A comparison of the best projectors of 2025

Right now, video projection is the preferred solution to obtain a real feeling of immersion with a life-size image that can reach or even exceed 3 meters across. The market has developed considerably in recent years, with the appearance of projectors for different uses: ultra compact pico projectors you can slip into a bag to project films anywhere, HD and 4K UHD projectors for cinema and video game sessions at home, and even ultra short throw projectors that replace the living room TV, even in bright conditions.

How do you choose the right projector for everyday or occasional use? Below is our selection of the best pico projectors, HD projectors, UHD 4K projectors and ultra short throw projectors (based on user ratings and the number of reviews of each model).

The best mini projectors in 2025

Ultra compact and light, mini projectors are easily transportable and capable of projecting a large image (1 to 2m diagonal, or even more) from a smartphone or a computer, connected with a cable or wirelessly. Some mini projectors are limited to a modest resolution, others offer Full HD 1080p.

Most have a built-in USB media player compatible with multiple audio and video file formats, even desktop for viewing presentations. The most comprehensive mini projectors have a rechargeable battery to be used easily during a party with friends or for a professional meeting.

Xgimi Elfin Flip: 1080p HD, Netflix, automatic picture settings

The Xgimi Elfin Flip is a portable projector using DLP projection technology and an LED light source. It offers Full HD image resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) and a maximum brightness of 400 ISO lumens. Capable of projecting an image from 80 to 150 inches (2 to 3.8 meters across the diagonal), this projector stands out for its great installation flexibility, thanks to an integrated stand that allows it to be tilted up to 150°. Its numerous automatic adjustment functions, such as keystone correction, focus and obstacle avoidance, also facilitate installation.

Equipped with two 3-watt speakers, this projector also features Dolby Audio certification for an enriched sound experience. The Xgimi Elfin Flip includes an XGIMI OS operating system with Netflix pre-installed, offering direct access to a vast library of streaming content.

Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro

The XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro stands out for its portability and ease of use, all while delivering a sharp and colorful Full HD image thanks to 90% DCI-P3 coverage and HDR10 compatibility. Its long-lasting 25,000-hour LED source and 450 ISO lumen brightness allow you to project an image up to 200 inches, whether at home or on the go.

The ISA 2.0 automatic corrections enure quick focus and precise keystone correction, even when the projector isn’t perfectly aligned with the screen. The 2x5W Harman/Kardon audio system ensures a clear sound, and built-in Google TV provides access to the main streaming platforms. Compact (1.1kg) and powered by USB-C, it is ideal for use away from home.

BenQ GV50: 1080p Full HD, Google TV, AirPlay 2, Google Cast

The BenQ GV50 focuses on portability and versatility to deliver a flexible home theater experience. Its Full HD 1080p resolution, combined with a durable laser source lasting 30,000 hours in eco mode, ensures a precise image of up to 120 inches. With a high contrast ratio of 100,000:1 and HDR10 support, content gains in depth and dynamism. Its 360° swivel design allows for projection onto ceilings or walls, simplifying mobile use or viewing from bed.

The 2.1 audio system with built-in subwoofer delivers surprisingly rich sound for a compact projector. Google TV, Netflix, YouTube, and Cast/AirPlay compatibility round out a very comprehensive package, suitable for both streaming and casual gaming thanks to its low latency.

Xming Page One: 1080p Full HD, Google TV, Netflix, Chromecast

The Xming Page One projector can project a large image ranging from 1 meter to 3 meters across in Full HD 1080p. Compact and light enough to take anywhere, the Xming Page One follows you easily into every room of the house. This projector can also accompany you on vacation, to the office or to a friend’s house, thanks to the included carrying case. Once you’re there, all you need is a power outlet to power it up and start projecting! To simplify installation, this projector automatically adjusts the image geometry, and can even shift the image to avoid obstacles.

The Xming HD projector integrates Google TV and features a Netflix certification, as well as access to the majority of other video-on-demand services such as Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+ and more. The Chromecast function also enables it to receive videos wirelessly from a smartphone using the WiFi network. Finally, its HDMI input supports both 1080p and 4K UHD video (1080p display after scaling).

