small Room - Buyer’s Guide
Based on my extensive hands-on experience and tests with various projectors, including insights gathered from various Reddit discussions, I know finding the best projector for a small room can be tricky.
To help you make the right choice and ensure a fantastic viewing experience, I've put together some key factors you should keep in mind when selecting your ideal projector:
Throw Distance and Room Size
For small rooms, a short-throw projector is essential. These projectors can display a large image from a short distance, making them perfect for tight spaces.
Look for models that can project a 100-inch image from 4 to 8 feet away, ensuring you get a big-screen experience even in a compact room.
Resolution and Image Quality
High resolution is key for crisp, detailed images. While 4K is top-of-the-line, offering unparalleled clarity, Full HD (1080p) projectors are also a great choice for smaller rooms, providing a sharp image without the need for the extra pixels that 4K offers. Consider your content source to decide the ideal resolution.
Brightness and Ambient Light
Brightness, measured in lumens, is crucial, especially if your room isn't completely dark. For small rooms with some ambient light, a projector with at least 1,000 to 3,000 lumens is recommended. This ensures a bright, clear image without the need for total darkness.
Connectivity Options
Look for projectors with a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and possibly Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
This flexibility allows you to easily connect laptops, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and more. Wireless connectivity can be a bonus for quick setup and fewer cables.
Portability and Ease of Setup
A lightweight, compact design is ideal for small rooms or for moving the projector between locations. Look for models that are easy to set up and adjust, with features like keystone correction and zoom capability, which can help quickly align the image to your screen or wall.
Best Projectors for Small Rooms: TOP 5
- Resolution: 1080p
- Brightness: 3600 lumens
- Gaming Mode with 16ms input lag
- Quiet Operation 26dB noise level eco-mode
- 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision
- High Brightness at 2300 ISO lumens
- Dual Light Technology, Android TV 11.0
- 2 x12W Harman/Kardon Speakers
- 1080p resolution with portable design
- HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi connectivity
- 100000:1 contrast ratio
- Portable design and 360-degree projection
- Built-in battery up to 6 hours
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Resolution: 1080p
- Brightness: 3000 lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
- Low input lag and Game Mode
Small Room Projectors: Comparison
These projectors will deliver an amazing viewing experience with bright colors and crisp images!
Before continuing, let's explore the unique capabilities of my top models by examining an insightful comparison table:
| Projector Model | Resolution | Lumens | Distance, min |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optoma HD146X | 1080p | 3600 | 3ft /1m |
| XGIMI HORIZON XM13N Ultra | 4K | 2300 ISO | 3ft /1m |
| BenQ GV1 | 480p, up to 1080p | 200 | 3ft /1m |
| ViewSonic M1 | 480p | 250 | 2ft/0,64m |
| BenQ TH671ST | 1080p | 3000 | 5 ft /1,5m |
Whether you're setting up a movie theater in your living room or looking for the perfect device to spice up presentations, these top 5 projectors are sure to fit all of your small room needs.
Check out my picks for the five most popular models on today's market.
Optoma HD146X Projector for Small Room
Editor's Choice
The Optoma HD146X High Performance Projector offers incredible visuals and long-term reliability. A 3600-lumen brightness rating plus a 1080p resolution ensures impressive picture quality for any situation ranging from movies to game consoles.
Colors are sharpened via an astounding 25,000:1 contrast ratio that brings landscapes alive with vibrant color gradients and texture depth. Plus, the projector's lamp life of 15,000 hours means users can enjoy it without costly replacements for years to come!
Enjoy crystal-clear sound and effortless setup with the Optoma HD146X projector. Its integrated audio solution eliminates the need for additional speakers, while its lightweight design ensures it can be moved between any spaces effortlessly.
Pros:
- 1080p resolution with excellent image quality
- High brightness and contrast ratio
- HDMI connectivity for compatibility with a wide range of devices
- Reasonable price point
Cons:
- Onboard audio is poor
Summary: As indicated by my tests the Optoma HD146X is a great choice for those looking to upgrade their home viewing experience on an affordable budget. Boasting sharp image quality, extreme brightness, and HDMI compatibility with multiple devices – it's hard to look past this top-pick projector, perfect for small environments.
