Pico projectors! If DLP projectors weren’t small enough for you, hopefully, a pico projector will be. Designed to function alongside your smartphone, pico projectors offer amazing projection capabilities.
Also known as pocket, handheld, or miniature projectors, these devices are relatively new to the market. But that hasn’t stopped a plethora of them being produced over the past 24 months. The end result has created headaches among consumers specifically when it comes to picking the right projector.
Luckily for you, we have a guide that you can use to navigate you through the ever changing, growing, and developing world of pico projectors. In this article, we’ll run you through all the best options on the market right now – from the most basic budget options to those with the best image-projecting capabilities, up to the most advanced tech models that are available in the market right now.
You can connect anything from your phone, whether it be a tablet, laptop, or even a memory device to these tiny projectors. Then, stream content onto a wall, projector screen, or wherever you please.
Pico projectors is the perfect option for lots of consumers. We are here to point you to the right direction. Sit back and read on as we run you through all the latest projectors that the market has to offer!
AKASO Mini Projector
The first projector that has made our list is the AKASO mini projector. This projector is at the top of our list as it offers a little bit of everything.
This projector is small enough that it can easily fit into your hand whilst also offering external audio outlets, full connectivity, and crystal clear images. Coming in at just under 200 dollars, this projector is still far cheaper than an LCD projector, or even some DLP options.
Given the price and all the specifications that are on offer, we think that the ALKASO is the ideal pico projector for most consumers. Users have complemented its ease of use, great image quality as well as all the built-in technology that makes using, setting it up and relaxing with this device, extremely easy.
Pros
- HD 1080p ready.
- WiFi connectable.
- Comes with a built-in HDMI port.
- USB connectable.
- Micro SD card connectable.
- 3.5mm external audio jack function so you get to stream your movie, and connect your awesome speakers to achieve the ultimate home cinema experience.
- Fits in the palm of your hand – even more portable than an DLP projector.
- Weighs just 0.46lbs.
- It’s in your pocket!
- Connect with any game consoles for large screens such as PS4, Xbox1, and others.
- Great for watching sports games with your friends.
- Works indoor and outside.
- LED lights have a life span of up to 30,000 hours.
- Will work without charge whilst on for up to 2 hours.
- 50 ANSI Lumens.
- 2000:1 contrast ratio.
- 1-3 metre projection distance.
- TV drive connectable.
- Auto keystone which functions really well.
- Allows manual focusing to get the right image proportions.
Cons
- Lightning transmission cable required for streaming Netflix and other services from your smart phone, or tablet.
- Hard to manually focus.
- The image cast isn’t very bright so the projector suffers in lighter settings.
- Poor remote connection.
Anker Nebula Capsule
The Anker Nebula Capsule comes second in our list. This aesthetically pleasing projector offers users a highly modern look. The capsule shape offers new stand-alone technology that is attractive and ergonomic for easy use.
Currently, Amazon’s top choice for pico projectors, the Anker offers better image quality than most pico projectors on the market. If image quality and clarity are your concerns, then invest a little more money and get this projector.
It’ll blow you away – both in size and quality. The exterior body is also extremely well built and designed well. Plenty of users are happy with their purchase with some claiming that this is the ultimate home cinema pico projector that they can’t live without.
Pros
- WiFi connectable.
- Currently Amazon’s Top Choice pico projector.
- 100 ANSI lumens (very high for a pico projector).
- Compact, lightweight and ergonomically designed.
- Aesthetically pleasing.
- Widest picture is 100 inches.
- 4 hours of video playback.
- 360-degree speaker – this pico projector packs one of the best-inbuilt sound systems on any projector let alone just a pico. DLP projectors don’t even offer as good a sound quality as this machine.
- “Soda can” sized design.
- Connect with your phone, laptop or tablet for seamless viewing of Netflix, YouTube or any other video platform.
- Red dot design award winner.
- Control via an app.
- Useable either indoors or outdoors.
- Perfect travel companion.
- Extremely portable.
- 19:9 aspect ratio.
- Bluetooth connectable.
- HMDI connectable.
- 12-month warranty included.
- 24-hour customer support.
Cons
- Won’t connect with Chrome cast.
- Expensive for a pico projector.
- Lacking technology.
- Not so functional with Apple products.
GooDee Mini Projector
The GooDee pico projector is our choice for those in a tight budget thanks to its under 70-dollar cost. Great for kids, families or for casual home use, this projector comes with everything you’d want from a pico projector without the fancy add-ons.
With connectivity coming through either a HMDI port or a USB, you can still connect all your usual devices the same way you can connect other expensive models in our list.
The perfect birthday or Christmas present, this cheap projector brings fantastic family fun!
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Perfect for families.
- Small, compact lightweight design.
- HMDI & USB and SD card-connectable.
- Great for slide shows or viewing pictures.
- 30,000-hour lamp life.
- 8-month warranty.
- Plug-in and play – easy set up.
- Good for younger children
- Play games or stream movies easily.
Cons
- Cheaply made.
- Lacks any cutting technology.
- Poor quality image.
- Poor customer service
AAXA Technologies KP-101-01 AAXA LED Pico Micro Video Projector
The AAXA technology pico projector truly is the ultimate pocket projector. This ultra-small projector is perfect for streaming anything you want, wherever you want.
With built-in audio output and all the connectivity you’d expect from a high-end pico projector, this is the perfect small budget-friendly projector for you and your friends. Easily watch movies from home, pitch in a board room, or just watch videos outside.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Truly pocket-sized.
- Battery-powered.
- 30,000-hour lamplight.
- Built-in speakers.
- 3.5mm audio jack output.
- SD card compatible.
- Up to 80 minutes of content on the battery.
- 60-inch image projection.
- Works best in low-level light.
Cons
- Not wifi connectable.
- Expensive.
- Doesn’t work well in brighter spaces.
Artlii 2024 New Mini Projector
The Artlii pico projector is perfect for families and young children. This tiny device has everything you need to stream content on-the-go. Take it with you on your trips and travels. Stream wherever you are.
Children will love the image quality it offers, whilst adults will appreciate its tiny compact design and size. This pico projector is the cheapest on the market right now. Coming in at under 60 dollars, you can’t really go wrong!
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Perfect for young children and families.
- Small, compact and lightweight design.
- Perfect for traveling.
- Ample projection.
- Powerbank for wireless projection.
- HDMI, USB, and SD card connectable.
- Connect your iPhone, smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer or any device.
- Stream Netflix, YouTube or any other video sharing service.
- Great for viewing slideshows, family snaps and so on.
Cons
- Lacks up-to-date features.
- Cheaply made.
- Cheap design.
- Poor in low-level light.
Final Thoughts
This list has run you through the latest and most up-to-date pico projectors on the market. We’ve covered everything from those under the 60 dollars range all the way up to the most advanced projectors in the market.
Consider a pico projector before you consider buying a DLP projector as you might be able to save some money and space in either your bag or home. Perfect for those on-the-go, these projectors won’t disappoint. Happy viewing!