9 Best Budget-Friendly Projectors Under $200 In 2024 [with Buying Guide]

Do you want to set up a movie theater in your home?

A projector may help! You can conveniently convert your living room into a movie theatre.

Now without any further ado let’s jump in because it is the perfect time to take your movie-watching experience to next level with a huge screen.

Note that at this price point of $200, you won’t find a projector from popular brands like Epson, BenQ, or Optoma. Instead, you have to settle down to mid-range projectors from brands like Vamvo, GooDee, ViewSonic and Kodak, etc.

But don’t worry, in this article, we are ensuring that you will not end up with any Chinese-special deal. We have rounded up a list of best projectors under $200 by researching the brand reputation and reading thousands of reviews on Amazon.

The following 9 best projectors have the best all-around functionalities and viewer satisfaction. Some features in the other’s may be better. But all said and done, these are the ones that will give you the biggest bang for the buck!

List of Best Projector under 200

1. GooDee 2022 Upgrade – Editor’s Choice
2. Fangor 506 – Wi-Fi Projector
3. Vamvo L4200 – Budget-friendly
4. Vamvo L6200 – Best Overall
5. Kodak Luma 150 – Best Portable
6. ViewSonic M1
7. Yaber Y21
8. TOPVISION Mini – Long Throw Distance
9. CiBest W13

Now without any further ado, let us dive in and discuss the best projector under 200 dollars,

1. GooDee 2022 Upgrade

GooDee is a popular brand that offers vivid image quality. It claims to deliver 80% more brightness than its rivals.

It supports a 1080p HD projection. It is recommended to set a 98-inch screen at a distance of 10-feet for an excellent viewing experience.

This projector is the best fit for outdoor movie nights, home entertainment, and gaming. One can use this projector in the office for presentations and meetings.

With GooDee projector mirroring smartphone, tablet, laptop, and TV screen are a breeze.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 6000 Lumens
2. Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
3. Native Resolution: 1280×760 pixels
4. Supported Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
5. Throw Distance: 4.9 to 18 feet
6. Screen Size: 44 to 230 inches
7. Keystone: ±15 degree
8. Lamp Lifespan: 50,000 hours

This projector comes with two HDMI ports! Connecting a TV Box, Streaming Stick, Game Consoles (X-Box One, PS3, PS4), and DVD device is very easy. Compatible with external storage devices such as Flash Drive, SD Card, Hard Disk, Mobile U Disk, etc.

It equips advanced cooling fan technology to reduce noise and avoid overheating.

Two built-in 3W speakers make this projector dominant over others on this list. The SRS sound system offers a crystal-clear listening experience. We experienced that the in-built speakers are good enough that it doesn’t require an external speaker while being at the backyard or campsite.

2. Fangor 506 Wi-Fi

The Fangor 506 is an attractively priced perfect projector for home entertainment. It is a popular budget-friendly projector that supports 4K resolution movies.

Connect your phone to this projector using WiFi and sound systems using Bluetooth.

The Fagnor 506 produces high-quality pictures that are incredibly sharp on account of its high resolution of 1920x1080p along with excellent brightness and a high contrast ratio of 10000:1.

This projector is the best fit for home entertainment and outdoor movie nights. Although it is small in size, it is not very easy to carry around. It is heavy on account of an efficient cooling system included.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 8500 Lumens
2. Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
3. Supported Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
4. Throw Distance: 3 to 16 feet
5. Screen Size: 40 to 230 inches
6. Keystone: ±15 degree
7. Lamp Lifespan: 65,000 hours

One can connect almost everything to this projector! You can enjoy content from TV Box, TV Stick, PCs, Laptops, Tablets, Chrome Book, Blue-ray DVD players, USB Flash Drives, Media players, iPad, iPhone, and Android Smartphones. It equips three HDMI ports, dual USB ports along with a VGA, AV, micro SD card slot, and 3.5mm audio jack.

The dual-fan cooling technology prevents it from overheating and brings an additional length of life to it. It operates with very low noise.

The built-in 5W speakers with surround sound systems deliver loud and clear sound to give you an immersive experience.

3. VAMVO L4200

The Vamvo is one of the popular brands that manufacture excellent quality budget-friendly projectors.

L4200 comes with a unique design. It is easy to transport. 

This projector is designed for home entertainment and outdoor movie nights. We suggest you use this projector in dark rooms. It is not recommended for presentations and gaming.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 3800 Lumens.
2. Contrast: 2000:1
3. Screen Size: 49 to 200 inches
4. Native Resolution: 1280×720 pixels
5. Supported Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
6. Throw Distance: 5 to 15 feet
7. Lamp Lifespan: 50,000 hours

Vamvo L4200 equips multiple ports, including an HDMI, dual USB, and AV interfaces. Connecting this projector with your phone is a breeze. It comes with an audio jack for connecting to your earphones and headphones.

Built-in dual stereo speakers produce excellent quality audio. It is a good choice for parties, football nights, and movies with friends.

4. Vamvo L6200

This is another great projector by Vamvo. L6200 is the upgraded version of L4200 with a slight difference in pricing. However, they both are affordable to everyone.

