The Best Entry Level Projector For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Best Entry Level Projector
Best Entry Level Projector

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: Epson Cinema 880 Projector

This Epson Cinema 880 projector delivers stunning picture quality and is easy to setup. The projector comes with a built-in picture skew sensor, award-winning service and support as well as a convenient color mode adjustments for your movie enjoyment. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: BenQ Gaming Projector

The BenQ Gaming Projector is the ideal solution for gamers and those who want to be entertained in the great outdoors. This projector can project a stunning 4K image with its native aspect ratio, giving you more screen area than any other projector on the market. Read Review

3. Best Display: Optoma 4K UHD Projector

The Optoma 4K UHD projector delivers stunningly crisp, colorful and ultra-bright images. This HDR compatible projector is designed for home use, with a variety of inputs like HDMI and MHL. The long lamp life ensures you get more time to enjoy watching your favorite movies. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Hitachi Projector

The Hitachi Projector is a great presentation tool for professionals and students alike. This ultra-thin projector features an integrated lens and computer, built-in HDMI and S-Video Mini DIN inputs, adjustment controls for focus and zoom, and fast start up time. Read Review

5. Best Convenient: AuKing Mini Projector

AuKing Mini Projector is a home theater projector with built-in speakers. With a big screen up to 150 inches and low noise, this projector can project your favorite movies or TV shows in any room of the house. It has USB, HDMI and AV ports which makes it compatible with all devices. Read Review

When you have your very first projector, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Luckily, the market has plenty of great entry-level projectors that offer amazing value for anyone looking to get into home theater. The image quality of a projector is measured according to the smallest detail that is visible on the screen, also known as resolution. Higher resolution means more details are visible on screen. 

If you’re looking for an affordable projector that will allow you to experience your first home screen movies or video games without breaking the bank, then look no further than the following affordable projector options. There are many different models out there and it may take some time to sift through all the details and find an ideal entry-level model. So here are some important guide you need to know when searching for the right projector.

After doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time, We think the best entry level projector is Epson Cinema 880 Projector. This projector delivers stunning picture quality and is easy to setup. It comes with a built-in picture skew sensor, award-winning service and support as well as a convenient color mode adjustments for your movie enjoyment. Other options presented here are certainly worthy of your attention, and in order to assist you in making an informed choice, We have compiled the following helpful buying guide.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Epson Cinema 880 Projector
Our Score:
9.9
Epson

Convenient color mode adjustments — four easy selectable color modes to optimize projection content: Dynamic, Bright Cinema, Cinema and Natural

Easy setup — built-in speaker and easy setup for HD entertainment right out of the box

Best-in-Class Color Brightness (1) — advanced 3LCD technology displays 100% of the RGB color signal for every frame. This allows for outstanding color accuracy while maintaining excellent color brightness, without any distracting “rainbowing” or “color brightness” issues seen with other projection technologies

All-digital HDMI connectivity — easily connect your cable/satellite box, Blu-ray Disc player, gaming console or streaming device

Ultra bright images — 3,300 lumens of color and white brightness deliver outstanding-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions (2)

Stunning picture quality — provides stunning, detailed 1080p images and fast data processing that’s optimized for fast-action sports, gaming and more

Dynamic contrast ratio — up to 16,000:1 for rich detail in dark scenes

Built-in picture skew sensor — automatically analyzes the picture and instantly corrects the keystone for a square image

Award-winning service and support — standard 2-year limited warranty, full-unit replacement, along with free technical phone support for the life of the product

TOP Choice #2 BenQ Gaming Projector
Our Score:
9.7
BenQ

PRO PERFORMANCE: Compatible with major consoles (Sony PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X, Google stadia) huge, bright, sharp images and equalized audio

4K LOW LATENCY: Low latency 16ms at 4K/60Hz low input lag, Game Mode/Game Sound Mode to fine-tune audio and images

USER-FRIENDLY: Cast with airplay and Chromecast. No app needed. Remote controls both Android TV and projector

NOTE: Cast Netflix content via your laptop Google Chrome Browser or connect to an HDMI cable. Netflix is not natively available on this device

INDUSTRY LEADING WARRANTY: 3-year limited parts and labor coverage; our US-based customer service team is here when you need it

TK700 vs TK700STi: TK700STi possesses short-throw capabilities able to project at shorter distances (100"at 6.5ft). TK700 utilizes standard throw (100" at 8.2ft). TK700STi also features Android TV while the TK700 does not.

EASY SET-UP: 1.2x zoom flexible throw distances, 2D Auto Vertical Keystone, Picture Rotation Adjustment for squared images

ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT: Google-certified Android TV and Google Play store, with 5,000 plus of the latest Android apps, movies, shows, live sports, games, music, and more

TOP Choice #3 Optoma 4K UHD Projector
Our Score:
9.5
Optoma

HDR & HLG COMPATIBLE: Enjoy brighter whites and deeper black levels for an enhanced viewing experience of images and videos, enabled by HDR10 & HLG technologies

LAG-FREE GAMING: Ultra-fast 240Hz gaming for blur-free visuals and unparalleled smoothness––combined with Enhanced Gaming Mode to produce a 4.2ms response time at 1080p, 16ms at 4K UHD, for the lowest input lag on a 4K projector

EASY IMAGE SETUP: Whether ceiling mounted or placed on a table, get the picture just right with 1.1x zoom and ±40° keystone correction

VARIETY OF INPUTS: Connect with gaming consoles, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices, Blu-ray players, ChromeCast, Roku, Amazon Fire Stick & other streaming devices; input options include HDMI 2.0 inputs with HDCP 2.2 support, HDMI 4K, USB, VGA, and more

LONG LAMP LIFE: Enjoy up to 15,000 hours of lamp life, enabling an average of two 2-hour movies every day 10 plus years

STANDARD THROW PROJECTION: Project a 120" image from approximately 13.1 feet away; UHD35 projects up to a 300" image

TRUE 4K ULTRA HD: Experience high-quality home cinema feel with 4K Ultra HD with 8.3 million distinct addressable on-screen pixels

DYNAMIC BLACK: Dynamic Black technology provides more depth to the image by smoothing lamp output to create a high contrast ratio (1,000,000:1); bright scenes appear clear while dark scenes remain detailed

CRISP, COLORFUL PICTURE: UltraDetail technology ensures enhanced image sharpness with a higher frame rate to deliver a crystal clear picture; RGBWRGBW 8 segment color wheel increases the color ratio for richer, vivid and cinematic image

ULTRA-BRIGHT: Enjoy 3,600 lumens of brightness in your home theater room, family room, gaming room – or even outdoors for backyard movie nights

4 Hitachi Projector
Our Score:
9.3
Hitachi

Lens: x 1.1 manual zoom Lamp Wattage: 196W Expected Lamp Life: Approximately 4,500 hours (standard mode), 6,000 hours (Eco mode) Speaker Output: 2W x 1 Acoustic Noise Level: 33 dB (29 dB in Eco mode)Keystone: +/- 30 Degree vertical only

Computer: VGA, SVGA, XGA, WXGA/WXGA+/SXGA/SXGA+/UXGA H-Sync: 31.5 kHz - 102 kHz V-Sync : 59.9 Hz - 120 HComponent Video: 480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p HDMI: 480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080p, 1080p

Digital Input HDMI x 1 (HDCP compliant Computer Input 1 15-pin mini D-sub x Computer Input 2 15-pin mini D-sub x Computer Monitor Output 15-pin mini D-sub x 1 (computer in 1 only)

Video Input S-Video Mini DIN 4-pin x 1, Composite Video RCA jack x 1, Component Video 15-pin D-sub x 2 (shared with computer in 1/2Audio Input 3.5 mm stereo mini jack x Audio Output 3.5 mm stereo mini jack x 1

Projection Technology: 0.55" single chip DLP Resolution: XGA - 1024 x 768 Light Output: 3,000 ANSI lumens Colors: 1.07 billion colors Aspect Ratio: Native 4:3 / 16:9 compatible Contrast Ratio: 2500 : 1 Throw Ratio(distance : width): 1.86 - 2.04

5 AuKing Mini Projector
Our Score:
9.1
AuKing

★【Big Screen & Built-in Speakers】The mini projector has a 32~170 inches projection display size with 1m to 5m projection distance. Built-in speakers offer excellent loud sound quality, you can also connect it to external speakers to meet your higher quality sound needs.

★【Superior Home Theater Projector 】2022 Upgraded mini projector equipped with 2000:1 contrast ratio, supported 1080p resolution, brings you a 35% brighter images than similar projectors in market. It provides you with a premium home cinema experience with the bigger screen and clearer image.

