10 Best Projectors under $1000: Experts Recommended

Since projectors entered the world of entertainment, their demand has been shooting high in the recent past. And with this rise in demand, many brands have popped in to meet the market demand. Unfortunately, out of the many brands entering the market, only a proportion of them are worth it. This, therefore, means you need to be cautious when purchasing the best projectors under $1000. 

But how do you tell which brand is worth it and which one to avoid? Well, we can help. We compared different projector features, performance, and pricing and were able to find the following devices.  

10 Best Projectors to buy under $1000

1. YABER Y30

The Y ABER Y30 movie-viewing and gaming projector offers a big and more immersive screen, thereby saving you from the hassle of straining your eyes every time you are watching or gaming.

It offers a ± 50° vertical and horizontal keystone correction, which implies that your projector’s ‘sitting’ position doesn’t in any way affect the quality of visuals on the screen. 

The next best thing that most buyers appreciate is the ease of use. YES! The projector is easy to operate using a remote control. Things are even sweeter, considering that the same remote can also be used to control other devices connected to your device.

Finally, it features a brightness of up to 9500 lumens, meaning you will never have problems viewing or gaming indoors or outdoors. 

The only thing that will perhaps worry you is the focus ring. It can be troublesome to use when you have mounted the projector on the ceiling. However, the good news is that the focus stays intact once set.

Features

  • ± 50 ° 4D (vertical & horizontal) Keystone Correction 

This function guarantees that you will get a standard rectangle of the projected image.

  • Built-in 3W Dual Stereo Speakers

You get the best visuals on the screen and the best immersive audio experience.

  • Adjustable Screen Size

The best home theater projector under $1000 allows setting your screen size from 45″ to 300.”

  • Reliable Brightness

This makes it a perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor recreation.

Specs

  • Brightness: 9500 lumens
  • Connectivity: 2*HDMI ports, VGA port, 2*USB ports, AV port
  • Contrast Ratio: $10000:1
  • Resolution: 1080×1920

Pros

  • Versatile connectivity
  • Big screen (45” TO 300”)
  • Good quality audio 

Cons

  • The focus ring is hard to use if you mount the projector on the screen. 

2. YABER Y21

Similar to the YABER Y31, The YABER Y21 offers you clear, sharp images and vibrant colors. Also, it offers a huge adjustable screen (45″ to 350″), allowing you TO choose THE best viewing point.

There’s also the ± 50° 4D horizontal and vertical keystone correction so that the images cast on the screen mimic a perfect rectangle. 

As far as connectivity is concerned, there are many connectivity options to choose from. E.g., HDMI, USB, VGA, AV/3.5mm, Dual HDMI, and USB ports. With all these, you can connect to TV Box, Chromecast, Amazon Fire Stick TV, PCs, laptops, tablets, Xbox, DVD players, external speakers, USB sticks, iPad, iPhones, or Android smartphones.

Finally, the projector has intelligent temperature control technology that automatically detects the temperature levels and adjusts the fan’s speed accordingly. That way, it ensures your projector doesn’t overheat.

Overall, it’s a great device; however, note that it doesn’t support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Also, it doesn’t work with Dolby’s sound.

Features

  • Intelligent Temperature Control Technology 

This feature detects the device’s temperature and adjusts the fan speed accordingly.

  • 1080p HD Resolution 

This makes it perfect for gaming and watching movies with clear and sharp visuals on the screen.

  • X / Y Zoom Function

To achieve your desired image size, there’s no need to adjust the best home cinema projector under $1000 distances. Just use the remote control to achieve the size you need easily.

  • $1000,000 Hours 

It will last for more than 10 years – supposing you use it for up to 4 hours daily.

Specs

  • Brightness: 9000 lumens
  • Connectivity: 2*HDMI ports, VGA port, 2*USB ports, AV port
  • Contrast Ratio: 8000:1
  • Resolution: 1080×1920

Pros

  • Advanced cooling system
  • Negligible fan noise
  • Easy to use with remote

Cons

  • No Bluetooth/Wi-Fi

3. Optoma HD146X

Since they made their entry into the industry, Optoma Technology has completely changed how people perceive gaming projectors. This is true because their projector above has a “gaming mode,” which you can switch to whenever you want to enjoy a fantastic gaming experience. 