1. L4200 – $99
2. L6200 – $120

In contrast to L4200, the Vamvo L6200 offers a brightness of 5000 Lumens and an insane contrast ratio of 8000:1 that produces vibrant images. With the native resolution of 1080p, the overall picture quality offered by L6200 is far better than L4200.

It can be used for home entertainment, office presentations, and gaming.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 5000 Lumens.
2. Contrast: 8000:1
3. Screen Size: 45 to 300 inches
4. Native Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
5. Throw Distance: 12 to 30 feet
6. Keystone: ±15 degree
7. Lamp Lifespan: 50,000 hours

Connecting this projector to your phone, laptop, TV, Blu-ray player and gaming console is a breeze. Vamvo L6200 comes with dual HDMI and USB ports and a few more handful of connectivity ports like a VGA, AV, micro SD card, 3.5mm audio jack, etc.

The Vamvo claims to incorporate the latest cooling system in the L6200 model that ensures long lamp life and low noise.

Built-in speakers are loud enough to watch movies in the backyard.

5. Kodak Luma 150

Kodak Luma 150 is our top pick for a highly portable projector on this list. It is an extremely portable device that weighs only 150gm.

This ultra-mini projector has an attractive design. It can easily fit into your backpack. Moreover, the in-built rechargeable battery ensures that you will enjoy movies for up to 2.5 hours on a single charge.

It is recommended to use this projector in dark rooms because it has a very low brightness of 150 lumens and a contrast ratio of 1000:1.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 150 Lumens
2. Contrast: 1000:1
3. Resolution: 854×480 pixels
4. Screen size: 30 to 150 inches
5. Lamp Lifespan: 30,000 hours

It comes with an HDMI, USB, and micro SD card slot. The images on the phone are mirrored to the larger screen with the assistance of Airplay, Miracast, and DLNA with no extra cords or attachments.

Built-in speakers are moderately loud but we should not expect too much from this miniature projector.

Luma 75 (click here to check) is one more impressive miniature projector offered by the brand Kodak. It costs slightly less than that of Luma 150.

6. ViewSonic M1

Are you looking for an ultra-portable pocket projector? If yes, then this projector is for you.

ViewSonic M1 Mini is a palm-top projector measuring 4×4 inches. It is a nice-looking miniature projector on this list. This ultra-mini projector is offering a changeable top panel that comes in 3 colors to suit your choice of color preference. The integrated stand makes for an easy and fast set-up and doubles up as cover.

It is the best fit for on-the-go entertainment. The in-built battery can be used with an external power bank. It has a battery backup of 1.5 hours.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 120 Lumens
2. Resolution: 640×480 pixels
3. Screen size: 40 to 80 inches
4. Lamp Lifespan: 30,000 hours

It comes with an HDMI, micro USB, and USB Type-A ports. Note that there are not many connectivity options available with this projector due to its compact design.

It is shipped with a very small remote. Just make sure to carry it with utmost attention while traveling as it can be easily lost.

The JBL speakers deliver high-quality sound. It can be viewed in any room or taken along on holidays or for camps.

7. YABER Y21

YABER Y21 offers the highest brightness (9,000 Lumens) compared to its rivals at this price range of $200.

The stunning brightness of 9000 lumens offers the best performance in dark rooms at a distance of 10 feet from the screen. You can project movies on a massive screen of 300-inches.

It produces true colors with a contrast ratio of 8000:1. The native resolution of 1080p ensures color accuracy and excellent sharpness.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 9000 Lumens.
2. Contrast: 8000:1
3. Screen Size: 45 to 300 inches
4. Native Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
5. Throw Distance: 5.4 to 30 feet
6. Keystone: ±15 degree
7. Lamp Lifespan: 50,000 hours

This projector is offering dual HDMI and USB ports along with VGA, AV, micro SD card slot, and 3.5mm audio jack. You can easily connect it to numerous entertainment systems such as tv boxes, amazon fire stick tv, Chromecast, pc, laptop, tablets, external speakers, PlayStation, Xbox, DVD player, USB stick, media players, iPad, iPhone, Android smartphone, etc.

It equips 3W stereo speakers which produce clear sound both indoor and outdoor.

The YABER Y21 is whisper-quiet with its Double-sided Cooling system. It uses the latest advanced fan cooling technology which helps in heat dissipation and extending lamp lifespan.

8. TOPVISION Portable Mini with 100″ Projector Screen

The TOPVISION Mini projector has the longest throw distance on this list.

It offers excellent image quality.

This projector is the best fit for Home entertainment and Outdoor Parties (campsite and backyard).

Specifications

1. Brightness: 5500 Lumens
2. Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
3. Resolution: 1280×720 pixels
4. Throw Distance: 6.8 to 22 feet
5. Screen Size: 72 to 240 inches
6. Keystone: ±15 degree
7. Lamp Lifespan: 60,000 hours

Topvision includes two HDMI ports, two USB ports, VGA, AV, TF, and Audio output (headphone jack).

