Best 3D Projector

Updated Jan 12, 2023

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Looking for the best 3D projector?

Finding your the perfect 3D projector for your home theatre doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you’re looking for an Ultra HD experience, or simply want to watch movies on the big screen from the comfort of your home, we have the projector for you!

With a 3D projector, you can enjoy a movie night while camping, have an incredible resolution experience at work, or even take your streaming devices to the next level.

All you need is to get the best 3D projector. With a 3D projector, the whole experience will be in-depth and real-life-like. Better graphics, resolution, and enhanced projections will give a realistic effect and you can have that cinematic environment at home.

Before you buy a projector make sure you check this detailed and ultra helpful guide to help you decide according the best projector for you according to your personal needs: How to Choose the Right Projector for Different Room Sizes & Uses

Our Criteria For The Best 3D Projectors

Because your time is valuable, we have put together a list of the best 3D projector options in the home theater market right now! Our picks meet our very high standards by having full HD resolution, great vertical lens shift, as well as being great for watching movies and gaming alike.

While most projectors have a decent throw distance or even a solid input lag, our choices span more of a wide range of needs. So whether you simply want to hook up your blu ray player for an action movie, or are setting up a home theater like no other, our choices have something for everyone.

Top 10 Best 3D Projectors 2023

1. Optoma HZ39HDR – Editor’s Choice

Brightness: 4000 Lumens | Max Screen Size: 300″ | Lamp Life: 30,000 hours | Contrast Ratio: 300,000:1 | Resolution: 1080p

The Optoma HZ39HDR is the best 3D projector all things considered. It is a powerful 3D projector with fantastic specs like the 4000 Lumens brightness that projects a bright image in any lighting environment.

You can use the HZ39HDR in dimly lit rooms and even in rooms with daylight. Supplementing the beautiful image production is the 1080p Full HD resolution for excellent picture quality and sharpness.

It also supports 4K inputs to make up for the missing native 4K resolution.

This ensures detailed images with sharper processing of 4K content. The HZ39HDR also supports HDR10 and HLG to regulate dark and white brightness for deeper shading detail and color accuracy.

Adding to the color features, the projector also features a staggering 300,000:1 contrast ratio for deep, vibrant colors. A high contrast rating highlights black and white details of the projected image to maintain a bright image without losing detail.

Compared to the older version, the Optoma HD28HDR, the HZ39HDR upgrades the brightness, contrast ratio, and lamp life.

These three features are the most important for a DLP projector and are integral to the core experience. The HZ39HDR is a great upgrade well worth the money and title of Editor’s Choice.

It has a 30,000-hour long lamp life and features a laser light source. This means you can confidently use the projector for a long time without the lamp brightness dimming or discoloring.

It also comes with a 10W built-in speaker and 120Hz refresh rate for flicker-free 3D projections. You can easily set up the projector with a 1.3x manual zoom and ±30° vertical keystone correction.

There are multiple connectivity options including HDMI, VGA, USB ports, audio outputs for external sound systems, Blu-ray players, or a game console. It has extensive connectivity options, perfect for connecting all your devices.

All in all, the HZ39HDR is a powerful 3D DLP projector with a lot to love. It is on the pricier end, but if you want consistent performance and high-end quality, it’s hard to go wrong with the Optoma HZ39HDR.

2. Sony VPL-VW325ES – Best Premium 3D Projector

Brightness: 1500 Lumens | Max Screen Size: 300″ | Lamp Life: 6,000 hours | Contrast Ratio: 9,000:1 | Resolution: 4K

Earning the title as the best premium 3D projector we have the Sony VPL-VW325ES, a powerful home theater projector with excellent detailed images and color. The projector features a 1500 Lumens brightness which is built for traditional home entertainment setups in dark rooms.

Adding in too much ambient light may cause the image to wash out completely so keep that in mind.

To compensate for the brightness, the VW325ES comes with a really impressive native 4K resolution at 4096 x 2160 pixel density.