Nebula Cosmos 4K SE

The Nebula Cosmos 4K SE combines a hybrid LED + laser source with 1,800 ANSI lumens and 4K UHD resolution to deliver a sharp, bright, and accurate image, enhanced by Dolby Vision and HDR10 compatibility. Capable of projecting images up to 200 inches, it is equally suited to indoor and outdoor projections.

Automatic settings, including autofocus and keystone correction, simplify setup, while the Google TV platform provides direct access to streaming services, including Netflix in 4K. Designed for versatile use, it features two 15W Dolby Audio-compatible drivers and a smooth gaming mode thanks to reduced input lag. Finally, its integrated handle and compact size make it easy to transport from one location to another.

The best gaming projectors in 2025

Choosing a projector optimized for gaming ensures smooth, low input lag video gaming on a very large screen. Whether placed on a coffee table or mounted on the ceiling, just a few meters from the screen, a gaming projector guarantees complete immersion in the action, for epic gaming sessions!

Optoma UHD35X: affordable 4K HDR home theater and video game versatility

The Optoma UHD35x combines precise 4K resolution with a high brightness of 3,600 lumens, making it a versatile projector for home theater, sports, and gaming sessions, even in broad daylight. Thanks to its DLP chip with 4K XPR emulation and HDR10/HLG compatibility, the image gains depth, nuance, and detail, even on very large screens.

Its input lag of 4.2ms is among the lowest in its category, offering ideal responsiveness for fast-paced games. The UHP lamp ensures a long lifespan with optimized energy-saving modes. The 60Hz 4K compatible HDMI 2.0 connectors and 3D compatibility enhance its versatility, while keystone correction makes it easy to install in any space.

ViewSonic LX700-4KB RGB: 60Hz 4K HDR and 120Hz FDR, 5,200 lumens, 4.2ms input lag

The ViewSonic LX700-4KB RGB uses a bright 5200-lumen RGB laser source to deliver vivid 4K UHD images, even in well-lit rooms. Its full BT.2020 coverage and 0.65″ DMD chip ensure rich colors, high contrast, and exceptionally accurate rendering for home theater viewing. HDR and HLG compatible, it improves the clarity of both dark and bright scenes.

Designed for gaming, it features a 4.2ms input lag and a refresh rate of up to 240Hz in 1080p, with an Xbox certification for an optimized experience in 120Hz 1440p. Its 1.6x zoom, vertical lens shift, and keystone corrections make installation easy, while eARC allows for simplified audio integration with an external system.

BenQ X500i: perfect for Netflix and gaming

The BenQ X500i gaming projector with Android TV is a 4K UHD model optimized for video games that is also suitable for home theater. The BenQ X500i offers a low input lag (16ms in 60Hz 4K, 4.2 ms in 240Hz 1080p) as well as several setting modes adapted to different types of games, to improve image clarity, even in HDR (RPG, SPG, FPS). This HDR10-compatible BenQ gaming projector features a 4LED lamp offering a high brightness of 2,200 lumens. It’s also 3D-compatible in 1080p, for enhanced immersion with compatible films and programs (requires 3D glasses with DLP Link technology, sold separately).

The BenQ X500i projector is equipped with a 1.2x zoom and can project a large image ranging from 1.5 to 3m across the diagonal, at a distance of 90cm to 2.2m from the screen. Its connectors include two HDMI 2.0 inputs, one of which is eARC-compatible (audio return channel with Dolby Atmos support), as well as a DisplayPort in USB-C format. Finally, the manufacturer includes an Android TV module with this projector, providing access to numerous games and streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.

Hisense C2 Pro: 60Hz 4K / 240Hz Full HD

The Hisense C2 Pro compact projector offers an immersive cinema experience, designed to suit any environment. Featuring DLP projection technology and a triple-laser light source, it guarantees high brightness of 2,600 lumens and a good level of contrast, ensuring vivid images in 4K Ultra HD, whether in HDR10+ or Dolby Vision. Image size is adjustable from 65 inches to 300 inches (1.65m to 7.62m), adapting to a variety of spaces. This projector also stands out for its integrated Vidaa operating system, which enables fast access to streaming platforms such as Netflix and Disney+, for entertainment without limits.

