In this modern era, who would love to watch movies, TV series, or presentations on a small screen? Probably no one. TV serves as a popular option for the big-screen experience, but they come with a hefty price, especially when you go above the 50inch screen size.
Projector serves as a great option that offers all the attributes of a large screen TV but at an affordable price point. So if you want to get an outstanding image without shelling out an exorbitant amount of money, then you can check out our catalog of the best projector for under 400 dollars.
Before you dive into the reviews, let’s take a closer look at the comparison table that we have devised for you. It may not give you proper knowledge about each projector, but it will help you to target your choices based on your preferences.
Table of Contents
Best Projectors under $400: Our Top Picks
| IMAGE | NAME | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ViewSonic PA503W |
| |
 | AAXA P7 |
| |
 | Anker Nebula Apollo |
| |
 | Cinemood |
| |
 | Optoma S334E |
| |
 | Wowoto H9 |
| |
 | Optoma W335 |
| |
 | Gzunelic G8W |
| |
The 8 Best Projectors under $400 of 2024
1. ViewSonic PA503W WXGA High Brightness Projector
ViewSonic PA503W is simply a top-rated multipurpose projector under $400 that will not only impress you with cinematic visuals but also fine data images. Based on a WXGA native resolution, this device will not only let you enjoy the HD movies at their finest quality but will also facilitate you playing full HD contents.
As it has to maintain optimum brightness and clarity in both home and office, ViewSonic has coupled it with 3600 ANSI lumens along with a 22000:1 contrast ratio. The SuperColor technology takes the image quality to a new height as it assists the projector in achieving a wide color range and producing a stunningly beautiful image quality, especially for movies. You expect to have the sharpest image even when you go for a large screen size, and it has been made possible by 40-degree keystone correction with zoom and focus ring.
The 30-300inch image size range with a 1.5mm throw ratio is really impressive, and these features give the projector complete flexibility for usage in both home and office. The availability of HDMI, RS232, VGA, composite RCA video, mini USB, and audio 3.5mm also adds to the flexibility and dynamicity as you can connect varied types of devices. Importantly, it has a powerful lamp that offers 15000hour of a complete run, so you won’t have to think about lamp replacement any time soon.
What We Liked:
- Entirely value for money.
- It delivers bright visuals with rich colors.
- Almost negligible motion blur in fast-action scenes.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The fan noise is quite annoying.
2. AAXA P7 Mini Portable Full HD Projector
Are you looking for a projector that offers excellent image quality along with excellent portability? We present to you AAXA P7, which is an underrated gem in this segment. Thanks to the MTF lens and DLP engine, this photo will blow your mind with detailing and clarity whether you use it for a movie or presentation.
It might look tiny, but it employs 600 LED lumens and a 2000:1 contrast ratio, making it an all-around performer for all types of light conditions. However, the full HD native resolution is the star of the show, and you will hardly find any device in the best projector under the 400 dollar category offering such quality.
The factor that will astonish you is its capability to enhance the screen size up to 120inches and that too from a few feet away. Designed for complete portability, the tiny form factor facilitates you to carry it almost everywhere without needing any extra carrying case. Plus, it comes packed with a 38-watt lithium-ion battery that can let you watch movies or provide presentations for 90minutes.
Once you get this, the 30000+ hours of lamp longevity will spare you from lamp replacement for a minimum of 15years. Featuring Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI, mini VGA, TF card, USB, AV, you can utilize this device to connect all modern devices for playing content.
What We Liked:
- The full HD playback is really impressive.
- A lot of connection options.
- Affordable price point.
- Great portable design.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The battery life could have been better.
3. Anker Nebula Apollo Wi-Fi Mini Projector
When you think about getting your hands on a premium projector at budget ranges, one name that often pops out is Anker nebula apollo. It is one of a kind device built with fine touch controls on a transparent panel so that you can easily navigate and operate this device.
Loaded with Android 7.1, you can explore the world of OTT platforms and explore various content from Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, etc., on a big screen. Importantly it has the prowess to expand the screen size from 40inches to 100inches from a distance of 3.08m so that you will have a large screen view.
