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8 Best Projectors [Tested and Reviewed]
Want to turn your living room into a home theater? Even without a screen, you can project high-quality images onto your walls, making a projector a viable alternative to a standard TV. But don’t pop the popcorn just yet. The quality of projectors varies widely. The tricky part is figuring out the brightness of each projector—a key measure of quality. Different manufacturers use different units to measure brightness, so it’s challenging to compare. Which is the best projector to watch your favorite movies and sports?
We've tested 8 bestselling projectors to recommend the best for you.
We evaluated each model for the following:
- Brightness
- Contrast Ratio
- Color Reproduction
- Image Clarity
- Ease of Setup
- Wireless Connectivity
We identified the best of the best, and we'll also tell you how to shop for projectors in our buying guide.
A 17-year audio video and integration industry veteran, Ben has designed custom solutions for residential and commercial clients, with brands such as Sony, Samsung, Bowers & Wilkins, Martin Logan, Marantz, McIntosh, Arcam, Luxul, Ruckus, Control4 and Savant, Ben has made client visions become a reality. Ben is a Certified Technology Specialist AVIXA member. Besides designing AV solutions, Ben also produces music under the name Lexmore, with music available to stream or download on popular apps and online stores.
Kenzo Konoike holds many titles, including being a US ISF-certified video engineer, US THX-certified home theater designer, consumer electronics advisor, and VGP judge (serving as the vice-chairman of the lifestyle category). In addition to reviewing and writing for specialized media, he has made numerous television and radio appearances, such as NHK's "Tokoro-san! Jiken Desuyo" and "Dark Side Mystery," to name a few. Previously, he worked as a product planner for Onkyo, a specialized audio manufacturer. His expertise then took him to a multimedia semiconductor venture company in Silicon Valley, after which Kenzo established his own company. He also served as an advisory board member for the Japan Audio Society until 2020.
After graduating from university and working for a video production company, Kohei Otsuru joined mybest in 2020. After comparing and verifying white goods, such as refrigerators and microwaves, he became the manager of black goods, such as televisions and headphones, utilizing my experience in video and audio. As a person in charge of comparison content, he tackled tasks such as wireless earphone sound quality measurement using dummy heads and tuneless TV image quality measurement using calibration software. In addition, he also handled gadget products such as mobile batteries and smartwatches. He was involved in more than 100 types of products. We aim to spread convenient gadgets that make daily life comfortable. We value first-hand information that can only be understood by actually using them in our content production.
How We Tested the Products
- Brightness1
A good projector isn’t just a device that dazzles you with vivid scenes when the lights are low. It should perform equally as well during daylight, giving your TV a run for its money. Curious how we tested all these projectors? Here’s the lowdown.
- Contrast Ratio2
At mybest, a quality projector and high contrast ratio go hand in hand. A satisfactory contrast ratio doesn't leak light into the blacks, adds a sense of depth through the variation in brightness, and immerses you in the dark scenes of movies. Here's how we conducted our tests.
- Color Reproduction3
When it came to satisfactory color reproduction, we looked for a projector that could accurately reproduce the colors we see in real life—whether it's the sky, skin tones, nature scenes, or buildings. Here's how we conducted our tests.
- Image Clarity4
We defined a projector with high image clarity as one that everyone, regardless of age or gender, finds impressive no matter what content they're watching. Here's how we conducted our tests.
- Ease of Setup5
We defined an easy-to-set-up projector as one that can project a high-quality image exactly where you want it, whether it's placed on the floor, a table, or the ceiling. Here's how we conducted our tests.
- Wireless Connectivity6
A projector with satisfactory wireless connectivity and internet functionality is one that doesn't require a Fire TV Stick and allows easy access to popular services. Here's how we conducted our tests.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Home Projectors Are a Great Alternative to TVs, No Matter the Room
- How to Choose the Right Projector
- Opt For at Least 1,000 ANSI Lumens for the Living Room1
- Select a Projector With Consistent Brightness Throughout the Image2
- Choose High Brightness and High Resolution for Quality3
- If You're Watching Netflix, Make Sure the Projector Is Compatible4
- For Bedrooms or Basements, Opt for High Color Accuracy5
- How We Tested the Projectors
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Home Projectors Are a Great Alternative to TVs, No Matter the Room
Not sure if a TV or projector is the better choice for the living room or basement? Whether you’re a fan of Stranger Things or the Super Bowl, we suggest you opt for a high-quality projector, which offers stunning visuals at a fraction of the price of a TV.
