Portable projectors have become increasingly popular as people seek compact and convenient solutions for home entertainment, business presentations, and outdoor movie nights. In 2025, mini projectors are more advanced than ever, offering high-resolution visuals, built-in smart features, and long battery life. Whether you need a travel-friendly option or a powerful device for gaming and streaming, there’s a perfect mini projector for you.
Here, we’ve rounded up the five best portable projectors for 2025, focusing on their key features, performance, and why they stand out in the market.
1. Samsung The Freestyle 2nd Gen – Best for Smart Streaming
Overview
Samsung’s Freestyle 2nd Gen continues the legacy of its predecessor by offering a sleek, lightweight design paired with impressive smart features. With a 180-degree rotating lens, it allows users to project images onto various surfaces without needing a traditional screen setup.
Key Features
- Resolution: 720p (supports 4K decoding)
- Brightness: 12,000 lumens
- Operating System: Android 11 with preloaded streaming apps
- Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi 6
- Portability: Compact design with 180-degree rotation
Why It Stands Out
The Freestyle 2nd Gen is perfect for those who prioritize smart features and convenience. With pre-installed streaming apps and seamless connectivity, it’s a great option for Netflix, YouTube, and other entertainment platforms. The 180-degree rotating design allows flexible projection, making it ideal for projecting on walls, ceilings, or floors.
Pros
✔️ Highly portable with a unique rotating design
✔️ Built-in smart TV features
✔️ High brightness and sharp picture quality
Cons
❌ Resolution is only 720p (though supports 4K decoding)
❌ No built-in battery (must be plugged in for use)
2. Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser – Best Compact Projector
Overview
For those looking for a super compact and highly portable option, the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser is one of the best choices. Roughly the size of a soda can, it packs 1080p resolution and a laser-powered projection system, making it one of the most powerful mini projectors in a small form factor.
Key Features
- Resolution: 1080p (supports 4K input)
- Brightness: 300 ANSI lumens (on AC power)
- Operating System: Android TV 11
- Battery Life: Up to 2.5 hours
- Speaker System: Functions as a Bluetooth speaker
Why It Stands Out
The laser-powered projection ensures crisp and clear visuals even in moderately lit environments. Despite its small size, it supports 4K input and has a decent battery life for short movie sessions or presentations. The Capsule 3 also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker, making it a versatile gadget.
Pros
✔️ Ultra-portable and lightweight
✔️ 1080p native resolution with 4K input support
✔️ Built-in Android TV for streaming
Cons
❌ Brightness could be higher for outdoor use
❌ Battery life may not be sufficient for long movies
3. XGIMI Halo+ – Best for Battery-Powered Projection
Overview
For those who need a battery-powered projector with high-end features, the XGIMI Halo+ is a great pick. This 1080p projector delivers impressive image quality while providing up to 2.5 hours of playback on a single charge.
Key Features
- Resolution: 1080p
- Brightness: 800 ANSI lumens
- Battery Life: Up to 2.5 hours
- Smart Features: Android TV with Chromecast and AirScreen
- Auto-adjustments: Keystone correction, autofocus, intelligent screen alignment, and obstacle avoidance
Why It Stands Out
The XGIMI Halo+ is one of the brightest battery-powered projectors on the market. It offers automatic keystone correction, intelligent screen alignment, and obstacle avoidance, ensuring a perfect image without manual adjustments. The built-in battery is an added advantage for outdoor use or travel.
Pros
✔️ Bright 1080p resolution
✔️ Automatic image correction features
✔️ Runs Android TV for seamless streaming
Cons
❌ Heavier than some other mini projectors
❌ Battery life is not sufficient for longer sessions
4. Anker Nebula Mars 3 Air – Best for Outdoor Movie Nights
Overview
The Anker Nebula Mars 3 Air is designed for outdoor entertainment, featuring a 1080p HDR resolution, built-in speakers, and a durable design. With 400 lumens brightness and a handle for easy carrying, it’s a fantastic option for backyard movie nights or camping trips.
Key Features
- Resolution: 1080p HDR
- Brightness: 400 lumens
- Speaker System: Dual 8W speakers
- Operating System: Google TV
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB
- Battery Life: Long-lasting battery for extended use
Why It Stands Out
The Mars 3 Air provides a well-balanced mix of brightness, resolution, and sound quality, making it one of the best options for outdoor movie lovers. It also features a built-in handle, making it easy to carry for camping trips or outdoor events.
Pros
✔️ High-quality 1080p HDR projection
✔️ Built-in premium speakers
✔️ Long battery life
Cons
❌ Heavier than other portable options
❌ Lower brightness than plug-in models
5. BenQ GV31 – Best for Versatile Viewing Angles
Overview
The BenQ GV31 is designed for those who want flexibility in projection angles. Its unique circular design allows rotation, making it easy to adjust viewing angles without needing a tripod or stand.
Key Features
- Resolution: 1080p
- Design: Rotating base for flexible angles
- Brightness: 300 ANSI lumens
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Why It Stands Out
The rotating design sets it apart from other projectors. Whether you want to watch a movie on the ceiling, wall, or at an angle, the BenQ GV31 makes it easy without the hassle of manual adjustments.
Pros
✔️ Unique rotating design for different projection angles
✔️ 1080p resolution
✔️ Compact and easy to carry
Cons
❌ Brightness is lower than some competitors
❌ No built-in battery (requires power source)
Which Mini Projector Should You Choose?
The best mini projector for you depends on your specific needs. Here’s a quick recommendation based on use case:
- Best for Smart Streaming → Samsung The Freestyle 2nd Gen
- Best for Compact Portability → Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser
- Best Battery-Powered Option → XGIMI Halo+
- Best for Outdoor Movies → Anker Nebula Mars 3 Air
- Best for Flexible Viewing Angles → BenQ GV31
Portable projectors in 2025 continue to push the boundaries of innovation, offering smarter features, better visuals, and improved portability. Whether you’re watching a movie under the stars, gaming on the go, or making a business presentation, there’s a perfect mini projector for you.