For gamers, the Hisense C2 Pro features a dedicated gaming mode, guaranteeing low input lag for enhanced responsiveness. Its HDMI 2.1 compatibility ensures a smooth display with an optimal refresh rate, ideal for modern games in 4K. This projector is perfectly suited to next-generation consoles and gamers looking for an immersive, latency-free experience.

Epson EH-QB1000: 120Hz 4K gaming and immersive HDR home theater

The Epson EH-QB1000 4K laser projector is a high-end model designed to transform your home entertainment experience. Featuring a 3LCD matrix offering immersive 4K image quality (3,840 x 2,160 pixels), the Epson EH-QB1000 can display bright images up to 300 inches (7.62m) across. With HDR10+ compatibility and dynamic tone mapping, it’s ideal for movies, sports and even video games.

This Epson projector features HDMI 2.1 connectivity, with support for 120Hz 4K content and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), offering an incredibly smooth gaming experience, with excellent responsiveness (input lag <20 ms).

The best UHD 4K projectors in 2025

4K ultra high definition projectors let you enjoy a very large ultra-realistic picture, with a real feeling of immersion in the heart of a life-size image. UHD 4K projectors are HDR compatible and offer a high level of contrast, more color nuances and more details visible in the brightest parts as well as in the darkest areas of the image. They are the best solution if you want to enjoy a very large image of more than 3 meters across.

Epson EH-TW7100: extremely flexible installation

Capable of projecting a very large (up to 13m across), bright (3000 lumens) and well contrasted image, the Epson EH-TW7100 projector can stream both 1080p HD and 4K UHD movies, via its two HDMI ports.

Among its many advantages, its powerful zoom, its lens shift and its keystone correction greatly facilitate its installation. It can therefore be placed more or less far from the screen and even off-center without deforming or degrading the image. It was awarded the 5-star label from the specialist magazine What-Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision.

Optoma UHD38x: versatile projector for movies and video games

The Optoma UHD38x 4K Ultra HD video projector is intended for both video games and home theater sessions. HDR10 and HLG compatible, it covers a large color space and offers very high brightness (4000 lumens) for projecting in the middle of the day. Its very low input lag announced at 4.2 ms is perfect for video games in which reactivity time is essential.

The other advantage of this Optoma 4K projector is its “Wall Color” setting which corrects the projected image by adapting it to the color of your wall if it is not white. Six options are available to easily adjust the image depending on whether you are projecting on a black, light yellow, light green, light blue, pink, or gray wall. This way, you are sure to obtain an image with the most accurate color range possible.

Valerion VisionMaster Pro 2: 4K projector for gamers and movie buffs

The Valerion VisionMaster Pro 2 combines a 0.47″ DLP array with XPR processing and a triple RGB laser light source to deliver a precise, bright, and richly colored 4K image. Its 3,000 ISO lumens and 15,000:1 contrast ratio ensure good legibility, while 110% REC.2020 coverage guarantees extensive color reproduction. Compatible with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode, it aims to deliver images that are faithful to creative intentions. For gaming, it stands out with very low input lag (4ms in 1080p 240Hz, 15ms in 4K 60Hz) and ALLM. Featuring Google TV, full HDMI 2.1 connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2, it can be easily integrated into a connected and versatile ecosystem.

• Read our review of the Valerion VisionMaster Pro 2

BenQ W5800: 4K HDR cinema picture

The BenQ W5800 UHD-4K projector is the Taiwanese manufacturer’s new flagship model. Ideal for home theaters, the BenQ W5800 is now equipped with a laser lamp that lasts up to 25,000 hours. This enables it to offer even greater brightness (2,600 lumens max.) and display rich, intense colors. This DLP 4K projector covers all Rec.709 (HD standard) and DCI P3 (digital cinema) color spaces with remarkable fidelity. Its motorized lens is made up of multiple glass elements, and features a 1.6x zoom as well as horizontal and vertical lens shift to simplify installation. The BenQ W5800 projector can be installed at a distance of between 2m and 16m from the screen, to project an image measuring 1.50m to 7.6m across.