Go Big: Projectors Can Display 100+-Inch Images—TVs Can’t Do That!
With a high-quality projector, you’re not just watching a movie—the vivid 100-inch images will make you feel like you’re part of the adventure. Plus, projectors are more budget-friendly, providing a more immersive experience for less than half the cost of a TV the same size. Choose a high-brightness model and you can go even bigger without sacrificing clarity or contrast. Movie night just got a major upgrade!
Home Projectors Outshine Mobile Projectors in Both Image and Brightness
When choosing a projector, you’ve got two main options: home projectors and compact mobile projectors. So consider your priorities. Are you looking to create an immersive cinematic experience in your living room? Home projectors are the better choice. Generally brighter than mobile models, many home projectors feature 4K resolution, which provides four times the clarity and detail of a 1080p projector.
Mobile projectors, on the other hand, are all about portability. Typically lightweight, you can easily toss one into a backpack and use it to show a movie on any flat surface under the stars. The tradeoff for convenience, though, is that mobile projectors generally aren’t as bright as home projectors. And the battery might die before the credits start rolling. But for shorter screenings on the go, mobile projectors are a great option. If you’re in the market for a mobile projector, check out our rankings below.
How to Choose the Right Projector
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Projectors.
Opt For at Least 1,000 ANSI Lumens for the Living Room
Brightness is a crucial factor when it comes to projectors. If you're planning to casually enjoy movies or shows in your living room, go for a projector with a brightness level of over 1,000 ANSI lumens. Let's discuss why brightness matters.
A Bright Projector Projects Clearly— Even in the Living Room
Once you decide to turn your living room wall into a movie screen, the key thing to know is that the farther the projector is from the wall, the brighter the projector needs to be. So if you’re looking for a sharp 100-inch display, we recommend you opt for a high-brightness projector.
Since Manufacturers Use Different Units, We Measured the Brightness Ourselves
Ever noticed that projector manufacturers measure brightness in a variety of ways? Amazon's got sellers boasting 12,000 lumens for $300, while premium brands want over $1,000 for a 2,300-ANSI-lumen projector. That makes it challenging to compare options, but we’ve done our own analysis to help you find the best projector for your needs.
We decided to measure all the projectors we tested using ANSI lumens, the unit defined by The American Standards Institute. This standardized measure accurately represents the brightness of the light a projector emits. By contrast, when manufacturers advertise the amount of lumens for a projector without using the ANSI standard, it’s misleading at best. The brightness level they claim may be far from reality. It also may reflect the brightness of the LED light inside the projector, not the actual brightness of the images the projector displays. But fear not, we’ll help you compare the options.
Anker's Cosmos Laser 4K Shines Brightest— Even in Daylight
Brightness in a projector is essential. Without it, images will fade in well-lit settings, making them almost impossible to see. But with the right projector, you can enjoy crystal-clear images—even with natural light coming in through your living room window.
Which projector was best suited for the challenge? Anker’s Cosmos 4K scored the highest on our brightness test. Providing an impressive 1,739 ANSI lumens, this laser projector provides a top-quality viewing experience, even in a well-lit room.
Select a Projector With Consistent Brightness Throughout the Image
Because of how projectors are designed, they typically display dimmer edges compared to the center of an image. We discovered that the difference between the brightness level of the edges and the center varied greatly between the models—resulting in a wide range in quality.
Even Bright Projectors Can Be Darker Around the Edges
For example, if the difference in the brightness levels between the center and the edges is too pronounced, that variation can definitely affect your viewing experience. No one wants to see a dim halo around the screen. So along with looking for the maximum ANSI lumens, you’ll also want to take brightness uniformity into consideration when picking a projector.
Our Testing Revealed the Differences in Quality That Aren’t Reflected in the Product Specs
Unfortunately, manufacturers generally don’t provide information about brightness variability in their spec sheets. Nor can you figure it out by looking at a projector. That’s because brightness uniformity depends on the quality of the lens and the panel, and that information typically isn’t included in the specs.
So for each projector we tested, we measured the brightness at nine different locations in the image to calculate the percentage difference between the center and the edges. You can compare the projectors in the results below.
