The Best Projectors You Can Buy for Under $200
We’ve all seen those pictures or videos on social media of someone rounding up their friends to play “Mario Kart” by projecting it onto the side of a house, or have been to a friend’s house to watch movies in their impressive home theater.
Seeing something like that really makes one want to have the same experience at their own house. As a gamer myself, I know it makes me want to see those gorgeous HD graphics projected onto the biggest, clearest screen possible.
However, that kind of exciting experience can really hurt your wallet. Playing video games can already be expensive, so adding a projector to that can be extra painful.
However, what if I told you that you don’t need to break bank to enjoy the best home theater projector in your own home? 
Well, it’s the truth. There are actually some outstanding options for projectors that are under $200 without sacrificing quality.
If you're looking for the quick answer, then I'd go with the Vankyo Leisure, it's maintains high quality picture, good resolution for a solid under 200 price tag.
See related: Best Backyard Movie Projectors Under $500
If you want to gain a high quality, theater experience within the comfort of your home, then a 1080p projector may be right for you.
These are the best 1080p projectors that can produce “FauxK” content:
Best Projector Under $200 Reviews - Our Top Picks
Specifications
- Size: 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
Key Features
- 800 x 480 native resolution
- 2400 ANSI lumens brightness
- single chip LCD technology
- 2000:1 contrast ratio
- 40,000 hours lamp life
PROS
CONS
VANKYO LEISURE 3 Review
A low-cost and easy-to-use portable projector with a surprisingly large amount of inputs. A great choice for a projector that costs less than $100.
The VANKYO LEISURE 3 is equipped with cables and inputs to accept video from a few sources. You can accept inputs from HDMI, a VGA output, RCA video output, a USB source, and an SD card.
The product only comes with three cables, so you will need to buy additional cables and adapters if you want to connect to your iPhone, android device, or to newer laptops.
Low Amount of Fan Noise
The VANKYO LEISURE 3 can connect to an external speaker, or you can opt to use the internal speaker. We would not recommend this in a room with a lot of background noise since the internal speaker is not that powerful. It is surprising how quiet the fan on the VANKYO LEISURE 3 is.
It does not impact your viewing experience.The VANKYO LEISURE 3 comes with a zippered carrying case that has internal Velcro straps to keep the projector stable. It also has an adjustable compartment for accessories, like cables and your remote control.
Impressive Lamp Life
The specs on the VANKYO LEISURE 3 are not going to blow you out of the water. But they deliver what you would expect for a projector that’s under $100.The LED brightness is 2200 LUX. It has a contrast ratio of 2000:1. The lamp life is an impressive 40,000 hours. The projection size ranges between 33 inches and 170 inches. The native resolution is 800 x 480.
This is a lightweight projector, coming in at 2.12 pounds. It has a travel ready size with dimensions of 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1”. An Exceptional Product for the Price but Doesn’t Compare with High-End Models This is our number one pick because it is a solid projector at a cheap price.
Going into the purchase, you have to realize that for under $100, you are not going to have a projector that gives you the image, controls, or durability of a $1,000 projector. What we really like about the VANKYO LEISURE 3 is that it functions properly and does exactly what you would expect it to do.
Easy Set Up
It is easy to set up. It’s perfect for taking on camping trips or for watching a movie outside with the family after a barbecue. It’s not designed to bring the cinematic experience into the home, but it does have a sufficient amount of audio and video adjustments that allow you to get a relatively clear picture and decent sound in a dark and quiet environment.
The included remote control is beneficial. However, since this projector works best in complete darkness, we would have preferred that the remote control have some back lighting. The dial focus on the top of the projector and the keystone adjuster did allow us to fix the geometry of the picture and try to get the best picture focus.
Overall, this is one of the best mini projectors you can purchase for under $100. If you want to check it out for yourself, here’s where you can purchase it:
Specifications
- Size: 9 x 3.5 x 6.8 inches
- Weight: 4 lbs
Key Features
- 1920 x 1080 native resolution
- 3000 ANSI lumens brightness
- 2000:1 contrast ratio
- 45,000 hours lamp life
- 30 to 176 inches screen size
PROS
CONS
Wsiiroon 2019 Review
A great choice for a projector that costs under two hundred dollars is the Wsiiroon 2019 LED Newest Projector.
3000 ANSI Lumens
The Wsiiroon 2019 Newest Projector uses 3,000 Lumens, which is as bright as anyone could ever really need. It has a supporting resolution of 1920x1080P, which makes for some great HD video quality.
The projector’s aspect ratio is 4:3/16:9, which is the standard for aspect ratio and is exactly what you would want. This projector also has a contrast ratio of 2,000:1. This provides a clearer and more vivid viewing experience.
This newest projector from Wsiiroon has a 45,000 hour lamp life to project crystal clear, big-screen images with rich 1080p sharpness for years to come. To have an awesome theater experience right in your own home, Wsiiroon provides an excellent audio system with the built-in speaker.
It’s easy to set up without the need for costly external speakers. You’re already dishing out a good chunk of change for the projector, and probably the screen. You don’t want any more payments adding to that.
