Office projectors have come a long way in recent years. With today’s technology, even low-priced units can project an impressive, sharp image.
We’re here to help sort it out, whether you’re new to the wonder of modern projectors or are an experienced early-adopter looking to update your stock.
Buyer’s Guide
The newer projector technology is impressive, but the specs are usually overstated – let’s try to clear out the hype.
Weight
Before explaining the gamed “advertising” numbers, we’ll start with one of the honest specs you can count on: weight. Mini projectors are relatively new and typically weigh from 1 to 3 lbs, and most full-sized portables are under 10 pounds.
Resolution
It’s easy to get tripped up on this because manufacturers make up numbers for marketing purposes. Everyone wants 1080p HD. It may prominently display that number, but if you look more closely, you’ll usually see it’s “supported” 1080p, which means the input can be high resolution is reduced for actual display.
If you’re set on getting a 1080p image, you’ll need to look for a more expensive projector. The native resolution is the actual resolution you’ll see, and, for economy models, it will be in the 800 x 600 ballpark. Before breaking your budget, however, remember that 800×600 is still nearly double that of standard television.
Lumens
Another specification that should have a laugh track, marketers put the number you want to hear, called the “advertising” lumen rating. For example, a brand might advertise a projector having 3600 lumens when it is officially only 50. The actual lumens are a piddly, sad figure. So look for the actual lumen rating in the fine print or online, so you know what you’re dealing with.
One point to remember is that a high lumen output is only needed in the classroom or other professional settings, which require participants to read text from the expanded screen in a lighted room. Economy models can deliver a surprisingly good home movie or TeeVee experience at short range in a darkened room.
Connectivity
You can use many devices, but be aware that Bluetooth or other wireless connections are premium features. The best bargain projectors keep it simple—and we can probably consider that a mercy where wireless is concerned.
Do pay attention to which devices a projector can use because you can’t assume anything in that regard. Smartphones can be a trickier option than they should be, so check to see what adaptor thingies you’ll need to finish the picture.
Battery
You want rechargeable batteries. Life is too short. They are almost universal, but make sure.
Check out their expected charge life, and shoot for at least 3 hours to get the whole movie in before a maintenance check is needed.
Fan Noise
A loud fan can ruin a movie, and you can get low-noise models.
Mounting options
Make sure the mount is compatible with your desires. If you contemplate a ceiling mount, make sure the system lets you flip the image and that the mounting assembly is appropriate for you.
Speakers
Some cheap models sound terrible, which only matters if you’re not connecting them to external speakers. Some projectors have a lot of sound quality, but you have to make sure. It’s not a given.
Extras
Many economy projectors are streamlined to the basics of connecting, powering up, and beaming the image. If you want Remote Control, Wireless, a custom carrying case, an adjusting keystone, etc., you can expect to pay more.
Pro Tip: Don’t be overly impressed with how many hours some components might last: most economy projectors are as close to disposables as manufacturers can make them.
Warranties – One year is about the minimum proper period for a projector. Longer terms naturally signal better-made equipment: a three-year warranty is quite good.
To help sort through the marketing hype, our Buyer’s Guide explains what to look for and what the jargon means, and we’ve selected 14 of the most popular high-value best office projectors to review.
Best Office Projector of 2021
1. ViewSonic PA503S – Best Projector for Office Presentations
This portable SVGA projector delivers an image bright enough to serve in a classroom or business setting with ambient light.
Bright Picture
The ViewSonic PA503S has a 190W lamp listed at 3800 ANSI lumens and adds a high-contrast ratio of 22,000:1 that makes its picture pop … even in a semi-darkened room.
Super Eco mode conserves lamp energy and extends bulb life for up to 15,000 hours. The mode kicks in whenever the projector is idle for five minutes; after 20 minutes, images are automatically dimmed 70%.
Sharp, Colorful Resolution
This ViewSonic image isn’t only bright; it’s sharp and vivid. Though it’s not targeted as a gaming projector, reduced input latency keeps action images clear.
The projected image highlights this model, and it does better than its class despite limitations. The screen is bright and crisp and uses upgraded DLP technology for more brilliant colors and near-HD detail.
The projected screen size is limited; you can zoom, but you’ll need to significantly move the projector to alter the projected image. A ten-foot distance is ideal for screen sharpness — it produces a 60 x 34-inch image. The picture is about 120 inches when the projector is sixteen feet away — plenty for a home movie setup.
Good User Experience
This lightweight projector is easy to move, and the setup is simple. The system turns on automatically after plug-in. The screen can be quickly optimized with five unique preset viewing modes.
A vertical keystone corrects distorted images. The menu is accessible, but there isn’t a detailed explanation of all functions. The settings are preset for average performance.
Users often forget to turn off projectors, especially in classrooms and office meeting rooms, especially in common areas. The projector’s sleep timer allows you to select a period of inactivity that will determine when the projector automatically goes into sleep mode.
Service and Components
The ViewSonic PA503S is Bluetooth-enabled and supports most media players and mobile devices and PCs and Macs. It plays VGA and accepts input from HDMI (projected at SVGA resolution).
The speaker can be disappointing for larger-scale viewing, but you can easily connect to an external speaker.
There’s an easy-to-use remote control. You can flip the picture for the ceiling projection, but you’ll need to purchase the mounting separately.
The warranty is good, including direct customer support, three years of limited parts and labor coverage, and a one-year lamp guarantee.
Verdict
- A bright picture with indirect ambient light
- Automatic mode to avoid overheating, conserve power, and extend lamp life
- Sharp, a colorful image can reproduce legible text
- Lightweight at 7.14 lbs
- Multiple connectivity options
- Modest screen size
- Inconvenient menu feature documentation
- Minimal speaker audio quality
2. Epson EX3280 – Great Vibrant Color Projector
The Epson EX3280 projector is the perfect choice for anyone who needs to present in well-lit rooms. Its 3,600 lumens of color and white brightness are ideal for displaying large-group presentations, spreadsheets, and videos. You won’t have to worry about adjusting the lighting or moving furniture around so that everyone can see what you’re presenting on this bright projector. With XGA resolution, you can display presentations and videos in crisp detail.
