Best Outdoor Projectors for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: August 14th, 2024

đŸŽ„Setting up an outdoor movie theater can be a super fun and rewarding experience these days. Thanks to the latest advances in portable projector tech, you get jaw-dropping visuals and killer sound right in your backyard, camping spot, or wherever your outdoorsy heart desires.

At ShopSavvy, we’ve sifted through tons of reviews and expert insights to bring you the best outdoor projectors for 2024. Whether you're after top-notch performance, a budget-friendly choice, or something tailored for specific needs, we've got you covered.

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Overall Best: Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser

NEBULA by Anker Capsule 3 Laser 1080p, Mini Smart TV Projector with wifi and bluetooth, Outdoor Portable Projector, Dolby Digital, Laser Projector, Autofocus, 120-Inch Picture, 2.5H Built-in Battery

The Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser is our top pick for an all-around outdoor projector. It's ingeniously compact—about the size of a soda can—yet packed with a powerful laser-phosphor light source and a 1080p DLP chip. This winning combination offers bright, sharp, and vibrant images in a variety of settings. The built-in 8-watt speaker punches above its weight, delivering clear and robust audio even in open spaces. Thanks to Android TV 11, you have straightforward access to popular streaming services with a user-friendly interface. Its portability, powerful features, and ease of use make the Capsule 3 Laser an ideal option for outdoor movie enthusiasts.

Lowest at Amazon
$659.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$492.99 at Newegg.com

More Answers

Still curious about the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser Projector? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How bright is the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
The **NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector** is quite portable, running on a built-in 52Wh battery. The manufacturer's description says you can expect about 2.5 hours of playtime in standard mode and around 1.8 hours in Eco mode. So, for shorter movie nights or outdoor gatherings without easy access to power, it should work pretty well. But if you're planning a longer session or need the projector's highest brightness, you might want to have a power bank on hand to avoid interruptions. One cool feature is its compatibility with Power Delivery (PD) charging, making it simpler to recharge with a power bank while on the go. From what I found, a lot of folks feel the battery life is sufficient for watching a movie or even short gaming sessions. But, if you plan to use it longer without plugging it in, especially at a higher brightness, having that backup charger nearby could be crucial. Speaking of brightness, it’s a key thing to consider for projectors. The manufacturer promotes its advanced laser tech for bright and vivid images, which sounds promising. However, I came across some feedback mentioning a noticeable drop in brightness when it's only on battery. That's something to think about if you'll use it in a well-lit room. Keeping it plugged in or using an extra power source could help keep the brightness steady and the picture quality good. Overall, the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector is great for flexibility and portability with its battery feature, so it's handy for those casual or short-term setups. Just remember: if you’re going for long and bright sessions, a backup power plan is a smart move to keep the fun going!
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What is the battery life of the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
The NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector is pretty handy if you're on the go, thanks to its built-in 52Wh battery. According to the manufacturer's details, you'll usually get about 2.5 hours per charge in standard mode and around 1.8 hours in Eco mode. It's great for things like outdoor movie nights when plugging in isn't an option. However, keep in mind, if you're relying solely on the battery, the brightness drops by about 40%. This can be a bit of a bummer, especially in places where there's a lot of ambient light. So if you're not using a power source, maybe consider dimming the lights or finding a darker spot to keep the picture looking good. Our research shows that experiences with the battery life can vary. Some folks say it drains faster if they amp up the brightness, which makes sense since more brightness means more battery usage. So, managing those settings is key if you want the battery to last through your viewing session. For longer marathons, having a steady power supply is important. You might want to keep a [power bank](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpower%2Bbank%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) that supports [USB-C PD](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DUSB-C%2BPD%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) charging close by, or just plug it in to keep things running smoothly and ensure maximum brightness. If you're mainly interested in its portability, the Capsule 3 Laser is a solid choice. Just plan on having a backup power option for longer sessions so you don't hit any unexpected interruptions during your movie nights, presentations, or whatever you've got planned.
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Can you use Netflix on the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector?
You can definitely watch [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) on the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser projector, but it takes a little extra effort. The projector, made by Anker, doesn't support the native Netflix app directly. Instead, you'll have to sideload it through the Nebula Manager app on your smartphone. This sideloading process involves activating 'mouse mode' on your phone to navigate Netflix, which isn't as smooth as a native app experience. Some folks find this a bit cumbersome, and it can make using Netflix a bit less straightforward compared to other streaming services. Good news is, services like [Amazon Prime](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Damazon%2Bprime%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Hulu](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhulu%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and [Apple TV+](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Btv%2B%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) work just fine on the Capsule 3, thanks to its Google TV OS. They don't need any special tricks and provide a smooth streaming experience. It's just a bummer that Netflix doesn’t fit in quite as easily. According to our research, using Netflix this way on the Capsule 3 might involve some lag or delays because of the extra steps with the phone control. If Netflix is a big part of your viewing habits, you might want to consider whether this setup will work for you. One option is to use an external media player or streaming stick that supports Netflix right out of the box. This way, you can skip the sideloading process and enjoy a hassle-free Netflix experience on your projector. It's a bit of an extra step, but it could make your viewing a lot smoother. In the end, while you can watch Netflix on the NEBULA Capsule 3, it might be worth weighing these options to see what fits your needs best.
View All Answers for