Commendable Projection Size
There’s no need to be concerned about the size of the projected video. This projector’s watching size is from 32 inches to a whopping 170 inches. It can handle projection distances of 1.5 meters to 5 meters, which is exactly enough to fit anyone’s visual needs.
Do you ever get annoyed by the overheating or murmurs of electronics? With a dual fan design, this projector is equipped with an innovative cooling system with heat dispersion, as well as a noise suppression technology which cuts fan sound in half.
You don't have to worry about noises during your movies or video games. It also works both inside and outside, making it perfect for your family camping trips.
Compatible with Just About Everything
This Wsiiroon projector is compatible with iPhones, iPads, Android devices, laptops, PCs, MacBook, XBOX, PS3/PS4, DVDs, Blu-rays, headphones, TV, and more devices with multiple built-in ports.
There is no need to purchase any extra adapters for it, which is great. The less equipment you have to buy, the less you have to spend your hard-earned money. The best part about this projector is that it’s only $120.99!
However, there are some downsides to the Wsiiroon 2019 Newest Projector. First of all, it’s not recommended for PPT or office presentations, which is a common use for projectors.
You need to be in a rather dark setting to get the fullest effects of the visuals, which you probably will be anyway. It’s also recommended that one should turn off the noise reduction feature to get a much better frame rate.
Overall, this is easily the best HD projector you are going to find that’s under $200. Here’s where you can purchase it:
Specifications
- Size: 8.5 x 3.5 x 3 inches
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
Key Features
- 800 x 480 native resolution
- 115 ANSI lumens brightness
- 1000:1 contrast ratio
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- 20,000 hours LED life
PROS
CONS
iRULU HiBeam H60 Review
If you don’t mind spending a little more for your projector and paying closer to the two hundred dollar mark at $199.99, then I suggest the iRULU HiBeam H60 2019 Movie Projector. Compared with other DLP projectors, the iRULU Hibeam H60 movie projector is extremely cost-effective.
Amazing Sound Quality
This Mini Portable Projector delivers vibrant and sharp images up to 120 inches. It also has a supreme brightness of 115 ANSI lumens to let you enjoy clear vision of every scene. The sound quality is especially amazing on this one. It contains built-in 4Ω3W dual-unit speakers. The iRULU home projector operates with an Audio ALC algorithm, provides stunning bass effect, and prevents high pitch against cracking.
Auto Keystone Correction
This Mini DLP Movie Projector has ±45°Auto Keystone Correction and can project images and videos up and down automatically without affecting the projection effect.
One of my favorite features that this projector has is the Green Power Saving mode. Saving power is important, at least in my opinion. This video projector consumes one eighth of the power compared to some other LCD projectors with the same brightness, which means that it reduces the power consumption up to 87.5%.
The projector is rather small in size, which makes it perfect for smaller rooms and spaces. It is still able to produce images that are quite large. It also has the most ideal resolution (1080p) for gaming, which is what I would primarily want a projector for myself.
The Downsides of the iRULU HiBeam H60 2019
The main downside for this projector is that the price does push that $200 limit. It’s tough shelling out so much money for entertainment.
The fan on this one can get rather loud. It’s not the most distracting thing in the world, especially if you turn the volume up to drown out the “whooshing” noise.
However, we now live in a technologically advanced enough time where a fan should be able to cool down a device without being a distraction.
The iRULU HiBeam H60 is also not Bluetooth compatible, which is also rather shocking for any sort of modern device.
The iRULU HiBeam H60 2019 Movie Projector is a fantastic device and is worth the money as long as you don’t mind paying the two hundred dollars for it. I personally feel that the Wsiiroon 2019 LED Newest Projector is a bit better due to it being about the same quality for cheaper. You can purchase it here:
Specifications
- Size:11.3 x 9.7 x 4.4 inches
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
Key Features
- 1920 x 1080 native resolution
- 2800 ANSI lumens brightness
- 2000:1 contrast ratio
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- 50,000 hours lamp life
PROS
CONS
QKK 2400 Lumens Mini Projector Review
If you want to save even more money, there’s a pretty good option called the QKK 2400 Lumens Mini Projector. It is only $79.99, but I will say that you get what you pay for.
FullHD Resolution
What it does have is image brightness that is 77% more than other comparable projectors in this surprisingly good price range. It supports 1920x1080p resolution and a 2000:1 contrast ratio which are the standard, ideal specs for home theater entertainment.
The projector is very portable and easy to transport. It has HDMI, AV, VGA, SD Card and USB ports, and it is compatible with PCs, laptops, TV sticks, Bluray and DVD players.
However, you still need to purchase additional cables to connect with smartphones, tablets, or Macs. I find it absolutely shocking that you would need to get anything extra for something that should be standard now, like connecting to smartphones.
Low Noise Cooling System
The QKK Projector has an extraordinary cooling system that makes minimal noise compared to other projectors at this lower price. It also does have a great watching size from 32 inches to 176 inches. For comparison to really understand how large this is, a television is considered large if its screen is 60 to 80 inches. One other advantage this one has over other projectors is how user friendly it is and how easy it is to set up.