Budget Models and Lower-Quality Brands Had Extreme Dimness at the Edges
While opting for a projector instead of a TV can definitely save you some cash, it’s not worth skimping on quality. Our testing revealed that budget models priced around $300 and many lower-quality brands sold on e-commerce sites ranged widely in brightness variability. The worst offenders had a 70% drop in brightness toward the edges. Our recommendation? Steer clear of those projectors. You can find higher-quality options in our rankings below.
Choose High Brightness and High Resolution for Quality
Once you’ve found a projector that’s bright enough to suit your needs, the next feature you need to consider is image quality. The key to securing a top-notch picture? Look for a projector that provides both high levels of brightness and resolution. That combo will yield a consistently sharp and vivid image.
Brighter Means Better Resolution, According to Our 10 Testers
To test this in practice, we invited 10 people to evaluate the quality of the picture for all of the projectors we vetted. We tasked them with watching Netflix movies and American football games on YouTube. Afterward, the testers rated the bright projectors higher.
That makes sense because the human eye perceives brighter, high-contrast images as more vivid
High Resolution Offers a More Depth and Realism
High resolution influences image quality because it allows for crisp outlines of people, buildings, and foliage, replicating even the subtle textures you'd see with the naked eye. It also provides a sense of depth and space, making objects appear more realistic.
Based on the evaluations of our 10-person panel, the highest-rated projector for resolution was again Anker's Cosmos Laser 4K. Even the flow of individual strands of hair was delicately rendered, making it appear as if the characters were actually inside the 100-inch screen.
Specialized equipment was used to measure the contrast ratio, and no substantial difference between products was found that would be noticeable in an actual viewing setting. In actual use, it's safe to say that brightness and resolution are the key factors for image quality.
If You're Watching Netflix, Make Sure the Projector Is Compatible
Some projectors come with an operating system (OS) installed that allows you to stream content from services like YouTube and Netflix. If you're a fan of these platforms, consider a model with this feature.
Having a Built-in OS Makes Streaming a Breeze
If the projector has an OS built in, you can enjoy a variety of streaming services without needing to connect a separate streaming device. This eliminates the need for purchasing extra gadgets like a Fire TV Stick or Chromecast.
Brands like Anker, XGIMI, and BenQ offer some models with Android TV built in. Android TV comes with its own app store, allowing you to download your favorite streaming service apps.
Models with Android TV also support voice search, saving you the hassle of typing in show titles every time you want to search.
Not All OS-Equipped Models Support Netflix!
Even among projectors with an OS, not all are compatible with Netflix. This holds true even for those with Android TV.
So, even if your projector has an OS, you might still need to connect a Fire TV Stick or Chromecast to watch Netflix. In our rankings below, you can filter for models that are Netflix-compatible, so make sure to use that feature if it's important to you.
For Bedrooms or Basements, Opt for High Color Accuracy
If you're setting up a projector in a space where you can control the lighting, like a bedroom or basement, go for a model with high color accuracy.
High Color Accuracy Suits Rooms With Little Ambient Light
In a dark room where you can control the lighting, you don't need a super bright projector—around 300 ANSI lumens should be sufficient for easy viewing. In such settings, color accuracy becomes more important than brightness.
A projector's colors can be affected by the color of ambient light in the room. For example, warm lighting can influence the colors at night, and natural daylight can have an effect during the day.
But in a dark room, there will only be the light of the projector, making color accuracy a direct reflection of the projector's performance.
BenQ HT2060 Had the Best Color Accuracy
Since you also can't determine color accuracy from the spec sheet, we used specialized equipment commonly used for quality control in monitors.
We measured the actual color accuracy based on the D65 color temperature, which is the standard in various fields like video production and photo editing. We also used the Rec.709 color space as a reference and evaluated the deltaE (dE) values, which indicate color deviation.
Based on our measurements, the BenQ HT2060 had the least color deviation. It's extremely faithful to the color standards used in video production, allowing you to project images that are close to what the creators intended.
