Best Projector Under 500

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Updated May 19, 2022

Trying to find the best projector under 500 dollars? Look no further than this helpful guide to some of the best quality and most affordable projectors on the market.

Are you a gamer looking to get a big screen for your console? A movie enthusiast, who has movie nights at their place every weekend? A corporate person needing a projector for serious business meetings?

Whatever the reason, getting a projector is a solid investment. But how do you find a high quality projector for cheap?

There are a lot of factors to consider when trying to find a theater projector under 500 dollars.

This brief buying guide covers all the essential features and specs you should look for in the best home theater projector under 500.

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

projector lens
https://pixabay.com/photos/projector-lenses-multimedia-814832/

Buying Guide for the Best Projector Under 500

If you are looking for excellent image quality, impeccable full HD resolution, and spectacular aspect ratio, you can find it if you know where to look. All in all, you need to accept that it COULD be better, but that for your budget, it is as good as it’s going to get! Let’s go through all the qualities that make an incredible home theater projector.

Resolution and Picture Quality

The image quality on your projector majorly depends upon the resolution available through the projector. The higher the resolution, the more vibrant and sharp the picture. However, a higher resolution comes at a higher price point. Your budget really impacts the image quality of your gaming projector, business projector, or home theater projector.

The popularity of projectors has grown a lot over the years. This means that there are more brands and with higher quality images available on the market right now. Not to mention more brands with fixed resolution or advanced visual features for cheaper.

Keep in mind that the minimum acceptable resolution you should go with should not be less than 720p. The ideal scenario would be to find a projector supporting Full Hd 1080p resolution that produce bright images while playing games or watching movies.

Picture quality is also determined by keystone correction. The best home theater projector brands will have keystone correction technology. So whether you are watching movies, or playing games, the best movie projector options will have excellent image quality and Keystone factors.

projector light
https://pixabay.com/photos/projector-presentation-light-428664/

Brightness Quality for Less

The resolution of a projector is not enough for a detailed, sharp image. You need brightness and contrast levels to complement the resolution to make sure you get the desired results. The brightness is measured in lumens, and its value varies with your location and light conditions.

If you want a projector for your home theatre where it will definitely be dark, a 1000 to 1500 lumen projector would do very well in a dark setting. Furthermore, if your intended use is in a classroom or meeting room with big windows bringing in sunlight you should look into options with 3000 lumens or above.

Speaking of brightness, we have a detailed guide on projectors for bright rooms, if that is your main concern. However, for most of your viewing options, you will want to rid the room of ambient light as much as possible to help the projector lamp. That is of course unless you are looking for an outdoor projector! In that case, the lumens levels for outdoor projectors should be very high.

Color and Contrast Ratios

Contrast ratio makes a big difference on how you see your movies on the projection screen. It is crucial that you consider contrast ratio options in order to have the brightest, most bold colors! The better the contrast ratios, the better the image quality, even with ambient light.

There are a lot of different technology options when it comes to color. Digital light Processing, or a DLP projector produce impressive image quality. The DLP display technology also works in a well lit room, but it shines brighter in the dark. DLP projectors are very common, and produce amazing color.

Liquid Crystal display, or LCD projectors, are also extremely common. An LCD projector will have incredible color accuracy, and are more affordable than most projectors. Good quality images, as well as long bulb life, make this technology great for color projections. No matter the throw distance.

These display technology options are not as impressive without a good aspect ratio and contrast. In a very dark room, you want a contrast ratio between 1500:1 and 2000:1. This can also be influenced by throw distance, DLP projectors, or LCD projectors, as well as the screen size. Keep contrast ratio in mind while you shop for your perfect home theater projector.

Connectivity for The Best Home Theater Projector

Your life is very busy. That being said, it’s not always possible to keep a wide range of cords and connection options with you. That means you will need a projector with a lot of connectivity options, for not a lot of dollars.

The best projector for less than 500 would support multiple connections such as HDMI, VGA, Bluetooth, and in some cases Wi-Fi compatibility. Usually, HDMI connections give greater clarity and brightness than the VGA or Bluetooth options. Not to mention have low input lag.

Wireless or wired connection makes a lot of difference in the quality of the display technology and pictures quality of your home theater projector. You should also consider throw distance, or the projector distance from the screen, in order to know whether you will need long cords, or simply a really great Wi-Fi connection.

