Outdoor projectors have revolutionized at-home entertainment by bringing the big-screen cinematic experience outside. As the weather warms up, these devices allow you to set up an open-air home theater in your backyard, lawn, patio or even projected onto the side of your house!
But finding the right outdoor projector can be tricky given the wide range of models out there. You need one that can deliver bright, vibrant visuals even in ambient daylight. It also needs to have good connectivity, sound, portability and convenience features to ensure an immersive viewing experience alfresco.
To help you pick the perfect outdoor projector, I‘ve tested and reviewed the top options on the market today. Here are my top 7 picks across various price points and use-cases:
Best Overall: BenQ TK850 4K HDR Projector
The BenQ TK850 is simply the best outdoor home theater projector available today. It combines exceptional 4K UHD image quality with high brightness and convenient smart features for the ultimate outdoor viewing experience.
Some standout features include:
- True 4K UHD 3840 x 2160 resolution with HDR10 and HLG support for amazing clarity, color and contrast
- Impressive 3000 ANSI lumen brightness for vivid images even in daylight
- 96% Rec. 709 color space coverage for natural, lifelike color reproduction
- Low input lag for gaming
- Latest DLP imaging technology with smooth, detailed motion handling
- Android TV with built-in streaming apps like Netflix and Disney+
- 15,000 hour lamp life for years of use
- IPX1 water resistance rating
Despite the robust feature set, the TK850 remains easy to set up and transport thanks to the intuitive interface and carry handle. Built-in 10W speakers also provide solid audio without the need for external sound system.
For the sheer best-in-class visual performance paired with usability and smart features, the BenQ TK850 4K Projector stands out as my top recommendation for immersive outdoor viewing.
Most Portable: Anker Nebula Mars II Pro
If portability is your top concern for backyard movie nights on the go, then the Anker Nebula Mars II Pro is your best bet. Weighing less than 3 pounds with a compact, sleek design, it‘s effortlessly portable.
Despite its travel-friendly form factor, the Nebula Mars II still manages to pack quite a punch when it comes to features and performance including:
- Bright 500 ANSI lumen projection suitable for outdoor viewing
- Native 1080p HD resolution for detailed image quality
- Manual focus, keystone correction and zoom functionality for flexibility
- Android 7.1 OS built-in along with streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video
- Enhanced 30W speaker with deep bass and Dolby Digital Plus support
- Dual 3W speakers that can be paired for a wider soundstage
- Convenient carry case included for portability
While the brightness and resolution are not as high-end as pricier models, the complete package of portability, convenience and solid performance makes this ideal for impromptu outdoor viewing sessions. It‘s a flexible and fun option for weekend camping trips, tailgating parties or even some big-screen gaming on the lawn.
Best Daylight Image: Optoma UHD35 4K Projector
A common challenge with outdoor projectors is washed-out, dull images when trying to view content in bright daylight. This is where the exceptional Optoma UHD35 shines – literally!
With an exceptionally high 3600 lumens of brightness, this projector is specifically designed to overcome ambient light issues. This allows you to enjoy clear, vivid 4K UHD images even in full daylight.
Apart from its brightness prowess, the UHD35 also delivers:
- Native 4K Ultra HD resolution (3840 x 2160) for pin-sharp clarity whether projecting films, shows, sports or gaming
- HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range support for expanded contrast and color
- 240Hz refresh rate for smooth, fluid motion clarity especially for sports/gaming
- Wide color gamut up to Rec. 709 for realistic and nuanced color reproduction
- Vertical lens shift functionality for flexible projection positioning
- Integrated 10W speaker provides audio without needing separate sound system
Weighing just 7.5 pounds with a decently portable form factor and carry case included, it offers daylight viewing capabilities without compromising too much on convenience. Focusing on brightness as its main priority, the UHD35 brings best-in-class outdoor daylight performance.
Most Versatile: LG HU85LA CineBeam 4K Projector
Sometimes you want an outdoor projector primarily for backyard movie nights. Other times, you may want to move it inside for gaming/TV projection onto a blank wall. This degree of versatile indoor/outdoor flexibility is exactly what the feature-packed LG HU85LA CineBeam provides.
