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Best Mini Projector under $200
If you're aiming to get a huge screen size without spending a fortune, then home projector is your best option in April 2024. You can put it in your backyard for some late-night movies.
With the rise in demand for home entertainment, finding the best projectors under $200 has become easier than ever. Projectors have now become a staple for people who want to create a movie theater-like experience at home.
You can also take the projector with you to a friend's house to watch sports games. And you don't need to buy an expensive model right away.
I've tested and rated lots of devices and claim, even best projector under $200 or a little over can do great job.
If you're pressed for time, here's my pick of the top two projectors for under $200:
Table of contents:
- Best Projectors under $200 - Buyer’s Guide
- Best Projectors under $200 – TOP 6
- Home Projector under $200: Comparison
- KODAK Luma 150
- WiMiUS P61
- TOPTRO TR25
- WiMiUS P64
- CiBest W13
- Bigasuo B509
- FAQ about Portable Projectors under $200
- Best Projectors under $200: Conclusion
Best Projectors under $200 - Buyer’s Guide
Drawing from my experience finding a projector that fits a modest budget without compromising on quality can be challenging. However, several options under $200 offer commendable features suitable for casual entertainment, gaming, and presentations. Here’s what you need to consider when shopping for the best projectors under $200:
Brightness
If the projector will be used in a dark place, you don't have to spend money on an expensive model with high brightness. If the screen is near a window and you plan to watch movies or do presentations in daylight, it is better to pick a brighter option (3000 lumens or higher). The problem is that minor brands often tend to double their luminous flux.
If the specification says 4500L, it does not mean that the projector is able to provide the maximum brightness of 4500 lumens. The actual value will be listed as "color brightness" or "ANSI lumens". If neither is stated, all you have to do is read customer reviews.
Remember that low brightness limits the maximum screen size. At 200 inches, the same image may look too dim.
Contrast
Contrast indicates the difference between the amount of light reflected from a white image and a black image. The higher the value, the better shades of colors can be seen. But since different companies use different methods to measure contrast, the numbers by themselves mean nothing. It is better to pay attention to the material of the screen itself. For example, a dark gray surface will absorb some of the ambient light to maintain deeper blacks. But for this type of screens you need a projector that is bright enough.
Resolution
We will talk about native resolution, that is, the number of physical pixels on the screen. In the category up to $200, don't expect to find a projector with a resolution higher than 1080P. It will be enough for any situation, from office presentations to playing games. If you want to watch movies from more than 7 feet away from the screen, a lower resolution image will still look good. For example, WiMiUS P61Projector with 1920 x 1080p display resolution.
Keystone correction
Another important function of projectors is to correct distortion when the projector can't be perfectly centered. Cheaper models may lack the keystone correction feature whatsoever. Others are capable of adjusting the image only in vertical direction. Effective auto-keystone correction can be found in more expensive projectors.
Lamp Life
Longer lamp life means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs. Most budget projectors offer LED lamps with up to 30,000 hours of life, which is excellent for extensive usage.
Portability and Ease of Use
If you plan to move the projector between locations, look for a lightweight and compact model. Also, user-friendly interfaces and remote controls enhance convenience.
Built-in Speakers
While not a substitute for a dedicated sound system, built-in speakers can be handy for casual viewing. Check the audio quality if you're likely to use the projector's speakers frequently.
Connectivity
Almost all modern projectors are equipped with an HDMI port - you can use it to connect your PC, Mac, Xbox, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Sometimes manufacturers add VGA for compatibility with older equipment, and that's just the beginning. If you want to stream images from mobile devices, look for devices with Miracast and AirPlay support. Sometimes projectors are equipped with a USB port to connect a flash drive and even a microSD card slot. Office models may not have an audio output jack. However, purchasing an HDMI Audio Extractor or TV set-top box will solve this problem.
Best Projectors under $200 – TOP 6
Here are the top best projectors under $200 that you can find on the market today:
- Portable and lightweight design
- Up to 2.5 hours of battery life
- Screen mirroring from a smartphone
- 15000 lumens of brightness
- Display resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Wireless/Bluetooth/5G WiFi/HDMI/USB/AV/3.5mm jack
- 15000 lumens of brightness
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Wireless/ Bluetooth/ HDMI/ USB/3.5mm audio
- Resolution 1080p and 600 ANSI Lumens brightness
- Connectivity: Bluetooth/WiFi/HDMI/USB/AV/3.5Audio
- Built-in Speakers
- Decent specs at affordable price
- Can project a 80-inch screen with ease
- Small enough to take it anywhere
- Native 1080P resolution
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Bluetooth audio support
All of these projectors offer a great balance between performance and affordability. Let's take a closer look at what makes them stand out.