This is based on a 3 SXRD imager projection technology to achieve high-quality projections with razor-sharp images and deep hues of black. The projector has a 9000:1 native contrast ratio which can be slightly confusing.

Rest assured though since this is the ratio before the implementation of additional technology which helps regulate colors and black/white contrasts. In real-life usage, the VW325ES has amazing picture clarity, sharpness, and a wide color palate.

This is also in part thanks to the TRILUMINOUS display tech which allows projections with a wider color gamut. There’s also the Dynamic HDR enhancer which boosts the contrast rate for realistic, life-like images.

Compared to the older version, the Sony VPL-VW295ES, the new and improved VW325ES features the X1 processor which makes a huge difference in picture quality.

The X1 processor cuts out noise while boosting details to ensure true-to-life image quality. The processor also upscales content to 4K, meaning even 1080p Full HD resolution will look better automatically.

Some additional features on the VW325ES include MotionFlow and frame interpolation to smooth out fast-moving objects on the screen.

This helps create true-to-life motion without blurring the details like in fast-moving sports matches, video games, and action movies.

Overall, the Sony VPL-VW325ES has everything you could possibly need in a high-end, home theater 3D projector. It’s filled to the brim with features to enhance image and color quality, earning it a rightful spot as the best Premium 3D projector.

3. Optoma HD146X 3D Projector – Best Budget 3D Projector

Key Features

• Competitive gaming experience
• Brighter projections
• Impressive lamp longevity

The HD146X by Optoma is one of the classic 3D projectors with excellent and sharp images delivering a cinematic experience at your home. Integrated with true color accuracy alignment technology you can get real accuracy in color shades and the contrast ratio will give enhanced and high definition output visuals

. It works brilliantly in darker as well as bright rooms with no motion blur, pixel shifting, rainbow effect, or unwanted identical images.

Compared to the older version, the Optoma HD142X, the HD146X upgrades the brightness, contrast ratio, and lamp life.

The HD146X is also cheaper and has a 500,000:1 high dynamic contrast ratio, 300L brighter lamp brightness, and added longevity. All these are making it a clear winner as our best Budget pick.

You can enjoy the detailed view of drawings by the superior quality zoom capacity of the projector in ultra HD. Not only that, but with compatibility with multiple devices and input and preset modes, this projector is all in one package.

High response, great native resolution, and low input lag enable you to play games at real time! The colors for movies and the active shutter glasses make this one of the best 3D projectors for any screen size!

 

4. BenQ TK700STi

Brightness: 3000 Lumens | Max Screen Size: 300″ | Lamp Life: 15,000 hours | Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1 | Resolution: 4K

Next up, we’ve got another capable 4K 3D projector, the BenQ TK700STi. This projector is a beastly performer and comes at a very reasonable price for a 4K resolution. It features a decent 3000 Lumens brightness which is great for dimly lit & dark rooms.

The TK700STi is also a short-throw projector that can project a 100″ image from 6.5ft.

This is great for smaller rooms that don’t have the space for a standard throw distance projector. A short throw distance also helps reduce glare and shadows to boost visual fidelity.

Compared to another BenQ model, the TK700, the TK700STi features a short throw distance and Android TV built-in.

Both models are otherwise identical but the added Android TV and shorter throw distance is a great value add. They’re also not that differently priced, making the TK700STi an easy choice.

The inclusion of Android TV is a substantial feature as you have access to Google’s extensive catalog of apps, games, and movies. You can also download YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and more without needing to hook up a laptop or dongle.

Additionally, the TK700STi supports Google Assistant voice commands for convenient control of your projector.

In terms of color, the TK700STi has a humble 10,000:1 contrast ratio and 96% Rec. Color rating. Videos and images are brilliantly detailed with vivid colors producing true-to-life projections.

The projector also features low input lag for both 4K at 16ms with a 60Hz refresh rate & 4.6ms at 1080p with a 240Hz refresh rate. For gamers looking for a reliable, speedy projector this is the one for you.

