Cinema On The Couch: Best Projectors Under $100

A cozy sofa at home or soft ottomans in the open air? To get a comfortable movie theater experience, it doesn’t matter what you sit on, what matters is the quality of the screen that you will be watching your movie on. If your screens are not doing justice to your favorite movies and games and compromising on picture quality, it’s time to invest in a good projector. 

In this article, you will find information on the best projectors under $100 that will satisfy all your requirements without compromising on quality. When deciding the top ones, we figured out the intricacies of choosing home theaters, took into account many of the criteria that affect the picture. As a result, we have identified the best projectors in terms of price/quality ratio and are ready to share them with you.

Comparison table: best projectors under $100

	
Model
Characteristics


	
Crenova Mini Projector
Best picture quality
Item Weight (pounds): 2.60
Item Dimensions (inches): 8.5 x 6.4 x 3.07
Hardware Interface: VGA, USB, HDMI, SDHC, Headphone
Resolution: 1920x720 (1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 4500 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 3000:1

Benefits:
✔️ The brightest picture with great color rendering
✔️ Great set of inputs

Jump to review


	
AuKing Mini Projector
The most durable
Item Weight (pounds):  2.87
Item Dimensions (inches): 3.15 x 6.69 x 7.68
Hardware Interface: VGA, USB, HDMI
Resolution: 800x480 (1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 2600 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Benefits:
✔️ Ready to use  under 10 seconds
✔️ High brightness

Jump to review


	
CiBest Mini Projector
Best for outdoor cinema
Item Weight (pounds):  2.80
Item Dimensions (inches): 7.91 x 5.51 x 2.76
Hardware Interface: VGA, USB, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio
Resolution: 800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 4500 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Benefits:
✔️ High image quality without the influence of ambient light
✔️ Uses diffuse reflection technology to reduce eye strain

Jump to review


	
QKK Mini Projector
Best speaker sound
Item Weight (pounds): 3.09
Item Dimensions (inches): 9.5 x 9.1 x 4.4
Hardware Interface: VGA, USB, HDMI
Resolution: 800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 2200 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Benefits:
✔️ Long bulb lifespan
✔️ Easily transportable using the case that comes with the kit

Jump to review


	
VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector
The most portable size
Item Weight (pounds): 2.4
Item Dimensions (inches): 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1
Hardware Interface: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, TF Card, TV BOX
Resolution: 800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 2400 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Benefits:
✔️ Equipped with an innovative cooling system
✔️ Can be used with any device due to a variety of ports

Jump to review


	
DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector
Best gaming projector
Item Weight (pounds): 3.0
Item Dimensions (inches): 7.8 x 2.7 x 6.02
Hardware Interface: TV BOX, HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD
Resolution: 1280x720 (1080p Supported)
Luminous Flux: 2000 Lumens
Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Benefits:
✔️ High picture quality
✔️ Variety of ports to connect multiple devices

Jump to review

How did we choose?

• First of all, we looked at the highest-rated projectors for different types of use.
• We found 15 models under $100.
• Then we selected 8 models for a detailed review (excluding obsolete and low-rating models).
• We analyzed over 300 customer reviews.

Through our research, we have learned what people are looking for in a projector and what are the most important features when choosing a device. Based on our research, we have identified the best criteria in each model. You can see the results of our calculation below.

Key features to consider when choosing a projector

1. Purpose of the projector

Are you looking for a projector primarily for watching movies or business presentations? Based on this, you need to choose the model that best suits you.

For sharing your business plans and presentation, we recommend the AuKing Mini Projector (review), which provides high image quality in daylight and perfect color rendering. The QKK Mini Projector (review) is a great option for watching movies. It has a great image quality and lots of sound options to create a truly immersive cinema experience.

2. Brightness

Not every home has a dark room or a room with enough curtains to get a little more darkness when using a projector. We recommend a minimum of 2000 lumens for the projector to be used during the day in an open room. 

The models on our list that fit this criterion are the Crenova Mini Projector (review) and the CiBest Mini Projector (review). Both have the most lumens, which you can use to get breathtaking images at any time of the day.

3. Resolution

This is one of the most important characteristics when choosing a projector. Resolution determines how sharp and detailed your picture will be. It is important to note that each projector has its native resolution, but it can also handle higher resolutions. 

The Crenova Mini Projector (review) has the largest native resolution at 1920×720, but it’s also worth mentioning that all the projectors on the list can support 1080p, which will allow you to view content at a high level.

4. Number of connections

This is also an important factor to pay attention to. With a sufficient number of ports (VGA, USB, HDMI, AV, TF Card), you can connect a laptop, DVD player, game console, or mobile phone and fully enjoy the work of the projector. 

VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector (review) has not only a sufficient number of connections but also has good picture quality and compact size.

