Over the past few years, technology has undergone a revolutionary change. The introduction of projectors has brought a huge change in the entertainment industry. At present, it has led down the market of traditional TVs and smart TVs. Nowadays, people like to have a theatre-like experience on the big screen at their home with all their near and dear ones around them. Projectors have made this possible and turned their imagination into reality.
However, to get maximum benefit out of it, you need to pick the right projector with top-notch brightness and high-end reflective screen. Though expensive projectors are out there, if you are tight on budget, then you can afford that. But not to worry, as there are some of the best projectors under $100 available in the market that will match your requirements.
Key Features to Look at While Choosing the Best Projector Under $100:
Before making your choice, it is important to take a look at the key factors that are considerable for selecting the best cheap projector that will suit all your needs. Recommended by tech experts, these factors are as follows:
- Imaging Technology: Generally, for projecting images, three main technologies are being used, i.e., DLP, LCD and LED. If price is not a factor for you, then its obvious to go for DLP projectors as they offer premium quality images. But in case, you are tight on budget, then end up using LCD or LED technology.
- Contrast Ratio: It is actually the difference in light between the darkest and brightest pixels. It is the feature that decides how vivid an image will look like. The higher the contrast ratio, the more vivid the picture will look.
- Brightness: Video Playback is also affected by this technical specification. Brightness determines how bright the projected image will be in a well-lit room. Make sure to choose the one which has a moderate lumen range as it will neither make the visuals difficult to see in well-lit rooms nor cause strain to your eyes.
- Portability: It is another important factor to consider. If your unit is portable, then you can easily toss it in your backpack and you can take it anywhere you want. It will also be quite useful for vacations.
- Throw Distance: Before opting for a projector, you need to measure the room where you will be keeping it. Check out the distance of the wall to the place where you will be keeping the projector and then decide what optimum throw distance projector you require.
Best Cheap Projectors Under $100: Our Recommendations
Here is a list of top 5 cheapest projectors based upon the product quality, price range, key features, specifications and performance.
1. Dr. J Projector
When it comes to creating a vibrant and theatre-like image and that too in moderately lit rooms, then this Dr. J projector tops the list. Its high-quality lens accompanied with high contrast ratio and solid brightness ratings altogether produces a crisp image. Another unique feature of this projector is that it possesses diffuse reflection technology that reduces eye fatigue.
Its cooling system is exclusively designed as the unit consists of two fans that prevent the device from overheating. The projector also comes with an attractive 40,000-hour lamp life and claims a warranty of three long years.
Features:
Display Technology: LCD
Screen Size: 32-176 inches
Contrast: 2,000:1
Brightness: 1,800 lumens
Throw Distance: 5-16.5 ft
Pros:
- The projector produces vibrant, crisp and bright images.
- Comes with a long lamp life and satisfactory cooling system.
Cons:
- Several customers have faced manufacturing issues in it.
- It is sometimes difficult to tune in the focus adjustment.
2. DBPOWER T20 Projector
If you are looking for the best projector under $100 that exceeds your expectation in lamp life, then choose this one. The biggest advantage of having this projector is that you can watch several movies in a row, hours after hours, and that too without experiencing overheating issues. With its in-built speaker and a projection of 100-inch at 8 feet from the screen, you can seamlessly enjoy the movie with your small group of friends.
For video playback, this projector does not have outstanding image clarity but possesses a decent one. Another highlighted feature of this projector is that it supports 1080p video.
Features:
Display Technology: TFT LCD
Screen Size: 32-176 inches
Contrast: 1,000:1
Brightness: 1,800 lumens
Throw Distance: 5-16.5 ft
Pros:
- The fan of this unit is extremely quiet.
- Comes with a lamp life of 50,000 hours
- It does not overheat.
Cons:
- Images of average quality are produced with mid-range contrast ratio.
3. FUNAVO RD-815 Projector
Whether you seek an all-round performer or the best cheap projector, this projector from FUNAVO suits the best. Thanks to its high contrast ratio which is the reason behind the clarity in the video playback. The distance through which this projector produces a projection and the screen size that it supports is comparatively larger than many other competing projectors.
This compact projector comes with an in-built speaker that produces sound large enough that you can enjoy a movie with your friends. Also, the fan of this unit is innovatively designed which keeps the cooling system well working even after hours of random usage.
Features:
Display Technology: TFT LCD
Screen Size: 32-170 inches
Contrast: 1,500:1
Brightness: 1,500 lumens
Throw Distance: 5-16.5 ft
Pros:
- Compact and portable enough to carry anywhere
- Comes with enhanced features at budget-friendly price.
- High contrast ratio, larger optimum distance and screen size.
Cons:
- Lack of brightness which makes it virtually impossible to use during daytime.
4. ELEPHAS YG400 Projector
With a compact size of just larger than palm of the hand and weight of less than 2 pounds, it is a great choice for those who are looking for the best mini projector. Though the brightness of the image output of this projector is rather low, it is well-equipped with all other technical specifications that are usually present in the projector at this price range.
Moreover, it comes along with a remote control for functionality which is another unique feature of this projector. The device is portable like other miniature projectors. While using the device, as the fan remains quiet, overheating issues might be a cause of concern after it is being used for more than 4 hours continuously.
Features:
Display Technology: TFT LCD
Screen Size: 50-130 inches
Contrast: 1,000:1
Brightness: 1,200 lumens
Throw Distance: 5-13 ft
Pros:
- It produces decent video quality at this price range.
- Small in size and lightweight, thus portable to carry on the go.
Cons:
- It does not overheat only until 3 to 4 hours.
- Possess lower brightness when compared with its competitors at this price range.
5. Xinda LCD 001BW Projector
With stand out features like high contrast ratio, 1080p compatibility and high projection capability, it is one of the best projectors under $100. As it is a bit inexpensive product, its cooling system is not that much efficient. Thus, it is more suitable for limited time usage like watching TV shows rather than watching movies continuously one after another.
Though the images produced by this projector are crisp and clear, it is quite difficult to watch in moderately dark rooms. Its fan is often louder, as reported by some users.
Features:
Display Technology: TFT LCD
Screen Size: 35-150 inches
Contrast: 1,500:1
Brightness: 1,200 lumens
Throw Distance: 5-10 ft
Pros:
- The size of the projection is large.
- Contrast ratio is higher as compared to others at this budget
- Extremely cost-effective product.
Cons:
- The fan is often loud
- The device overheats even after using for 3-4 hours.
- Comes with low brightness ratings.
Wrapping Up
All these recommended devices are from quality brands with exceptional reputations and reviews. They will be definitely worth the money that you pay for it. So, with our list of the best projectors under $100, you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket.
