With the help of a projector, you can get a large, clear and bright picture on almost any surface. Standard models are distinguished by a decent weight and overall dimensions — they weigh about 5 kg and are not mobile at the same time. The situation is quite different with the so-called mini-projectors — you can carry them with you all the time, they are light and compact. They are often used to perform various office work, such as small presentations.
The choice of this digital technology today is very large: it will not be so easy to choose the optimal model. If you are seriously interested in buying such equipment, then we are in a hurry to present you with a rating of mini-projectors of the year. As part of this review, a detailed analysis of the main characteristics of these devices will be given, in addition, we will give some useful tips that will definitely come in handy when buying.
How to choose the right mini projector?
First of all, let’s look at what mini-projectors themselves are: there are several varieties. One of the most compact options is a pocket projector, the dimensions of which are comparable to the size of an ordinary smartphone. With it, you can even project the screen of a mobile gadget. There are all the necessary connectors to work with a variety of equipment. LED lamps are installed here, which have a long service life, but the brightness often fails — this parameter is in the range of 100-300 lumens, so the room where the projector will be used should be darkened.
Portable projectors differ from standard ones only in size and weight, besides, the picture is much worse. Ordinary lamps are installed in them, the service life of which does not exceed 6,000 hours, but the brightness is quite decent — about 3,000 lumens, resolution is not lower than 1024×768. Some devices are equipped with a Wi-Fi module, so using them is even more comfortable. There are Pico format projectors. They are very small, weighing no more than 250 g, they are not suitable for work, they are usually purchased for entertainment.
When choosing a mini-projector, in addition to size, three key parameters should be taken into account — brightness, matrix type and resolution. With brightness, everything is clear — the higher this indicator, the better, besides, for most models, the brightness is adjustable. Mini projectors use DLP, LCD and LcoS matrices. The first type allows you to get good picture quality, is compact, the LCD matrix consumes a small amount of energy and is inexpensive. The latter variety is made on the basis of liquid crystals, provides maximum image detail. Resolution is responsible for the clarity of the projected image — HD, FullHD, 4K and so on. However, with an increase in this parameter, the cost of equipment will also increase.
When we chose products for the best mini projectors in 2022, we paid attention to all these points. In addition to them, the ratio of price and quality of the device was taken into account. We tried to compile a review of not too expensive devices so that readers can choose the best option for themselves without harming their wallet.
Ten of the best miniature projectors
10. Unic YG-300
One of the cheapest models on the Russian market. The device is capable of delivering a luminous flux of up to 400 Lumens, equipped with a single 1 W speaker. Overall dimensions are compact — 126x48x86 mm with a weight of only 250 g. Often, users install it in a children’s room to watch cartoons. The equipment is capable of working with even very high-resolution video files, but the broadcast will be in a compressed format, since the native resolution of the mini-projector is only 320×240 pixels.
It is easy to control the device — there is only a power button on the case, and all other manipulations are performed using the remote control. The case has an HDMI output, as well as an input for headphones and speakers. Own speaker is very weak — almost nothing will be heard through it.
Advantages:
- Low cost;
- Small overall dimensions and weight;
- Good quality components and assembly.
Disadvantages:
- It will be possible to fully see the image only in complete darkness;
- The audio codec does not support all formats;
- Image resolution is low.
Unic YG-300
9. Digma DiMagic Cube
Allows you to get a projection of the display of a smartphone, tablet or laptop up to 120 inches. The device itself is compact, made in the form of a cube with a face of 64 mm. Sound and video on the device can be transmitted wirelessly. The mini projector has extended functionality, it combines the capabilities of a standard projector and Smart TV, thus it will be possible to work with a variety of content with its help.
You can control the product using a convenient and ergonomic remote control based on Air Mouse technology. The projector itself is powered by a quad-core processor with a frequency of 1.3 GHz, has a built-in memory of 16 GB and a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh. The RAM here is 1 GB — quite a decent indicator for a device of this type, the speaker power is 2 GB. The aspect ratio of the picture is 16:9 at a resolution of 854×480 pixels.