The exciting part is this projector is extremely compact and comes in the shape of a small rectangular box that fits easily in every space. The feature that makes it more portable is the 9750mAh battery that offers a playback time of 4hours without needing any external power source. The 854 X 480 native resolution and 200 ANSI lumens do a decent job and deliver a sharp image quality while you are enjoying a movie on the big screen.
This projection device also packs a 0.2 FWVGA DLP display technology that engulfs all the images with rich color and proper black depth. It might look small, but it hosts all top-notch connection facilities that include HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, audio 3.5mm, and screen mirroring.
What We Liked:
- Terrific lamp longevity and battery.
- Seamless wireless connection.
- Sharp image quality.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The touchpad is highly sensitive.
- The audio fumbles at high levels.
4. Cinemood Portable Movie Theater Projector
Cinemood is an award-winning portable movie theater projector that has been featured on BuzzFeed, Vogue, Forbes, Parents, and many more. It is a 3inch portable device with 0.5lbs weight, which makes it easier for you to carry and set up anywhere you want. It promises a great visual experience with its high-resolution display and soft 35 ANSI lumens and makes it also suitable for kids.
The brightness might seem low, but surprisingly the visual doesn’t fade even when you notch up the screen size up to 150inches. To give you the true feeling of cinematic output, this projector uses a 16:10 aspect ratio that brings out a cinematic feel in all the visuals.
With access to Amazon Prime, YouTube, Netflix, AmebaTV, and many more from the menu, this one of the best projectors under 400 dollars opens up a new horizon for you. It also comes with a 32GB inbuilt memory, thus allowing you to download content from any OTT platform and watch it anywhere.
The best part is that it comes with ad-free 40 Disney e-books and 25 short videos, 75 episodes of cartoons, etc., so that your kids can also spend time with this device. It comes with intuitive control, which is so easy to operate that your kid can also use the projector in your absence.
What We Liked:
- Easy to operate.
- It is loaded with contents.
- Decent power backup.
- Impressive portable design.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The image size range isn’t great.
5. Optoma S334E SVGA DLP Business Projector
Optoma S334E can be a great addition to your conference room if you are planning to replace your old business projector with a new one. Brightness is a primary requirement for any business projector, and that is why it features a high 3800 lumens that can ensure clear visuals in well-lit rooms.
S334E projects sharp, clear, and vibrant texts and graphics for all your presentations, and the credit goes to the 800X600 native resolution along with a 22,000:1 contrast ratio. Always expect clear visuals whenever you are showing any presentation to your client because it comes with vertical keystone correction and 1.1x zoom.
Like every efficient, Optoma S334E also gets a widescreen size of 27.7-304.4inch but to get the optimum visual quality; it is recommended to keep the screen size below 150inch. The 1.94:1 throw ratio might be a deal-breaker for you, and it would be suitable for a presentation room with a large space.
Featuring an array of connection options like HDMI, VGA, composite, USB, and audio 3.5mm, you won’t ever feel any shortage while connecting any external device. While giving a presentation, the 10-watt speaker would be quite sufficient for proper audio output, but still, it would be best to use an external speaker for high volume.
What We Liked:
- The graphics and texts are clear and vivid.
- Brilliant compact design.
- Huge lamp life.
- It offers all the standard connectivities.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The resolution is slightly low.
6. Wowoto H9 HD DLP Mini Video Projector
Wowoto H9 may not seem like a popular name in this segment, but it has amazed everyone with the performance and functionalities it has on offer. It is based on DLP projection and 800 native resolutions, and together they create magic on the big screen. To maintain the brilliant image, H9 also gets help from 4000 lumens and 2000:1 contrast, whose main job is to maintain optimum clarity and lucidity in the frames.
If you yearn to watch 3D movies on a big screen, then this device will fulfill your dream with its full 3D compatibility. Playing content has been made easier by AirPlay, Ushare, Wi-Fi, and Miracast as you can seamlessly play the contents from any source you like.