3LCD technology
True 3-Chip 3LCD technology is a fantastic advancement in projection. It allows for 100% display of RGB colors without any distracting “rainbowing” or other color issues while maintaining excellent brightness to ensure your picture looks great!
The HDMI port lets you easily connect streaming devices, including Fire TV and Apple TV. The user can easily set up a projector for video and audio right out of the box with its built-in speaker.
The built-in picture skew sensor automatically analyzes the image and instantly corrects for any vertical keystoning, providing an accurate representation of what you’re looking at. With a fantastic contrast ratio of up to 15,000:1, the projector provides crisp and rich detail for graphs, images, and videos.
The projector has a one-year limited warranty and complete unit replacement, plus free technical phone support for the life of your product.
Verdict
If you live in a well-lit room or even outdoors, this projector has XGA resolution and 3,600 lumens of brightness to ensure that your presentations are clear. With HDMI inputs for easy hookup to consumer devices, including Fire TV and Apple TV, the Epson EX3280 is the perfect projector for business presentations.
- Contrast ratio of up to 15,000:1 for excellent detail in images and videos
- Picture skew sensor automatically corrects keystoning
- Vibrant color for presentations
- Weak audio
3. Optoma EH335 – Versatile and Compact Powerful Projector
The Optoma EH335 is packed with features that make it easy for anyone to create excellent presentations, no matter their skill level. With its 1080p full high definition and 20,000:1 contrast ratio, you’ll be able to present vibrant colors and clear text and graphics every time. Plus, it has built-in 10W speakers, so you don’t have to worry about buying external speakers or finding an outlet nearby.
The Optoma EH335 is perfect for any presentation situation – from classrooms where students are learning new concepts in vivid detail up through boardrooms where executives are making important decisions based on information presented by employees. With 3,600 lumens of brightness, this projector can handle even the most brightly lit room so audiences can stay productive during presentations or lectures.
Connection
You can do the projector’s complete network control either through LAN or RS-232 connections, depending on what device you’re using to operate them from. The EH335 features 2x HDMI, MHL, VGA, and Audio-in/out along with USB power. It can be connected to a variety of devices, including laptops or mobile devices.
The lamps last up to 15,000 hours, meaning you can enjoy 4 hours of viewing time every day for 10 plus years. These are some impressive statistics!
Keystone correction
The EH335 has a vertical keystone correction of +/- 40 degrees, which allows it to be off-center without elevating the projector. This results in an easy image setup; when projected onto any flat surface, such as wall or ceiling, for instance, no need for additional elevation like what would happen if one were using another type of projector. The 1.1x zoom also enables flexible placements in any space.
With fewer than 7 pounds weight and the ability to be easily moved from one room in your house or office space, this little device can provide easy sharing wherever it’s needed. The EH335 puts out a 120″ image projected from just 12.8 feet away with an impressive 1.47 – 1.62 throw ratio, perfect for any project!
The built-in 10-watt speaker will enhance your presentations and simplify the setup process without needing additional speakers. It has a loud enough volume for classroom use, as well as meeting rooms.
Verdict
The Optoma EH335 is a great option for anyone looking for a new projector. With the latest in technology, it will bring your presentations to life whether you are sharing them with coworkers or your kids on an adventure of their own. Maxing out at 120″ at 12.8 feet away, this device gives you optimum screen size within a very convenient distance.
The 1080p full high definition and 20,000:1 contrast ratio give you vivid colors and clear text every time, making it great for all types of presentations, whether professional or personal. With 3,600 lumens of brightness and 15000-hour lamp life (4 hours per day for 10 years), this device can handle a variety of light conditions, making it a good choice for those who share their presentations in different rooms or during the day and night.
- 1080p full HD resolution with 15,000:1 contrast ratio
- Durable, high-quality components designed for reliability and convenience
- 3D ready – all HDMI ports support pass through of MHL enabled devices to your projector or display
- 10W speaker enhances presentations without the need for an external sound system
- Vertical keystone correction of +/- 40 degrees to correct skewed projection
- 1.1x zoom and lens shift means easy image setup and placement
- 3-year limited warranty, 2-day advanced replacement and free 24/7 technical support
- Not wireless
- Costly
4. Optoma EH412ST – Best Short-Throw Projector
The Optoma EH412ST Projector is perfect for those who are looking for a short-throw projector. It has an impressive 120″ image from only 4.5 feet away, and it has a throw ratio of 0.5:1 which means you can place it closer to the screen, making installation easier.
The projector is a powerful, high brightness device that’s perfect for use in well-lit areas. It will illuminate your meeting room or conference space with 4,000 lumens. The Optoma EH412ST is a 4K HDR projector that can display vibrant colors, brighter whites, and deeper black levels when paired with the latest video sources.
Features
The Optoma EH412ST is a high-quality device that has a fantastic color range. The 50,000:1 contrast ratio and serge color profile will provide rich, accurate colors thanks to its compliance with HDTV specifications when used with PC’s Macs or other compatible sources.
The projector comes with an array of connectivity options, including 2 x HDMI, VGA in and out for connecting your device seamlessly. It also includes audio-in/out and RS232 or USB-A ports so you can easily push information up on the screen from a wide range of devices.
Speaker
An integrated speaker is a great way to improve your presentations and save space on the budget. The built-in 10-watt speaker will enhance sound without external equipment while loud enough for most classrooms or meeting rooms.
With a lamp life of up to 15,000 hours – the equivalent of 5 hours of daily viewing for at least 8 years – the savings are more than obvious. The Optoma EH412ST is portable, weighing less than 8 pounds. This means it can easily be taken from room to room and will not take up much space.
The projector can display authentic 3D content from almost any source, including a wide range of sources like Blu-ray disc players and broadcasting. A DLP (Digital Light Processing) projector offers higher contrast, faster response time, and virtually no color degradation.
Verdict
The Optoma EH412ST is a great projector that delivers beautiful images with 4K resolution. It has an impressive contrast ratio that provides bright whites and deep blacks, making it perfect for use in well-lit rooms. The lamp life is long enough to last you for years, and it has a powerful speaker for added convenience.
A great projector with excellent light output and contrast ratio. It’s perfect for use in well-lit rooms. Very easy to install and comes with many connectivity options.
