The Best Smart Projectors For 2024

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
KODAK Luma 350 Portable Smart Projector w/ Luma App | Ultra HD Rechargeable Video Projector w/ Onboard Android 6.0
Image credit: Amazon.com

Smart projectors are powerful devices that can be used to bring the world’s wonders right into your living room. However, they can also be frustrating if you aren’t able to get the best possible experience. That’s why we have given you some advice on how to buy the best smart projector that suits your needs.

Smart projectors let you watch movies and TV shows from streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, or from a USB or memory stick so long as it is an image format supported by the device. They are also a great way to enjoy virtual reality experiences as well as educational content for kids. Luckily, there are the best smart projectors available now that will meet most people’s needs – read on to learn more about them.

You'll have an easier time deciding with our KODAK Luma 350 Portable Smart Projector w/ Luma App | Ultra HD Rechargeable Video Projector w/ Onboard Android 6.0 recommendations. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding NEBULA Anker Capsule, Smart Wi-Fi Mini Projector, Black, 100 ANSI Lumen Portable Projector if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

  • ADVANCED ANDROID 6.0 & iOS INTERFACE | Download Apps, Browse the Internet & Access Other Exciting Content Directly on the Projector | Device Features Easy-to-Use Light-Up Touch Controls, Manual Focus, Audio Output & Remote Control |Connect your Android or use the iOS Luma App for Even More Options
  • THE PREMIER CHOICE FOR DLP PROJECTION | Portable Smart Projector Utilizes Breakthrough Digital Light Processing Technology to Render HD Video & Imaging w/ Stunning Color, Clarity &LED-Lumen Brightness | Massive Displays Up to 150” | Use With the iOS Luma 350 App for Intuitive Wireless Access
  • CINEMA-QUALITY VIDEO FOR MOVIE MAGIC | Recreate the Visual Excellence of a Theater | Project in Full Ultra HD Resolution w/ Unbelievable Picture Quality| Built-In Speaker Lets You Enjoy Audio—No External Equipment Needed | Use your phone as a remote to adjust settings, open apps & choose content
  • COMPATIBILITY ACROSS ALL SMART DEVICES | Turn Your Phone Into a Remote| Discover the Ultimate All-Inclusive Multimedia Experience w/ Onboard Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Screen Mirroring, HDMI & USB for Phone, Laptop, Tablet, Streaming through downloaded Apps, Blu-Ray, Consoles & More. Note: The remote can only turn off the projector.
  • For an enhanced experience, update your projector to the most recent firmware on the Kodak Photo Plus website. Note: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CAN NOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Apollo to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. Mirroring and screencast can be used to display non-copyrighted content downloaded on an external device.
  • NOTE: Copyrighted content from Hulu, Netflix, and similar services CAN NOT be mirrored or screencast. Download and use the apps directly through Capsule portable projector to view copyrighted content from these providers. Chromecast is not supported. For peak performance, please update to the latest firmware.
  • Remarkable Clarity and Contrast: DLP's advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. (Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
  • Home Entertainment: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and more up to 100 inches big anywhere in your home thanks to Capsule’s soda can-sized design.
  • 360° Speaker: Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around.
  • Android 7.1: Run streaming and media apps flawlessly. Seamlessly display content from Netflix, Youtube, and more on your mini projector for endless entertainment.
  • Resolution: 1080p
  • Configure the projector and PC on the same network. Also configure the network on the PC installed with Windows 7, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10
  • Power Consumption 65Watts (Max)
  • Unforgettable Audio: Hear every whisper, explosion, and song in incredible clarity with Dolby Digital Plus and the dual 3W speakers. The sound is so powerful and clear that you can even use Solar as a portable Bluetooth speaker.
  • Entertainment Tailored to You: Choose from more than 5,000 apps with Android TV 9, including favorites like YouTube, Hulu, and more. You can even mirror content from your smartphone or other devices to Solar Portable 1080p projector.
  • Easy to Adjust: Leave that heavy tripod at home. Use Solar Portable 1080p projector’s built-in stand to adjust the angle of projection by up to 13 degrees.