Home Projector under $200: Comparison
Here is a detailed overview of each of the selected projector models suitable for under $200.
Before we move on, let's first take a glance at the comparison table of my top models to explore their key features:
| Model: | Resolution | Lumens | Contrast Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| KODAK Luma (RODPJS150) | 800 x 480 (WVGA) | 1500 ANSI | 1000:1 |
| WiMiUS P61 | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 15000 | 20000:1 |
| TOPTRO TR25 | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 15000 | 20000:1 |
| WiMiUS P64 | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) & 4K support | 600 ANSI | 20000:1 |
| CiBest W13 | 1280 x 720 (HD) | 6000 | 2000:1 |
| Bigasuo B509 | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 280 ANSI | 3000:1 |
KODAK Luma (RODPJS150) 150 Pocket Projector under $200
Editor’s Choice
KODAK Luma 150 features 854x480 resolution and a brightness output of 60 ANSI Lumens. Those specs aren't all that exciting, but the portable projector has its advantages. It fits easily into a bag or backpack and the built-in battery provides up to 2.5 hours of wireless use.
It also supports Apple Airplay and Miracast for casting content from your phone. Luma 150 includes a 1.5W speaker, USB, HDMI and 3.5mm audio jack.
There's a microSD card slot on the left side and a tripod mount (not included) on the bottom. All these features make KODAK Luma 150 the best home projector under $200, as well as the best mini projector under $200.
Also read: Best Laser Projectors
If you feel you need to increase the visual impact (as with all compact models), we recommend to do it with the help the projector's screen material. It can have a big impact on the image quality. You can read about the differences between gray, white and black screens in our article.
Pros:
- Lightweight and ultra portable
- Battery-powered
- Wireless casting from smart devices
Cons:
- No keystone adjustment
Summary: Enjoy crystal-clear widescreen images thanks to a 60 ANSI lumen LED lamp with 854 x 480 resolution and 1000:1 contrast ratio. The built-in speaker and illuminated controls allow you to watch and listen at will, and the rechargeable battery provides up to 2.5 hours of battery life. The KODAK LUMA 150 Mini Projector is the perfect pocket-sized projector.
- Portable and lightweight design
- Up to 2.5 hours of battery life
- Screen mirroring from a smartphone
WiMiUS P61 Projector for under $200
Best Overall
The WiMiUS P61 Mini Projector is an exceptional blend of portability and powerful performance. One of the most commendable features of the P61 is its electric focus capability. Unlike traditional projectors that require manual adjustment, the P61 allows users to achieve a clear, sharp image within seconds using the smart remote control, enhancing user convenience significantly.
Visually, the P61 does not disappoint. It supports a resolution of 1920x1080 and boasts a high dynamic contrast ratio of 15,000:1, powered by 99% NTSC technology. This ensures vivid, true-to-life colors and dynamic images, making it an excellent choice for home cinemas. The projector's ability to cast a giant 300-inch display further enriches the viewing experience, whether you're indoors or out.
Connectivity is robust with ultra-fast 5G WiFi and the latest Bluetooth 5.2 technology. This dual-band WiFi connection minimizes interference and ensures stable and fast signal transmission, perfect for streaming online content without lag. Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility allows for seamless connection to various Bluetooth audio devices, enhancing the audio experience with the projector’s built-in 6W speakers that provide cinematic stereo sound.
For those concerned about connectivity with other devices, the P61 features multiple ports including HDMI, USB, and AV, compatible with a wide range of devices from Fire TV Sticks to gaming consoles like the PS5. This makes it a versatile choice for almost any entertainment setup.