The benefit of the gaming mode is that it ensures fast response time – ensuring there are no lags. Additionally, the game display mode highlights dark scenes and shadows so that there’s better clarity of impediments.

Another great aspect of the Optoma HD146X is its portable design. This is agreeable as it only measures 9.5 x 12.4 x 4.3 inches and weighs 6.2 pounds. 

In addition to the above, the projector boasts a low noise level (26dB). Therefore, it won’t disturb you when watching your favorite movies. Finally, it comes with up to 3 years of warranty; however, it’s so unfortunate that the warranty may not benefit all. 

Features

  • Low 26dB Noise Level

The benefit of a low noise level is that it lets you watch your movies with minimum disturbances – more so when in eco-mode.

  • HDMI-CEC for Simple Power On/Off

With the help of its remote, it’s possible to power off/on your projector and all the devices connected via HDMI

  • Game Mode Display

The projector offers visual benefits by highlighting impediments amid gaming. Consequently, you can achieve greatness as you can evade obstacles.

  • Enhanced Gaming Mode

This feature ensures you won’t experience the inconveniences of lagging while enjoying streaming your live games. 

Specs

  • Brightness: 3,600 lumens
  • Connectivity: HDMI 1.4, USB-A (Power), Audio-Out, 
  • Contrast Ratio: 500,000:1
  • Resolution: 1080×1920

Pros

  • No lags when gaming
  • Portable design
  • Durable(10+years)

Cons

  • They have complicated the warranty

4. BenQ TH685

If you want a compact, lightweight, and hence travel-friendly projector, then hurry up and grab the BenQ TH685. The device weighs 6.15 lbs. and measures (12.28 x 8.86 x 4.33) inches alluding that you can carry it in your bag when going for outdoor parties. 

Moreover, it only requires little energy to power on (5watt). This, combined with the fact that it can use external rechargeable batteries, makes it the overall best device for outdoor partying. 

Other than the above, the BenQ TH685 manufacturer takes your eye health seriously and has invested in the LumiExpert feature. The feature ensures you don’t experience eye strain amid extended watching or gaming. It does this by adjusting brightness automatically as dictated by ambient light.

And to instill confidence when buying, the best HD projector under $1000is accompanied by 3 years warranty. So, feel assured that any covered defect will be compensated.  However, you should note not everything is covered. 

Features

  • LumiExpert Feature

Automatically adjusts the brightness as dictated by the ambient light. 

  • Portable Design 

It weighs 6.15 lbs. and measures (12.28 x 8.86 x 4.33). Therefore you can easily move from room to room or even outdoors. 

  • HDR10 Technology with 4K

The technology enhances deeper black and brighter white for the best viewing experience. 

  • Integrated 5-watt Speaker

The integrated speaker by treVolo comes with an equalizer to guarantee to fine-tune the audio quality.

Specs

  • Brightness: 3,500 lumens
  • Connectivity: HDMI 1.4, USB-A (Power), Audio-Out, 
  • Contrast Ratio: $10000:1
  • Resolution: 1080×1920

Pros

  • Protects your eyes
  • Fine-tune audio quality
  • Highly portable

Cons

  • Warranty does not cover everything

5. Nebula AK-D2323111

Contrary to some of its top competitors, the above best short throw projector under $$1000 comes with autofocus technology, meaning you will not need to do manual focusing. 

Another thing about the Nebula AK-D2323111 projector is that it allows you to connect extensively. In this case, you can either use wired connections via HDMI ports or wireless connectivity via mirror casting. 

Additionally, it comes fitted with powerful dual 10W speakers. These will fill your entire space with truly immersive cinematic sounds. And if you like, there’s an option to connect to external speakers, so never feel limited with this device.

Finally, the unit will deliver visuals in greater details thanks to the 500 ANSI of brightness. It makes sure you will not struggle watching or playing games in both dimmer and bright light. 

