We’re all set for the grand finale of the FIFA World Cup. And it’s the perfect excuse you need to add a projector to your den. It’s not just home entertainment, home projectors are also ready to slip into your backpack. Just in case you need to move the big-screen action from your living room to your friend’s place or to the outdoors on your next camping trip.
The best portable projectors
BenQ GS50
BenQ GS50: At 2.3kg, it’s one of the most portable 1080p Full HD projectors you can buy. It’s ready for the outdoors – it’s drop-proof (up to 2.3 feet), while the IPX2 splash-proof rating means it’s geared for an occasional drizzle. BenQ promises about 2.5 hours of battery life on Eco mode. More than the picture quality, it’s the sound quality that is a big win. The built-in 2.1 channel audio features dual 5W midrange tweeters with a powerful 10W woofer. (Rs 74,990)
The Freestyle from Samsung
The Freestyle from Samsung: Samsung’s new innovation is a projector, smart speaker and ambient lighting device all rolled into one. We dig the lightweight form factor – it weighs just 830gm. It’s kitted with a versatile cradle that allows rotation of up to 180 degrees. It’s truly portable; you can project high quality video anywhere – tables, walls or even the ceiling. The projector optimises screen size, auto-focuses and levels the image even when pointed on an angle. (Rs 75,990)
ViewSonic M1+_G2
ViewSonic M1+_G2: This makes our list for three key reasons – ultra-portability, battery life and sound quality. We also approve of the quirky of its quirky, flexible design. This WVGA LED (854x480p) projector weighs just 700gm and needs only about eight feet for a 100-inch projection. Sound quality gets a boost with dual Harman Kardon speakers. TheM1G2 offers 360-degree projection allowing you to project visuals onto the wall or ceiling. The built-in battery provides 6 hours of power. (Rs 45,299)
XGIMI Halo Plus
XGIMI Halo Plus: It features a 59W battery that delivers two hours of playtime. The edgy, cube-style design and small footprint make it easy to cart around. It uses the same DLP cinema-grade tech that’s used in many cinemas worldwide. You can stretch the display up to 200 inches with a 1080 FHD resolution. It’s packed with dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers that deliver distortion-free audio. Brightness levels peak at 900 ANSI lumens, the projector also features useful features like Auto Keystone correction and Auto focus. (Rs 99,999)
Ready reckoner
Look out for these key specs while zeroing in on the home projector that works for you:
- Battery life: The best thing about a portable projector is that you’re not dependent on a power connection. Most portable projectors should manage at least a couple of hours on battery back-up; enough time to catch up on the movie of your choice.
- Geared for the elements? A projector with an IP (Ingress protection) rating is handy when you’re out camping or for those unexpected drizzles.
- Sound quality: A bonus for a projector, but useful if you don’t want to lug around a Bluetooth speaker or soundbar when you travel
- Form factor: The weight and the shape of the projector impact portability.
- Projector basics: These factors are the same whether you’re looking for a fixed or a portable projector. Consider the distance required for the projection, picture quality and durability (check for lamp life in the spec sheet; try not to settle for less than 10,000 hours that should cover you for at least six-eight years). Do check for the connectivity options like HDMI ports (for external casting devices like an Apple TV) and USB ports for external media. Bluetooth connectivity is another bare essential and allows you to hook up with high-quality soundbars for an immersive AV experience.