• Read our review of the BenQ W5800

Epson EH-LS9000: the best of 3LCD UHD 4K Pro technology

The Epson EH-LS9000B uses a laser source combined with 3LCD technology to deliver a highly detailed 4K image with no rainbow effect and stable colorimetry over time. Its brightness of 2,200 lumens and dynamic contrast ratio of 2,500,000:1 ensure good visibility in dark scenes, while HDR10, HLG, and HDR10+ compatibility optimize the dynamic range. Advanced video processing, including 4K image interpolation and super resolution, enhances fluidity and texture reproduction.

This Epson projector features comprehensive motorized adjustments, with a generous zoom, focus, and lens shift, as well as convenient lens presets for different formats. Extensive connectivity, including HDMI eARC, facilitates integration into a high-end home theater setup.

Valerion VisionMaster Max

The Valerion VisionMaster Max combines a triple laser RGB light source and UHD 4K resolution to deliver a bright, precise image that’s also also richly colored thanks to 110% coverage of Rec.2020 and a brightness of 3,500 ISO lumens. Support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced optimizes dynamics and depth, while the ISF calibration system ensures immediate fidelity.

Designed to adapt to all environments, the Valerion VisionMaster Max projector provides an optical zoom and motorized vertical lens shift for easy installation, even when projecting a large picture of up to 300 inches. Integrated Google TV provides access to the main streaming platforms, and the DTS:X-compatible audio system rounds everything off to provide a coherent cinema experience.

Hisense C2 Ultra: premium all-in-one 4K laser projecteur

The Hisense C2 Ultra is a long-throw projector with 4K laser technology, offering Ultra HD image definition (3840 x 2160) for exceptional visual quality. It is capable of projecting an image from 65 to 300 inches, or up to 7.62 meters, with a brightness of 3,000 lumens, ensuring clear, bright pictures. Other highlights include compatibility with HDR formats such as Dolby Vision and HDR10+, as well as support for IMAX Enhanced mode.

• Read our review of the Hisense C2 Ultra

The Hisense C2 Ultra is distinguished by its integrated JBL audio system, with two 10W speakers and a 20W subwoofer, providing a total sound output of 40W. This integrated soundbar delivers clear, dynamic sound quality, enhanced by surround effects for a completely immersive experience.

Epson EH-LS12000B: a dynamic 4K HDR picture with excellent contrast

HDR10+ compatible, the Epson EH-LS12000B 4K laser projector has a brightness of 2700 lumens and a high contrast that optimizes the display of HDR video content. This Epson 4K laser projector also features HDMI 2.1 connectors with a low input lag of 20ms, ideal for video games. Its motorized zoom, focus and lens shift with 10 customizable image positions allows you to quickly adapt the projection mode to the source’s native format, at the touch of a button on its backlit remote control.

As well as being very bright, the Epson EH-LS12000B’s laser lamp has an estimated lifespan of 20,000 hours (over 13 years, with 4h of projection every day)! This 4K laser projector from Epson can project an ultra HD image measuring 7.6m across at a distance between 1.5m and 19m.

Sony VPL-XW5000: native 4K SXRD and laser lamp

The Sony VPL-XW5000 native 4K laser projector replaces both the Sony VPL-VW290ES and the Sony VPL-VW590ES in the Japanese manufacturer’s range. Its laser lamp has a brightness of 2000 lumens to optimize the display of HDR programs. The Sony VPL-XW5000 laser projector uses a new SXRD matrix in native 4K HDR definition associated with a specific lens. It is also equipped with the Sony X1 Ultimate video processor and a whole array of processing functions optimized for videoprojection, an element that can also be found on the ultra high-end Sony VPL-GTZ380.