- Short throw lens
- High contrast ratio and accurate colors
- 3D functionality
- 4K projection
- Portable size and lightweight
- Integrated 10-watt speaker
- Long-lasting lamp up to 15,000 hours
- Expensive
- No lens shift or vertical keystone correction for installation flexibility
- No wireless connectivity
5. ViewSonic PS600X – Best Budget Short-Throw Projector
The ViewSonic PS600X is an advanced visual solution ideal for use in education and corporate environments. It features high brightness, low noise, and a wide color gamut to deliver vivid images with accurate colors. A built-in 10W speaker provides clear audio without the need for external speakers or cables. With its sleek design, it can be easily integrated into any environment.
The projector has a native XGA 1024×768 resolution and 3,500 lumens. The design is user-friendly and intuitive that will make your experience more enjoyable.
Super Color technology
Projectors are often used in professional environments, so their output must look good no matter what. That’s where the ViewSonic PS600X exclusive Super Color technology comes into play. With its ability to produce nearly any color imaginable and still maintain high contrast levels.
Short-throw lens
The short-throw lens is a great way to project an image that will fill up a smaller room. With its 0.61 throw ratio and significant projection capabilities, the projector takes advantage of the benefits of short-throw projection in various spaces. It provides adjustments for corners as well HV keystone correction, which can be helpful when setting up.
The PS600X is a networkable and intelligent short-throw projector designed with smart features that make it perfect for education or corporate environments. It is an excellent choice if you need something on the high-end spectrum in terms of projectors, and it’s definitely worth the money.
Verdict
If you’re seeking a short-throw projector that’s easy to use and provides many smart features then the ViewSonic PS600X is for you. It is a great all-purpose projector that can be used in various environments and is definitely one of the best short-throw projectors on the market.
- Networking and smart features
- Short throw lens
- Well balanced color reproduction
- Low noise
- Keystone correction
- Nice design
- Might be too bright for some users
- It is not a cheap projector
6. Epson EX5260 – Versatile Wireless Portable Projector
If you’re looking for a projector that can deliver accurate, vivid color in well-lit rooms, the Epson EX5260 is a good option. The 3,600 lumens of equal color and white brightness ensure that images are always bright and clear no matter what lighting conditions you’re working with.
The projector’s XGA resolution (1024 x 768) makes it 1.5 times as potent for text-heavy presentations, providing greater detail and clarity than SVGA mode can do on its own. The 10,000:1 contrast ratio also makes images crisper than they would be on the average projector.
Wireless
The Epson EX5260 wireless connectivity gives users greater mobility within presentations and even lets them share files from mobile devices via Epson’s iProjection app. Wireless setup for your mobile device is simple. Just scan the projected QR Code with one of these devices to get connected. Please note, you need to buy an additional LAN adapter for the wireless function.
Verdict
The Epson projector’s robust color accuracy and brightness make it a great choice. It can display up to 3 times as many colors on screen as similar DLP projectors, which will result in more realistic presentations for your partners and colleagues.
- 3,600 lumens of equal color and white brightness
- XGA resolution (1024 x 768) for greater text clarity
- Wireless connectivity with iProjection app
- Quiet speaker
7. YABER Y21 – Best Inexpensive Projector for Presentations
The Yaber is a low-priced model for the number of features it carries. Though it isn’t for use in the classroom or with detailed presentations, it offers HD viewing and good connectivity with some extras.
HD Resolution
The Yaber has a native 1080P resolution and employs optical enhancements to deliver a sharp central image. The 7000:1 contrast ratio helps boost clarity.
The model is listed as 6800 LUX, which overstates its brightness: you’ll need a fairly dark room for good viewing. It uses a three-fan cooling system with a power-saving SmarEco mode that extends lamp life to 100,000 hours.
There may be some blurring in the corners, a common issue with projectors in this price range. The image is suitable for gaming and movies, but the text display can appear grainy.
Screen Size and Adjustment
The projection size ranges from 50 to 300 inches between five and 30 feet — the recommended distance is 10 feet. You can do remote optical zoom both horizontally and vertically.
There’s also 4D Keystone correction to maintain a rectangular image. You can adjust for a projector placed to one side. Rear projection and inverted ceiling mount settings are available.
Usability
The Yaber Y21’s 5W dual stereo speakers do a pretty good job, and it has an audio jack for external speakers. There’s some fan noise if you’re running silent.
It’s not Bluetooth-enabled, but you have two HDMI ports and two USB ports for connection with most media players. You’ll need additional adapters for Android, iPhone, or Macbook products. Note: Apple connection can be inconsistent.
Some durability issues have been reported, but the unit has a six-month return window and up to five years of support.
The Yaber Y21 is a good choice if you’re looking for HD and want an easy-to-use, lightweight projector for light gaming and casual home theater use. If you want something more robust for conferences or presentations, it’s probably not the projector for you.
- HD 1080P resolution
- Lightweight at 5.7 lbs
- Offset projection
- SmarEco mode minimizes power consumption and extends lamp life
- 5W dual stereo speakers with audio jack
- Minor edge blurring
- Needs darkened room for viewing
- Some durability issues reported
8. Epson VS250 – Best Projector for Video and TV Watching
This SVGA projector is an easy-to-use, mid-range home theater unit that can be used indoors or out.
Bright Screen
The Epson VS250 projects a bright image in a room with low-to-medium ambient light. The 2300-lumen, 210W Ultra High-Efficiency lamp outshines the most equivalent models.
The projector does an excellent job outdoors, producing a screen size from 34 to 350 inches. The lamp is rated for 6000 hours of regular use, extending to 10,000 hours in Eco Mode.
Image Quality: Good Color, Average Resolution
The Epson VS250 is a bit disappointing for displaying text and rendering detailed images. The small print will be grainy. It is best for viewing movies, sports, and streaming online content.
The color is vivid and can reproduce up to a billion hues. The image quality doesn’t begin to deteriorate until the picture is more significant than 120 inches.
Superior Usability
Solid options enhance the user experience. The stylish projector is lightweight and portable. It is set up quickly, and the controls are easy to understand and operate.
You can center the display when the unit is placed to one side, enabling you to stand in front of the image without blocking projection.
You can flip the image for use with a ceiling mount (not included). It can’t be mounted on a tripod; however: the projection must be placed on a sturdy, level surface or special bracket.