  • No Wires, No Limits: With Solar Portable 1080p projector’s built-in rechargeable battery, you can recreate the sights and sounds of the cinema anywhere you want. Get up to 3 hours of power on a single charge—more than enough to mini-binge your favorite TV series.
  • Cinematic Visuals: Experience up to 120 inches of awesome 1080p entertainment. With HDR10 and 400 ANSI lumens also included, everything you watch and play is packed full of rich detail and color.(Recommended for use in dimmer environments.)
  • Note: To use Netflix, please download the Nebula Manager app from Google Play. Use the Nebula Connect app on your phone to control Netflix on this mini projector. Chromecast DOES NOT support Netflix content.
  • Immersive Audio: Premium Scan-Speak transducers reproduce every moment in pulse-pounding clarity for all to hear.
  • Android TV 9.0: Unleash a universe of entertainment possibilities with Android TV. Personalize your Capsule II mini projector with over 5,000 apps, including YouTube, Hulu, Twitch, and more.
  • Radiant Viewing: Cutting-edge DLP technology creates a stunning 720p 200-ANSI-lumen image. This projector is ideal for use in low-light environments.
  • Ideal in the Home: Stay entertained at home with Capsule II's 100-inch image. Watch movies, take online classes, or keep the kids entertained with hours of cartoons and educational videos. The possibilities are endless.
  • IDEAL CHOICE FOR DAILY ENTERTAINMENT: DRJ AK50 Native 1080P WIFI Projector enables you to enjoy daily entertainment for all kinds of holidays. Suitable use for your room, backyard, garage or outdoor camps, our Native 1080P WIFI projector with its built-in HIFI stereo speakers offers the best home movie theater feeling. DRJ AK50 NATIVE 1080P WIFI Projector, covers all your personal and business needs which is definitely a must have!
  • MAX 300INCH DISPLAY AND MULTIMEDIA COMPATIBILITY: DRJ AK50 Native 1080P WIFI projector offers the largest viewing size from 50Inch to 300Inch by adjusting the projection distance. Equipped with HDMI port, USB port, VGA port, VA port, this WIFI projector works perfectly with TV Stick, Chrome cast, Smart Phone, Laptop,Tablets, PC, DVD Player, USB and PS4. Application of these devices surely makes your life more entertaining and less stressful.
  • 120INCH PROJECTOR SCREEN INCLUDED: To make it much easier for our customer’s outdoor movie fun, DRJ AK50 projector packed with an upgrade 120Inch portable projector screen for you. It will perform greatly for your indoor and outdoor home entertainments. Don’t forget the beautiful night to have a great movie with your family and friends by the campfire every weekend.
  • UPGRADED WIFI & USB CONNECTION: The 2022 NEWBORN DRJ AK50 NATIVE 1080P WIFI projector makes the setup and connectivity with your iOS and Android devices much easier. Wireless connection through your home WIFI and wired connection through USB cable spare you the hassle of buying extra HDMI adapters. Thanks to the user friendly updates, it’s never been easier to explore more quality happy time with your family and friends.
  • [Note: DR Q is the sub-brand of DR J brand.] NATIVE 1080P SUPERB VIEWING EXPERIENCE: With the highest native resolution 1920*1080 and contrast ratio of 10000:1, DRJ AK50 WIFI projector creates you a movie theater for home & outdoor fun during the day and at night. It also enables you to enjoy your video or gaming with enhanced and crystal clear display.
  • Built-In Android TV (1) — Latest Android TV interface with a simple-to-use remote – including voice search with built-in Google Assistant. Watch all your favorite streaming channels including Hulu, HBO, YouTube and more. Even stream live TV with apps like YouTube TV (2).
  • Chromecast Built-In — Wirelessly cast your favorite content directly from your smart phone, tablet, or computer – including from popular Android and Apple devices (3).
  • Epson MicroLaser Array Technology — Unique multi-array laser diode technology produces an exceptional level of brightness while significantly enhancing the black density.
  • 8Auto Picture Skew and Focus Correction — Depending upon how you orient the projector to the wall, the projector will analyze the projected image and correct the geometry, while automatically focusing the picture for a beautiful viewing experience.
  • True 3-Chip Projector Design — 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.
  • Advanced Scene Adaptive Color Correction — Automatic scene-based color correction produces a clear and natural picture – regardless of the content being played.
  • Stunning Picture Quality up to 150" — Delivers an immersive viewing experience for TV shows, sporting events, gaming and movies by accepting content up to 4K – for an amazing Full-HD HDR picture.