Unfortunately, some users observed that its quality could decrease when used in bright lights, e.g., outdoors.

Features

  • Autofocus Technology

You will no longer need to focus on the images on the screen. The projector will do that for you – so sit and enjoy the fun.

  • Powerful Dual 10W Speakers

These powerful speakers ensure you get fine-tune audio quality so that you capture every detail of the movie.

  • 500 ANSI 

This gives you the best viewing experience in both a dimmer and lit environment.

  • Bluetooth Speaker Mode

Although the projector features dual speakers, it offers you an option to connect to an external speaker via Bluetooth. 

Specs 

  • Brightness: 500 lumens
  • Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Screen Mirroring
  • Contrast Ratio: 2000:1
  • Resolution: 1280×720

Pros

  • Versatile connectivity
  • Powerful speaker for the best audio experience
  • Autofocusing

Cons

  • Not good for too bright environment

6. Optoma HD28HDR

When looking for the best way to enjoy your gaming and movie viewing experience, don’t just invest in a projector simply because it has a huge screen; no! Instead, focus on things that matter. E.g., the image and audio quality of the device.

If you consider these, you will most likely choose the Optoma HD28HDR. For one, the unit boasts of the 6-segment color wheel (RYGCWB), which enables it to produce vivid, colorful images for home cinema color calibration.

Moreover, it supports 3D technology, and as such, it displays true 3D content from almost all the 3D sources. E.g., 3D broadcasting, 3D Blu-ray Disc players, and the recent-generation gaming consoles.

Regrettably, some users claimed that the zoom function didn’t work properly. They had to keep changing the mounting position to achieve the desired screen size.

Features

  • Enhanced Gaming Mode 

The mode offers a 120Hz refresh rate with an 8.4ms input lag. This gives you a fantastic viewing experience.

  • 1080p Resolution

The projector produces vivid, colorful, and detailed images with such a high resolution. 

  • 3600 Lumens

The screen brightness is great for watching indoors and outdoors without putting much strain on your eyes. 

  • Connectivity

Enjoy a seamless connection to your other devices using HDMI 2.0 (HDCP 2.2), HDMI (1.4a), audio out (3.5mm), USB (1.5a / firmware update)

Specs

  • Brightness: 3500 lumens
  • Connectivity: audio out (3.5mm), HDMI 2.0 (HDCP 2.2), HDMI (1.4a), USB (1.5a / firmware update)
  • Contrast Ratio: 50,000:1
  • Resolution: 1280×720

Pros

  • Uses next-generation technology
  • No lags when gaming
  • Supports 3D technology

Cons

  • The zoom function may not work correctly in some instances

7. XGIMI

Sort yourself with the XGIMI projection device, which focuses automatically, meaning no more disturbances once you are sited in your comfort zone. 

And supposing you want a projector to add fun to your outdoor event, the XGIMI remains a top pick because it has an inbuilt rechargeable and long-lasting battery that will keep it running off-grid.    

Some of those who used it have given it the name “a gateway to the world of entertainment” as it comes featuring various streaming apps, including Prime Video, Android TV, HBO max, Hulu, Disney+, etc. 

Lastly, the automatic vertical ±40° and manual horizontal keystone corrections eliminate the hassle of setting up the projector display. 

Despite all the above good things, some people had a terrible experience with the device. For example, some complained the battery drains quickly when off-grid

Features

  • Built-In Android TV 9.0

With more than 5000 streaming apps, the projector is truly a gateway to the world of entertainment.

  • Hassle-free Setup

The vertical ±40 degree & manual horizontal ±40 degree keystone corrections eliminate the hassle of achieving a perfect projector display.

  • Intelligent Autofocus

Have peace of mind knowing that your projector will auto-focus images even when it swings accidentally

  • 1 Lithium-ion Battery 

With this device, you can enjoy watching your favorites even when off-grid. 

