Versatility has given a new meaning to home entertainment. For that purpose, outdoor home entertainment maybe? However we want to call it, movie nights, game days or even old family videos acquire a new life when shown outside. One that seems likely to last for a while.
Whether you’re putting together a potluck with a special presentation, setting up your very own pop-up drive-in theater, or making your backyard the best hangout in the neighborhood, you want an outdoor projector that you can rely on for your entertainment needs.
Below we’ve outlined our picks for the best projectors for each need.
Each projector on the market has something a little bit different to offer, so let’s explore what will best meet your needs–no matter your price point.
Top 8 Best Outdoor Projectors
Whether you’re a tech nerd or a beginner at setting up an entertainment center, this guide will help you better understand what your options are when it comes to purchasing a projector.
Best Overall: Jifar Native 1080P 5G Projector
Specs:
- Native Resolution: 1920x1080P
- HDR: Yes
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
- Brightness: 9500 lumens
- Connectivity: VGA, USB, HDMI, Bluetooth, and 5G.
- Weight: 5.50 lbs
With 9500 lumens and 1080p native resolution combined with 5G connectivity, this Jifar projector really packs a punch. Advertised as the “brightest on the market”, you can be sure that you’re getting a great product for a pretty price. Before dropping big bucks on a higher-end model, give this affordable option a try.
Pros
- Shines bright even in some daylight conditions.
- The speakers have impressive volume.
- Customers report that the quiet internal cooling system excels at keeping the projector from overheating.
Cons
- Lacks keystone functionality.
- Some users were dissatisfied with the clarity of the picture quality.
Runner-Up: Yaber Y31 Native 1080P Projector
Specs:
- Native Resolution: 1920x1080P
- HDR: Yes
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
- Brightness: 9000 lumens
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, VGA, AV/TV BOX, DVD, and Smartphone.
- Weight: 5.70 lbs
The Yaber Y31 Native 1080P Projector is a popular model that meets all the needs for a straightforward outdoor setup. With a wide range of connectivity options available, you’ll be able to play your media quickly and seamlessly and get back to the party.
Pros
- Connects easily to many different TV boxes for all streaming needs.
- The projection size ranges from 50 feet to 300 feet.
- Equipped with an SRS sound system with 3W dual stereo speakers.
- Picture quality is not impacted by color
Cons
- Some customers complain the brightness was not as intense as they expected.
- The manufacturer advises staying up-to-date on firmware upgrades to avoid lag or jerky picture quality.
Best Reviews: CiBest Mini Video Projector
Specs:
- Resolution: 800*480P
- HDR: Yes
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 2000:1
- Brightness: 7500 lumens
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, TF, AV, SD card slot, and USB.
- Weight: 2.80 lbs
We love this tiny and powerful projector! The CiBest Mini Video Projector is excellent for taking with you to remote locations, so you can watch a movie under the stars while camping or stream the game while grilling out.
Pros
- The SD card slot makes it a great option for slideshows at events such as weddings and baby showers.
- An intuitive setup makes it very user-friendly.
Cons
Some compatibility issues with the iPhone have been reported.
Best for Image Quality and System: Emotn H1
Specs:
- Native Resolution: 1080P
- HDR: Yes
- Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1
- Storage:16GB+1GB
- System: Android 9.0
- Brightness: 250 ANSI lumens
- Connectivity: Micro SD, Aux 3.5mm, AV, USB, HDMI, LAN, S/P DIF, AC
- Weight: 2.77Lbs
If you want a portable projector with good image quality and a smart system. You can just choose Emotn H1 projector.
Emotn H1 features 1080P Full HD resolution and 250 ANSI lumens, providing a clear image. It can project a big screen size of up to 250 inches, bringing you an immersive viewing experience. It has Blue Switch Mechanical Keyboard buttons on the top of the projector. The sound is crisp and pleasant when you touch the buttons. It operates on the Android 9.0 System, enabling users to access 2000+ apps via Emotn store.
In addition, it has a leather handle on the top, which is convenient for outdoor use.
Pros:
- Retro design and beautiful appearance
- 1080P FHD Image
- Smart system
- Convenient leather handle
Cons:
The Contrast ratio is average
Best for Beginners: TMY HD Projector
Specs:
- Native Resolution: 720P
- HDR: Yes
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 4000:1
- Brightness: 7500 lumens
- Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, AV, USB Headphone port and TF card slot.
- Weight: 4.51 lbs
If you’re searching for a simple beginner model, we recommend the TMY HD projector. With a powerful sound system built-in and a selection of connectivity port options, you’ll be up and running with this model in no time.
Pros
- Cables and necessary add-ons are included, making for a simple and efficient setup.
- Easy-to-use remote and receiver with optimal receiver location on the console.
- Quick and responsive user interface.
Cons
- Brightness, contrast, and other video settings may not have sensitive enough customization features for some users.
- Limited audio quality.
Best for Movies: Bigasuo Pro302 Projector
Specs:
- Native Resolution: 720P
- HDR: Yes
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 8000:1
- Brightness: 5500 lumens
- Connectivity: HDMI, AV, VGA, Micro SD card ports. The DVD function supports CD, DVD, CD-R/RW, DVD -R/+R, DVD+RW/-RW, VCD, and SVCD. It does not play Blu-ray.
- Weight: 4.8 lbs
This unique projector model comes with a DVD player built right in, so your family can enjoy your entire movie collection. Even with this addition, the Bigasuo Pro302 is still compact and lightweight.
Pros
- Specific “Movie Mode” speaker setup for ideal volume balance.
- Equipped with a travel carrying case for easy transportation to remote gatherings and events.
- Tripod stand included.
Cons
- Certain colors may appear muddy and unclear in some lighting.
- The audio quality may be below industry standards for comparable projectors.
Best for Gaming: GooDee YG600 Projector
Specs:
- HDR: Yes
- Native Resolution: 1280x768P
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
- Brightness: 8500 lumens
- Connectivity: VGA, USB, HDMI, and 3.5mm Audio.
- Weight: 5.0 lbs
If you’re after a projector that will exceed your expectations for gaming, look no further than the GooDee YG600. This sound and video quality will make the Mario Kart race among your friends at your next party even more exciting.
Pros
- Quiet cooling fan system.
- Superior sound quality compared to competitors.
Cons
- The necessary HDMI cable and USB cable are not included and will need to be purchased separately.
- This model is equipped with mirroring technology, which may cause streaming services not to play as expected.
Best for Sports: Fangor F506 Projector
Specs:
- HDR: Yes
- Native Resolution: 1080P
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
- Brightness: 6500 lumens
- Connectivity: VGA, HDMI, USB 2.0, and Bluetooth.
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
If you’re looking to stream sports at a tailgating event, try the lightweight and extra portable Fangor F506 projector. This streamlined model will be a hit for all your pregaming and post-gaming celebrations.
Pros
- Specially equipped “Sports Mode” creates the best viewing and listening quality.
- User-friendly setup interface.
Cons
- Fan noise is louder than other similar models.
- The Bluetooth setting is for output only.
Final Takeaways
Purchasing an outdoor projector can be a complicated process without all the information. Do your research before making your final selection and be sure to check the customer reviews to understand which model will meet your needs so you can end up with the best projector possible.
See More:
Top 6 Best 4K Projectors for 2022
Top 6 Best Home Theater Projectors for 2022