Fan noise is minimal and won’t interrupt normal viewing. The remote control has image zoom features.
The one potentially serious downside is the lack of an audio jack for an external speaker. An HDMI extractor can output the audio, but that requires an extra purchase.
Connectivity
This Epson VS250 has 2 USB ports and an HDMI input that accepts all formats. It’s compatible with Xbox and both Apple (MAC OSX 10.5 – 10.12) and PC laptops. It works with an iPhone, but you’ll need Apple TV and a 4K HDMI cord to project movies.
Two things it doesn’t have: Bluetooth capability and wireless connectivity.
Verdict
Suppose you don’t need to display text and don’t mind being tied to average audio speakers. In that case, this is an excellent and highly portable home theater unit or office video streaming projector that’s stylish and has nice extras.
- Offset projection
- Low fan noise
- Bright image with indirect ambient light
- Lightweight 5.3 lbs
- Large 350-inch image
- Image brightness requires a darkened room
- Average quality built-in speakers
- No external audio jack
9. TOPVISION – Best Budget Full HD Projector
This TOPVISION model offers high resolution and good connectivity options along with some higher-end features.
Bright HD Image
The TOPVISION offers 1080P resolution and a screen bright enough for space with medium ambient light.
6000:1 contrast provides a defined image. The picture isn’t crisp enough to display detail or small text, but the optics work nicely for movies or PS4/Xbox gaming.
The automatic dual fan mode minimizes power consumption and extends lamp life for up to 80,000 hours.
Screen Display
The image is best within a suggested range of 4-6m. The screen size varies from 80 inches to 240 inches.
There aren’t many centering options: you are limited to keystone correction and manual adjustment.
Plug and Play
The unit comes with two HDMI and USB ports and one VGA port. It connects easily to an iPad, TV box, Chromecast, PC, and most multimedia players.
You’ll need to purchase gear for some options. An iPhone needs a Lightning to HDMI adapter, and a smartphone requires a Wi-Fi or HDMI adapter. Android uses a Micro USB (Type C)-to-HDMI adapter.
Additional Features: Hit and Miss
The two 3W HiFi speakers aren’t loud enough for a large setting, but there’s an AV jack for external audio. You can’t access Dolby, but you can turn the option off for regular sound.
One potential pain point is that the projector doesn’t remember its source after shutdown — you have to navigate to the input option each time you power up.
There is a remote control, and you can set a shutdown timer. A soft carrying case is included.
Verdict
It’s hard to find a budget unit that delivers a brighter picture in HD 1080P resolution. Adjustability is limited, but the connectivity and external speaker options help make it a good value.
- HD 1080P resolution
- Bright enough for use with moderate ambient light
- Lightweight and portable at 6.94 lbs
- Programmable shutdown
- Soft carrying case
- Modest but high-pitched fan noise
- Doesn’t retain source settings
10. VANKYO Leisure 510 – Great Projector With High Resolution
Electronics manufacturer VANKYO makes some popular projectors with a lot of performance for the price, and, at 13.8 x 13.1 x 6.2 inches, this is one of their beefier models. It can project a screen up to 200″ wide, suitable for a home theater or outdoor setup. It delivers a bright picture, impressive resolution, and surprising audio quality for most home and office video uses.
Quality Image
The VANKYO 510 gives you a higher resolution than most economical projectors so that you can put together an excellent system at almost cheap. The crisp view has a nice contrast to deliver a clear image.
The color rendition is another highlight. The LED bulb uses an Advanced Color Engine to take advantage of the 16.7-million color palette. The acceptable brightness level brings out detail, which offers a rich viewing experience, together with nicely saturated color.
One quibble is a small amount of light bleed on the edges of the screen. This isn’t unusual or overly distracting, but it’s there.
Brightness
The 510 doesn’t quite match the 3600-lumen labeling, but it’s bright enough to view in non-direct sunlight if you reduce the image to ¼ of the stated maximum (to about 50 inches wide). If you want a full-sized image over 100 inches, you’ll need to darken the room.
Resolution Legerdemain
VANKYO announces a 1080p supported resolution on the label, but the actual “native” resolution is 1280×768. This isn’t HD, but it’s pretty good for an economy machine and one of the best on the market outside of expensive higher-end projectors.
The optical quality, color depth, and brightness work nicely and make the image excellent.
Portable and Convenient
To achieve the mammoth 200″ super-wide picture, you’ll have to move the projector 18.4 feet away. There’s a convenient focus wheel to fine-tune the image.
Placement is versatile, too. For typical mounting on a flat surface, the feet are a spring-loaded foot to raise/lower the projected angle, which you can adjust to eliminate distortion with the vertical keystone.
You can also turn the model upside down to project from the ceiling overhead: convenient mounting holes under the rubber feet and a setting to flip the image.
Packaging & Service
The Leisure 510 comes with a soft carrying case that packs the AV, HDMI, and power cables. You won’t want to drop the soft case, but it is waterproof and has a handy carrying strap. PRO TIP: The remote’s AAA batteries aren’t included.
It connects via HDMI, VGA, AV, USB, and Micro SD, with Dual HDMI & USB ports.
Verdict
Overall, this is a versatile unit that performs almost as well as its specs claim — and better than most units at this price. You can make a modest home theater to watch the game or host a small outdoor showing without breaking the bank. The projector is also well suited for business presentations.
- A large 200-inch projected image
- Sufficiently bright to use with indirect ambient light
- Versatile projected range
- Built-in two 3W stereo speakers
- Remote control
- Minor light bleed at edges
- Moderate fan noise
11. Optoma HD143X – Best Image & Gaming Performance
Optoma’s high-quality gaming reputation shows up in this popular midrange DLP projector. Combining portability, versatility, and superior optics, the HD143X lets you host a cinematic HD group experience or enjoy the full potential of your favorite video game.
Sharp, Clear Image
The native 1080p resolution delivers a stunning, crisp image. The system is entirely Rec. 709-compliant and has a high contrast ratio (23,000:1) without gimmicks, downscaling, or compression. It’s the real deal.
The imperfections are slight. Overspill is mild to non-existent depending upon image size; a black-bordered screen absorbs it. One potential flaw is a rainbow effect that’s unavoidable with DLP projectors. Not everyone notices, though, and it’s less of an issue when gaming or at a lower light output.
