Portable projectors bring movies, games, and presentations to life without the need for a TV or large monitor. If you want the big screen experience without the high price tag, a budget-friendly projector can be a solid alternative — if you know what to look for. Resolution and Image Quality Don’t get caught up in inflated specs: Native resolution is what matters (ideally 720p or higher for clarity) Avoid models that only support HD but project at much lower native resolutions For basic home viewing, 720p works well. If you want crisper images, some projectors under $100–$150 now offer 1080p native resolution. Brightness and Environment Projectors need dark rooms to shine — literally: 150–300 ANSI lumens is reasonable for dark environments More lumens = better visibility in rooms with ambient light Avoid vague brightness claims (like “5000 lux”) and look for ANSI lumen ratings for accuracy. Size and Portability Look for compact and lightweight designs if you plan to move it often: Built-in speakers add convenience Carry case or handle is helpful if included Smaller units may sacrifice audio quality, but you can always use external speakers. Connectivity and Media Support Good budget projectors should include multiple input options: HDMI, USB, and AV ports for broad compatibility SD card slot and screen mirroring (Wi-Fi or AirPlay) are great bonuses Bluetooth support allows for wireless speaker pairing, but it's not always reliable on very low-cost models. Reliable Budget Brands Vankyo Yaber ViewSonic (entry-level) DBPOWER AuKing These brands offer budget projectors that typically cost under $150 and perform well for casual use. Final Focus You don’t have to invest in high-end equipment to enjoy movies, slideshows, or gaming on a big screen. By focusing on native resolution, brightness, and connectivity, a budget projector can bring entertainment anywhere — without inflating your costs.