With the rise of outdoor movie nights and other outdoor entertainment, owning a quality home projector has become increasingly important. Whether you’re hosting a backyard movie night or a sports viewing party, a good projector can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best outdoor home projectors you can buy.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a projector, and provide a detailed overview of each of the top 10 options, including their features and specifications. So, whether you’re a movie buff or a sports enthusiast, read on to find the perfect outdoor home projector for your needs.
The popularity of outdoor movie nights and the importance of having a quality projector
In recent years, outdoor movie nights have become an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Whether it’s a backyard movie night with friends and family or a community event, watching a movie under the stars is a unique and enjoyable experience. However, to make the most of this experience, having a quality home projector is essential.
The brightness and clarity of the projector can greatly impact the overall viewing experience, and can mean the difference between a mediocre and a memorable outdoor movie night. Additionally, with the growing popularity of outdoor entertainment, investing in a quality projector can provide a great opportunity for hosting future events and gatherings.
Top 10 Best Outdoor Projector with Built in Speakers
1. Epson Home Cinema 4010
Top-rated outdoor home projectors for movies
The Epson Home Cinema 4010 is a high-end projector designed for home theater use, including outdoor use. It features advanced 3-chip technology and HDR support for superior color accuracy and brightness. The projector also has built-in speakers and supports 3D content.
Pros:
- Superior color accuracy and brightness thanks to 3-chip technology and HDR support
- High contrast ratio for deeper blacks and brighter whites
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
- 3D support adds an extra dimension to the viewing experience
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other projectors on the market
- Large and heavy, making it less portable than other options
- Requires a dedicated power source
Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Brightness: 2400 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 200,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 5,000 hours in Eco mode
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.7 x 7.6 inches
- Weight: 24.3 pounds
Features:
- 3-chip technology for superior color accuracy and brightness
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
- 3D support for an extra dimension to the viewing experience
- Dynamic contrast control for improved image quality
- Outdoor projectors with advanced connectivity options
- Lens shift and zoom capabilities for easy setup and customization
Price range: The Epson Home Cinema 4010 is a high-end projector with a price range of around $1,999 to $2,399.
User reviews and ratings: The Epson Home Cinema 4010 has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its excellent image quality and brightness, as well as its 3D capabilities. Some users note that the projector is on the expensive side and can be difficult to set up, but overall, it is considered a top-of-the-line option for home theater and outdoor use.
2. Optoma UHD60
Best portable outdoor projectors for camping
The Optoma UHD60 is a 4K Ultra HD projector designed for home theater use, including outdoor use. It features advanced color technology and HDR support for superior image quality. The projector also has a high contrast ratio and flexible installation options.
Pros:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution for stunning image quality
- High contrast ratio for deep blacks and bright whites
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.6x zoom
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
Cons:
- Limited brightness at 3000 lumens, may not be as ideal for bright outdoor settings
- Lamp life is shorter than some other projectors on the market
- Fan noise can be noticeable during quiet scenes
Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Brightness: 3000 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 4,000 hours in Eco mode
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Dimensions: 19.6 x 13 x 6 inches
- Weight: 16 pounds
Features:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution for stunning image quality
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.6x zoom
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
- High contrast ratio for deep blacks and bright whites
- Gaming mode for reduced input lag
- Quiet outdoor home projectors for noise-sensitive areas
Price range: The Optoma UHD60 is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $1,699 to $1,999.
User reviews and ratings: The Optoma UHD60 has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its stunning image quality and flexible installation options. Some users note that the projector may not be bright enough for bright outdoor settings, and the lamp life is shorter than some other projectors on the market. However, overall it is considered a high-quality option for home theater and outdoor use.
3. ViewSonic PX747-4K
Affordable outdoor movie projectors for home
The ViewSonic PX747-4K is a 4K Ultra HD projector designed for home theater use, including outdoor use. It features advanced color technology and HDR support for superior image quality. The projector also has a high contrast ratio and flexible installation options.
