Projectors are one of the most versatile ways to take a small display and make it larger than life. No matter if you are looking for a better at home viewing experience, office display, or gaming screen, a good projector is a right way to go. The best part is that, thanks to advancements in projection technology, now it is possible to get an excellent projector for less money than you might think. While the best projector under $200 might not have all the bells and whistles of a more expensive model, it will still provide you with a high-quality display and easy-to-use interface, no matter how you choose to utilize it.
Modern technology has come a long way, and nowadays you can easily find the best projector under $200 range. They provide a top-notch video quality and treat you with numerous features that were mostly available in high-end models a few years ago.
So to guide you, we have come up with a list of the best projector under $200 that will transform your wall into a large size display.
Contents
What to Expect from a Projector for under $200?
The biggest difference that you are going to notice with a cheaper projector is that they are usually going to be smaller than a more expensive option. This will limit the size of the screen that they can be used for. Smaller projectors also have a bit smaller of a throw distance than larger options, so you would probably have to put the projector closer to your screen than you would do with a more expensive model.
Nowadays projectors under $200 come with all the necessary features that are generally available in mid-range TV. Not only will you get a decent big-screen experience, but you will also get excellent brightness and color fidelity in all your videos.
However, you can’t expect them to perform the same as high-end models or offer top-of-the-line features. 1080p max resolution, 2000 ANSI lumens, 5000:1 contrast ratio, modern cooling technology, ultra-clear lens, DLP technology are some features you can expect from a projector under $200.
Although you will get a low native resolution in many models so you shouldn’t expect an exceptional clarity and sharpness. Build quality-wise, they won’t impress you much, and only a few of them flaunt a sturdy construction.
Features to Consider Before Buying
There are several key features that you need to take into account if you want to be sure to get the best projector under $200 on the market today. In this section, we will go through everything you need to know.
Connectivity
There are several different options when it comes to connecting a projector whether you intend to use it at home or the office. The best option is to use an HDMI cable, as this will provide you with the best quality sound and picture. If you are using an older setup, then you need to make sure that the projector you want can handle an old VGA or RCA cable.
Compatibility
Of course, when it comes to connectivity, you also need to realize that some projectors will only work with certain kinds of devices. No matter if you intend to use this projector with a PC, Mac, Xbox, PS4 or even your smartphone, you need to make sure to check the compatibility requirements to see if you can use it. Otherwise, you will just be wasting your time and money.
Brightness
Brightness is an essential feature that we should consider at first. However, it depends on the location where we will be using it. For example: if you use a projector in daylight, you need a brighter one (3000+ lumens might be required). On the other hand, if you are going to use it in the night, then less bright (might be required1000 lumens) will work without any issues. So, choose according to your requirement or needs. Good news is 3000+ lumens projectors can be bought under $200.
Contrast
An image can be light or dark, but the quality of the image considered by its contrast ratio. Basically, contrast is a difference between a dark image and a light image. The higher the contrast, the darker the image. In simple words, we should buy a high contrast projector in order to get a better image quality. Higher contrast projector not only gives you a better quality image or viewing experience but also ensures the clarity of an image.
Resolution
Like contrast and brightness of a projector, the higher the resolution, the better the quality of the picture. It becomes very important when we buy a projector for different purposes such as gaming and high-definition home theater experience. However, Most projectors are made with fixed resolution system. Meaning, you can’t change its resolution manually. So better to buy a projector that has many resolutions options so that it can help you to find the right resolution as per your media type.
Keystone correction
Another important function of projectors is to correct distortion when the projector can’t be perfectly centered. Cheaper models may lack the keystone correction feature whatsoever. Others are capable of adjusting the image only in vertical direction. Effective auto-keystone correction can be found in more expensive projectors.
Our Top Picks:
If you’ve done your research, you might have discovered that some of the prices are a little on the startling side. Below, we have compiled a list of the Best rated projectors available on Amazon for under $200.
1. VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 2400 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 32-170 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector is a popular option for those looking for an affordable yet high-quality projector. With its 2400 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio, it delivers clear and vibrant images. The projector supports a 1920×1080 resolution, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows in excellent quality.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Easy to set up and use
- Good image quality for the price
- Portable design
Cons:
- Native resolution is lower than some competitors
- Not suitable for daytime use due to lower brightness
2. APEMAN LC350 Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 3800 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 34-180 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The APEMAN LC350 Mini Projector offers a bright and clear image with its 3800 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content. The projector is easy to set up and comes with built-in speakers, making it a great option for movie nights and presentations.