Besides wireless connectivity, H9 also offers HDMI, USB, AV, RJ45, audio, and AV wired connection options. It offers incredible durability, and the 45000hour of lamp life serves as significant proof. Plus, it is designed on a small size body that weighs only 0.5kg making it easy to carry and set up without any inconvenience.
Another thing that everyone loves about this device is its super broad 20-300inches projection size range that allows you to host large movie screenings at home. With 40-degree keystone correction and manual focus, you won’t ever face any image distortion while setting up the projector for movie sessions.
What We Liked:
- Great visual experience.
- It offers multiple connections.
- Numerous image size options.
- It can support FAT32 and NTFS formats.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The Android OS is quite old.
7. Optoma W335 WXGA DLP Business and Classroom Projector
Optoma W335 is a simple yet fully loaded business projector that utilizes WXGA native resolution to deliver a presentation with top-quality visuals. Fine data images and lucid texts are a big priority for every presentation, and this is the reason it gets 3800 lumens along with a 22,000:1 contrast ratio.
To give complete flexibility in the setup, it gives you the option to expand the screen size from 30 to 300inches and that too by utilizing a throw ratio of 1.55:1. If you want to provide a presentation in a small room, then you can use the 10-watt inbuilt speaker that can produce a reasonable volume.
Geared with a heavy-duty lamp, you can run this projector for a minimum of 15000hours which amounts to 10years with 4hours of usage. Moreover, it comes with a 90-day lamp warranty and 1-year parts warranty, so you won’t have to think about any repairing cost for a year.
It would be embarrassing to project an uneven image in front of your clients during a presentation, so to save you from that, Optom has given a 40-degree keystone correction with zoom. Connection facilities play an essential role in every projector, and this device is no different, which is why it packs HDMI, USB, audio, RS232, VGA, and composite.
What We Liked:
- Terrific data images.
- Extremely easy to carry to different locations.
- Flexible and easy installation.
- The color quality is up to the mark.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The throw ratio is slightly high.
8. Gzunelic G8W Full HD LED Smart Projector
Gzunelic G8W is not your average projector with a cheap price tag; instead, it can be introduced as one of the best projectors under 400 dollars that can outplay many. Offering an image size range up to 100inch, you can easily place this device in your home and enjoy movies with your family.
The large screen size is supported by dual 5-watt stereo speakers with SRS sound, so you can expect a complete visual experience. However, the main showstopper is the full HD native resolution and MStar motherboard chip that allows the device to showcase cinematic visuals with accurate color reproduction.
While watching a movie or TV show, you won’t have to shut off all the lights completely, and the credit goes to 7000 lumens that can tackle ambient light. The 10000:1 contrast ratio, on the other hand, takes care of the clarity and ensures a spectacular image performance. It is based on Android 6.0, meaning you can operate the projector through your mobile and cast your favorite OTT content on the big screen.
Unlike other devices in this segment, it features a 4K keystone correction that allows you to fix images from four sides. This organization is known for after services, and they offer 3-years free repairing with 6-months full refund and one-year free replacement coverage.
What We Liked:
- Quick and straightforward image correction.
- Excellent image reproduction with great colors.
- Commendable warranty coverages.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Poor audio output.
When you are getting a projector for under $400, you shouldn’t get swayed by the sweet pricing, and you should also emphasize the other features it has on offer. So here we have created a detailed buying guide along with other features you should look into;
Buying Guide For 400 Dollar Projector
To get the most excellent projector for under 400 dollars, you need to keep certain factors in mind before making the final purchase. Here we have listed those factors that you should consider;
Purpose
The primary thing you need to decide when choosing a projector is the purpose of the device. If entertainment is the main priority, then you should avoid any business projector, and you should also decide where you will use it. However, if your priority is the presentation in the office or classroom, then you should choose a projector that offers sharp text and high-quality data images.