A detailed review of each model:

Crenova Mini Projector — Best picture quality

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
2.60

8.5 x 6.4 x 3.07

VGA, USB, HDMI, SDHC, Headphone

1920x720 (1080p Supported)

4500 Lumens

3000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ The brightest picture with great color rendering

✔️ Great set of inputs

✅ Pros:

• The brightness/contrast ratio is much higher than the rest of the models on this list
• The LED bulb will last much longer than the VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector
• Lots of connections and input options
• Great quality of built-in speakers

⛔️ Cons:

• The manual recommends using the projector only 2-3 hours at a time to prevent overheating
• Does not include a carrying case

For projecting in a sufficiently bright room or when traveling, a high level of brightness is required to display high-quality images or videos. The Crenova Mini Projector has a brightness of up to 4500 lumens, nearly double that of other projectors on the list. Its vivid picture quality will provide your family and friends with the best cinematic experience. Also with a 3,000: 1 contrast ratio, 1.5 higher than other models on this list, this projector delivers excellent color performance from virtually any viewing angle.

It also features built-in speakers that give clear sound for a truly immersive experience. In addition to being compatible with laptops, smartphones, tablets, USB sticks, and X-Box ONE, the projector can also be used with headphones.

AuKing Mini Projector — The most durable

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
2.87

3.15 x 6.69 x 7.68

VGA, USB, HDMI

800x480 (1080p Supported)

2600 Lumens

2000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ Ready to use under 10 seconds

✔️ High brightness

✅ Pros:

• Long-life LED bulb prevents having to purchase super expensive halogen bulbs
• Works with Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime
• Has a tripod thread on the bottom for easy mounting
• Ease to set up like the CiBest Mini Projector

⛔️ Cons:

• The fan is louder than the QKK Mini Projector (review)
• Short remote control distance 
• No carrying case

You’ve probably heard more than once that replacing a projector bulb costs almost 50% of the cost of the projector itself. Therefore, the AuKing Mini Projector is an excellent option for long-term use. It is equipped with a bulb that can last 55,000 hours, almost 1.5 times more than the VANKYO LEISURE 3 (review). This gives you up to 15 years of exceptional home theater experience.

This projector copes well in conditions of incomplete shade, so it can be used for business meetings, but, when the light is off, the quality is better.

Also, the projector is equipped with a range of ports for added versatility like the VANKYO LEISURE 3. This means you can connect your smartphone to share and view photos, stream TV shows and watch football matches. It is also compatible with tablets, Xbox One, and USB sticks.

CiBest Mini Projector — Best for outdoor cinema

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
2.80

7.91 x 5.51 x 2.76

VGA, USB, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio

800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)

4500 Lumens

2000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ High image quality without the influence of ambient light

✔️ Uses diffuse reflection technology to reduce eye strain

✅ Pros:

• Can work for long hours without overheating because it uses a modern cooling system
• Better speakers than the VANKYO LEISURE 3 (review)
• Has a mounting hole compatible with a tripod stand like the AuKing Mini Projector (review)
• Easy to set up

⛔️ Cons:

• An adapter to connect to the phone is not included

This projector is well suited for outdoor viewing as it has a reasonably good focus and brightness, providing high image quality without the influence of ambient light, unlike the VANKYO LEISURE 3 (review) and the QKK Mini Projector (review). Also, this projector offers viewing sizes from 30″ to 200″, which is great for both large backyards and tiny terraces.

Along with image quality, this projector is compact and fits perfectly on a patio table. It also features built-in speakers that give clear sound for a truly immersive experience. You also have the option of connecting your headphones to the projector for even better sound quality.

Also, the projector uses diffuse reflection technology. Diffuse reflections are softer than normal reflections, so the eyes strain less for longer periods.

The projectors are prone to get overheated with extended use. A poor heat management system can significantly shorten the life of the device. But it is not the case with the CiBest Mini Projector; it uses the latest cooling system to keep the internal components cool.

QKK Mini Projector — Best speaker sound

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
3.09

9.5 x 9.1 x 4.4

VGA, USB, HDMI

800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)

2200 Lumens

2000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ Long bulb lifespan

✔️ Compact/easily transportable

✅ Pros:

• Powerful speakers
• Good build quality
• The fan is quieter than the AuKing Mini Projector (review)
• Includes a tripod as a projector stand

⛔️ Cons:

• Difficult to adjust focus
• Not recommended for locations with natural light, as this will result in limited image quality

With built-in stereo speakers that are more powerful than other projector speakers on this list, the QKK Mini Projector provides amazing sound effects. There are also sound options (most effective when external speakers are connected) to give the impression of a movie theater or immersive video game experience. 

Besides sound quality, this projector also provides excellent picture quality. It has a good balance between brightness and contrast. You will enjoy the sharpness of the displayed image even when watching movie scenes in dark colors. It’s also worth noting that the QKK LED projector supports a maximum bulb life of 50,000 hours, which is only 10% less than the most durable AuKing Mini Projector (review) so you don’t have to worry about the bulb failing quickly.