Projector At Home
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Durability of a More Affordable Movie Projector

The working life of a projector depends on how long its lamp works. A projector with a long lamp life requires less maintenance, they produce bright images, and make your home theater incredible. Hence, look into the bulb life of the projector you are wanting to get.

You should consider those projectors providing at least 10,000 to 15,000 hours of lamp life. This would be enough to give you more than 3 years of maintenance-free display. Not to mention the long lamp life allows for brighter business presentations, better picture in your home theater, and a great picture no matter the screen size.

Durability also means being able to stand up against the wear and tear of life. A small, portable projector needs to be able to be sturdy and still work while you are on the go. Building materials aren’t just about the display technology! Though materials that are higher in quality are not always cheap, it does not mean you have to settle for a shabby projector.

Sound Limitations for Under 500

One of the only things that could be better with projectors under 500 dollars is the option for built-in speaker quality. The majority of built-in speaker options on the market right now just aren’t up to par. However, there are a lot of great sound options you can put into place to make your home theater sound pop!

This means that no matter the quality of the built-in speaker, you get amazing sound through external speakers. Even with a small portable projector.

Display and Screen Size

The display size of a projector depends on the distance between the wall and the projector, or the throw distance. If you have a small place, a short-throw projector would suit you well. In case of a large area, like an outdoor place, you should look into long throw projectors. Throw distance determines not only the possible screen size, but also the display quality.

After all, the primary reason for switching to a projector is the massive screen. Therefore, you should be able to get a large enough screen to make it worth your money. It could be better than you imagined, even for under 500!

Our Criteria for Our Top 12 Choices

We have chosen some of the best projector models available for under $500.00. That being said, we have not just thrown together a list of random projectors. Our picks have to meet heavy scrutiny, as well as stand up to the test of time!

To qualify to be on this list, these projectors had to have a long lamp life, good aspect ratio and contrast, work well in a home theater or for business presentations, as well as the possibility of being a portable projector. Our list consists of some of the best home theater choices for a smaller budget.

Top 12 Best Projectors Under $500

Now that you know what to look for in a projector, as well as our very specific criteria, it’s time to take a look at our options! Not only have we put together some of the best projector options for you, but all of them are under five hundred dollars. Making them some of the top brands on the market, and incredibly affordable.

No.

Model

Our Rating

Lumens

Price

1.

YABER Y31 Projector

Editor's Choice

7500

2. 

Optoma HD146X

Best Premium

3600

3. 

ViewSonic PA503S

Best Budget

3800

4.

ViewSonic PX701HD

3500

5.

BenQ MW535A

3600

6.

GooDee WiFi Mini

-

7.

KODAK Luma 350

350

8.

BenQ MW560

4000

9.

Epson VS260 Projector

3300

10.

VANKYO Performance V600 Projector

6000

11.

Anker Nebula Capsule Max

200

12.

Acer H5382BD 3D Projector

3300

1. YABER Y31 1080P – Best Home Theater Projector Under 500

YABER Y31 Projector

YABER Y31 Projector is the best projector under $500. It exhibits a variety of features that make it our top pick. The display quality is the same as other high-end projectors, with its 1080p resolution and 7500-lumen brightness. The contrast ratio creates crisp, bright images enhancing your viewing experience.

The keystone correction and zoom feature enable you to adjust the screen accordingly. You do not have to fumble with the manuals, instead, the remote control does it all. This means you can be flexible about where you place it.

Compared to the previous iteration, the Yaber Y30, the Y31 is a more versatile projector with One-Click to Brighten and Auto vertical keystone correction.

These features are integral to managing flexible setups and are convenient especially if you’re moving the projector around. Considering they’re the same price, the Y31 is a better option for additional value.

It also comes with a built-in sound system adding to the list of features. This makes your movie nights a lot more enjoyable. Moreover, the extensive input ports provide you with the option of connecting it to almost all other devices.

One prevailing issue with the majority of the projectors is the cooling system noise. Either the cooling system does not work or it produces unbearable noise and definitely could be better. YABER Y31 Projector has an efficient cooling system making use of 3 fans. Unlike other projectors, you will not even feel their presence since they are so quiet.

What We Like Best

Use the recommended Eco Mode to increase the lifespan of your projector to 100,000 hours. The lifetime and the amazing features makes this our pick for the the best home theater projector under 500 you can buy!