★【Low Noise & Long Lamp Life】The projector is lower in noise and more durable than previous models thanks to advanced fan cooling technology. Powerful cooling system cools the heat of lamp efficiently, extending the bulb life to 55,000 hours, which means you can use it more than 15 years.

★【Multiple Devices Connection & Portable】This portable movie projector is fit for playing videos, TV series, photos sharing, football matches etc. It can be easily connected with laptops, smartphones, tablets, USB drives, X-Box ONE to enjoy big games. ★★★When connect with phone, please purchase an extra HDMI adapter. Please kindly note projectors with mirrored are incompatible with Netflix and Hulu due to copyright issues.★★★

★【2 Year Satisfied Warranty】Our team offers every customer 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you have any problems while using, please feel free to contact us. Please rest assured that we also have 2 year warranty. Not recommended for PPT, or business presentation, it is a home theater projector. You can enjoy the fun at outdoor journey in dark.

6 NEC Entry-Level Projector
Our Score:
8.9
NEC

Lamp Type: 265W AC/195W eco

Audio: 10W speaker

Display Technology: 0.59" LCD w/ MLA

Supported Video Standards: NTSC, NTSC4.43, PAL, PAL-60, PAL-M, PAL-N, SECAM

Throw Ratio: 1.3 to 2.2

3 YEAR WARRANTY: Parts and labor coverage; our US-based customer service team is here whenever you need it

EASY, QUICK SET UP & VERSATILE PROJECTION: Adjustable 135 degree Projection Angle, Auto Focus & Vertical Keystone

2.1 CHANNEL AUDIO WITH EXTRA BASS: 2.1 Channel Bluetooth Speaker with Extra Bass (4Wx2 midrange tweeters & BW woofer)

WIRELESS & DIVERSE ENTERTAINMENT: Embedded Google-certified Android TV, AirPlay & Chromecast wireless casting for iOS, MacOS, Android, and PC Devices

BIG AND CLEAR CINEMATIC PICTURE: 720p HD Resolution & 300 ANSI Lumens with Android TV

Netflix is NOT natively available on this device, please install the dedicated BenQ "Apps Manager" to watch Netflix

ULTRAPORTABILITY: HDMI and USB-C Connectivity for all applications, includes carrying bag and 2.3ft (70cm) drop-proof for active lifestyles.

LAIDBACK MOVIE EXPERIENCE: Flexible wide projection angle, autofocus & vertical keystone for projection from floor to ceiling

OPTIMAL PICTURE MODES AND VIBRANT COLOR: Optimized Picture Modes powered by CinematicColor and 98% Rec. 709 wide color gamut for true color. Movie-like experience in the comfort of your bedroom, office, or patio.

8 Epson 4K Smart Projector
Our Score:
8.7
Epson

New Compact Design — Easily fits on racks and bookshelves; sleek, modern design seamlessly complements contemporary spaces

Bright Picture — 2,800 lumens of color and white brightness (6) deliver a bright, vivid picture in a variety of lighting conditions

Best-in-Class Color Brightness (7) — Advanced 3-chip 3LCD technology displays 100% of the RGB color signal for every frame, allowing for outstanding color accuracy while maintaining excellent color brightness without any distracting “rainbowing” or “color brightness” issues seen with other projection technologies

4K PRO-UHD (1) — An amazing 4K experience utilizing advanced processing for resolution enhancement, color and image processing; HDR10 (2) and HLG support produce an extraordinary range of color and detail in both bright and dark scenes

Smart Streaming Capability — Latest Android TV (3) interface with a simple-to-use remote – including voice search with built-in Google Assistant; watch all your favorite streaming channels including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube and more; even stream live TV with apps like YouTube TV (4)

Input Lag Time Under 20 ms — Low latency mode allows for responsive gaming with the latest generation of gaming consoles and even higher-end gaming PCs

Lens Shift Capability for Flexible Installation — +/- 60% vertical lens shift allows for incredible flexibility when installing the projector on tables, bookshelves, ceilings and more

Outstanding Service and Support — 2-year limited projector warranty and 90-day lamp; two-business-day replacement with free shipping

Smooth 4K PRO-UHD (1) HDR (2) gaming performance up to 60 Hz

Integrated Audio Technologies — Built-in 10 W bass-reflex speaker, plus Bluetooth wireless audio device support (5), provide a number of audio options

9 FATORK Mini Projector
Our Score:
8.5
FATORK

🤖【WIRELESS 5G WIFI CONNECTION】:The WiFi projector supports 2.4G/5G, realizing the same screen in real-time with low latency. Connect once to WiFi, and you can connect your device to your portable home projector whenever you want. The latest WiFi connectivity is compatible with iOS and Android, so you don't need to switch cables.