Pros:
- Electric Focus
- High Contrast Ratio 15,000:1
- Portable Design
- Dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2
- Large Display Capability up to a 300-inch
- Versatile Connectivity
Cons:
- May not be as bright as some larger or more expensive projectors, which could affect visibility in well-lit environments
- While it has built-in speakers, the sound may not match a dedicated high-quality external speaker system
Summary: As indicated by my tests the WiMiUS P61 Mini Projector excels in combining portability with powerful performance. This compact projector is easy to carry, supports 1080p resolution, and features a high contrast ratio of 15,000:1 for vibrant and sharp images. Its innovative electric focus allows for quick setup, and with ultra-fast 5G WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2, it offers smooth streaming and versatile connectivity to various devices. Additionally, its large 300'' display capability and built-in high-fidelity speakers make it ideal for both home and outdoor movie experiences. The P61 is well-suited for anyone seeking a high-quality portable projector.
- 15000 lumens of brightness
- Display resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Wireless/Bluetooth/5G WiFi/HDMI/USB/AV/3.5mm jack
TOPTRO TR25 Projector under 200
People’s Choice
The TOPTRO TR25 mini projector revolutionizes portable projection with its innovative electric focus feature, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. This projector supports full 1080P HD resolution and boasts a high brightness of 15,000 lumens and a contrast ratio of 20,000:1. Its NTSC color gamut of 98% delivers exceptional clarity and true color reproduction. Not only is it compact—measuring just 5.9*4.7*4.7 inches and weighing only 1.9 lbs—but it's also designed for easy transportability.
Enhanced connectivity is another strong point, with 2.4G/5G dual-band WiFi for quick and stable connections and upgraded Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless pairing with audio devices, providing 360° surround sound. Additionally, the TR25 offers ±40° electric keystone correction for easy image alignment and a zoom function that allows flexible screen size adjustment from 60'' to 120'', ensuring optimal viewing without the need to move the projector. This combination of features makes the TOPTRO TR25 an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful yet portable projection solution for home theaters or on-the-go entertainment.
Pros:
- Electric Focus Control
- Supports 1080P Full HD resolution, with 15,000 lumens of brightness and a 20,000:1 contrast ratio
- Portable Design
- Dual-Band 5G WiFi & Bluetooth 5.2
- Adjustable Screen Size from 60'' to 120''
Cons:
- Despite high lumens, in very bright environments, visibility may still be impacted
- While it supports external audio devices, the internal speaker’s performance might not meet the needs of all users, especially in larger rooms
Summary: My findings show that the TOPTRO TR25 mini projector features easy electric focus control via remote, supports 1080P HD, and boasts high brightness and contrast. It offers quick dual-band 5G WiFi connectivity and Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless audio streaming. Compact and lightweight, it includes features like electric keystone correction and adjustable screen sizes from 60'' to 120'', making it versatile for both home and travel use.
- 15000 lumens of brightness
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Wireless/ Bluetooth/ HDMI/ USB/3.5mm audio
WiMiUS P64 Home Projector under 200
Premium Choice
The WiMiUS P64 Projector is a state-of-the-art smart projector that eliminates the need for manual adjustments with its auto-focus and auto-keystone correction capabilities. This feature ensures sharp image quality automatically, even when the projector is moved or angled, enhancing user convenience and reducing setup time.
Key features include native 1080P resolution with 4K support, which, combined with a high lumens count and a 20,000:1 contrast ratio, delivers vibrant colors and deep shadows for an immersive home theater experience. Whether it's for outdoor movie nights, sports viewing, or binge-watching series, the P64 offers exceptional visual performance.
Connectivity is a breeze with ultra-fast WiFi 6 and two-way Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring stable and quick transmission suitable for gaming consoles like Xbox, Switch, and PS5. Additionally, the projector can function as a Bluetooth speaker, thanks to its built-in 12W Hi-Fi speakers, which provide rich, immersive sound.
The projector's user-friendly interface includes a smart touch screen for easy adjustments even in low light, and a 50% zoom function allows for flexible image sizing without needing to physically move the unit. It supports a massive 300-inch display, ideal for large spaces and can be ceiling mounted or placed on a stand, making it versatile for any setup.
Pros:
- Native 1080P resolution and compatibility with 4K
- WiFi 6 for stable and fast streaming and two-way Bluetooth 5.2
- Auto-focus and auto-keystone correction
- 12W Hi-Fi speakers
- Large Display and Zoom Function
Cons:
- Potential for Light Leakage
Summary: Based on my observations as indicated by my tests the WiMiUS P64 Projector excels in delivering an enhanced viewing experience with its automatic features such as auto-focus and auto-keystone correction, ensuring sharp images without manual adjustment. It supports native 1080P resolution and 4K content, enriched by a high contrast ratio for vivid visuals. This projector integrates cutting-edge WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 technologies for fast, stable connections and versatile use with various devices. Designed for convenience, it includes a touch screen interface and offers a large projection size with zoom functionality, making it suitable for both home entertainment and outdoor screenings.