- 1080p, 3600 lumens
- Gaming Mode with 16ms input lag
- Quiet Operation 26dB noise level eco-mode
XGIMI HORIZON XM13N Ultra 4K Projector for a Small Room
Best Overall
The HORIZON Ultra sets a remarkable standard as the world's first 4K long-throw projector featuring Dolby Vision, which enhances visual performance through ultra-vivid colors and exceptional detail clarity. This advanced imaging technology ensures that each scene is displayed with superior clarity and color accuracy, catering to the discerning cinephile's desire for a premium cinematic experience at home.
Incorporating innovative dual light technology that blends LED and Laser sources, the HORIZON Ultra not only extends the projector's lifespan but also guarantees precise color reproduction and exceptional brightness. This ensures an immersive viewing experience, whether you’re engrossed in an action-packed movie or a colorful animation.
With 2300 ISO lumens, the HORIZON Ultra offers impressive brightness that remains consistent under various lighting conditions, ensuring optimal viewing whether during the day or at night. Its Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) 3.0 technology further refines the experience by adjusting to wall colors for optimal image quality and includes advanced features like screen correction and lossless zoom.
Additionally, the projector’s eye protection feature makes it suitable for long viewing sessions without discomfort. The integration of Android TV 11.0 turns the HORIZON Ultra into a comprehensive entertainment hub, providing seamless access to a vast array of streaming services, apps, and games, making it an excellent choice for any tech-savvy entertainment enthusiast.
Pros:
- 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision
- Dual Light Technology
- High Brightness at 2300 ISO lumens
- Intelligent Screen Adaption 3.0
- Android TV 11.0
Cons:
- With advanced features and calibration options, the setup process might be overwhelming for beginners
- The built-in speakers may not match the high standards of the visual output, potentially necessitating an external sound system for a complete home theater experience
Summary: My testing confirms that the XGIMI HORIZON Ultra 4K Projector is an exceptional choice for enhancing any home theater setup. With features like 4K resolution, Dolby Vision, and dual light technology, this projector delivers outstanding image quality. Its high brightness and Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) 3.0 technology ensure that it performs well in any lighting condition, while Android TV 11.0 adds a layer of versatility, making it perfect for streaming, gaming, and more. The HORIZON Ultra is more than just a projector; it's an investment in a premium, immersive entertainment experience that can turn your living space into a vibrant entertainment hub.
- 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision
- High Brightness at 2300 ISO lumens
- Dual Light Technology, Android TV 11.0
- 2 x12W Harman/Kardon Speakers
BenQ GV1 Mini Small Room Projector
Best Modern Design
Elevate your work or entertainment experience with the BenQ GV1 Portable Projector. Compact and convenient, you can project a bright 200 lumens image in any small room for up to three hours before needing to recharge - all thanks to its built-in battery!
Capable of delivering 480p resolution (up to 1080p) images, let this projector be your go-to device whether at home or on the road. Enjoy a cinematic experience at home with the BenQ GV1 projector.
It has integrated speaker and wide range of connections, such as HDMI and USB ports. You can produce streaming content from any device fast & easy, while its Wi-Fi capacity allows you to bring all your favorite media straight to your screen!
Pros:
- High-quality 1080p resolution
- Built-in speakers for enhanced audio experience
- Wi-Fi connectivity for easy streaming
- Portable and easy to carry around
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other models
- Low brightness compared to other models
Summary: Boasting state-of-the art image and audio performance, the BenQ GV1 is a perfect companion for work or leisure. Its Wi-Fi capability and portability make it effortless to bring your cinematic experience with you – even if there's an added cost compared to other projector models on the market.
- 1080p resolution with portable design
- HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi connectivity
- 100000:1 contrast ratio
ViewSonic M1 Portable Projector for Small Room
Best Budget
The ViewSonic M1 Portable Smart Wi-Fi Projector is the perfect addition to any small space, boasting an impressive 250 lumens of bright projection and a resolution of 854 x 480.
Its built-in battery lets you enjoy up to six hours of uninterrupted entertainment - no need for pesky cords!
The ViewSonic M1 projector is a versatile device, giving you options for both sound and streaming. An integrated speaker lets your audio fill the room. With HDMI and USB connections as well as Wi-Fi access, content from phones or tablets can easily be presented on an impressive level.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Excellent brightness and 360-degree projection
- Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in speakers
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Low resolution (854 x 480)
- Short battery life (2.5 hours)
Summary: The ViewSonic M1 is an ideal choice for the budget-conscious movie enthusiast or presenter. Offering portability and convenience, this compact projector has all you need to turn your living room into a theater or business conference in no time - including Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in speakers!