Also Check: Best Projector For Daylight Viewing

Pros

  • Great sound system
  • Brilliant display
  • Efficient cooling system

Cons

  • Single click brightness control is problematic

2. Optoma HD146X Projector – Best Premium Projector Under 500!

Optoma HD146X Projector

Optoma HD146X Projector is also an amazing option when it comes to the best projector that cost less than 500 and you can buy. It has an exceptional quality display with a native 1080p resolution and a stunning color wheel. You really get your money’s worth and then some!

The DLP DMD single-chip design ensures a well-aligned, sharp, and vibrant image. The picture quality is unbeatable due to the combination of Full HD resolution and DLP technology. The 3600-lumen brightness provides a sharp display even in moderate lights.

One of the HD146X’s top competitors, the BenQ TH585, shares a few specs but thanks to the 3,600L brightness and much higher contrast, the HD146X performs better in varied lighting conditions.

This makes images brighter and more vibrant.

It also serves as a gaming projector if you account for the low input latency. Furthermore, the gaming display mode adjusts the display with the right shadows and darkness to the game’s needs. The remote control provides an easy way to control the settings manually. This makes placement easy, as well as adds to your convenience.

What We Like Best

The 500,000:1 contrast ratio is boosted through dynamic black technology. Your details are further deepened resulting in a splendid blend of colors and shadows. The 15,000 hours lamp life gives you 4 hours of watch time every day for 10 years. You can install it anywhere and the picture would still be perfectly balanced through the zoom and keystone features.

Also Recommended: Best Projector Under 1000

Pros

  • Amazing black level
  • Supports 3D display
  • Crisp graphics

Cons

  • Average built-in speakers

3. ViewSonic PA503S – Best Budget Projector Under 500!

Viewsonic PA503S Projector

ViewSonic PA503S Projector is a splendid addition to the list of the top projectors under 500. It works great for small-scale use, such as a movie night, or business meetings. It comes with a variety of features making your movie night easier and your work more productive. The fact that it is affordable, as well as provides amazing features, make it stand out from our other budget options.

The Epson VS250 is a close competitor that has the same resolution and also features 3LCD technology for a higher price tag.

But the PA503S is brighter, has a longer lamp life, and better black and white contrast while being considerably cheaper than the VS250.

The longer life span makes maintenance a breeze and the upgraded color/brightness is well-suited for varied lighting environments. The PA503S is a great bargain that offers a spec sheet that matches up to expensive projectors.

You can enjoy a massive 120-inch screen from a distance of only 15 feet. Although this is not a short-throw projector, it does the job from a reasonable distance. The 3800-lumen brightness results in a brilliant crisp projection. The color quality speaks for itself through the depth and vividness. The lamp life of 15,000 hours gives you ample time before you need a lamp replacement. You do not have to maintain it frequently.

What We Like Best

It supports multiple input options such as VGA, HDMI, and others giving you flexibility regarding connections. You do not require any adapter or special connectors. Easily connect your media player, PC, Mac, and mobile phones to it. There is almost no input lag, hence, the display is extremely smooth. The keystone correction feature gives you a proportioned image regardless of the placement of the projector.

Pros

  • Low fan noise
  • Bright pictures
  • For both indoor and outdoor use

Cons

  • Average sound system

4. ViewSonic PX701HD Projector – Ideal For Gaming & Office Use

Viewsonic PX701HD Projector

If you are on the lookout for the best projector under 500 that would suit a gaming freak, the ViewSonic PX701HD Projector would be it. You can get a huge screen up to 300 inches with stunning picture quality thanks to its full HD 1080p resolution. It has a 3500-lumen brightness making it a great option for both indoor and outdoor uses.

It has an exclusive SuperColor technology that makes use of the wide color range. This results in a wonderful color scheme. Each detail is sharpened and highlighted giving you an incredible gaming and theatrical experience. The low input lag is of special importance to gamers. It has a 16 ms response time which gives an ultra-smooth, and fast performance.

And when compared to another projector in the series, the ViewSonic PX703HD, the PX701HD has a few upgraded quality-of-life features.

The PX701HD has a vertical lens shift, horizontal/vertical keystone, and a 20,000-hour lamp life, higher than the PX703HD’s 15,000 hours.

With the help of these features, you can align your screen with the best angles according to your needs.

You also do not have to replace the lamp for at least 10 years if you use the projector for 5 hours each day. This averages the lamp life to 20,000 hours which is great if you are on a budget.

While these might not seem like substantial upgrades, in real-life usage, they’re incredibly useful, making the PX701HD a top choice for a projector under $500.