Excellent Versatility
You can adjust screen dimensions from 28 to 300 inches. Large screen sizes over 120 inches can reduce brightness, but high contrast keeps the image viewable.
The system is easy to set up and looks great out of the box. Choose either tabletop or overhead mounting with reverse projection.
The vertical keystone and 1.1 Zoom help keep the picture straight. There’s an image shift but no lens shift. A convenient ISF Calibration Mode saves your finely tuned Day and Night configurations.
Most platforms are widely supported—as long as they’re digital. Plug into an iPhone or iPad, Firestick, or cable box. There are two HDMI ports, one with MHL support and a 5v-powered USB port.
High-end gaming and 3D
Optoma’s low-latency mode provides snappy, no-lag action without jitters or jumps. The system works with Blu-Ray, PS3/PS4, Nintendo, Xbox, and most other recent high-performance consoles.
It can play authentic 3D content from Blu-Ray and most 3D broadcast or game consoles. The rapid 144Hz refresh rate gives you a flicker-free experience: all you need is 3D glasses.
Quality Construction and Minimal Packaging
The construction looks flimsy, but don’t worry: durable flat-black ABS plastic keeps portability high at a lightweight 5.5lbs and houses smooth-glide optical controls with a precision hold. The fan noise is low, too.
Lamp life isn’t bad, either. Expect up to 15,000 hours on the economy setting and 3,000 hours on high. The low volume output of the single built-in 10-watt speaker is less impressive: sound lovers will want to plug external speakers into the 3.5mm headphone jack for higher fidelity or surround sound.
The HD143X packaging can be streamlined: a power cord, brief printed instructions, and a CD-ROM Manual. There are a one-year warranty and a 90-day lamp guarantee. 3D glasses would’ve been nice, but there are some extras.
The bulky remote is highly functional and has useful-in-the-dark illumination. A motorized screen can be automatically raised or lowered upon system activation. You can rename input functions along with an assortment of other minor customizations.
Verdict
The HD143X is a quality home entertainment system that doubles as a top-notch gaming platform. It’s a great overall value.
- True HD Resolution with BrilliantColor™ and Dynamic Black Technology
- 28- to 300-inch Screen
- No-lag Refresh Rate
- 3D Capability
- Minimal Audio
- Potential Overspill and Rainbowing Effect
12. VANKYO Leisure 3 Mini – Quietest Projector
This is the smaller cousin of the VANKYO model we just reviewed, and at under $100, it’s even more affordable. It lacks a higher resolution and brightness, but this little unit beats many models that cost and weigh much more.
Big Screen in a Little Projector
2019 saw an update to an improved LED, which brings a unique color to a bright-enough screen. It doesn’t project a 1080p image, really, of course — but it does throw a bright and colorful screen in a darkened room. Forget about daylight viewing; but, for outdoor shows at night, it does nicely.
The official projected screen size is from 32″ at 4.9 feet, up to 170″ from 16.4 feet, with a recommended distance of about 6.5 ft.
Quiet Fan … and Audio
The built-in speakers are less successful. You’ll want to plug them into decent exterior ones for the sound experience.
Super Portability and Connectivity
Compact size and lightweight are highlight features. The Leisure 3 Mini weighs just 2.1 lbs and comes with a custom bag, so you can always bring your home entertainment system along.
You can easily connect via smartphone, PS3, PS4, X-Box One, or Wii. Not Bluetooth, though, and you’ll have to buy an adapter separately for use with an iPhone.
No PowerPoint-ing
This is a great portable model for small showings of video games, sports, and movies. It’s not for reading text so that you won’t score points with anyone using it in a formal office or classroom.
Verdict
Overall, this economical projector can work for a small home theater — for a few folks, in the dark, not too far away. It’s limited and a severe value that punches up and offers an excellent experience for small, casual gatherings.
It’s also nice to have a decent projector you can use with kids and not get too stressed about collateral damage.
- Lightweight and Portable at 2.41 lbs
- A large 170-inch projected image
- Versatile projected range
- Quiet Fan
- Dim image unless the room is darkened
- Requires separate adapter to connect to Smartphones
- Low quality built-in speakers
13. APEMAN Mini – Best Pocket-sized Projector
If you like the previous mini-projector but want a bump in performance, the APEMAN M4 Mini is a popular model without many frills. It’s perfect for small home presentations in a darkened room and has lots of connectivity options.
High-end Optics in a Compact
At under four inches square and less than an inch deep, the sleek M4 fits in your pocket for easy transport. It’s less than a half-pound in weight: about that of a typical smartphone.
The minimalist design isn’t overloaded with options and features, but along the device’s rim are all the basics: a jack for external speakers or a headphone, HDMI cable, and micro-USB ports, and buttons for volume, focus, and power.
The screen is well-lit at 50~100 lumen with advanced DLP technology that surpasses a mere LCD. It’s plenty of power for small get-togethers to watch the video, delivering a sharp 854×480 native resolution image.
Plug-in Convenience and Power
Simplicity is a high point of the M4. It’s very much a plug-and-play device that anyone can use, regardless of experience. It connects to various sources, including a TeeVee, camera, PS3/4 console, or a MacBook or PC. With an adapter (purchased separately), you can stream from an Android smartphone.
The power options are convenient, too. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts 1.5 to 2.5 hours on a single charge, enough to view a classic movie.
Quality Features, but Stripped Down Options
The slick casing looks nice, but the M4 isn’t fancy. It supplements the streamlined functionality with a few high-end options.
The lens has a generous 45,000 hour lifetime, which supposedly means you can watch a 3-hour movie for 40 years. It doesn’t produce much noise, either, which is excellent for small quarters.
The custom 360-degree tripod looks futuristic and lean, but there isn’t a wireless interface, and forget about flipping the image for a ceiling mount. You don’t get a keystone correction function, so you’ll have to keep the projector level and fairly plumb to avoid distortion. No remote functions either.
Verdict
Overall, this is a super convenient and portable way to bring a party around in your pocket. It needs a pretty dark environment to see well, so it’s not for business presentation.