Also, the projector is equipped with a dual-fan cooling system for long hours of operation without fear of overheating. Another benefit — it is quiet, so you no longer have to worry about noisy sounds when watching movies or playing games.

VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector — The most portable size

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
2.4

7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1

HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, TF Card, TV BOX

800x480 (Full HD 1080p Supported)

2400 Lumens

2000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ Equipped with an innovative cooling system

✔️ Can be used with any device due to a variety of ports

✅ Pros:

• The smallest size of all models presented in the article
• Equipped with a fan noise suppression system
• Quick set up
• Comes in a projector storage case unlike the Crenova Mini Projector (review)

⛔️ Cons:

• Sound quality is not great, external speakers are needed for better quality
• Not recommended in bright light as image quality is limited in incomplete shadow conditions

The VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector is a great choice for people who want to take a large screen with them on the go. This is the smallest projector featured in this article. With its compact shape, it is ideal for transportation, and the fabric cover that comes with the kit contributes to this, making it easy to store and move.

The resolution is suitable for watching movies and playing video games. The native resolution is 480 pixels, but the projector is capable of delivering 1080 pixels which means more detail and a sharper picture. And with a contrast ratio of 2000: 1, the colors are vivid and the picture looks realistic.

It is also worth noting that this projector has a large number of ports. Therefore, you can connect a TV, computer, game console, or mobile device, and there are also slots for a flash drive and a port for a DVD player. 

DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector — Best gaming projector

	
Item Weight (pounds):  

Item Dimensions (inches):

Hardware Interface:

Resolution:

Luminous Flux:

Contrast ratio:
3.0

7.8 x 2.7 x 6.02

TV BOX, HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD

1280x720 (1080p Supported)

2000 Lumens

2000:1


	
Benefits:
✔️ High picture quality

✔️ Variety of ports to connect multiple devices

✅ Pros:

• Large screen size
• Works with Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Kodi, and many others including Retroarch for retro gaming
• Can be connected to different devices (laptop, smartphone, PS3, PS4, and Xbox One) due to a variety of ports
• Tripod mount included

⛔️ Cons:

• Focus can be touchy to adjust
• Loud fan
• The sound is not good, external speakers are needed for better sound

If you are looking for a quality home game console projector, then this model is a perfect device for all kinds of entertainment. Vibrant graphics, exceptional portability, and flexible gameplay are all about the DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector. It also works with Retroarch (a platform that allows running games on different computers and consoles due to a user-friendly graphical interface), which will appeal to fans of retro games. 

The picture quality is good and clear due to the high lumen power, but this is achieved at the cost of a lower bulb lifespan. This is the reason the projector won’t be as durable as the AuKing Mini Projector (review). Besides, this projector is not the best choice for use in bright places as this will result in limited picture quality; the CiBest Mini Projector (review) is better suited for this. For a better experience, it is recommended to use a screen that will give a sharper picture. 

Taking care of your projector: tips and tricks

• Тo prolong the life of the bulb, do not unplug it immediately after use. Always allow the projector to cool down completely before unplugging.
• Do not let it get hot. Excessive heat can significantly shorten the bulb’s life. To avoid overheating, do not place the projectors in closed narrow places where air does not circulate freely enough.
• Do not place the projector in direct sunlight or near heat sources as this may damage the projector.
• Keep the projector in a dry place. When not in use, you can place it in the shipping box for safe storage. If you plan to ship your projector in the future, the safest way to package your product is to return it to its original box and packing materials.
• If the projector is mounted on a ceiling, make sure the area near the supply fan is clean and not near ventilation or thermal openings, as excessive heat can significantly shorten the bulb lifespan and damage the projector’s optics.
• For optimal image quality, always keep the lens clean using a lens tissue.

Improve your home cinema: accessories for the best experience

Adapters to HDMI

Projection Screens

Speakers for a projector

Mount for a projector

Lens cloth for a projector

Summary

Projectors have long been capable of transmitting an image from a smartphone, laptop, camcorder, and other external sources to a large screen. At the same time, the picture is clear, bright, and contrasting. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money, as for under $100 you can find a decent model that strikes a balance between performance, extra features and price.

When buying a projector, we recommend that you pay attention to its purpose, whether you will watch movies or use it at business meetings. It is also worth looking at the brightness of the projector because the image quality will depend on it. Another important factor is the number of connections.

Our list of the top projectors under $100 is based on these criteria and includes the following models:

	
Crenova Mini Projector
Best picture quality


	
AuKing Mini Projector
The most durable


	
CiBest Mini Projector
Best for outdoor cinema


	
QKK Mini Projector
Best speaker sound


	
VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector
The most portable size


	
DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector
Best gaming projector

FAQ: