Portable projectors

Projectors are split into two categories, depending on their light source. Lamp-based projectors have a bulb that dims over time until it needs to be replaced. Laser projectors tend to cost more up front, but they deliver the same brightness for years — virtually maintenance-free. There is a lot of variety within each category and finding the right model for you depends on your room characteristics and budget.

You can technically project a picture on a wall or sheet, but to get the best picture possible, you should plan to get a high-quality screen in addition to a projector. You’ll likely need a sound system, too. Many projectors have no sound capability, and ones that do often have only tiny speakers.

You can! But there are some things you need to consider. Projectors typically have fewer inputs than TVs, and many lack any type of built-in tuner or internet capability. Projectors also have some different installation requirements, like throw distance. Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors are installed almost directly below the screen, so they are a great option for people looking to replace a TV with a projector system.

It depends on your projector's light source. The bulbs in lamp-based projectors dim over time. They will likely need to be replaced after about 2,000-5,000 hours of use. This is about 4-5 years if you use it only occasionally for event viewing. If it’s your main TV, it could be less than a year and a half before you need to buy a new bulb.

Laser projectors last up to 30,000 hours with regular use — about 15-20 years — with no deterioration in quality.

Most of our projectors are still 1080p, and they offer an economical way to get a big, bright picture. You can get a fully feature-packed 1080p model for a lot less than a native 4K projector.

Some projectors can display a resolution higher than their native resolution using something called “pixel-shifting.” They are a great budget-friendly alternative to native 4K.

Native 4K projectors deliver the most detail, but they'll have a price to match.