- Pocket-sized projector under 4-inches square
- Lightweight at just over 1 lb
- Excellent Plug-and-play capacity
- 360-degree custom Tripod
- Rechargeable batteries provide Up to 3 hours on one charge
- Low audio quality built-in speakers
- Dim image unless the room is darkened
14. APEMAN Mini Portable LC350 – Best Mini Projector for Business Presentations
If you like the APEMAN mini design but want a more affordable model, the LC350 mini has much the same performance but offers a larger screen size and wireless options.
Bright Colorful Enhanced LCD Display
The 4.0 LCD uses advanced technology to up the brightness. Of course, the 3500-lumen specifications listed are meaningless—it’s just 50 lumens according to common ANSI standards, but it does pretty well for a low-cost option.
The LC350 isn’t for a classroom or formal business presentation because it lacks the clarity needed to read the text, but it projects video in a darkened room well enough for a modest home theater setup.
Adjustable, Variable Wide Screen
The 800×480 native resolution accepts 1080p signals and projects images from 34 to 180 inches. However, the best viewing dimensions are between 50 and 120 inches. The projector distance can be set between 3 and 12 feet away, with an optimal range between 3 and 9 feet, great for intimate gatherings or a small space.
An adjustable padded foot can change the projector’s height, along with a focus wheel and a keystone to true up the picture. With these adjustments, you can easily cast an undistorted image from whichever distance and level you choose.
Good Audio with Low Fan Noise
Since we don’t expect much from factory speakers at this price range, the built-in dual speakers have a surprising amount of volume and sound quality. It’s even loud enough for video games.
Their efficient cooling system has fans specially designed to be quiet. You don’t get Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, though.
Widely Connectable
APEMAN’s portable projectors are easy to use and very plug-and-playable. You can connect to PCs and laptops, consoles, smartphones, TV Sticks, and Chromecast.
There’s an assortment of ports for HDMI, VGA, Micro SD, RCA AV interfaces, and the crucial USB.
Not so Bright
The color stands out well enough in a darkened room but is easily washed out with ambient light. It won’t do anything but watch videos with a small group or alone—which is all most people need anyway.
Verdict
If you’re going to go for a full-out economy, this is one of the best buys for its widescreen and sharp picture. It has good connectivity options and adjustments to make the image transparent. It’s hard to go wrong buying at this price for a projector, but it’s still nice to know you’re not.
- Lightweight and Portable at 2.41 lbs
- A large 180-inch projected image
- Quiet Fan
- Impressive audio from built-in speakers
- Minor light bleed at edges
- Too dim for viewing unless the room is darkened
Conclusion
Our roundup of high-value economy projectors includes the most popular on the market today. We’ve explained the basic product terminology and reviewed nine bestsellers that meet the criteria.
Interest in the newest projectors is increasing because of lower prices and the excellent image quality and fun. People invent positive things with a projector they wouldn’t have otherwise thought to try, such as impromptu photo shows or screening movies outdoors or at group venues.
Creatives are experimenting with making artful projections that add to the surroundings in novel and exciting ways. The future will probably soon bring wireless and find a cost-effective way to increase brightness so a room can be moderately lit.
It can be fun living in the future, and we’re living in an era that puts superior optical quality into amazingly cheap crap. Which is excellent, just do your homework before buying it.
REFERENCES:
https://ivankyo.com/
https://www.optoma.com/
https://www.viewsonic.com/
http://www.apemans.com/
The proud owner and lead writer of OFFICE-EQUIP.COM
Office equipment seller since 2011. Started writing in 2018 and sharing his experience and knowledge with love and respect.
I’ve had the Optoma HD143X projector since October 2018 and recently it makes a loud humming / buzzing sound so watching a movie or something like that is no longer possible / enjoyable. Luckily it’s within the warranty although it’s a big disappointment that I lost it for a while now (use the projector as a TV). Furthermore a good projector with a nice sharp image. Makes a lot of noise when you don’t have it in eco mode.
The Optoma HD143X projector gives a fantastic image. The light output is even in a daylight lit room with translucent blinds close really super. You don’t have to darken the room on a day with little sun.
However, there is a very ‘moaning’ but: The noise produced by the fan is unbearable. I don’t mean the actual number of decibels produced by the fan, but I do mean the high beep that goes with it.
When the projector is on, you can hear this high pitched tone continuously in your ears. Even when there is quite a bit of volume in your movie you can hear this high pitch. For us unbearably annoying, so unfortunately we had to return the projector. I say unfortunately because the image is really fantastic.
This high beep doesn’t seem to be exceptional because this particular flaw is mentioned a lot in the reviews.
Since last week I own the Optoma HD143X projector. A real addition to my AV collection. The projector gives a razor sharp image and is easy to adjust. Unfortunately there is no manual with the device, but it was found on Google in less than a minute. The only drawback is that the sound is a bit tinny, like listening to the sound of an average laptop, but this is no surprise either. Recommended is to hang a soundbar under the projected image or to connect another installation. In short, very satisfied with my purchase!
I bought the Optoma HD143X projector to watch games and movies. You can use it for that too. As a portable device (for business use) I find it quite big, noisy and quite warm. I wouldn’t go out with it because it doesn’t come with a lens cap. For a fixed mounting to the ceiling, this is not an issue. When mounting the projector to the ceiling I was surprised that there was no standard four-point vesa connection option but a three-point one. With the right bracket hanging up is no problem. The projector itself has a good light output and a sharp fullhd projection. I think it’s a top projector for the money to project movies and games with.
I was familiar with Optoma before. They make very good projectors. Also bad price they are not expensive and quality comes first. Definitely a must for those who want to watch big movies, sports, concerts etc on big screen. The Optoma hd 143x knows how to project this with a very nice image of Full HD 1080P.
We left the TV and chose to use only the VANKYO Leisure 510 projector. It is now behind our heads and with the fan some warm air comes out anyway. We are going to place it higher on a shelf on the wall.
The image is super sharp and we are above average happy with it! Recommended to buy.
The Optoma HD143X is a very fine projector with a very good image quality for a great price! In combination with a Chromecast we play movies wirelessly from our smartphone to the projector and that’s fantastic. (Very handy is the usb-out, which powers your Chromecast.) With the audio-out I was able to easily connect the projector to our sound system.
Installing it was very easy. You can fully set up the projector using the remote control. The lighting of that remote control is almost as bright as the projector itself. That’s handy in the dark, but would have been a bit less (you could almost use it as a flashlight).