Pros:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution for stunning image quality
- High brightness at 3500 lumens for use in bright outdoor settings
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.2x zoom
- Long lamp life of up to 15,000 hours in Eco mode
Cons:
- May not have the same level of color accuracy as higher-end projectors on the market
- Fan noise can be noticeable during quiet scenes
Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Brightness: 3500 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 12,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 15,000 hours in Eco mode
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Dimensions: 13.1 x 10.3 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 9.26 pounds
Features:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution for stunning image quality
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.2x zoom
- Long lamp life of up to 15,000 hours in Eco mode
- High brightness at 3500 lumens for use in bright outdoor settings
- Dual HDMI ports for easy connectivity
- Durable outdoor projectors for long-term use
Price range: The ViewSonic PX747-4K is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $899 to $1,099.
User reviews and ratings: The ViewSonic PX747-4K has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its excellent image quality and high brightness, making it suitable for use in outdoor settings. Some users note that the color accuracy may not be as high as more expensive projectors, but overall it is considered a great value for the price.
4. BenQ HT2150ST
Best outdoor projectors for backyard entertainment
The BenQ HT2150ST is a short-throw projector designed for home theater use, including outdoor use. It features Full HD resolution and low input lag for a high-quality gaming experience. The projector also has a high contrast ratio and flexible installation options.
Pros:
- Short-throw lens for larger screen sizes in smaller spaces
- Full HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Low input lag for a smooth gaming experience
- High contrast ratio for deep blacks and bright whites
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.2x zoom
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
Cons:
- May not have the same level of brightness as some other projectors on the market
- Fan noise can be noticeable during quiet scenes
Specifications:
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Brightness: 2200 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 15,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 7,000 hours in Eco mode
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet
- Dimensions: 15 x 10.9 x 4.8 inches
- Weight: 7.9 pounds
Features:
- Short-throw lens for larger screen sizes in smaller spaces
- Full HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Low input lag for a smooth gaming experience
- High contrast ratio for deep blacks and bright whites
- Flexible installation options with vertical lens shift and 1.2x zoom
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
- Full HD outdoor projectors for home cinema experience
Price range: The BenQ HT2150ST is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $799 to $899.
User reviews and ratings: The BenQ HT2150ST has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its short-throw lens, Full HD resolution, and low input lag, making it ideal for gaming and outdoor movie nights. Some users note that the brightness may not be as high as some other projectors on the market, but overall it is considered a high-quality option for home theater and outdoor use.
5. LG CineBeam PH550
Outdoor home theater projectors under $500
The LG CineBeam PH550 is a portable and compact projector designed for home entertainment, including outdoor use. It features HD resolution and wireless connectivity for easy setup and streaming. The projector also has a built-in battery for up to 2.5 hours of use on a single charge.
Pros:
- Portable and compact design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in battery for up to 2.5 hours of use on a single charge
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Dual HDMI ports for easy connectivity
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
Cons:
- May not have the same level of brightness as some other projectors on the market
- Limited keystone correction options
Specifications:
- Resolution: HD (1280 x 720)
- Brightness: 550 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 100,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 30,000 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Dimensions: 6.9 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches
- Weight: 1.43 pounds
Features:
- Portable and compact design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in battery for up to 2.5 hours of use on a single charge
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Dual HDMI ports for easy connectivity
- Brightest outdoor home projectors for daytime viewing
- Built-in speakers for easy setup
Price range: The LG CineBeam PH550 is a budget-friendly projector with a price range of around $399 to $499.
User reviews and ratings: The LG CineBeam PH550 has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its portability, built-in battery, and wireless connectivity, making it ideal for outdoor use. Some users note that the brightness may not be as high as some other projectors on the market, but overall it is considered a great value for the price.