- Resolution 1080p and 600 ANSI Lumens brightness
- Connectivity: Bluetooth/WiFi/HDMI/USB/AV/3.5Audio
- Built-in Speakers
CiBest W13 Mini Projector under $200
Best Budget
CiBest W13 won't give you super-sharp images because of the low 800x480 resolution, but for its price the LED projector offers a good set of features.
You can watch content from USB flash drives or microSD cards, and there are HDMI and VGA for easy connection to a computer or TV set-top box. In reviews, users note the good picture quality up to 80 inches diagonally.
In a dark room, the projection size can also be increased to 100 or even 120 inches. W13 is equipped with stereo speakers and audio output.
The only drawback is that some parts of the image might be out of focus when you use it. But if you install the projector perpendicular to the screen, it won't be a problem.
Pros:
- Great value
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Compact size
Cons:
- Keystone correction affects image quality
Summary: CiBest W13 has a resolution of 800x480. You can view content from USB drives or microSD memory cards, and there are HDMI and VGA connectors for easy connection. W13 is equipped with stereo speakers and audio output.
- Decent specs at affordable price
- Can project a 80-inch screen with ease
- Small enough to take it anywhere
Bigasuo B509 Projector for under $200
Best Alternative
BIGASUO B-509 with native 1920x1080P resolution provides clear images from the center to the edges with good color reproduction. Like all entry-level projectors, it is designed for use in a dark room or at night.
The model is equipped with 5W stereo speakers, and if you need more, there is an audio output and Bluetooth for connecting an external speaker. On the back side there are two USB ports with flash drive support and one HDMI port.
You can connect your laptop, game console or streaming devices like Roku an Fire TV Stick. For smoother operation with Xbox and PS4, it is recommended to install a firmware update with refresh rate bug fix.
Just ask the retailer for instructions. BIGASUO B-509 relies on manual focus and keystone correction. It is relatively quiet and comes with a 100" stretchable screen. The reviews confirm that BIGASUO B-509 works really well in its "projector under 200 USD" category.
Pros:
- Small and compact design
- Decent value for the money
- Clear image without blurring
- Low noise level
Cons:
- Not enough brightness for the lit room
Summary: The BIGASUO B-509 projection screen is a great entry-level option for those who need high-quality image resolution, good sound, and reliable connectivity. It also has two USB ports with support for flash drives, an audio output and Bluetooth for connecting an external speaker.
- Native 1080P resolution
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Bluetooth audio support
FAQ about Portable Projectors under $200
Here are some common questions and answers about portable projectors under $200:
Which high resolution in projectors under $200 should I choose?
BIGASUO B-509 has the highest 1080P resolution in this category. In addition to the basic features, it allows you to connect an external Bluetooth speaker and watch video from a USB drive.
Are there any good inexpensive portable projectors out there?
The best mini projector under $200 is the KODAK Luma 150. It's very compact and easy-to-carry, and the built-in battery gives you over 2 hours of viewing time. If your new location will have an outlet to plug in your projector, the inexpensive CiBest Mini Projector is great too.
What disadvantages do projectors under $200 have?
You can't get both high brightness and high native resolution in an inexpensive projector. If you have a budget for a more capable device, take a look at the best projectors under $500.
Best Projectors under $200: Conclusion
When you shop for the best projectors under $200, you'll find that there are some surprisingly powerful options out there that meet the needs of everyday viewing and gaming. These budget projectors typically offer enough brightness for home use, support for 1080p HD content, and a variety of connectivity options including HDMI, USB, and sometimes even Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Projectors such as the WiMiUS P61 with 1080p, the super portable KODAK LUMA 150 or the TOPTRO TR25 with WiFi 6 & Bluetooth 5.2.
While they don't boast the advanced features or ultra-high resolution of more expensive models, projectors in this price range are ideal for users who need an affordable solution for occasional movie nights, presentations, or gaming sessions at home.
Always consider your specific needs, such as ambient brightness, purpose, and room size before making a purchase to ensure that you find a projector that offers the best value for money for under $200.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