Type of Projection
Once you have decided the purpose, you need to select the type of projection that will suit your purpose. LCD and DLP projection are the main two options you will mostly come across under $400. LCDs are great as they offer remarkable brightness and black depth in all the images. Moreover, they are more affordable than DLP, but they face a lot of motion blur for fast-action scenes. On the other hand, DLP is known for its razor-sharp clarity in images and fast motion frames that create a great visual experience. The color quality is really great, and you will love watching 3D movies through DLP. Like every other projection, it also faces rainbow effects, and the depth of dark scenes is inadequate.
Lumens
People have the misconception that getting a high lumens projector will ensure top-notch image quality, but it is totally wrong. High brightness often leads to blown-out image quality. You need to choose the brightness based on your location as well as the purpose. For movie watching in your home, you would need a maximum of 2000 ANSI lumens for vivid image quality with accurate clarity. However, for the same in the outdoor locations, you would need more than 3000 ANSI lumens as you will face a lot of ambient lighting. If you are going for a business or classroom projector, then we would suggest you go for 3500 ANSI and above as you would hardly have a dark room.
Resolution
Well, when you are getting a projector under $400, the maximum native resolution you will get full HD but only in a few projectors. HD and 800p native resolution is the most common resolution you will come across in this price range. However, almost every projector in this range offers full HD support, so you won’t have a problem watching your favorite movie in high resolution.
Screen-Size And Throw-Ratio
Whether you are going for a projector for outdoor movie sessions or presentations, you need to have a screen size of 30-300 or 400inches. However, if the projector is intended for indoor usage, then a maximum of 150inches screen size would also do the job. On the other hand, you will have to decide the throw ratio based on space availability in the setup location. For a small apartment or meeting room, it would be smart to go for an ultra-short or short throw projector as they can achieve 100ft from 4-7ft away. However, for outdoor locations, you can go for a standard projector until and unless you have some real space issue.
Bulb Life
Durability is a vital factor for every projector, and the bulb life is one of those components that decide durability. Most projectors under $400 don’t get a mammoth lamp life, and the maximum you will get is 20,000hours.
Connectivity
In today’s time, you need to have the availability of all modern connectivity options to hook all the latest video devices HDMI, VGA, AV, D-Sub, RCA, audio 3.5mm, USB, etc. are the standard option you will get in most of the projectors. However, it would be great if you can get a projector having Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection as it will facilitate wireless connectivity.
Why should you buy a 400 dollar projector?
The 400 dollar range serves as a sweet spot when it comes to buying a projector, especially when you are getting it for the first time. This price range gives you the option to experience high-quality visuals at an affordable rate. Not everyone has the liberty to splurge a huge amount of money on projectors for entertainment or business presentation, so this price range serves as a good base.
Another great thing about projectors in this range is that they give you all the necessary features so that you can have an outstanding visual experience without compromising on anything. If you don’t have the budget to afford a large-screen smart TV, then a projector under 400 dollars would serve as a good alternative. You will have the option of playing all contents from the OTT platform on a large screen but without spending thousands of dollars.
Since most of the devices get long lamp hours so they will last for at least 5years even if you use them for eight hours on a daily basis. However, you won’t get the same if you invest in a TV under the 400 dollar price mark as they get poor build quality as well as low-quality hardware.
You will be surprised by the fact that some of the projectors even get portability features where they facilitate you to take it almost anywhere. An ample amount of connectivity is another added advantage, and the type of ports you will find in this range is nearly similar to that of projectors around $1000.
Final Verdict
We know finding the best projector for under 400 dollars is not an easy task, but we are confident that this article will make things easier for you. In this article, we have forwarded all the required information and reviews so that it is convenient for you to target the right model. In our reviews, we have highlighted all pros and cons to make sure you are well aware of the device that you are buying.
Even though all these projectors are priced under $400, most of them come with different specifications and purposes. You should follow our buying guide closely before making the final purchase, as a wrong choice will jeopardize the entire investment. So what are you waiting for? Immediately grab the ideal to transform your room into a mini-movie theater.
My name is Henry Larson and I have been associated with research and development of projectors throughout my professional career. I used all my experience and expertise to create this blog so that I can guide people to get the best projector of their choice. For any further assistance, you can get in touch with me through email or comments.