8 Best Projectors Ranking
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brightness | Contrast ratio | Color reproduction | Image clarity | Ease of setup | Wireless connectivity | Panel | Light source | Width | Depth | Height | Weight | Resolution | Brightness (actual measurement) | Contrast ratio (actual measurement) | Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | Installed OS | Supported streaming services | Number of HDMI ports | Lens shift function | Speaker output | Autofocus | Automatic obstacle avoidance | Automatic trapezoid correction | Game mode | HDR compatible | Dolby Atmos compatible | Frame rate (FHD) | Frame rate (4K) | ||||||
1 | Anker Cosmos Laser 4K | | 4.68 | A Theater-Like Immersive Experience From the Comfort of Your Own Home | 4.82 | 4.68 | 4.07 | 4.65 | 4.50 | 5.00 | DLP | Laser | 6.5 in. | 10.4 in. | 8.1 in. | 10.7 lb. | 4K | unknown | unknown | unknown | Android TV | unknown | 1 port | 30 W (2 x 10 W and 2 x 5 W) | HDR 10 | 60 Hz | 60 Hz | |||||||
2 | XGIMI Horizon Pro | | 4.42 | A Compact and Easy-to-Set-Up Device With Bright and Vivid Projections | 4.57 | 4.47 | 4.11 | 4.15 | 4.50 | 4.65 | DLP | LED | 8.6 in. | 5.36 in. | 8.2 in. | 6.39 lb. | 4K | unknown | unknown | unknown | Android TV | unknown | 2 ports | 16 W (2 x 8 W) | HDR 10 | unknown | 60 Hz | |||||||
3 | Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 | | 4.37 | Better Picture Quality Than You’d Expect Based on Specs | 4.29 | 4.29 | 4.36 | 4.47 | 4.50 | 4.40 | LCD | Laser | 6.9 in. | 6.9 in. | 5.0 in. | 4.7 lb. | Full HD | unknown | unknown | unknown | Android TV | unknown | 2 ports | unknown | 10 W (2 x 5 W) | HDR 10 | 60 Hz | 60 Hz | ||||||
4 | Anker Nebula Cosmos Max | | 4.28 | Solid Brightness and Picture Quality in Dark Rooms, With Easy Setup | 4.47 | 4.36 | 4.29 | 3.93 | 4.29 | 4.29 | DLP | LED | 13.8 in. | 9.8 in. | 3.9 in. | 6.6 lb. | 4K | unknown | unknown | unknown | Android TV | unknown | 2 ports | 40 W (4 x 10 W) | unknown | HDR 10 | unknown | unknown | ||||||
5 | BenQ HT2060 | | 4.09 | Slightly Lacks in Brightness, but Color Reproduction Is Accurate and Natural | 4.18 | 3.86 | 4.68 | 3.93 | 4.97 | 3.57 | DLP | LED | 14.4 in. | 5.2 in. | 9.6 in. | 7.7 lb. | Full HD | unknown | unknown | unknown | N/A | N/A | 2 ports | 10 W (2 x 5 W) | HDR 10 | 60 Hz | 60 Hz | |||||||
6 | Roconia Native 1080P Projector | | 3.47 | Flat, Inaccurate Colors With a Grainy Picture | 3.22 | 4.72 | 3.29 | 4.04 | 3.00 | 3.57 | LCD | LED | 9.25 in. | 6.61 in. | 3.35 in. | 2 lb. | Full HD | unknown | unknown | unknown | N/A | N/A | 2 ports | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | ||
6 | AuKing Projector | | 3.47 | Low Brightness Even in Dark Rooms, and Lacks Color Depth | 3.22 | 4.79 | 3.18 | 3.61 | 3.57 | 3.57 | LCD | LED | 7.95 in. | 6.3 in. | 2.91 in. | 2.04 lb. | Full HD | unknown | unknown | unknown | N/A | N/A | 1 port | unknown | unknown | N/A | unknown | N/A | ||||||
8 | VANKYO Leisure 495W | | 3.45 | Currently unavailable | Low Resolution, Low Brightness, and Not Streaming-Friendly | 3.36 | 4.68 | 3.40 | 3.47 | 3.00 | 3.57 | LCD | LED | 7.01 in. | 4.84 in. | 3.35 in. | 3.09 lb. | Full HD | unknown | unknown | unknown | N/A | N/A | 1 port | 3 W | N/A | unknown | unknown | ||||||
AnkerCosmos Laser 4K
| Resolution | 4K |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- Android TV
- Number of HDMI ports
- 1 port
- Lens shift function
- Autofocus
A Theater-Like Immersive Experience From the Comfort of Your Own Home
We measured its brightness at 1,739 ANSI lumens, which is more than enough to compete with daylight in a room. Even with the lights on, the projector displayed a sufficiently bright image. The brightness uniformity around the edges was 93% compared to the center, which is virtually unnoticeable to the naked eye.