6. Anker Nebula Capsule II
High-definition outdoor home projectors
The Anker Nebula Capsule II is a compact and portable projector designed for entertainment on-the-go, including outdoor use. It features HD resolution and built-in streaming services for easy setup and access to content. The projector also has a built-in battery for up to 3 hours of use on a single charge.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in streaming services for easy access to content
- Built-in battery for up to 3 hours of use on a single charge
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Auto-focus and keystone correction for easy setup
Cons:
- May not have the same level of brightness as some other projectors on the market
- Limited connectivity options
Specifications:
- Resolution: HD (1280 x 720)
- Brightness: 200 ANSI lumens
- Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 30,000 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Dimensions: 3.14 x 3.14 x 6.67 inches
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
Features:
- Compact and portable design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in streaming services for easy access to content
- Built-in battery for up to 3 hours of use on a single charge
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Energy-efficient outdoor projectors for eco-friendly use
- Auto-focus and keystone correction for easy setup
Price range: The Anker Nebula Capsule II is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $549 to $599.
User reviews and ratings: The Anker Nebula Capsule II has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its portability, built-in streaming services, and auto-focus and keystone correction features, making it easy to set up and use. Some users note that the brightness may not be as high as some other projectors on the market, but overall it is considered a great value for the price.
7. AAXA P300
Best outdoor projectors for gaming and sports
The AAXA P300 is a compact and portable projector designed for entertainment on-the-go, including outdoor use. It features HD resolution and built-in media player for easy setup and access to content. The projector also has a long-lasting LED lamp for up to 20,000 hours of use.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in media player for easy access to content
- Long-lasting LED lamp for up to 20,000 hours of use
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Keystone correction for easy setup
Cons:
- May not have the same level of brightness as some other projectors on the market
- Limited connectivity options
- Built-in speakers may not be as powerful as some users would like
Specifications:
- Resolution: HD (1280 x 720)
- Brightness: 300 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 2,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 20,000 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, VGA, Composite Video, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Dimensions: 5.9 x 3.8 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 0.97 pounds
Features:
- Compact and portable design for easy transportation and setup
- HD resolution for sharp and clear image quality
- Built-in media player for easy access to content
- Long-lasting LED lamp for up to 20,000 hours of use
- Wireless connectivity for easy streaming from smartphones and other devices
- Keystone correction for easy setup
- Outdoor projectors with built-in streaming capabilities
Price range: The AAXA P300 is a budget-friendly projector with a price range of around $359 to $399.
User reviews and ratings: The AAXA P300 has generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its portability, built-in media player, and long-lasting LED lamp, making it ideal for outdoor use. Some users note that the brightness may not be as high as some other projectors on the market, but overall it is considered a great value for the price. Some users have also mentioned that the built-in speakers may not be as powerful as they would like, but this can be easily remedied with external speakers.
8. Sony VPL-HW45ES
Wireless outdoor projectors for home use
The Sony VPL-HW45ES is a high-end home theater projector that offers exceptional image quality with a full HD 1080p resolution. It features advanced SXRD panel technology that produces bright and vivid colors, as well as high contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience. It also has a flexible installation design, making it ideal for outdoor movie nights.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- Advanced SXRD panel technology for bright and vivid colors
- High contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience
- Flexible installation design with a wide zoom and lens shift range
- Quiet operation for minimal distraction during viewing
- Long-lasting lamp life for up to 6,000 hours of use
Cons:
- Expensive compared to some other projectors on the market
- Does not have 4K resolution
- Limited connectivity options
Specifications:
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p
- Brightness: 1,800 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 120,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 6,000 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, RS-232C, IR, USB, LAN
- Dimensions: 18.3 x 7.8 x 16.2 inches
- Weight: 20.1 pounds
Features:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- Advanced SXRD panel technology for bright and vivid colors
- High contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience
- Flexible installation design with a wide zoom and lens shift range
- Quiet operation for minimal distraction during viewing
- Weather-resistant outdoor projectors for all seasons
- Long-lasting lamp life for up to 6,000 hours of use
Price range: The Sony VPL-HW45ES is a high-end projector with a price range of around $1,799 to $1,999.
