Choose your mini projector depending on the device you are planning to connect it to
Desktop PC or notebook
If you are planning to use it with a computer, we recommend buying a model with at least native WXGA resolution (1280 x 800 pixels) and 700 lumen brightness. These provide high quality and well visible image (in darkened room).
Cell phone
Connecting a projector to a mobile phone requires MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) support, and it is done via a HDMI to micro USB adapter. There are also WiFi models with Miracast, which let you play back pictures, presentations, and videos from your mobile phone wirelessly.
Find out the difference between the native and maximum resolution of a projector.
Other things to keep in mind when choosing a mini projector
Projection distance and diagonal image
Before buying a mini projector, make sure to check the planned distance from the screen or wall. If the projector is not placed within its optimum projection distance, it cannot provide a sufficiently sharp image. Generally, the farther you place the projector from the screen or wall, the larger the size of the projected image.
Projection distance | 2 m | 3 m | 4 m | 5 m |
Projected image size | 1.1 to 1.6 m | 1.6 to 2.4 m | 2-3.2 m | 2.5-4 m |
Brightness
- up to 2000 lumens - suitable for darkened rooms with minimal lighting.
- 2000-3000 lumens - can be recommended for less well-lit rooms.
- over 3000 lumens - provide highly visible projection even in daylight.
Connectors
Before buying, make sure the projector has at least one image output port of the same type as the device you are planning to connect it to. If not, connecting the projector will be impossible.
HDMI
D-SUB (VGA)
Composite
Component
Useful functions and features
- SD card reader means you do not need to connect a PC. You can play your presentations directly from a SD card.
- Internal storage lets you save your movie or presentation and play it whenever you want.
- Remote control makes operating the projector easier and lets you set it up remotely.
- Built-in speakers are particularly useful if you plan to show films and videos.
- Wi-Fi lets you play back presentations, movies, or videos from your computer wirelessly.
- With zoom you can resize the image without having to move the projector from the screen or wall.
- PiP (Picture in Picture) allows you to project two different presentations or videos simultaneously.
- Thanks to the USB port, you can play a presentation or even a film or video (in some models) from an external storage device and without the need for a PC.