Although the color gamut was somewhat narrow in our tests, the superior brightness made for extremely vivid colors when actually watching content. Not only that, but the high resolution also allowed for discernible textures in skin, clothing, and foliage, making any video you watch a top-tier visual experience.
Installation is a breeze. While it doesn't support lens shift, it does come with auto-focus and automatic keystone correction in both horizontal and vertical directions. This makes it versatile enough for use in various settings like living rooms or bedrooms. However, it uses digital zoom instead of optical zoom, so adjusting the projection size can slightly degrade the image quality.
The projector comes with built-in Android TV, covering all the major streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and U-NEXT. It also supports voice input, and we were able to watch Netflix through the built-in operating system.
With its exceptional brightness and breathtakingly realistic visuals, this projector offers an experience that's more than worth its price.
| Panel | DLP |
|---|---|
| Light source | Laser |
| Width | 6.5 in. |
| Depth | 10.4 in. |
| Height | 8.1 in. |
| Weight | 10.7 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | unknown |
| Speaker output | 30 W (2 x 10 W and 2 x 5 W) |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | HDR 10 |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | 60 Hz |
| Frame rate (4K) | 60 Hz |
XGIMIHorizon Pro
| Resolution | 4K |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- Android TV
- Number of HDMI ports
- 2 ports
- Lens shift function
- Autofocus
A Compact and Easy-to-Set-Up Device With Bright and Vivid Projections
From Chinese projector manufacturer XGIMI comes the Horizon Pro, a 4K-capable device that promises projections up to 200 inches.
The brightness level is pretty impressive at 1,142 ANSI lumens. During the day, you can enjoy a movie just by drawing the curtains or dimming the room lights a bit. The brightness uniformity was about 91% at the edges compared to the center, making it hard to notice any variations when projecting a white image.
One of the standout features is its incredibly wide color gamut, producing vivid colors that make you forget you're projecting onto a wall. The resolution is also high, allowing you to see fine details like individual strands of hair when movie characters are shown in close-ups.
Ease of setup is another big plus for this model. It comes with auto-focus and automatic keystone correction in both horizontal and vertical directions, making it as convenient as a mobile projector. You can easily move it from room to room without any hassle. However, it uses digital zoom, so adjusting the projection size may slightly degrade the image quality. It also doesn't support lens shift.
Like the Anker model, it comes with built-in Android TV, covering all the major streaming services. The addition of voice search is super convenient, and you can also watch Netflix through the built-in operating system.
| Panel | DLP |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 8.6 in. |
| Depth | 5.36 in. |
| Height | 8.2 in. |
| Weight | 6.39 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | unknown |
| Speaker output | 16 W (2 x 8 W) |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | HDR 10 |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | unknown |
| Frame rate (4K) | 60 Hz |
EpsonEpiqVision Mini EF12
| Resolution | Full HD |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- Android TV
- Number of HDMI ports
- 2 ports
- Lens shift function
- unknown
- Autofocus
Better Picture Quality Than You’d Expect Based on Specs
From Epson, a precision machinery manufacturer based in Japan, comes the home projector EpiqVision Mini EF12. Despite its compact size, it boasts a maximum projection size of 150 inches.
The brightness is a bit on the lower side, clocking in at 621 ANSI lumens, meaning you'll want to dim the lights and make the room as dark as possible for the best viewing experience. Brightness uniformity was pretty solid, with the edges measuring about 88% as bright as the center.
While the color projection tends to be a bit blue-heavy, the colors are accurate overall. The picture quality is impressively clear, with minimal noise and high resolution. Even in darker scenes, you can make out facial expressions and the texture of clothing, giving the entire image a sense of depth.
The projector supports auto-focus and automatic keystone correction in both horizontal and vertical directions. This means you can project a rectangular image even if the projector is at a slight angle. It does support digital zoom but lacks lens shift capabilities.
It comes with Android TV built-in, so you can stream from most major services. However, it's important to note that it's not compatible with the official Netflix app.
| Panel | LCD |
|---|---|
| Light source | Laser |
| Width | 6.9 in. |
| Depth | 6.9 in. |
| Height | 5.0 in. |
| Weight | 4.7 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | unknown |
| Speaker output | 10 W (2 x 5 W) |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | HDR 10 |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | 60 Hz |
| Frame rate (4K) | 60 Hz |
AnkerNebula Cosmos Max
| Resolution | 4K |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- Android TV
- Number of HDMI ports
- 2 ports
- Lens shift function
- Autofocus
Solid Brightness and Picture Quality in Dark Rooms, With Easy Setup
From Anker, a Chinese hardware developer and manufacturer, comes the Nebula Cosmos Max. This projector supports 4K resolution and boasts a maximum projection size of 150 inches.
The measured brightness is 927 ANSI lumens, which is good enough for daytime viewing if you close the curtains and minimize natural light. Brightness uniformity is excellent, with the edges of the screen being about 90% as bright as the center, so you won't be distracted by any variations.
In a dark room, the picture quality is vibrant and clear. While some finer details in the background might appear a bit blurry, the overall image has crisp outlines and feels dynamic.
The projector features auto-focus and automatic keystone correction in both horizontal and vertical directions, making it versatile for use in various settings like living rooms or bedrooms. It also has digital zoom capabilities, allowing for some fine-tuning when projecting, although this does degrade the image quality slightly. Note that it doesn't support lens shift.
It comes with built-in Android TV, covering most major streaming services. While it does support voice commands, the built-in OS doesn't support the official Netflix app, which can be a bit inconvenient.
| Panel | DLP |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 13.8 in. |
| Depth | 9.8 in. |
| Height | 3.9 in. |
| Weight | 6.6 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | unknown |
| Speaker output | 40 W (4 x 10 W) |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | unknown |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | HDR 10 |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | unknown |
| Frame rate (4K) | unknown |
BenQHT2060
| Resolution | Full HD |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- N/A
- Number of HDMI ports
- 2 ports
- Lens shift function
- Autofocus
Slightly Lacks in Brightness, but Color Reproduction Is Accurate and Natural
From Taiwan-based electronics manufacturer BenQ comes the HT2060, boasting 98% coverage of the high-color-gamut DCI-P3 standard for more vibrant color reproduction.
In video modes with a wide color gamut, the brightness is a bit on the lower side at 677 ANSI lumens, so this projector is best suited for darker rooms. The brightness around the edges is about 83% compared to the center, which might be noticeable when projecting a completely white image. However, during actual video playback, it's not an issue.
The color range is quite extensive, and the projector does an excellent job of accurately reproducing colors. While it may be a bit dim, the color tones and shading are well-executed, capturing even the finer details. If you're planning to watch in a dark room, this model offers a natural color experience.
Installation is flexible, with support for keystone correction in both horizontal and vertical directions. This allows for angled projection and fine-tuning of the projection position. It also features vertical lens shift, making it easier to adjust the projection surface when hanging the projector from the ceiling. However, it doesn't support auto-focus.
While it comes with Android TV, one major streaming service it doesn't support is Netflix. On the plus side, it does offer voice search, which takes much of the hassle out of searching for content.
| Panel | DLP |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 14.4 in. |
| Depth | 5.2 in. |
| Height | 9.6 in. |
| Weight | 7.7 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | N/A |
| Speaker output | 10 W (2 x 5 W) |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | HDR 10 |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | 60 Hz |
| Frame rate (4K) | 60 Hz |
RoconiaNative 1080P Projector
| Resolution | Full HD |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- N/A
- Number of HDMI ports
- 2 ports
- Lens shift function
- unknown
- Autofocus
- unknown
Flat, Inaccurate Colors With a Grainy Picture
The Native 1080P Projector from Roconia is a compact home projector available on e-commerce platforms. It claims a brightness of 16,000 lumens and supports 1080p resolution.
The brightness measured during our tests was quite low at 176 ANSI lumens. This made it hard to see the image clearly, in both a well-lit room as well as in a dark room. The brightness inconsistency was also significant, appearing 62% dimmer at the edges compared to the center, meaning the periphery is noticeably darker while watching.
The narrow color gamut results in gradients that lack smoothness and give the picture a flat appearance. Additionally, there's a graininess throughout the picture that makes the outlines of people and objects appear fuzzy.