You can easily connect this projector to a TV Stick, Apple TV, and Roku via an HDMI port to enjoy movies, videos, photos, and TV shows. It is compatible with TV Box, Chromebook, PC, Laptop, Tablet, Blue-ray and DVD player, SD Card, USB Flash Drive, etc.

This projector equips two 3W speakers. It uses dual-fan cooling technology to avoid overheating and operate with less noise.

9. CiBest W13

CiBest W13 mini projector packs a big punch of features at an incredible price of just $76.43.

With a brightness of 7500 lumens and a contrast ratio of 2000:1, it produces decent-quality images in dark rooms. For best picture quality place CiBest W13 at the distance of 8 feet and project onto a screen of 80-inches.

This pocket-friendly pick is the best fit for home entertainment. We do not recommend it for presentations and gaming.

Specifications

1. Brightness: 7500 Lumens
2. Contrast Ratio: 2000:1
3. Native Resolution: 1280×720 pixels
4. Supported Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
5. Throw Distance: 3 to 15 feet
6. Screen Size: 30 to 300 inches
7. Keystone: ±15 degree
8. Lamp Lifespan: 50,000 hours

It comes with an HDMI, USB, micro SD card slot, AV, VGA, and 3.5mm audio jack that lets you connect this projector to any device you wish. Connect it with PC, laptops, tablets, and Blue-ray DVD players, etc.

The latest fan cooling technology cuts the noise by half and ensures the long life of the projector bulb.

Though it is a mini projector, the in-built speakers are surprisingly good. They are enough for mid-sized rooms.

Things to consider while buying a Projector

There are a number of specifications associated with a projector. Understanding all of them will create confusion and cause choice paralysis to non-techy readers.

So, I will suggest everyone think of a couple of features depending upon your purpose of use i.e home entertainment, backyard, campsite, office, gaming, etc.

Let we discuss crucial specifications briefly,

#1 – Types of Projector

There are two types of display projection technologies,

1. DLP (Digital Light Processor)
2. LCD

There is not much difference between them. Both produce high-quality and sharp images.

The DLP Projectors are lightweight and compact. They offer high contrast. On the other hand, LCD Projectors are energy efficient and produce brighter images.

#2 – Brightness – is the key

The brightness value depends on the surrounding environment and available lightning conditions.

The brightness value is of utmost importance while selecting a projector. It is measured in Lumens.

Usually, the higher the lumen count, means better the viewing experience.

But it depends,

The 1000 Lumens is good to go in a dark room. But when you are in a brighter place (ambient light), then it will require 3000 Lumens and above.

#3 – Contrast Ratio

The contrast ratio is the difference between the darkest and lightest areas of an image. It defines the clarity of an image.

Projectors with high Contrast Ratio have excellent image quality.

At a minimum, the projectors should have a contrast ratio of 1000:1. Under this $200 category, you will find projectors with a contrast ratio of 3000:1.

#4 – Resolution – is the game-changer

For enjoying an HD viewing experience, you must choose a projector with the highest resolution.

The resolutions can be 480p, 720p, 1080p HD and 4K UHD.

At this price range, a home theater projector boasts 1080p HD resolution (1920×1080).

All of the projectors on this list have at least a 720p (1280×720) resolution.

#5 – Throw Distance

It can be defined as the distance between your projector and screen.

Throw distance depends upon the size of the projector. Giant projectors generally have a longer throw distance.

Under $200, you will get the throw distance up to 22 feet.

#6 – Keystone

Nearly all of the projectors on this list offer keystone correction.

It is the way of adjusting the shape of the projected image.

No matter where you set up your projector, adjusting the projection distance and angle is inevitable. The keystone correction can help a lot in this matter.

It lets you adjust the projection angle to bring the image in a perfect rectangular shape.

#7 – Lamp Lifespan

The Lamp Lifespan is a very crucial feature.

The lamp is the most expensive part of a projector. Replacing the projector bulb may cost you hundreds of dollars.

Try to be very careful with your projector lamp and choose a projector with a lamp lifespan of at least 40,000 hours.

#8 – Connectivity

Projectors offer a wide range of connectivity. Few of the recently launched projectors are Wi-Fi enabled.

HDMI is the most preferred wired connectivity option because it allows the best picture and sound quality.

Other connectivity options include SD Card, USB, RCA, VGA & Bluetooth, etc.

#9 – Compatibility

Projectors in 2022 are expected to be compatible with a variety of electronic entertainment devices.

Because we may wish to connect our projector to PC, Mac, Smartphone, TV Box, Blu-ray player, X-box, PS3, PS4 and more.

So before buying a projector, make sure that your chosen projector is compatible with your desired entertainment device.

#10 – Portability – for those on the move

A projector should be compact and lightweight for transporting from one place to another.

Especially business people and travelers tend to demand an extremely portable projector.

Few of the projectors on this list (like Apeman NM4) can easily fit into your backpack.

Final Words

The Vamvo L6200 is our top pick on this list because it offers a good mix of excellent features. Also, we suggest it as the best home entertainment projector.

For office use, we suggest you go with, Fangor 506 WiFi Projector.

Let’s wrap up,

If you feel like I am missing any fantastic projector under $200, comment below. I will look forward to adding them to this list.