Specs

  • Brightness: 800 ANSI
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, HDMI
  • Contrast Ratio: $10000:1
  • Resolution: 1280×720

Pros

  • Portable at 3.52 pounds
  • Supports wireless connectivity
  • Support external battery

Cons

  • The battery can drain quickly when off-grid

8. ViewSonic PX701-4K

ViewSonic is yet another heaven-sent gift for users who madly need a reliable projector for gaming, movies, or presentation. It sports 3200 whopping ANSI of brightness to maintain strong contrast in bright or dark rooms. This brightness, combined with its super-fine audio quality, offers bright visuals with immersive sounds in the entire environment. 

The device is easy to use thanks to the 1.1x optical zoom feature, which offers more flexibility when mounting it in position. Additionally, it features a backlit remote controller that’s easy to use in dark rooms or poorly lit environments. 

In terms of connectivity, the device supports USB and HDMI. You can use these ports to project contents from laptops, smartphones, digital cameras, etc. Finally, it offers the best gaming experience on the big screen with 4.2ms low input lag and a magnificent 240Hz refresh rate.

Unfortunately, it can be a bit noisy and doesn’t support 3D

Features

  • 2 AAA Batteries 

Never worry about power blackouts or going outdoors when you have this device by your side. Make sure it has fully charged batteries

  • 4K UHD (3840x2160p)

With this technology, white colors appear brighter while black colors appear darker. The result is a perfect viewing experience

  • Wired Connectivity

Connect to laptop, digital camera or smartphone, etc. It would be best if you plugged them via USB and HDMI ports. 

  • Next Level Gaming 

With 4.2ms low input lag and a magnificent 240Hz refresh rate, you will enjoy the intensity of gaming on the large screen. 

Specs

  • Brightness: 3200 ANSI
  • Connectivity: USB, HDMI
  • Contrast Ratio: 15,000:1
  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840x2160p)

Pros

  • It offers the best gaming experience
  • Portable with batteries
  • Superfine audio quality

Cons

  • Lacks 3D support

9. Epson V11H979020

If you have ever played games or watched movies on a small screen, you will know the strain that causes your eyes. To some extent, you might even have a poor gaming experience since you can’t see details.  

However, with the Epson V11H979020 projector, you will eliminate the mess experienced with small screens. You will see outstanding color accuracy and hear super fine quality sound. These will altogether upgrade your experience beyond imagination. 

The next best thing with the Epson projector is that it automatically analyzes photos and instantly alters the keystone to achieve a perfect rectangle/square on the screen. 

And lastly, it has 3300 lumens of brightness. This is great as it guarantees that you will have no problems viewing games indoors or outdoors. 

Regrettably, this best Epson projector lacks wireless connectivity 

Features

  • Built-in Picture Skew Sensor

The projector analyzes images and alters the keystone for perfect rectangle or square images on the screen. 

  • Ultra-bright Images

The unit delivers ultra-bright images in all environments thanks to the 3300 lumens of brightness. 

  • Stunning Picture Quality

It produces stunning, detailed images on the screen thanks to the high resolution of up to 1080p

  • Contrast Ratio of up to 16,000:1

This ensures you get clear, rich detail in dark scenes without straining 

Specs

  • Brightness: 3300 ANSI
  • Connectivity: HDMI
  • Contrast Ratio: 16,000:1
  • Resolution: 1080p

Pros

  • Produces rich details in dark scenes
  • Auto keystone corrections
  • Ultra-bright images

Cons

  • Lacks wireless capabilities

10. NEBULA D2140111

We recommend this to people who love to watch a lot on the internet. With it, you will discover the built-in android 9.0 TV that lets you access up to 7000+ entertainment apps. Some of them include Hulu, YouTube, and Prime Video, among many others.

Better still, it supports both wired and wireless connectivity. They include USB-A and HDMI devices for wired connections and Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mirror cast for wireless connectivity. 

The next best thing is the audio system of this projector. It delivers intense surround sound thanks to the Dolby Digital Plus technology. You not only enjoy the sound quality but also save on the cost you’d use to buy external speakers.

The last best thing worth mentioning here is that the projector boasts of 3-second autofocus. Therefore you will not waste time focusing manually. Unfortunately, some people bought a malfunctioning product and had to return them. 

Features

  • 3-second Autofocus

No waiting for the perfect image to display on the screen. Switch on and watch the magic. 