- Portable design and 360-degree projection
- Built-in battery up to 6 hours
- Wi-Fi connectivity
BenQ TH671ST Short Throw Projector for Small Room
Short Throw Projector
The BenQ TH671ST stands out as a top-tier projector for both gaming and cinematic experiences, offering Full HD 1080p resolution, impressive 92% Rec. 709 color accuracy, and a bright 3000 lumens output. Its high native contrast ratio ensures that every image is rendered with deep blacks and vivid colors, providing an immersive viewing experience. Specifically designed with gamers in mind, it features ultra-low input lag and a high refresh rate that matches the capabilities of consoles like Xbox One X and PS4 Pro, ensuring smooth, blur-free gameplay. This projector can throw a 100-inch image from just 5 feet away and can scale up to 300 inches for that big-game thrill.
Recognized as the Best Projector for Gaming by High Ground Gaming in 2019, it also offers flexible connectivity with support for HDMI, USB, and more, accommodating a wide range of devices. Additionally, BenQ’s industry-leading 3-year warranty and dedicated US-based customer service make the TH671ST a reliable choice for serious gamers and movie enthusiasts alike.
Pros:
- Nice and bright
- Resolution: 1080p
- Сompatible with game consoles
- Сompatible with many devices
Cons:
- No USB-C port
Summary: The BenQ TH671ST is a highly acclaimed projector ideal for both gaming and cinematic experiences. It features Full HD 1080p resolution, 92% Rec. 709 color accuracy, and a brightness of 3000 lumens, ensuring clear, vivid visuals. Designed with gaming in mind, it boasts ultra-low input lag and a high refresh rate compatible with top gaming consoles, providing smooth, blur-free gameplay. Capable of projecting a 100-inch image from just 5 feet away and up to 300 inches, this projector supports various media devices via HDMI and USB. It's backed by a 3-year warranty and recognized by High Ground Gaming in 2019 as the best projector for gaming.
- Resolution: 1080p
- Brightness: 3000 lumens
- Low input lag and Game Mode
- Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
FAQ about Small Room Projector
Outfitting a small space with the right projector can be tricky. Get answers to your questions:
Can I use a TV projector for a small room?
A TV projector can bring the excitement of extra-large entertainment without compromising on space. Enjoy an immersive experience while avoiding the clutter.
What is the best resolution for a projector in a small room?
For a small room, 1080p projectors provide plenty of clarity and detail. However, if you're looking for an immersive viewing experience to truly appreciate the newest 4K movies in all their glory - then consider upgrading to a 4K projector.
Are there any inexpensive short throw projectors suitable for small apartments?
Yes, there are several affordable models that offer good quality without the extra cost. Brands such as Optoma, BenQ, and LG offer budget-friendly short throw projectors that are well suited for small spaces.
Learn more about selecting projectors for different spaces by exploring our guide on the Best Short Throw Projector.
What's the difference between a small projector and a mini projector?
The size of a projector can make all the difference. A small projector is perfect for large scale presentations, providing bright and detailed images - but it may be too bulky to take on-the-go. Mini projectors provide increased portability at the cost of image quality – ideal if you're traveling or have limited space available.
Best Projector for a Small Room: Conclusion
When choosing the best projector for a small room, factors such as short throw distance, image quality, and compact design are important. A short projection angle allows you to project a large image from a short distance, making it ideal for small rooms. Projectors such as the OPTOMA HD146X and XGIMI HORIZON XM13N are the best in this category, providing vivid images at 1080p resolution.
Also, look for projectors with higher brightness and contrast so that even in a well-lit room, the image remains crisp and bright. For smaller rooms, connectivity is also crucial. Models with multiple HDMI ports, USB inputs, and wireless connectivity provide flexibility, allowing you to easily connect game consoles, streaming devices, or laptops without complicated setups.
In conclusion, for those who have limited space but don't want to compromise on quality, models like the BENQ GV1 offer the perfect combination of performance and practicality, guaranteeing a cinema experience right in your small room.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