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Runner-up: Xgimi Halo+

XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable Projector, 700 ISO Lumens with Harman Kardon Speakers, Auto Keystone Correction, Auto Focus, Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance, Intelligent Screen Alignment, Android TV 10.0

For those looking for an impressive runner-up, the Xgimi Halo+ won’t disappoint. Renowned for its bright and vivid visuals, this mini projector excels even in non-pitch black environments. The LED light source ensures vibrant picture quality, while the integrated Harman Kardon speakers provide an exceptional audio experience. Coupled with Android TV, you can easily access a variety of streaming services and apps. Weighing in at just a few pounds, the Halo+ is easy to transport, making it a close contender to our top pick for an uninterrupted and cinematic outdoor viewing experience.

Lowest at Amazon
$623.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$476.14 at AliExpress.com

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Budget Pick: Vankyo Performance V700W

If budget is your primary concern, look no further than the Vankyo Performance V700W. Priced under $200, this wireless mini projector delivers a remarkable performance without breaking the bank. The V700W offers crisp and clear visuals, and with its wireless screen mirroring, you can easily stream content from both Android and iOS devices. The built-in speaker provides adequate sound for casual movie nights, while the device's affordability makes it the best choice for anyone looking to dive into outdoor cinema without the hefty price tag.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$185.99 at Amazon

Best for Gaming: Samsung The Freestyle Gen 2

SAMSUNG 30” - 100” The Freestyle 2nd Gen with Gaming Hub Smart Portable Projector, FHD, HDR, Big Screen Home Theater Experience, 360 Sound, SP-LFF3CLAXXZA, 2023 Model

Gamers who want to take their fun outdoors will love the Samsung The Freestyle Gen 2. This portable projector is equipped with a dedicated gaming hub, allowing you to stream games directly without needing a console. Our tests confirmed that the setup is quick and intuitive, and the built-in apps are easy to navigate. Its lightweight, versatile design supports front, back, and even ceiling projections, making it a fantastic choice for both gaming and movie nights outside. Enjoy seamless and immersive outdoor gaming experiences like never before.

Lowest at Amazon
$597.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$169.99 at Bass Pro Shops

Most Durable: BenQ GS50

BenQ GS50 | 1080p Wireless Outdoor 4K Supported Portable Projector | Extra Bass Bluetooth Speaker | IPX2 Splash & Drop Resistant | WiFi | Android TV | Chromecast & AirPlay | Auto Focus | 2D Keystone 1080p 500 ANSI lm 20W speaker

For those who prioritize durability, the BenQ GS50 is an impeccable choice. Designed to withstand the elements, this projector is splash- and drop-resistant, making it perfect for rugged outdoor environments. Despite its tough exterior, the GS50 doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers excellent image quality and immersive sound, ensuring an enjoyable movie experience. Additional features like a built-in carrying case enhance its portability and protection, making this the ultimate reliable companion for any outdoor movie setup.

Lowest at Amazon
$699.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$699.00 at Adorama
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