User reviews and ratings: The Sony VPL-HW45ES has received positive reviews from users, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its exceptional image quality and color accuracy, as well as its flexible installation options. The projector is also noted for its quiet operation and long-lasting lamp life. Some users note that the limited connectivity options can be a drawback, but overall it is considered a top-of-the-line projector for home theaters and outdoor movie nights.
9. Epson Home Cinema 2150
Outdoor projector screen setup for homes
The Epson Home Cinema 2150 is a high-quality home projector that offers excellent image quality with a full HD 1080p resolution. It features 3LCD technology that produces bright and vivid colors, as well as high contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience. It also has a wireless connectivity option, making it easy to stream content from various devices.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- 3LCD technology for bright and vivid colors
- High contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience
- Wireless connectivity option for easy streaming
- Flexible installation design with vertical lens shift and 1.6x zoom
- Easy set-up with simple image adjustments
Cons:
- Not ideal for large outdoor spaces due to its brightness limitations
- Limited keystone correction options
- Fan noise may be noticeable during quiet scenes
Specifications:
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p
- Brightness: 2,500 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 60,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 7,500 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, wireless
- Dimensions: 12.2 x 11.2 x 4.8 inches
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
Features:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- 3LCD technology for bright and vivid colors
- High contrast ratios for a more immersive viewing experience
- Wireless connectivity option for easy streaming
- Outdoor projectors with smartphone control
- Flexible installation design with vertical lens shift and 1.6x zoom
- Easy set-up with simple image adjustments
Price range: The Epson Home Cinema 2150 is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $799 to $899.
User reviews and ratings: The Epson Home Cinema 2150 has received positive reviews from users, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its excellent image quality and ease of use, particularly with its wireless connectivity option. The projector is also noted for its flexible installation options and simple image adjustments. Some users note that the brightness may not be sufficient for large outdoor spaces, but overall it is considered a top performer in its price range.
10. Optoma HD146X
Ultra-short throw outdoor home projectors
The Optoma HD146X is a high-performance home projector that delivers full HD 1080p resolution. It features DLP technology that produces sharp and clear images with accurate colors. It also has a high contrast ratio for a more immersive viewing experience. The projector is designed for easy set-up and includes a variety of connectivity options.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- DLP technology for sharp and clear images
- High contrast ratio for a more immersive viewing experience
- Bright and vivid colors with accurate color reproduction
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Easy set-up with a variety of connectivity options
Cons:
- Limited vertical lens shift and no horizontal lens shift
- May produce fan noise during quiet scenes
- Limited keystone correction options
Specifications:
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p
- Brightness: 3,600 lumens
- Contrast ratio: 25,000:1
- Lamp life: up to 15,000 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI, USB, VGA, audio out
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 12.4 x 4.3 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds
Features:
- Full HD 1080p resolution for excellent image quality
- DLP technology for sharp and clear images
- High contrast ratio for a more immersive viewing experience
- Bright and vivid colors with accurate color reproduction
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Projection mapping with outdoor home projectors
- Easy set-up with a variety of connectivity options
Price range: The Optoma HD146X is a mid-range projector with a price range of around $549 to $699.
User reviews and ratings: The Optoma HD146X has received positive reviews from users, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users praise the projector for its excellent image quality and ease of use, particularly with its multiple connectivity options. The projector is also noted for its bright and vivid colors, as well as its compact and lightweight design. Some users note that the vertical lens shift is limited and there is no horizontal lens shift, but overall it is considered a top performer in its price range.
Factors to consider when choosing an outdoor home projector
There are several important factors to consider when choosing an outdoor home projector, including:
1. Brightness: Outdoor projectors need to be much brighter than indoor projectors to provide a clear and bright image in natural light. Look for a projector with a brightness rating of at least 2000 lumens or higher for outdoor use.