Adding on to the gaming features, the TK700STi comes with three enhanced gaming mode settings for RPG, FPS, and SPG games. This helps optimize image quality and brightens super dark scenes in-game.

You’ll be able to watch easier when you play a game on the TK700STi.

Lastly, the projector comes with a 1.2x zoom 2D keystone correction and corner fit rotation to calibrate the perfect image for your setup.

When you look at everything the BenQ TK700STi has to offer, you’ll be impressed with the performance in daily usage. It’s also priced really well making it an excellent mid-range 3D projector.

5. ViewSonic PX703HD

Features

• Longer lamp life
• Dual HDMI ports
• Cinematic color and graphics
• Reduced image latency
• Eco-more for brighter lamp

For a small-sized lounge or classroom, this short-throw 3D projector by ViewSonic is one of the best high resolution options out there. This brilliant product comes with a short-throw lens that projects bigger high-definition images from just inches away from the screen.

The brightness and high contrast ratio is quite impressive. Not to mention with low input lag and display, these are a great fit for gamers that need a fast and no-delay transmission. The entire projector is super quiet. Low fan noise, long lamp life, and great in natural light and well lit spaces, this is one of our top selections.

Compared to another projector from ViewSonic, the ViewSonic PX706HD, the PX703HD has a longer lamp life and higher brightness at a similar price. So it’s a no-brainer considering the PX703HD’s upgraded internals for no substantial price increase.

It is also compatible with various TV sets, gaming consoles, and devices making it a multi-purpose projector. It can easily be integrated with ChromCast, used in business presentations, or with an external sound system and a Fire TV stick.

The image quality of this projector is excellent. Dark scenes pop, while the color accuracy is phenomenal. Not to mention it works great in any environment without any blurring and dimming of visuals. The lumen output is impressive, while the color brightness and vertical keystone correction make this the 3D projector of your dreams!

You can also check: Best Projector for Golf Simulator

6. BenQ HT2150ST Projector – Best Gaming 3D Projector!

Features

• Rich contrast and crisp images
• Low lag in input
• Good zoom capacity
• High gaming performance

For smaller gaming rooms, or offices where you need a larger and brighter display with a small distance, this 3D projector works wonderfully. DLP technology equipped display adds sharp and deep colors, even with a shorter throw distance. The tight images will give a life-like effect to your videos and images.

And with super-low input lagging live gaming is great on this projector. Due to its picture quality and enhanced display, this is no doubt the best 3D projector for gaming. Also with easy installation and zoom capacity, you can easily work, play, or study on this 3D projector!

There’s another model from BenQ, the BenQ TH671ST, which has a different focus in the same price range.

The TH671ST is brighter, but the HT2150ST is built for a movie theater experience with 96% Rec. support and a 6x speed RGBRGB color wheel.

Colors are more vibrant on the HT2150ST with a wider range, making it a well-rounded, powerful 3D projector for big-screen image quality.

7. Optoma UHD30 Projector – Best for 4K Resolution!

Features

• Ultra-fast refresh rate
• Cinematic visual quality
• Compatible with HLG and HDR10

The lightning-fast 240 Hz refresh rate of this projector makes it one of the best gaming projectors on the market. The image quality, depth, and contrast ratio all are impeccable, and all of the projections will leave you mesmerized.

Indulge in the incredible real-life visuals of this projector in your classroom, lounge, or while camping on mountains. High brightness and enhanced HDR10 and HLG technology won’t let any motion blurred pixels, or dim images appear.

Compared to the older model, the Optoma UHD50, the UHD30 has substantial upgrades to brightness, color reproduction, and better all-round performance.

The UHD30 has a 3400L brightness, HDR10 and HLG support, and higher refresh rate support. If you wanted ensured quality with top-of-the-line specs, the UHD30 is a fantastic option.

Also, you can have keystone correction and adjustments with an easy user interface.