The fan does produce some sound, but that is quickly drowned out by the sound of the film. Moreover, the projector is a lot quieter in Eco mode and the image remains clear enough (especially in the evening). You can also use this projector very well with daylight.
With this projector we now project a beautiful, razor sharp image of more than 2 meters wide on our wall. We will not go to the cinema for the time being, but enjoy a real home cinema experience at home!
The Optoma HD143X This is my first projector. I chose this one because it had many good reviews and still reasonably affordable. I connected a chromecast to it so I can watch TV or Netflix everywhere via the projector. Image is sharp as soon as it shines, I full light you don’t have a good image. There are a lot of functions on it that I haven’t used all of them yet. I use it by default to watch TV/Film, both indoors and outdoors.
I purchased the VANKYO Leisure 510 for my new office meeting room and everyone is in love with it. It isn’t super loud and the picture quality is so much better than our ancient projector.
The optoma 144x is one of the best in its class. I first looked at the optoma HD142x. It has very good reviews.
Looking further I found out that since the end of 2017 there are also a 144x and 143x available. So they are a bit newer, but are in a similar price range. The 144x has some more lumen (3200 compared to 3000). Furthermore they are very similar as far as I can see.
Compared to my old projector, the image quality is much better. Old projector was also 10 years old. Especially the clay and being able to see the light is fantastic. I have it hanging in mostly dark space, but I’m sure this is not necessary.
Sound is not disturbing when you are watching film or series. If there is nothing on it you can hear the cooling.
Too bad it doesn’t have a real switch-off button on it. You have to remove the plug otherwise hih standby. And I don’t think that’s the intention. I’ve plugged in a power switch.
After having the ACER p1500 for 4 years it was worn out (3750 hours lamp and fan defective) so we ordered the Optoma HD143X.
The projector is of excellent build quality. is a bit noisy, fan makes a lot of noise. We will see how this is in the long run. Furthermore, Full HD is Full Hd, this is just good. High contrast and with 3200 lumens fine to use with outdoor light in the background.
What I find really disappointing and worthless about this projector is the Throw distance. I had to move the projector more than a meter and a half backwards to get a screen as big as the ACER p1500. The projector has to hang really far from a wall. I haven’t seen this with other Optoma’s like this. Bad and a pity about the holes in my roof.
We don’t have a TV at home everything has been replaced by the Projector. Same issue, slightly shorter life cycle but much better experience than TV.
With the VANKYO Leisure 510 projector I have a whole cinema experience in my room at once. The built-in speakers are ok, but still best to combine with external boxes. On my white wall I have an image of about 1.7m by 1m, which I can watch from my bed. This is possible with dimmed lights, but best results are obtained in the dark. This projector is also ideal for students among themselves, to play Mariocart, fifa, or party games.
Optoma HD143X projector:
– For this price really a good projector with many features and good performance
– When it comes to display/colour/scenes, there are many possibilities
– Has a ”game” function for response time
– Has a ”mirrored” image; to project from behind a surface
– The ring for focusing requires some precision
– Significantly quieter in eco mode
– Black design is an advantage for me personally.
– Remote control with (albeit brightly) illuminated buttons
– Sufficient connection options
This is my second HD143X after I had to return the first one because (probably the color wheel because it doesn’t get less when the fans go softer) it made a very high sound which gave me a headache and really irritated my girlfriend. The one I have now still makes the same sound which makes it unusable for me. I don’t know if this is something that comes standard with DLR projectors.
Apart from this the HD143x is a super projector for its price. Sharp 1080p image and good looking even with the curtains open (in eco mode). In terms of volume, the fans are silent when the projector is in eco mode. This makes it very unfortunate that it is unusable because of this aforementioned high sound.
Placed on the terrace, the VANKYO Leisure 510 plays very well. Of course when there is a lot of sunshine, the image becomes a bit difficult to see.
But with some dimming with screens it will certainly do.
You can hear it turning but that is not disturbing. The projector is mounted on the wall just above our heads.
The built-in speaker is a tool, to have a real movie experience I will connect it to decent speakers.
I have the Optoma HD143X.
Super satisfied with it!
The sound is perfect (really no boxes needed to put in), picture quality looks super and no latency in gaming! It can make some noise if you don’t put it on ECO-mode (no drawbacks to eco-mode by the way gives a bit less light image), on ECO-mode you don’t hear it!
I think the Optoma HD143X is the best projector you can buy in this price range. Pretty high light output (3000lumen), HD, 2x HDMI, …
Adjustable for normal projection, projection on ceiling, projection behind canvas (top and bottom).
The keystone can be adjusted up and down in a wide range.
I have the Optoma HD143X. Image is sharp, pure and sufficiently bright, nice contrast. Also in Eco mode and is a lot quieter.
In Eco mode and with still image, the screen flickers slightly.
The lens shift is present and works properly, but the range is rather limited. This gives you some light pollution on the sides.
This projector does radiate some heat after a few hours of use, but nothing abnormal.
I am very satisfied with this purchase!
Optoma HD143X
Definitely nice Full HD image. installation very easy. It’s on a white wall with me.
I’ve had it in my house for almost a month now and it’s on when it’s on the Eco stand. Is certainly fine and also a lot quieter.
In the living room with lighting (not directly on the screen) the image is still good to see. When daylight shines in the room it quickly becomes less. The sound (not the cooling) coming from the projector is as expected below standard. But if you want to enjoy good sound then it goes through your amplifier or home cinema set.
(3D I have not tried yet.)
I had high expectations for the purchase of the Optoma HD143X projector but since I’ve got it I’ve been working with settings almost every hour I’ve used it to improve the image display.
First of all, this is my first projector and I am used to the high image quality of OLED and good LCD screens so my expectations may not be realistic. What disappoints me the most is the contrast. What bothers you as an average projector user anyway is the fact that the projection image lights up your room and reduces the contrast, because on a white wall black will be far from black, this in contrast to a good TV set. Those who have the space to set up a separate room in front of it can of course counteract this effect by painting all walls and ceilings dark or in any other way to counteract reflection, however, this is not possible with average living room use. But then the contrast of the projector itself, which is also quite disappointing in dark scenes, there is a huge difference between the black values in t image (which are just grayish) and the surrounding wall where no projection is noticeable but is just almost black because t is a dark scene and therefore there are no reflections from the surrounding walls and ceiling. I can imagine that t is not a problem for some people but if you are image-critical this is really annoying, especially in dark scenes.