2. Resolution: Higher resolution projectors provide a sharper and more detailed image. For outdoor use, consider a projector with a resolution of at least 1080p or higher.
3. Lamp life: The lamp life of a projector refers to how long the bulb will last before needing to be replaced. Outdoor projectors will likely be used more frequently, so a longer lamp life is ideal.
4. Portability: If you plan to use the projector for outdoor events, consider a portable and lightweight model that is easy to transport.
5. Sound quality: While many projectors have built-in speakers, the sound quality may not be sufficient for outdoor use. Look for a projector that allows for external speakers to be connected.
By considering these factors, you can choose an outdoor home projector that provides a high-quality image and an enjoyable viewing experience.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about outdoor home projectors:
Can I use an indoor projector outdoors?
It is not recommended to use an indoor projector outdoors as they are not designed to withstand outdoor conditions such as moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures. Outdoor home projectors are specifically designed to be used outdoors and are built to handle these conditions.
What is the ideal brightness for an outdoor home projector?
The ideal brightness for an outdoor home projector depends on the ambient light in the viewing area. For a dark outdoor area, a projector with 2000 to 3000 lumens may suffice, while for an area with some ambient light, a projector with 3000 to 4000 lumens is recommended.
Can I use an outdoor home projector during the day?
It is possible to use an outdoor home projector during the day, but it may not produce the same quality of image as it would in a darker setting. The ambient light can cause the image to appear washed out and less vibrant. For best results, it is recommended to use an outdoor home projector in a dark or dimly lit area.
How long do the bulbs in outdoor home projectors last?
The lifespan of the bulb in an outdoor home projector can vary depending on usage and the model of the projector. Most bulbs have a lifespan of around 10,000 to 20,000 hours.
How do I choose the right outdoor home projector for my needs?
When choosing an outdoor home projector, consider factors such as brightness, resolution, contrast ratio, connectivity options, and portability. Also, consider your budget and the size of the viewing area to ensure you get the best projector for your needs.
What is the ideal resolution for an outdoor home projector?
The ideal resolution for an outdoor home projector depends on your personal preference and the size of the viewing area. Full HD 1080p resolution is the standard for most outdoor home projectors and provides good image quality for most viewing areas. However, if you have a larger viewing area or prefer more detail, you may want to consider a projector with 4K resolution.
Can I use an outdoor home projector for gaming?
Yes, outdoor home projectors can be used for gaming, but it is important to choose a projector with a low input lag for a smooth gaming experience. A projector with a high refresh rate is also recommended for gaming.
How do I set up an outdoor home projector?
Setting up an outdoor home projector is similar to setting up an indoor projector. You will need a flat surface to project onto, such as a white sheet or a screen. You will also need to ensure the projector is properly aligned and adjusted for the correct height and angle. Make sure to also connect any necessary cables or adapters for audio and video.
What is the warranty on an outdoor home projector?
The warranty on an outdoor home projector can vary depending on the manufacturer and the model. Most projectors come with a warranty of one to three years, but it is important to check the manufacturer’s warranty information before purchasing. Some manufacturers also offer extended warranties for an additional fee.
Can I connect an outdoor home projector to my smartphone or tablet?
Most outdoor home projectors come with HDMI and USB connectivity options, which allow you to connect your smartphone or tablet with an adapter. Some projectors also have wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which makes it easier to connect your mobile devices.
Conclusion
Outdoor movie nights are becoming increasingly popular, and having a high-quality outdoor home projector is essential to creating a great viewing experience. When choosing an outdoor home projector, it’s important to consider factors such as brightness, resolution, connectivity options, and portability. Our list of the top 10 best outdoor home projectors provides a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a high-end 4K projector or a more affordable option, there’s something on this list for everyone. With the right outdoor home projector, you can create an unforgettable movie night experience right in your own backyard.