  • Elegant Compact Design — Designed with simplicity in mind, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 Streaming Laser Projector has a clean, compact and modern design to beautifully fit within any décor.
  • Sound by Yamaha — Custom-designed audiophile speaker system offers a powerful and emotional performance that rivals soundbars; connect via Bluetooth to use as standalone speaker.
  • 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.
  • Android Tv: Download apps directly to the projector from Google Play, including YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney +, HBO Max, and more! Please note that our product does not stream the native Netflix app.
  • Harman Kardon Sound: Phenomenal audio powered by two 3W built-in Harman Kardon speakers. You can also wirelessly connect soundbars and Bluetooth headphones
  • 1080p Image with 300 ANSI Lumens: An advanced DLP lamp delivers FHD resolution and 300 ANSI lumens, helping you enjoy vivid colors on a giant 100-inch screen.
  • Built-In Battery: MoGo Pro's strong built-in battery provides at least 2HRS of big-screen entertainment anywhere, anytime.
  • Auto Keystone Correction: Autofocus and 40° Auto Keystone Correction ensure a perfect aspect ratio from almost any angle.
  • 【Light up your Journey/Portable Theater】 The DICE is a genuinely portable projector for outdoor movies that can run off the rechargable battery for the length of one or two films. Great for evening screenings outdoors.
  • 【Dolby Audio/Theater-Like Audio】 Dolby Digital Plus works together with the 2x3W speaker to produce immersive audio that fills any room.
  • 【Build-in Android 9.0 TV/Non-stop Entertainment】 Download apps directly to the projector from Google Play, including YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and more. You can also wirelessly mirror your phone's screen to the projector.
  • 【4 Points Keystone Correction/Angles Never Bother You】 Just put DICE at any angle, the patented Smart keystone correction will adjust the projected screen up to 40+ degrees both vertically and horizontally to give you the best viewing experience.
  • 【700 ANSI Lumens & 1080P FHD/Remarkable Clarity】 An advanced DLP lamp brings stunning FHD entertainment at a bright 700 ANSI lumens. Enjoy vivid colors on the giant 100-inch screen size.
  • ☀ Wide Compatibility and Application ☀: This V28 wireless projector is featured with multiple ports for ease of use, including a HDMI, USB, TF Card, VGA, and AV interface. It's the perfect solution for a wide variety of inputs includes but not limited to TV Stick/Box, Game Console, PCs, Smartphone & Laptops, DVD player, TF card and USB Sticks, External Speaker etc. This home projector with 100 inch screen is easy to use and real value for money.
  • ☀ 1080P Full HD High Performance Projector ☀: Featured with 1080P Full HD enhanced technology and 180 ANSI (more than 8000 Lux) LED light source, this wifi projector delivers 3 times clearer image quality than other native 720P projectors. The latest 3LCD color calibrating and adjusting technology works to restore more intricate color details, which presents our customers a real, dynamic and color vibrant projection image quality. This is in addition to the brightness lock feature.
  • ☀ Customized and Quality Projector ☀: This video projector is fitted with a modern design and is a customized and limited edition with exquisite projection screen. The innovative and efficient cooling system empowers a stunning watching and listening experience by decreasing 80% fan noise, a unique dual built-in speakers system, offering excellent loud sound quality without connecting to an external speaker. This is in addition to the easy to adjustable focus and keystone correction function.
  • ☀ Portable Mobile Home Cinema ☀: Now set up a portable cinema at your home to watch movies and TV shows, view photo slides, and play video games. This portable projector offers outstanding product performance and offers you a fantastic and beautiful cinema experience on your 270 inch large screen. The built-in wifi technology enables you to achieve the intelligent devices screen synchronization freely and save the cost to buy additional cables.
  • ☀ Easy Screen Synchronization Via WiFi or USB cable ☀: You need no cables to synchronize or mirror your smart phones & tablets screen any more. We have now simplified the wifi connection steps and equipped this model of V28 Wifi projector with the latest Wifi technology, making it more friendly and stable to user. Additionally, you can also use the original manufacturer USB charging cable to synchronize your Android and iOS intelligent devices directly. No additional cable is needed.
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What to Look For in a best smart projectors?