🎮【LENS DUSTPROOF & COMPATIBILITY】:The DLP projector lens adopts closed technology, which is more dustproof and will not appear black spots. A tiny projector is equipped with HDMI and USB ports. It can easily connect to smartphones, iPads, laptops, TV boxes, DVD players, game consoles, USB drives, and more for home theater, video games, parties, and outdoor events.

📞【CUSTOMER SERVICE SUPPORT】: FATORK has always been committed to providing excellent pocket projectors and 100% satisfied customer service. We provide 12 months of professional after-sales service and permanent professional technical support. If you have some problem, please contact us on Amazon, and we will try our best to solve it for you within 24 hours.

🌞【CLARITY & SHORT FOCAL DISTANCE】:DLP projectors provide better light efficiency and color control with bright 150 ANSI lumen images. (Recommended for use in darker environments.) Enjoy a brighter and clearer image than LCD projectors. This projector can project up to 114" (10-100" recommended) at a projection distance of 1.64 ft to 9.85 ft.

👜【PORTABLE & AUTOMATIC KEYSTONE CORRECTION】:With a design more minor than the size of a soda can, this mini projector allows you to enjoy your favorite movies anywhere at home.This wireless projector has a built-in rechargeable battery, which can provide 2.5 hours of video on 1 charge, meeting outdoor needs. This pocket projector supports automatic vertical ±40° keystone correction, which helps to correct the image quickly.

10 VIMGO 5G Projector
Our Score:
8.4
VIMGO

【Higher Brightness with Lower Price】VIMGO VENUS X3 native 1080p projector boasts 9700LUX brightness with TFT LCD display technology, 8000:1 contrast ratio it delivers crystal clear image with vivid color to create a cinematic home theater vibe. The diffuse reflection tech delivers a soft image to protect your eyes.

【Multimedia and Professional Support Team】Equipped with Tripod, HDMI*2, USB*1, VGA*1, AV*1, SD slot*1, Audio output*1, this WiFi projector works perfectly with TV Stick, Chrome cast, Smart Phone, Laptop,Tablets, PC, DVD Player, USB and PS5. The application of these devices surely makes your life more entertaining and less stressful. VIMGO also provides a 12-month money-back guarantee, and 3-year repair & lifetime professional Technical Support.

【Latest Screen Synchronized Tech】Enjoys the latest Ultra-fast 5G WiFi Synchronize technology, VIMGO VENUS X3 movie projector support both 2.4G and 5G WiFi, which can widely compatible with Android, iPhone, and Windows 10 only in a few second to brings flawless audio-visual feast. The projector is the perfect solution to your home theater night.(Please keep the tripod node at a horizon angle while using the tripod)

【Compact Size with 220” Big Image】VIMGO Portable projector can show 50”-220” display in the distance range of 5.57-22.3ft, with 3 lb light weight and compact size, it is 30% lighter and smaller than traditional Clunky projectors. it’s perfect for home movie entertainment, backyard, games, yoga, and party usage.

【HiFi Stereo Speaker&Long Life-Span】With built-in 4W dual stereo speakers, VENUS X3 outdoor projector provides an astonishing auditory experience without external speakers. Video projector adopts the advanced tech to reduce lamp power consumption to extend the lifespan to a maximum 55,000 hrs(It can work 22 years for 6 hours projection per day ).

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Our buying guide to pick best entry level projector for you need

Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices when it comes to purchasing best entry level projector? Visitors didn't even know if a better option was available. We have a few suggestions which will make things easier and thus save you time and effort.

Review them out below to see whether the item you're looking for is right for you!

Projection Tech

Projectors can be either LCD-based, or they use a Texas Instruments DLP chip (Digital Light Processing), along with a laser or LED or LCOS light source.
DLP projectors with single-chip DLP chips could be subject to the so-called "rainbow effect." Sometimes, tiny, bright flashes with rainbow-like colors may appear, especially in dark scenes. Some DLP projectors have a minimal effect, while others can produce a distracting result, especially when there are bright areas against shady backgrounds. The rainbow effect is not a problem with LCD projectors, which are safer if someone in your household has sensitive eyes. There are many DLP projectors that produce excellent images.