Standout aspects making this such a versatile performer are:
- Ulta-bright 2500 ANSI lumens yet wide-gamut, accurate color even at lower brightness
- Crisp 4K UHD resolution and HDR compatibility
- 120Hz refresh and low input lag ideal for sports and gaming
- LG‘s acclaimed webOS smart platform built-in along with popular streaming apps
- Portable and lightweight (7.2 pounds) form factor that‘s easy to move around
- Convenient wireless screen mirroring from compatible phones/tablets
- Interchangeable lens options for specialized throw distances
- 20,000 hour expected lamp life
With projection capabilities ranging from high-brightness outdoor viewing to accurate lower-light indoor gaming/movies, the LG HU85LA handles it all. Combined with smart connectivity and streaming features, it‘s a versatile big-screen entertainment hub.
Best Budget: ViewSonic M1 Mini Plus
Big-screen outdoor projection doesn‘t have to break the bank. Case in point – the impressively affordable ViewSonic M1 Mini. Despite its budget pricing, this miniature projector produces a surprising 100" screen along with decent native 1080p visuals.
Other aspects making this a great entry-level outdoor projector buy are:
- Solid 300 LED Lumens brightness suitable for backyard viewing
- Quick auto focus/keystone ensures fast, simple setup
- Built-in Harman Kardon speakers negates need for bulky external audio system
- Lightweight and ultraportable (less than 2 pounds) for effortless mobility
- Versatile connectivity including HDMI, USB Type C and wireless screen mirroring
- Integrated smart stand for angled projection without a tripod
- Battery-powered operation lasts for up to 6 hours on-the-go
For less than $300, it‘s difficult to find better big-screen outdoor performance combined with nice sound and smart features. Easy portability and fast setup also make it fun for impromptu projection virtually anywhere. It punches well above its class given the bargain pricing.
Best Picture: Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K PRO Projector
Serious home theater enthusiasts wanting a dedicated outdoor projector purely for the best possible visual performance should look no further than the Epson Home Cinema 4010. It delivers reference-level cinematic projection quality for that true immersive viewing experience under the stars.
Standout features enabling such stellar big-screen visuals are:
- Native 4K PRO-UHD resolution for incredible clarity down to the finest details
- Epson‘s advanced 3LCD engine for vibrant, accurate color reproduction
- Impressive 2,600 lumen brightness for clear outdoor images
- Exceptional 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio with deep blacks
- Custom install lens options for specialized projection needs
- ISF certification for professional display calibration
- Latest HDMI 2.1 compatibility with cutting-edge gaming features
- High 120Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur in action scenes/gaming
- Motorized lens options for constant image clarity at all zoom levels
From the color science behind the projection to painstaking attention on optics for sharpness/clarity, Epson has engineered this projector for the utmost image quality. Of course such performance doesn‘t come cheap, but for well-heeled home theater buffs wanting the best outdoor experience, the cinema-grade Epson Home Cinema 4010 PRO brings visuals second only to commercial theaters.
Best Smart Features: BenQ V7050i 4K HDR Projector
Rounding out my top outdoor projector recommendations is BenQ‘s V7050i – a 4K model packed with smart features and streaming conveniences right out of the box.
Running the Android TV interface, it brings extensive app and on-demand entertainment support including:
- 4K HDR image quality for breathtaking clarity in films and shows
- Google Play Store access to download additional apps as needed
- Chromecast built-in for wireless display casting from compatible devices
- Hands-free Google Assistant support to control projection via voice commands
- Dedicated Bluetooth audio transmitter to connect wireless headphones
- Auto focus and lens shift allows flexible placement while maintaining picture sharpness
With Android TV putting a world of smart functionality at your fingertips, this end-to-end streaming integration makes for intuitive operation. Conveniences like multi-directional audio output and wire-free display casting further enhance this outdoor projector‘s user-friendly capabilities.
While picture quality plays second fiddle to streaming features here, it still brings nice native 4K resolution in a fairly compact form factor. Making it a well-balanced outdoor projector pick for smart home enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Projector
To find the best outdoor projector for your specific viewing needs and use-cases, there are some key factors to keep in mind while picking a model.
Projection Brightness (Lumens)
The most vital specification to consider for outdoor viewing is projection brightness, measured in lumens. Models with higher lumens will be able to overcome interfering ambient light from the surroundings to maintain clear, vivid images.
For evening/nighttime viewing, 2000+ lumens should suffice. But for better daylight performance, look for projectors rated over 3000 lumens. Premium options meant for dedicated daytime viewing can have up to 4000+ lumens. Just keep in mind that higher lumen projectors also demand more power.