Advantages:
- Remote control with Air Mouse function;
- Decent battery capacity;
- Good resolution for compact size;
- You can even charge a running projector.
Disadvantages:
- No support for AAC;
- There is no Play Market application, but it can be installed manually if necessary;
- Pretty dim.
Digma DiMagic Cube
8. Philips PicoPix Nano PPX120
The mass of this projector is only 140 grams — the lightest option among all the models presented in the review, and in size the device is even smaller than the average size of a smartphone. Image resolution is 640×360 pixels with a light flux of about 100 Lumens. The power of the built-in speaker is 2 W, the dimensions are 64x48x52 mm. There is a built-in battery that can work offline for at least an hour.
There is a card reader here for working with various kinds of flash drives, a USB output, a headphone or speaker jack are provided. The device is perfect for people who often go hiking, travel and business trips. The device itself is equipped with a Wi-Fi module. The picture will be quite bright only in complete darkness. The largest projection size is 1.5 m diagonally.
Advantages:
- The presence of a Wi-Fi module;
- Insignificant weight;
- Compact dimensions;
- It is possible to work with flash cards and USB-drives.
Disadvantages:
- Image brightness and resolution leave much to be desired;
- The sound is mono, not too loud.
Philips PicoPix Nano PPX120
7. Everycom S6 Plus
The form factor of this mini-projector is more like a smartphone, and in terms of the functional part, the device is quite capable of replacing a portable entertainment center. The maximum image diagonal is 100 inches. The brightness is within 150 Lumens, the resolution of the optics is 854×480 pixels. The device works on the basis of a DLP matrix, is equipped with a built-in 5,000 mAh battery, which allows it to work offline for about 2 hours.
The case has a full set of necessary interfaces — 2 USB, HDMI, microSD, Audio3.5. The operating system uses Android version 7.1, the key element is a quad-core RK3128 Cortex-A7 processor. Its clock frequency is 1.2 GHz. RAM here is 1 GB, built-in can be 8, 16 or 32 GB, depending on the configuration. Model dimensions 147x81x13 mm, weight — 250 g.
Advantages:
- All necessary cables are included in the kit;
- Sharpness can be adjusted;
- High-quality Wi-Fi module;
- Built-in battery of decent capacity.
Disadvantages:
- The charger cable is short;
- The image gives off a little yellow tones.
Everycom S6 Plus
6. LG CineBeam PF50KS-EU
Works on the basis of the latest generation DLP matrix, thanks to which it was possible to provide excellent brightness and contrast of the image, not to miss various small details. The projector features a decent level of resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, which fully corresponds to the Full HD format. It uses RGB LEDs, characterized by a brightness of up to 600 Lumens. The service life of the lighting element reaches 30,000 hours. The projector is equipped with an additional DMD matrix, which performs the function of a mirror microelement. The diagonal of the projected image can be changed in the range from 25 to 100 inches, as well as the distance from the projector to the screen — from 80 to 320 cm.
According to the manufacturer, the capabilities of the built-in battery are enough for battery life of the projector for 2.5 hours, but users in the reviews say that the real time of operation without recharging does not exceed 1 hour.
Advantages:
- The picture is clear and bright;
- Excellent contrast;
- Good working life of the lighting element.
Disadvantages:
- Weak built-in video player;
- The speakers sound quiet and flat.
LG CineBeam PF50KS-EU
5. Everycom D017
This projector has an original design, it has a 3600 mAh battery. The maximum brightness of the device is 200 Lumens, which, together with the optical resolution of 854×480 pixels, allows you to get a juicy, clear and contrasting picture. The product operates on the basis of the DLP + RGBLED matrix. The case provides all the necessary connectors for connecting various external devices — two USB 2.0 and 3.0, HDMI, Audio3.5, its slot for connecting memory cards.
The device is based on the RK3328 Cortex-A53 processor. It has a quad-core clock speed of 1.5 GHz, 2 GB of RAM, and 16 GB of built-in memory. Equipped with automatic vertical geometric image correction function, projection distance is within 1-5m, lamp life can reach 50,000 hours. Overall dimensions 115×15 mm with a weight of 250 g.
Advantages:
- Small size and weight;
- Unique appearance;
- Good value for money;
- The set comes with a tripod.