Furthermore the projector can only be used in eco-modes because on the light modes it is very noisy because of the fan that starts running very fast. This makes the image sometimes on the dark side. I also see noise or distortion of t image at different image settings, where colors, brightness and contrast are increased a bit, which occurs because the source material can’t have that amplification properly, just like you overwork a photo on a computer, the image falls apart or you get noise. This means that you can only use the ‘reference’ mode safely as an image setting, which is sometimes okay, but partly due to the eco mode on the dark side.
With this I’ve said everything I don’t like about this projector. For those who haven’t had a projector before, yes there is a positive side to it. Size matters, in terms of image! A large image makes much more impression at first and you sometimes see details that you wouldn’t otherwise see because everything is magnified much further. It’s also nice to present homemade material such as photos and videos.
If I had to choose again now I would look up a case where I can see projectors working, no idea where. But wondering what they’re calling on the internet, no. And last but not least a warning, in my opinion before I buy this projector, I am also influenced by beautiful projection images of this projector on YouTube. However, this is very misleading because if you make a video of a projection image, the contrast in that video, if filmed in a dark room, will automatically be much higher than t is in reality because the camera automatically adjusts its shutter speed to t bright image and therefore black values appear much blacker than they actually are. So don’t rely on YouTube images for that!
The optoma hd143x projector does very well what you can expect in this price range, the sound level is fine. Yes you can hear the fan but in ecomode this is pretty quiet. The previous projector was also the optoma (hd131xe). Because of the good experience with optoma projectors again optoma chosen, this has better image even in daylight reasonably visible in the living room. Dimensions are good so he in our closet is set up, door open and watch movies is certainly after a few months on n 55inch TV is enjoying this again.
The Optoma HD143X projector provides a razor-sharp image, even from a relatively large distance from the wall. The image even comes into its own in a well-lit room. Good to know: if you place the projector high up (on a high shelf in a cupboard), it cannot project the screen downwards, unless you hang it (upside down) from the ceiling. However, you can adjust this largely digitally.
I replaced my defective Optoma H79 with this new Optoma HD143x… Of course my old projector is originally from a more expensive segment and I notice that. So you can only correct the image if you shoot your screen slightly tilted in 1 direction. The minimum projection distance for a bit of decent image is a nice distance. The legs are not adjustable in height and that is difficult when you put it in a cabinet like I do because sometimes you have to have the back a bit higher than the front and therefore physically have to put something underneath it. My old projector felt ‘heavy’ and firm. It feels cheap and plastic. However, the image quality has improved compared to my previous projector, and although I miss the extra inputs, no via or tulip gaits for example, about the image that you can display via the hdmi input is nothing to worry about. The picture is very nice. Sometimes you can see the color wheel effect, but when your eyes are used to it, you can hardly see it anymore.
A fine projector without fuss with a nice picture for relatively little money.
I used to have a cheap Chinese projector for a good year, but it made too much noise, had a headache after watching films.
As far as the Optoma HD143 is concerned:
see + and – points, here I go a bit further…
+shift: is actually shifting: makes sure that if your projector is not perfectly centred compared to the screen you can shift it a bit (read cutting along L or R and above or below).
+ remote control is illuminated, so great ease of use, is intuitive, it also has 3 programmable buttons but they do not go deep enough in the menu…
+The vertical keystone ensures a correct image.
On eco mode, the sound of the cooling is really STILL! On cinema mode (and dynamic black) it is the loudest but not super disturbing during playback, but in “stupid” moments.
On eco mode it is barely audible, a bit like a laptop that is just turned on.
Attention! the projector hangs up with 3 points, so look for suitable braces (with a 4 point it also works if you have some inventiveness).
Connections: I use a Chromecast, so power through the usb and plug in 1 of the 2 HDMI.
to split the sound to a 5.1 surround set I use an adapter/splitter of HDMI nr HDMI+Optic (and stereo).
Image itself: in light mode, not in cinema mode!
Some light ghosting if you really pay attention during high speed scenes.
explosions sometimes a few cubes, but again a lot less on cinema mode.
Best mode is cinema mode, with the dynamic black option on (so no eco= shortest lamp life and most cooling noise).
Built-in speaker: not bad for a projector, but once you’re used to surround…
Want to know how big your image will be:
General: good colours, nice and sharp, quiet.
In short, definitely recommended, perfect as first good entrant to go to 4K in a few years time 😉 (by then more on offer)
Now in possession for 5 weeks.
Optoma HD143X projector is really plug and play. Image quality is fine even in a less darkened room. Internal speaker is already reasonably good but can also be connected to an ecterne, which I personally find a great advantage. The projector itself is quite substantial. The projection distance could have been better for me (larger image at a shorter distance), but this makes up for the image quality as far as I’m concerned. I also don’t think the projector makes a lot of grluid.
Optoma HD143X works well, intuitively, beautiful image. We have had the projector for a week now. And gaming is going well. You can see the projection in a bright room, not in direct sunlight of course, but in a shaded room you can. Image / projection is very good, makes a room directly into a cinema. Gaming also goes well, the refresh rate is fast, e.g. when watching an F1 race, the projector projects a nice and clear image.
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Optoma hd143x is a good replacement for my 10-year-old Optoma ex532. I bought this projector because of the powerful lamp with which you can use the projector in a lit room during the day, even in eco-mode.
The Optoma HD143X displays excellent image quality, starts up quickly and is very quiet even at full power, with cooling on.
There are many ways to adjust the image. The colours are deep and rich and the contrast excellent.
I have a relatively small living room (approx. 5m wide) and have the projector hanging on the wall above my head when I am sitting on the couch.
The image is over 2m large, slightly larger than with my previous projector, and I can easily read all the text if I use a web browser to watch a series of films.
The only real disadvantage so far is that with my previous projector I could point the remote control against the wall, and with this projector that doesn’t work very well. Sometimes I have to press a button several times until the projector recognises it, because the sensor is quite small.
In addition, the image can sometimes flicker when I use the projector in eco mode, but that happens very rarely and very lightly.
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