This Sony VPL-XW5000ES projector is also the first to benefit from an IMAX Enhanced certification, so you can enjoy films in the best possible conditions. Available in two finishes (black or white), its chassis is more compact and lighter than that of previous generations, making it easier to integrate into a living room or private home theater. Finally, HDMI 2.0 connectivity offers low input lag for 120 fps gaming (13 ms in HD 1080p 120 Hz) and 4K 60 fps gaming (21 ms in UHD 4K 60 Hz).

JVC DLA-NZ500: native 4K laser, HDR10+, motorized lens

The JVC DLA-NZ500 4K laser projector is a high-performance D-ILA model. It offers native 4K (4096 x 2160) resolution thanks to its D-ILA arrays and uses a BLU-Escent laser light source, ensuring brightness of 2,000 lumens and a lifespan of 20,000 hours. Thanks to infinite dynamic contrast and support for advanced HDR technologies such as HDR10+, this model guarantees precise, bright, high-contrast images. Ideal for high-end home theater environments, it is available in white and black.

Aimed at home theater enthusiasts seeking exceptional image quality in native 4K resolution, the JVC DLA-NZ500 lends itself perfectly to high-quality projections in low-light environments. Its comprehensive connectivity and multiple installation options make it a flexible choice for those wishing to enjoy an immersive big-screen experience.

Ultra short throw projectors: an alternative to consider

If you’re looking for a solution that’s easy to install and capable of replacing the living room TV, ultra short throw projectors are an appealing alternative to classic and compact projectors. Installed only a few centimeters from the wall or screen, they can project a very large picture, even in bright daylight. Take a look at our selection in our comparison of the best UST projectors of 2025.

Should you buy a projection screen?

Although many projector manufacturers mention that it is possible to project a movie or series directly onto a wall, especially with ultra short throw projectors, it is recommended that you use a projection screen instead. The screen fabric has a perfectly smooth surface optimized for projection, which is not generally the case for the walls of a living room on which the slightest roughness or irregularity risks catching the light and affecting the picture.

It is advisable to opt for a manual projection screen or an electric projection screen when projecting in a living room. For a perfect image, an electric screen with a tensioned fabric offers much better flatness, guaranteeing an image without any distortion. You can also opt for a built-in projection screen, allowing discreet integration into the decor.

If you have a dedicated home theater room, it is better to opt for a fixed projection screen with a canvas perfectly stretched on a very rigid frame. Its perfectly flat projection surface guarantees perfect image quality. Some models are also equipped with a transparent canvas behind which you can place the center speaker or even the front left and right speakers: the sound seems to come directly from the image, which ensures total immersion in the world of the film.

With an ultra short throw projector used in the middle of the day as well as in the evening, we recommend an ultra short throw projection screen whose canvas is specifically designed to eliminate parasitic reflections and prevent diffraction in the room. The light from the projector is indeed reflected almost exclusively towards the spectators who then benefit from a bright and well-contrasted image, even in broad daylight.

Even with a picoprojector, the use of a portable projection screen improves the projected image which is brighter and has better contrast.

Is it necessary to mount the projector on the ceiling?

Fixing your projector permanently to the wall or ceiling is the best solution for everyday use. This is not useful when you have a very occasional use of your projector and even irrelevant with a picoprojector. For a sedentary installation, on the other hand, a projector bracket is almost essential, especially when regularly organizing movie nights or video game sessions on the big screen. It is an ideal integration solution in a living room as in a dedicated room. Almost all projectors also incorporate an image inversion function so that they can be hung mounted down from the ceiling.

A ceiling support allows the projector to be positioned optimally in relation to the screen according to its focal length and the size of the desired image. Once the projector is in place and the cables are connected, all you have to do is make the adjustments once and for all. It is much more practical than having to redo the settings for each screening when you put the projector on a coffee table and put it back in its case once the film is finished… Even ultra short throw projectors can be mounted on a support. This prevents someone from moving it, which would result in having to redo the image adjustments.

Some support brackets are very long for installation with high ceilings. There are also projector supports with a raising/lowering platform that can be installed into a false ceiling to completely hide the projector when not in use.

FAQ – Choosing the right projector in 2025