Lower Price Can Sometimes Mean Lower Quality
Overall, this is an amazing projector for its price. However, like I previously stated, you are getting what you pay for. The audio quality of the speakers on the projector is rather subpar.
It is heavily recommended to also purchase external speakers to use with the projector.
The video quality is not as clear as other options that is just a little bit more money. I understand the point is to see what is out there that is cost effective, but you can still do better for just two hundred dollars or less.
I feel as though the idea behind using a projector instead of a television screen is to have better quality and a bigger size for your viewing experience. This projector’s video quality is very dark. It is also blurry at times.
Specifications
- Size: 12.8 x 8.9 x 4.2 inches
- Weight: 4.85 lbs
Key Features
- 1920 x 1080 native resolution
- 3600 ANSI lumens brightness
- 2000:1 contrast ratio
- 4:3 aspect ratio
- 40,000 hours lamp life
PROS
CONS
Tainidi 3600 Lux Video Projector Review
The Tainidi 3600 Lux Video Projector, for $189.99, is another exceptional projector for all your movie and video game needs.
Its video quality uses 1920x1080p like most other projectors. This projector’s contrast ratio is 2000:1, which is also like other projectors.
Best for Gaming
This contrast ratio is what most projectors have nowadays because it creates the best possible visuals for watching movies and if you're on a budget, it's one of the best projectors for gaming that you can get.
This projector contains two HDMI ports, 2 USB ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It supports laptops, PCs, TV Boxes, Chromebooks, tablets Blue-ray players, DVD players iOS and Android.
It comes with a free HDMI cable, so that’d be one less things you would need to spend your money on.
It supports a projection size from 44 inches to 180 inches, which is huge. I would love to binge watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy (the extended cuts, of course) or play the most recent God of War on a screen of that size!
It can also handle distances of 4.9 to 18.4 feet, so it should be able to suffice for any room size you will be using it in.
Less Excess Noise
The Tainidi 3600 Lux Video Projector has a great cooling and fan system with heat dispersion, and a pretty successful noise suppression. It helps you enjoy more comfortable home theater.
I’m thankful for this aspect because I just want to focus on the video game I’m playing or the movie I’m watching without any additional headaches.
One of the downsides to this projector is that the colors on the screen can sometimes appear a bit faded or washed out.
There is also no zoom like a lot of other projectors may have, so you will need to physically move the projector each time you want to make a size or distance adjustment.
The audio on this projector is only okay at best. Buying an external speaker is recommended if you decide to go with this otherwise great option. It’s also a little larger compared to other options, making it a bit less portable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
How much does a projector lamp cost?
Prices of Projectors have dropped significantly in the recent years. This makes it easier to find great projectors for under $200.
Unfortunately, the cost of replacing projector lamps has not followed this trend. Even though some lamps have reached below the $300 mark, most are in the $350 to $400 range.
This is worth noting, especially since it’s a lot more than what you would be spending on your projector if you’re trying to save money with options like the ones listed above.
Try your absolute best to take care of your projector lamps.
Are 4k projectors worth it?
Nowadays, it’s pretty easy to find a 4K projector for about $1,500. That's close to what a 75 inch 4K television would cost. Check out some of the best cheap 4K projectors.
Using a projector, you can blow that 4K image up to a whopping 120 inches. That being said, most projectors can get to that size, and a lot of them can be found for less money.
Some of the best 4K projectors may look amazing, but there’s not much of a reason to spend that much when you can spend less than $200 on projectors that still have outstanding visual quality.
What is a good contrast ratio for a projector?
Contrast ratio refers to the difference between the blackest black and the whitest white in an image. A projector with a contrast ratio of 10,000:1 isn't necessarily better than a 2,000:1 ratio.
If the projector can't display the shades of gray between the blackest black and whitest white, then portions of the image can seem pixelated when displayed on the large screen.
The best contrast ratio to use can depend on the brightness of the room you are using the projector in and how big you have the screen.
What is a good resolution for a projector?
Home theater projectors come in different fixed resolutions including XGA (1024x768), WXGA (1280x800), HD (1920x1080), and 4K (4096x2160). HD is the most commonly used format, however, the best resolution to use can depend on how well lit the room you’re using it in is.
It can also depend on how much you are willing to spend on it. 4K is extremely good quality, but very expensive, while some of the best 1080p projectors can only cost you around $200 or less.
In Conclusion
Playing video games is one of the most exciting hobbies out there. However, it’s already expensive as is with buying the consoles, games, extra controllers, and even gaming computers, mice, and keyboards.
It’s understandable to want to have a huge, clear screen to play on, but you’ve got to watch what you spend on those visuals.
See related: Cheap 120Hz Monitors for Gaming
A projector is certainly a great way to go, but you don’t have to break bank to get one. By going with any of these options, you can easily save some money and spend less than $200 getting that projector for that perfect gaming experience.
And if you aim for even better picture quality, then check out our guide on some of the most amazing Blu-ray players.
Sources
My name is Steve Scott. Father of 2 and owner of Outdoor Movie HQ. I’ve been involved in the A/V industry for most of my life and built this blog to help people better understand projector technology. Please leave a comment if you have any questions.