The best smart projectors is based upon a number of factors. Studying a product differs depending on the product type. So, we're on here to help, counsel, and provide solutions to these problems.

Please keep in mind the following points for selecting best smart projectors:

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.

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.

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).

Your Content

Two basic types of images can be displayed on a projector are data (text and graphics), and photorealistic. These include photos, film, and video. Most games have some elements of each. While any projector will show all types of images, a projector might not be able to handle every type of image. However, a projector could do a great job of one without being able to properly display the other. A projector should be optimized to display the type of images that you intend to present.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

Screen Or No Screen?

A screen will allow you to see better. Many screens have coatings which enhance blacks, contrast and colors. Small shadows can be created by a textured wall, which will distort the colors and blur out details. While some projectors can adjust for wall colors, most images projected on a wall will still look slightly off.

What Kind Of Projector Should You Get?

The type of projector you choose will depend on where and how you intend to use it. A high-quality, 1080p LCD projector is best for home theatres. A laser 4K model is best if you are passionate about visuals and have an access to dark theatre rooms. However, the latter is more expensive.

Do You Need Built-In Audio?

Not all projectors have audio capability, and for those that do, the audio is sometimes all but useless--particularly with highly portable models. Make sure the audio is loud and clear so you can hear what your projector says. You can use a separate sound system, or powered external speakers, if it doesn't. This is always a great idea for home theatre and home entertainment. Check if your projector can be used with Bluetooth speakers.

How Long Do Projector Screens Last?

However, newer technologies for projectors either extend the projector's lifespan or eliminate the need to use a filter (or lamp) entirely. These new technologies can last for as long as 20,000 hours. These new technologies require less maintenance, and are cheaper!

How Much Brightness Do I Need In An At-home Projector?

It is important to consider the location and times of use when purchasing a projector. Higher lumens will be recommended if you intend to use it in bright sunlight. Lumens for rooms that have dim lighting aren't as restricted. Ideally, 1,000 to 2000 lumens is the ideal.

How Important Is Ultra Short Throw?

Ultra short throw technology is a feature of many flagship 4K projectors. This greatly reduces the distance between projector and surface (walls, ceilings, etc.).
This laser projector tends to produce sharp images. However, it can be more expensive than a regular or long-throw model.
Ultra-short throw, or 'UST', is a space-saving technique that keeps your projector exactly where you would place a TV. It also means you won't have to mount a projector to your ceiling. People moving about a room will be less likely to block the images.
The decision is up to you.

Do I Need A 4K Projector?

You might be a little skeptical about any 4K projectors on this list. It may be worthwhile to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of other technologies.
Flatscreen TVs are generally simpler to use. They can be placed in your house, on the wall, or counter, and they will stay there. This TV has a fixed screen size and offers HDR or 4K resolution at a lower price than projectors.

How Big Should My 4K Projector Picture Be?

An age-old question. This really boils down to the size of your projector: If you want to fit a 100-inch projected image in the same space as a 55 inch TV, then a maximum 100-inch might be too small. You should measure the walls in your home and check that the projected image is compatible with them.

Do You Need 3D Support?

3D imaging has gone beyond the boom it experienced a few decades ago. It is now possible to show images in 3D for business and educational purposes. It's possible to still find 3D projectors if your application requires 3D.
There are many 3D technology options available. Make sure that any 3D projector or camera you're considering will be compatible with your 3D source. The "3D-ready" label usually indicates that it can work with 3D created by a computer. Full HD 3D is the best designation to search for if you own a number of 3D Bluray discs. It is important to confirm the type of 3D glasses that it can work with. DLP-Link glasses tend to be the most popular, however, there are many types of 3D glasses, some with proprietary features.

As we are product consulting experts with a wide range of experience, we determine correct information. Apart from that, we keep the best smart projectors current. You may rest confident that the data is accurate and up to date.

Besides best smart projectors, we can advise you with anything. Please do not hesitate to contact us whenever you need guidance.


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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.