Since it doesn't come with an operating system, a streaming device is essential for watching YouTube or Netflix. It lacks features like auto-focus and lens shift, limiting your setup options and making the setup process troublesome each time.
| Panel | LCD |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 9.25 in. |
| Depth | 6.61 in. |
| Height | 3.35 in. |
| Weight | 2 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | N/A |
| Speaker output | unknown |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | unknown |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | unknown |
| Game mode | unknown |
| HDR compatible | unknown |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | unknown |
| Frame rate (4K) | unknown |
AuKingProjector
| Resolution | Full HD |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- N/A
- Number of HDMI ports
- 1 port
- Lens shift function
- unknown
- Autofocus
Low Brightness Even in Dark Rooms, and Lacks Color Depth
The "Projector" from AuKing is primarily sold online and is aimed at home use. It supports 1080p resolution and advertises a brightness of 12,000 lumens.
In reality, the measured brightness is quite low at 131 ANSI lumens, to the point where even ambient lighting can overpower the projector's output. One notable issue during testing was the significant unevenness in brightness. The brightness around the edges was about 69% compared to the center, causing the screen's edges to appear dark during playback.
The color tone overall has a bluish hue that makes skin tones look pale. Fine details are lost, and backgrounds that are visible on other models look completely black. The color rendering appears flat, almost like an oil painting.
The projector lacks features like auto-focus and lens shift, making the setup process somewhat time consuming. Since it doesn't come with an operating system, you'll also need a streaming device to watch any video streaming services.
| Panel | LCD |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 7.95 in. |
| Depth | 6.3 in. |
| Height | 2.91 in. |
| Weight | 2.04 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | N/A |
| Speaker output | unknown |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | N/A |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | unknown |
| Frame rate (4K) | N/A |
VANKYOLeisure 495W
| Resolution | Full HD |
|---|---|
| Brightness (actual measurement) | unknown |
| Color accuracy（ΔE2000） | unknown |
- Contrast ratio (actual measurement)
- unknown
- Installed OS
- N/A
- Number of HDMI ports
- 1 port
- Lens shift function
- Autofocus
Low Resolution, Low Brightness, and Not Streaming-Friendly
The Leisure 495W projector from VANKYO, an IT equipment manufacturer based in Shenzhen, China, supports 1080p resolution. It claims to offer more accurate colors, clarity, and brightness than its predecessors.
However, the brightness was quite low at just 183 ANSI lumens. In a well-lit room, the projection turned completely white, making it impossible to watch anything. The brightness was also uneven, with the edges being only 73% as bright as the center. This becomes even more noticeable during brighter scenes.
This projector even struggled with brightness in a dark room. There were many areas where the image lacked depth and contrast, giving an overall flat and dull impression.
The projector only supports vertical keystone correction, so you'll need to place it either directly in front of you or behind you. It doesn't have zoom capabilities, lens shift, or auto-focus, which makes setup a hassle if you prefer to put it away after each use. Since it doesn't come with an operating system, you’ll need a streaming device to watch any online content.
| Panel | LCD |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Width | 7.01 in. |
| Depth | 4.84 in. |
| Height | 3.35 in. |
| Weight | 3.09 lb. |
| Supported streaming services | N/A |
| Speaker output | 3 W |
| Automatic obstacle avoidance | |
| Automatic trapezoid correction | |
| Game mode | |
| HDR compatible | N/A |
| Dolby Atmos compatible | |
| Frame rate (FHD) | unknown |
| Frame rate (4K) | unknown |
How We Tested the Projectors
Here at mybest, the ideal projector is defined as one that offers excellent picture quality across all types of video content, high-quality sound, and a range of useful features.
To find such a projector, we gathered eight top-selling models from popular manufacturers and online marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. We then rigorously tested them based on the following six criteria.
Specifically, we tested the following:
- Brightness
- Contrast Ratio
- Color Reproduction
- Image Clarity
- Ease of Setup
- Wireless Connectivity
Products we tested
- Anker｜Cosmos Laser 4K
- Anker｜Nebula Cosmos Max
- AuKing｜Projector
- BenQ｜HT2060
- Epson｜EpiqVision Mini EF12
- Roconia｜Native 1080P Projector
- VANKYO｜Leisure 495W
- XGIMI｜Horizon Pro
Brightness
A good projector isn’t just a device that dazzles you with vivid scenes when the lights are low. It should perform equally as well during daylight, giving your TV a run for its money. Curious how we tested all these projectors? Here’s the lowdown.