Check More: Best Projector Under 500 

8. ASUS ZenBeam S2 – Best 3D Projector for Portability!

Features

• Wireless connectivity
• Portable and lightweight
• Mobile friendly

For travelers on the go who wish to project their movies or gaming session, but don’t want to carry a giant projector, this is for you. This super compact and portable mini projector is on par with any Optoma or Epson home cinema models.

With a 3.5-hour battery backup and ample brightness and resolution, you can have real-life images and video anywhere without any hassle.

This portable projector works with all smartphones and can be connected to multiple devices or gaming consoles via HDMI or USB-C port. Bigger image, with excellent quality, and mobile-friendly control make this projector one of our favorite ones on the market.

There’s another model, the ASUS ZenBeam Latte L1, but the ZenBeam S2 features a higher brightness, more accurate color reproduction, and longer battery life.

The portable projector is a better projector overall when it comes to these key features. You get a lot more value and consistent performance with the S2, earning it a spot on our list.

9. VAVA 4K UST Projector – Best for Vivid Blacks!

Features

• Longer life span
• Highly Vivid black contrast
• Super bright images
• Multiple connectivity ports

Equipped with an ultra-bright laser bulb that lasts for years with no maintenance, this 3D projector delivers enhanced high definition images and videos with cinematic effect. The bright and vivid blacks of this projector make any movie or game POP on any screen size.

The VAVA 4K can also project up to 150″ which is a great size for an Ultra Short Throw projector.

Compared to its top competitor, the Optoma CinemaX P2, the VAVA 4K holds its own with a similar contrast ratio, higher max projected image size, and it’s considerably cheaper.

Even with the higher brightness and color accuracy on the CinemaX P2, the VAVA 4K is considerably cheaper making it our pick of the two.

This projector has all kinds of ports for connectivity and offers compatibility with various consoles and TV interfacing. The soundbar that is incorporated with this projector will make your entertainment experience much better!

10. BenQ TK800 4k projector – Best for Zoom Capability! 

Features

• Compact and lighter design
• Good zoom capability
• Incredibly clear and enhanced high definition images
• High brightens to display in ambient light

Indulge in the hyper-realistic visual experience with HDR 10 projector. Integrated with auto-tone and color rendering, this projector delivers high brightness and brilliant contrast ratio.

Vivid colors and crisp images from this amazing projector can be viewed in ambient light without any degradation in quality. Not only that, but due to its connectivity and compatibility with multiple devices, this is great for cricket matches streaming, or having a cinema night in your garden.

A similar projector with a higher price, the BenQ TK800M, is the upgraded version of the TK800.

There isn’t much distinguishing the two as they both have identical brightness, contrast ratio, and the same 4K UHD resolution.

The TK800M features better color reproduction and a wider color gamut, but the performance of the TK800 is still plenty for playing video games and watching movies in nearly any environment.

The lower price is the biggest determiner here, making the TK800 our pick of the two.

Buyer’s guide

With so many options available on the market, offering a huge variety of features, you may feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry! We have not only made list of the best 3D projectors, but we have also included a detailed buyer’s guide.

Here are some key factors that will help you decide which projector will be the best fit for your home or office. Not to mention it offers a good combination of features that work for you.

Have a look at the following features that help to optimize the visual experience, and fulfill your main requirements for buying the best 3D projector.

Screen Size for 3D Picture Quality

Screen size is the diagonal distance to the screen for projecting the image. It is in inches and preferred to be big. Know the approximate screen size or magnification you require because the image may get be able to get bigger, but magnifying too much can decrease the brightness.

Screen size is also important because it is also determined by the throw distance of the projectors. If your projector doesn’t have a long throw distance, then it won’t have a larger screen. However, some shorter throw projectors can have really big screens, it all depends on the projector’s image quality.

Resolution and Brightness Against Ambient Light

While you pick a 3D Projector, think about the amount of ambient light in the room where you will place the projector. If the room is not dark, then you will need to go for a brighter projector. The room light will affect the display quality by downing out the lamp light on the projector.