Disadvantages:
- There is no shutter to close the lens;
- Quite noisy;
- There may be delays when viewing online.
Everycom D017
4XGIMI Halo
Outwardly, it looks quite stylish and attractive — there are no sharp corners, all lines are smooth. The body is made of metal and plastic elements. The device is equipped with an auto focus function, which is carried out using the camera located on the front panel. All main connectors and the power button are on the back. This is a rather heavy option — its weight is 1.7 kg with dimensions of 170x110x150 mm. The device is based on a DLP matrix. It is characterized by a high resolution — 1920×1080 pixels, the manufacturer has provided support for active 3D.
The autofocus range ranges from 80 to 800 cm, the maximum image diagonal is 762 cm. The device is able to correct keystone distortion both vertically and horizontally. The maximum brightness of the lamp is 800 Lumens, its service life is 30,000 hours.
Advantages:
- Perfect for games — you can control it directly from the remote control;
- Stylish and very attractive appearance;
- High quality picture;
- Distortion correction system.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Focus flies intermittently.
XGIMI Halo
3.Acer C202i
On a single battery charge, the device can work up to 5 hours, which is quite convenient, and this is considering that this device belongs to the budget price category. The overall dimensions of the device are 150x42x150 mm, the weight of the gadget is 350 g. The maximum image resolution is 854×480, the light output is 300 Lumens. Under the case there is a single 2W speaker, it is quite quiet, although the sound transmits well. Even a tripod is supplied with the device, which is very convenient.
The Wi-Fi module is reliable, users did not complain about disconnections, there is still a USB connector. The projector can be synchronized with a smartphone regardless of which platform it is running. The projected image is of high quality, no individual pixels are noticed.
Advantages:
- Long battery life;
- If desired, you can charge the gadget;
- Decent build quality.
Disadvantages:
- Very quiet speaker
- There is no Bluetooth module;
- You cannot charge the battery with an external battery.
Acer C202i
2. XGIMI MoGo Pro
A compact model with a high brightness of 250 Lumens, the mini-projector stands out among analogues due to the support for image quality in 1080p and 4K formats, the picture can be projected at a distance of up to 9 meters. The design is simple yet sleek and stylish. Overall dimensions are 146×105.5×94.5 mm, weight 900 g. I would like to note the acoustic capabilities of the device, as they are expressed by the presence of two speakers and a subwoofer for low frequencies. A set of ports is standard — a power cable jack, USB 2.0, HDMI, a headphone or speaker jack. There is a hole for a tripod on the bottom, but you will need to buy it separately.
The projector is equipped with a 130W LED lamp that can last up to 30,000 hours. The picture is rich, with natural and clear colors. Auto focus works using Instant 10000+ technology, and image correction is carried out both in the vertical and in the horizontal plane.
Advantages:
- Small dimensions and acceptable weight;
- Attractive exterior design;
- Convenient software.
Disadvantages:
- Decent picture delay — not very suitable for games;
- Expensive.
XGIMI MoGo Pro
1. Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector
The leader of the review of the best mini-projectors was the products of the world famous Chinese company. The product has decent functionality — it will please the eye with good picture quality (resolution is 1080p), besides, the speakers allow you to provide a decent sound volume. The projected image size ranges from 40 to 200 inches.
The signal transmission delay is minimal, so the projector will certainly appeal to fans of computer games, but it is also quite suitable for moviegoers. Distortion correction is carried out only vertically, there is an automatic focus system. The unique operating system MIUI TV OS is used as software here, it is very easy to understand its functionality and management.
Advantages:
- Stylish appearance;
- There is a voice control function;
- Convenient intellectually understandable software;
- The autofocus system works well.
Disadvantages:
- No slot for memory cards;
- No Ethernet port;
- Google services are not installed, although it is quite possible to do it yourself.
Xiaomi Mi Smart Compact Projector
In conclusion, a useful video
The review of the best mini-projectors has come to an end. We have tried to collect as much information as possible for each model so that readers have a complete picture of the presented product. If some points seemed a little incomprehensible — feel free to say about in the comments to this article.