Scoring Method
We projected 100% white from the projector and measured the lux according to the American National Standards Institute's method for determining ANSI lumens. We calculated both the maximum brightness and the variation in brightness. For maximum brightness, we multiplied the average value of nine equally divided areas of the screen by the projection area (14.53 square feet). For brightness variation, we calculated the percentage difference between the center brightness and the average brightness of the surrounding eight areas. Higher numbers in maximum brightness and lower numbers in brightness variation received higher scores.
Testing Conditions
- Measuring Instrument: Konica Minolta CRI Illuminance Meter CL-70F
- Video Mode Setting: Cinema/Movie Mode (or the mode closest to the D65 standard if not available)
- Measurement Environment: Completely dark room (no emergency lights or other light sources)
- Projection Size: 70 inches
Factory Reset and Eco Mode turned off
Contrast Ratio
Scoring Method
Our audio-visual critic supervised the measurements.
Testing Conditions
PC: SONY VAIO VJS12590111B
Meter: KONICA MINOLTA CS-200
Pattern Generator: Portrait Displays VideoForge PRO
Software: Portrait Displays Calman 2022
Video Mode Setting: Cinema/Movie Mode (or the mode closest to the D65 standard if not available)
Testing Location: Completely dark room (no emergency exit lights or other light sources)
Projection Size: 70 inches
- Calman Settings
2. Colorspace Target: BT.2020 HDR
3. Gamma Formula: ST 2084 HDR (PQ）
4. Luminance Levels: Video
- Pattern Generator Settings
2. HDR on
3. YCbCr 4:2:2 10bit
Factory Reset and Eco Mode turned offIt's important to note that individual products may vary, and the screen may have variations in color and brightness, so these numbers may not match your results.Color Reproduction
Scoring Method
Testing Conditions
PC: SONY VAIO VJS12590111B
Meter: KONICA MINOLTA CS-200
Pattern Generator: Portrait Displays VideoForge PRO
Software: Portrait Displays Calman 2022
Video Mode Setting: Cinema/Movie Mode (or the mode closest to the D65 standard if not available)
Testing Location: Completely dark room (no emergency exit lights or other light sources)
Projection Size: 70 inches
- Calman Settings for Color Accuracy
2. Colorspace Target: D65, HD BT.709
3. Formula: Power2.2
4. Luminance Levels: Video
- Pattern Generator Settings for Color Accuracy
2. HDR off
3. YCbCr 4:2:2 8bit
- Calman Settings for Color Gamut
＞HDR BT.2020 Gamut Coverage
＞BT.2020 Percent 1976 uv values
2. Colorspace Target: BT.2020 HDR
3. Gamma Formula: ST 2084 HDR（PQ）
4. Luminance Levels: Video
- Pattern Generator Settings for Color Gamut
2. HDR on
3. YCbCr 4:2:2 10bit
Factory Reset and Eco Mode turned offNote that individual products may vary, and the screen may have variations in color and brightness so that these numbers may be different from your device.Also, color temperature settings may vary by manufacturer, and D65 is not an absolute standard.Image Clarity
Scoring Method
Testing Conditions
- Testers: 10 men and women aged between 20 and 50
- Playback Device: Google Chromecast with Google TV 4K
- Video Mode Setting: Cinema/Movie Mode (or the closest mode to the D65 standard if not available)
- Projection Size: 100 inches
What We Checked
- Clarity & Noise: Could you make out the texture of skin and the shine of hair? Were the wrinkles in clothing and depth well-represented? Was the picture grainy in flat areas or across the entire screen?
- Smoothness & Sharpness: Was there any afterimage in the movement of players? Could you clearly follow the ball? Were jersey numbers easily readable?
Test Samples
- Netflix: Stranger Things Season 4
- YouTube: Patriots vs. Chiefs AFC Championship Highlights NFL 2018 Playoffs
Ease of Setup
Scoring Method
What We Checked
- Presence of Lens Shift
- Automatic Keystone Correction
- Optical/Digital Zoom
- Auto Focus
Wireless Connectivity
Scoring Method
What We Checked
- Is the device compatible with major streaming services?
- Do the app buttons on the remote control work with major streaming services?
- Does the device offer voice control functionality?
Top 5 Projectors
No. 1: Anker｜Cosmos Laser 4K
No. 2: XGIMI｜Horizon Pro
No. 3: Epson｜EpiqVision Mini EF12
No. 4: Anker｜Nebula Cosmos Max
No. 5: BenQ｜HT2060
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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