Resolution
While outdoor environments are more forgiving than home theaters, you‘d still want a projector with reasonably high resolution for decent clarity.
720p models work fine for smaller screen sizes below 100-inches. But bigger projections will benefit from native 1080p resolution. For a true cinematic experience with crisp detail, emerging 4K projectors are also available now at mid-range price points.
Apart from base resolution, also check for HDR capabilities for better contrast/colors and gaming-centric features like low input lag, fast response times if you intend to use projector for PS5/Xbox Series X.
Projection Technology
The most common projection technologies used in home projectors are:
DLP (Digital Light Processing) – Utilizes optical microchips with up to 8 million micromirrors directing light through red, blue, green color filters. Known for fast refresh rates and pixel response suitable for gaming/action videos. May exhibit rainbow artifacts in certain content.
3LCD – Employs 3 advanced LCD glass panels with dedicated lamp passing light through RGB filters to blend colors accurately. Delivers excellent colors, shadow details and avoids rainbow effect. But slower pixel response times.
LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) – Uses a pixel-gridded glass panel reflecting light from lamp and small mirrors directing it precisely. Balances color and response time performance of DLP and LCD well. But expensive to manufacture.
Laser Phosphor Light Source – Instead of fragile conventional lamps, utilizes robust blue laser diodes exciting yellow phosphor to emit pure white light. Enables compact, low maintenance projectors good for semi-portable use. But maxes out at 6,000 hours lifespan.
Ideally test different projection technologies first-hand to gauge which you prefer based on your content tastes and planned usage.
Connectivity and Audio
Rounding out your outdoor projector setup will require connectivity to video sources like media streamers, cable boxes or gaming consoles. So the projector must have HDMI inputs to interface with such devices. Ideally go with models having MHL HDMI ports to also charge streaming sticks/mobile devices directly when connected.
If you wish to play audio through built-in speakers, then also check the speaker wattage. Projectors often have tinny speakers so a soundbar may still be required for decent audio. Some models also include Bluetooth to sync external speakers wirelessly.
Or if relying on existing outdoor speakers, having an audio output jack allows connecting those. Newer projectors also feature Bluetooth transmitters to pair wireless headphones for personal listening.
Smart Features
Modern outdoor projectors are also getting integrated smart platforms for all-in-one streaming functionality akin to Roku/Fire TV devices.
Having apps like Netflix, Prime Video or ESPN pre-loaded allows accessing entertainment directly through the projector UI rather than hooking up a separate device.
Some projectors utilize proprietary smart systems while others run popular third-party ones like Android TV or webOS. Each has their own app ecosystem strengths like how Android TV leads in pure numbers while webOS focuses more on polish and layout.
Think about your particular streaming needs and preferred interface experience. Also consider smart speakers/display protocols like Chromecast, Apple AirPlay, Miracast if you want to wirelessly mirror phone or laptop screens.
Placement and Installation
A bit part of the outdoor viewing experience that‘s often overlooked is how you set up and position the projector itself.
It‘s not simply about placing it on a flat surface and pointing towards a wall anymore. Backyards introduce ground unevenness, ambient light issues and placement constraints you have to work around.
So features like vertical/horizontal lens shift, different throw distances, keystone adjustment and zoom functionality become vital. They provide the physical flexibility to angle/aim the projection as needed regardless of projector position.
Especially for dedicated backyard setups, consider a ceiling/eave mount so projector can be out of the way yet angled downwards accurately.
Also factor where to place audio equipment and run power/HDMI cabling cleanly. Utilize long cables, wire covers and outdoor power solutions. For makeshift portable setups, battery-powered projectors combined with wireless connectivity prove useful.
Get the Backyard Entertaining Started!
Outdoor projectors enable stunning cinematic experiences right in your own backyard that large TVs simply can‘t match. After dark, seeing your favorite movies, shows and games projected at scale transports you right into the content for true immersion.
I hope my rundown of the finest outdoor projector options today has helped identify the right pick for your needs. Each highlighted model excels in particular aspects like best-in-class picture quality, maximum convenience, daylight viewing or smart integration.
Now with summer fast approaching, get ready to setup an alfresco home theater everyone will envy! Just don‘t forget the popcorn.