Resolution

Although projectors have the ability to scale images either up or down it is best not to do so as this can cause distortions. Any projector resolution above and beyond WUXGA (1.920 by 1.200 pixels) should be matched to the source that you intend to attach it most frequently, which is a computer or other electronic equipment.
The calculation for projectors that have 4K ultra high definition (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) is slightly different.

Light Source

Projectors are moving away from lamps being used as light sources and using lasers and LEDs. At the moment there is a benefit to each option.
For longer periods of time, LEDs and lasers retain a greater percentage of their original brightness. While all light sources eventually lose their brightness, lamps lose the most in 500 hours. Then, they slowly decline over time. The brightness of LEDs and lasers will decrease more slowly over the course of their lifetimes.

Portability

You should consider how easily the projector must be carried. There are many sizes and weights of portable projectors. Some can be small enough to slip into a pocket or large enough to mount on a wall. You can take a portable projector with you to work, as well as a gaming or entertainment projector, to your friend's home or backyard to set up for movie nights. Make sure the projector is both appropriate in size and weight. You should ensure that your projector has enough battery life if you are far from power outlets.

Contrast Ratio

The ratio of brightness from the brightest white to the darkness of black a projector produces is called the contrast ratio. However, the rating of the projector will not usually be affected by it. A higher contrast ratio, which is the difference between how bright a projector can produce and how dark it can display, produces vivid, striking colors, and more detail in shadows. This is most important in video, film, and two-dimensional photos that are photorealistic.
Contrast ratings can only be used to measure in dark rooms. They don't give any information about ambient lighting. Unusually dark blacks in the projector will result in lower contrast. A brighter projector will perform well in home theaters, but not in living rooms or offices.

Connection Methods

Many home projectors have multiple connections options. Most new models have HDMI connectivity. This is a good thing because HDMI supports 1080p video. Standard, larger projectors come with full-size HDMI ports. However, smaller projectors like pico and palmtop have micro or mini HDMI ports. These ports require separate cables that are usually included with each projector.
Component video, composite video and S-Video all make up the most common connections on large projectors. We're also seeing more projectors that offer direct USB connection to computers via a USB cable. A growing variety of projectors now have USB Type-C ports. The majority of USB-C ports can be used to transfer data or video using the DisplayPort protocol. Most USB-C ports support USB Power Delivery (USB PD), which means that a plugged in projector can supply 100 watts of power to charge a device or to charge it using a USB-C cable (assuming the device is capable of charging over USB-C).

Brightness

Projector brightness is not uniform. Brighter isn’t always better.
The ambient lighting level, size and material of your projector screen will all affect the brightness. You should buy a professional seller if you are installing a projector in a permanent location, such as at your home, to ensure that you get the best image brightness and the correct screen material.

FAQs

What is an entry-level projector?

An entry-level projector is a basic projector that is designed for use in the home or office. It is typically an affordable option for those looking for a basic projector for presentations, movies, or other multimedia purposes. These projectors usually offer lower resolution and fewer features than more expensive models, but still provide satisfactory performance.

What features should I look for in an entry-level projector?

When choosing an entry-level projector, it is important to consider the size of the room where you will be using the projector. This will help determine the resolution and brightness you need. You should also consider the type of connections the projector offers, such as HDMI, VGA, and other inputs. Finally, look for a projector that offers easy setup and good customer service.

How do I set up an entry-level projector?

Setting up an entry-level projector is relatively simple. First, you need to connect the projector to your device, such as a computer or DVD player. Then, you need to adjust the projection angle and focus. Finally, you should adjust the brightness and contrast to the desired level. Different projectors may have slightly different setup processes, so refer to the user manual for specific instructions.

What type of connectors are available on entry-level projectors?

Entry-level projectors typically offer a variety of connectors, including VGA, HDMI, USB, and Composite. The type of connectors available will depend on the specific model.

Conclusion

The website has a buying guide for best entry level projector for your needs. It will assist you in determining what to purchase and how much was to purchase! If the above options do not meet your needs, consider F-506 Video Projector as an alternative.

Whether any of this makes it sound daunting or if you want more information, please give us a call, our members of the team are always happy to chat and brainstorm ideas with you!


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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.