  • Wired and Wireless Connectivity

You will never struggle to connect your device to other devices such as smartphones or laptops with all these options. 

  • Dolby Digital Plus Speakers

It delivers intense surround sound without the need to spend thousands on a costly speaker setup.

  • Enjoy Large Screen with Chromecast

You will use Chromecast to stream content directly from your smartphone to the 4K supported Nebula’s huge 120’’ screen projector.

Specs

  • Brightness: 900 ANSI lumens
  • Connectivity: Wired (USB-A and HDMI), Wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mirror cast)
  • Contrast Ratio
  • Resolution: 1920×1080

Pros

  • Convenient connectivity
  • You are free to find your ideal screen size
  • No blurred images

Cons

  • Some products can multifunction

Best Feature Projector: BenQ TH685

The projector protects your eye health, all thanks to the LumiExpert features. The feature ensures you don’t experience eye strain amid extended watching or gaming. It does this by adjusting brightness automatically as dictated by ambient light.

Best Overall: NEBULA D2140111

Our pick of the best projector for Best overall is the NEBULA D2140111. We recommend this to people who love to watch a lot on the internet. You will discover the built-in android 9.0 TV with it, which is a gateway to real-world fun.  The TV lets you access up to 7000+ entertainment apps. Some of them include Hulu, YouTube, and Prime Video, among many others.

Best Projector Under $1000 Buying Guide 

Below we highlight the key things to check on when doing your shopping for the best projectors under $1000

Brightness Level 

Measured in lumens, the brightness level of a projector will determine whether it can display bright images on the screen. If the brightness level is too low, you will strain to see images clearly, particularly in dark rooms. 

Contrast Ratio

This defines the ratio between black and white portions of the projector’s image on the screen. When the contrast ratio is high, white appears brighter while black appears darker and vice versa, images appear washed.

Compatibility

It is worth checking that your projector is readily compatible with other devices you will be using. Also, determine whether you need to be wired, wireless, or both connectivity options.

Resolution

The projector’s resolution, also referred to as the pixel density, will determine the clarity of the images you get on your projector’s screen. If the resolution is low, images appear blurred. On the contrary, images appear crisp, clear, and detailed when the resolution is high. 

Keystone Corrections 

You should invest in a device that offers auto keystone corrections so that you don’t have to do too much manual work fitting the image on the screen.

Audio System

An immersive sound system accompanies the best visual experience. For that reason, confirm that the speakers in the projector have fine-tuned sound. Also, check that it’s connectable with external speakers. 

Can You Get a Smart Projector?

Sure! Smart projectors are readily available on the market. They are superior in that they come lamp-free and app integrated. Additionally, they allow live streaming and voice command controls. 

Do Projectors Need to be Straight?

Your best 4K projector under $1000 doesn’t have to be straight if it has horizontal keystone correction. If it lacks this, you might need to keep it straight to the screen.

How do I Turn My Phone into a Projector?

Just grab the following material first:

  • Shoebox
  • Glue
  • Magnifying lens
  • Black acrylic color
  • Paintbrush

Procedure

  • Grab your shoebox and make a hole on one end of it. The hole should be of equal size with your magnifying lens 
  • Using the paintbrush, apply the Black acrylic color on the inner side of the shoebox
  • Grab the magnifying lens and fit it into the hole on the shoe box. Use glue (or appropriate adhesive) to hold it in position
  • Find the ideal place to place your smartphone on the other end of the box
  • Use the smartphone projector in dark areas since it has no too much brightness 

What is the lowest price of a projector?

Its features and hence quality determine the price of a projector. The cheapest one you can find online goes as low as $50. Although it’s cheap, the quality may be demanding. 

Do You Need a Projector Screen?

Absolutely YES! However, it’s still possible to use your projector without a screen. But it’s disadvantageous because doing so decreases the projected image quality. 

We hope our detailed review above has helped you discover more regarding the best projectors under $1000. All you need to do now is pick your best fit and buy with confidence as you’ve got our assurance.

Further, It delivers intense surround sound thanks to the Dolby Digital Plus technology.