This will make your image look blurry, lack color saturation, as well as really bring down the 3 dimensional feel.

Resolution is the number of pixels in an image. The more the number of pixels the better the image quality, and you can magnify or zoom more without a blurring effect. While it is great to have high-resolution pictures, sometimes you have to PAY for the extra pixels! Be certain you are getting something with UHD, 4K, or 1080p or more!

Display and Contrast Ratio

Another important factor in deciding the best projector for you is to look at the display technology of the projector. There are two types of display technologies DLP technology, which stands for digital light processing. The other is LCD technology or liquid crystal display.

While DLP has better brightness and less blur in motion, LCD has more vivid and black images and a higher contrast ratio. The display ultimately comes down to the quality of the projector, as well as the quality of the technology backing it up!

Another thing to consider is the number of chipsets. The chipset of a 3 chip design will perform better than the single-chip design so go for the higher chipset in design.

Projector Throw Ratio and Image Adjustment

Distance between the projector and the screen is calculated as its throw. So, consider the size of your room and the location of projector placement while choosing the projector. For a smaller room in houses, an ultra-short-throw projector will work well.

Also, check the image alignment, keystone adjustment, and zoom capacity of the projector so that you don’t get deformed or misaligned 3D visuals. A high-quality Epson home cinema, or BenQ projector will have an excellent throw range no matter what. That means you also have to consider brand as well as throw ratio and the ability to adjust the image.

Lamp Duration and Lifetime

Considering the frequency of use you will have with your projector. Will you watch shows for hours every night? Or will you simply use it for a movie night once a month? Know how much you will use your 3D projector in order to determine the approximate lamp life you will need.

For a top of the line brand, the lamp life that is generally about 20,000 hours. If you use a projector daily then a lamp with a higher lifetime will best suit you as you don’t want to invest in a projector whose lamp you have to buy frequently.

All things considered replacing the lamp is extremely easy. However, the costs of the lamps over time can really do some damage on your wallet.

Added Features to You 3D Projector

Unless you need a specific projector, with a specific feature like a gaming mode, then you should lean towards getting the most bang for your buck. That means find a projector that will fit into your budget, but still give you plenty of viewing options. A projector with a built-in speaker, 3D glasses, and multiple ports input will be a wise choice to buy.

Not to mention projectors with built-in setting modes. These can range from a live sports mode, to a movie mode, and even game modes. Though you may not initially need those modes, it will be worth it to use your projector for a wide variety of entertainment options. This way you really get the most out of it over time.

Budget for Your Projector

Budget is no doubt one of the most important factors in deciding the product you buy. So look for an option that offers a good value, but also fits into your budget. Look out for the features you need most and get a projector with those features as basics. Compromise on the number of features but not on quality.

You will need to set your budget before you even start to look at 3D projectors! Because you may fall head over heels for a projector, but not be able to afford it.

Maintenance

Every piece of machinery needs maintenance to keep it running in top shape. In the long run, it’s better to buy a projector that is easy to handle and maintain on regular basis.

Complex functionality will keep you away from cleaning filters, cleaning the lens, or having to check on lamp conditions. Not to mention keeping track of your lamp’s lifetime. The cost of replacement is quite high, so get a projector with a low maintenance lamp, and with menu and control buttons that are easy to use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best location to install a 3D projector?

Placing a projector in a high position, where there is little to no interference with the picture is best. A dimly lit, or dark room will work far better than a room with ambient light or natural light.

Can we pair different brand 3D glasses with our projector?

You can pair different brand 3D glasses with your projector if you check screen polarization and whether or not the glasses are made for that polarization. If they match then you will be able to use those glasses with that projector.

Does the 3D projector also play 2D videos?

3D projectors can play 2D videos without any issues or image quality degradation.

Can You Play TV Through a 3D Projector?

Connectivity allows you to stream nearly anything on your projector. HDMI and VGA, orWi-Fi connection allows you to easily play TV through your 3D projector. An RCA port will also work.