Pros:
- Good brightness for the price
- Supports HD content
- Built-in speakers
- Easy to set up and use
Cons:
- Native resolution is relatively low
- Some users report issues with focus and image clarity
3. DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 840×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 3600 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 32-170 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The DR. J Professional HI-04 Mini Projector offers a great balance of affordability and performance. With its 3600 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio, this projector delivers clear images in most lighting conditions. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good brightness and contrast ratio for the price
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports HD content
Cons:
- Native resolution is relatively low
- Some users report issues with durability
4. GooDee YG200 Pico Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 2000 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 1000:1
- Projection size: 20-60 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, AV, SD Card
The GooDee YG200 Pico Projector is a compact, portable projector that is perfect for on-the-go use. Despite its small size, it delivers decent image quality with a brightness of 2000 lumens and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content while on the move.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports HD content
Cons:
- Lower brightness and contrast ratio compared to competitors
- Limited projection size
5. QKK QK01 Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 4500 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 32-170 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The QKK QK01 Mini Projector is a powerful budget projector with a brightness of 4500 lumens and a 2000:1contrast ratio. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content with excellent clarity. The projector is easy to set up and use, making it a great option for movie nights, presentations, and gaming sessions.
Pros:
- High brightness for the price
- Good image quality
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports HD content
Cons:
- Native resolution is relatively low
- Some users report issues with focus and image clarity
6. TMY V28 Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 1280×720 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 4500 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 3000:1
- Projection size: 50-200 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card, Audio Out
The TMY V28 Projector offers a higher native resolution than most budget projectors at 1280×720 pixels. With its 4500 lumens brightness and 3000:1 contrast ratio, it delivers clear and vibrant images even in moderately lit environments. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows in excellent quality.
Pros:
- Higher native resolution compared to competitors
- Good brightness and contrast ratio
- Large projection size
- Multiple connectivity options
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than some other budget options
- Some users report issues with durability and reliability
7. ManyBox Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 3500 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 34-180 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The ManyBox Mini Projector is a versatile option that offers good performance for its price. Its 3500 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio allow it to deliver clear images in most lighting conditions. It supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, making it suitable for watching HD content.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Easy to set up and use
- Good image quality for the price
- Supports HD content
Cons:
- Native resolution is lower than some competitors
- Some users report issues with focus and image clarity
8. AuKing Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 2600 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 32-170 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The AuKing Mini Projector is a budget-friendly option that delivers decent image quality for its price. With its 2600 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio, it provides clear images in dimly lit environments. The projector supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content on a budget.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Easy to set up and use
- Good image quality for the price
- Supports HD content
Cons:
- Native resolution is relatively low
- Not suitable for daytime use due to lower brightness
9. CiBest W13 Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 800×480 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 3800 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2000:1
- Projection size: 32-170 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, USB, AV, SD Card
The CiBest W13 Mini Projector is a well-rounded option that offers good performance at an affordable price. Its 3800 lumens brightness and 2000:1 contrast ratio deliver clear and vibrant images, making it suitable for movie nights and presentations. The projector supports a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, allowing you to enjoy HD content without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Good brightness for the price
- Supports HD content
- Easy to set up and use
- Portable design
Cons:
- Native resolution is relatively low
- Some users report issues with durability
10. Meer YG300 Portable Mini Projector
Features:
- Native resolution: 320×240 pixels
- Supported resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
- Brightness: 400 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 800:1
- Projection size: 24-80 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, AV, SD Card
The Meer YG300 is a compact and lightweight pocket projector. It measures only 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.1 inches in size and weighs just 0.6 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around.
It offers 300 lumens of brightness which is decent for a portable mini projector. This can project an image between 32 to 176 inches in size from a distance of 1 to 6 meters. The image quality is acceptable for casual viewing but won’t match a full-sized projector.
It supports a resolution of 640×480 pixels, so don’t expect high definition images. It can display content from HDMI, USB flash drive, micro SD card. You can also connect it to your smartphone or tablet using a cable.
Pros:
- Ultra compact and lightweight design
- Good value for the price
- Decent brightness for a mini projector
- Simple to setup and use
Cons:
- Low resolution of 640×480
- Limited projection size
- Short battery life
FAQs
What is a good lumens number for a projector?
The level of brightness depends on where you are using your projector. For example, if you choose to use the projector in a dark room, 1,000 lumens can give you a clear, bright image while 2,000 lumens may be too bright, causing the image to be blurry or even hurt your eyes.
Which is better DLP or LCD projector?
There is much to be said on the DLP versus LCD projector debate. While LCD projectors have a sharper image and superior picture quality, DLP projectors are lighter, portable, and considered to be more reliable. DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology uses micro-mirrors to project images from a monitor onto a large screen.
Can projector damage eyes?
Almost every project utilizes projection technology that doesn’t cause any eye damage however if they are directly pointed to the eye, then it might harm.
How many Lumens could be Good for the Best Projector under $200?
Brighter rooms need a higher lumens projector. Somehow, a dark room should need a projector with 1000 to 1200 lumens. Also, if you want to project large and bright images, you would surely need a projector with higher lumens such as 3500-4000.
Conclusion
You’ll admit that finding the best projectors for under $200 is challenging, since most of them make false claims. As a result, we expect that our list will accurately direct you to the best unit for your entertainment needs.