What We Like Best

The 10 W speakers elevate your viewing experience. This makes the 3D motions appear life-like. The wireless connectivity options are another plus point for gamers and movie buffs alike. You can use the USB port for your consoles. In short, this is one of the best budget projectors you can buy right now.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Low input lag
  • High brightness

Cons

  • No HDR

5. BenQ MW535A– Best Business Projector Under $500

Brightness: 3600 ANSI Lumens | Aspect Ratio: 16:10 | Lamp Life: 15,000 hours | Contrast Ratio: 15,000:1 | Native Resolution: WXGA

Pros

  • High Brightness
  • Smart Eco Mode
  • Anti-Dust Features
  • Flexible Alignment/Setup

Cons

  • Low Resolution

For business purposes and office settings, the BenQ MW535A is a high-quality projector for under $500. This projector is built for business presentations’ with a WXGA 1280 x 800 native resolution.

This is on the lower end, but considering how it’s going to be used, it’s more than suitable. The projector also features a high 3600 ANSI Lumens brightness which will handle daytime usage and rooms with ambient light like a charm.

For business projectors, the MW535A comes with a relatively high 15,000:1 contrast ratio ensuring accurate colors and deep contrast between white and black brightness.

A nifty feature the MW535A has is the auto Wall Color Correction.

This corrects the projected image color depending on the color of the surface. You’ll have matching colors from the output and on-screen for accurate projections that aren’t affected by the projector screen color or surface.

Compared to the a similar BenQ model, the MS535A, the MW535A is upgraded to a higher 1280 x 800 WXGA resolution.

This subtle difference impacts image quality and sharpness, making the MW535A the clear choice between the two.

Additionally, the BenQ MW535A has dedicated Anti-Dust features and long lasting 15,000-hour lamp life. This ensures continuous usage without the need for constant maintenance.

The projector supports a 1.2x zoom, vertical keystone, and has 3 adjustable feet that can be used to change the degree of elevation of the projector.

It makes it much easier to setup without fiddling around with controls.

Overall, the BenQ MW535A is an ideal choice as a business projector because it does everything you need it to without compromising on ease of use or quality. The low resolution is a bummer, but considering the price, it’s an agreeable compromise.

6. GooDee WiFi Mini Projector – Mini Projector Option!

GooDee WiFi Mini Projector

If you are on a budget, a mini projector with good display performance would suit you best. Therefore, GooDee Mini Projector can be listed as one of our top rated projectors under 500. You will not find Wi-Fi compatibility in any other budget projector like this. This feature alone makes it a worthy investment.

The 720p native resolution provides good display quality. Of course, not as great as Full HD, but nevertheless clear and bright. The color support and 200-inch display work together to earn this projector a spot on our list.

The Mini Projector is a similar projector that features the same resolution and brightness but can only project 170″. The GooDee also has a higher contrast ratio and supports 24-bit true color.

Image quality is deeper with vibrant colors on the GooDee projector.

Not to mention the GooDee allows for Wi-Fi connectivity/casting. Compared to the Mini, the GooDee wins out with specs, convenience, and practicality factors.

Moreover, these mini projectors come with a lot of input options. You can connect it to your Roku Stick, Fire-TV, Chromecast, External Speakers, USB Disk, PS4/XBOX, Laptop/PC, DVD Player, and Mobile Phone/iPad. This is done through the HDMI, AV, VGA, USB, and TF ports so you do not have to worry about the connectivity.

What We Like Best

It is compact and lightweight. This means you can easily take it with you on camping trips or set it up in your backyard for movie nights. The built-in internal speakers provide fine quality audio as well. You can watch unlimited movies and media for 50,000 hours without a single bit of maintenance for the bulb.


Check More: Best Short Throw Projector Under 500

Pros

  • Keeps the focus
  • Clear picture
  • Fine speakers
  • Mini projector great for portability

Cons

  • A little challenging to connect to iPhone

7. KODAK Luma 350 – Best Portable Projector Under 500

KODAK Luma 350 Projector

KODAK Luma 350 Projector comes with DLP technology to make your pictures appear brighter and more life-like.

The KODAK Luma 350 is the upgraded version of the KODAK Luma 150 and upgrades almost every spec including a higher brightness, contrast ratio, 4K input support, and Android OS built-in.

These features allow the Luma 350 to display much better image quality and color brightness while Android OS functionality makes it a complete projector capable of streaming online without any additional dongles.

The picture clarity and brightness are unbelievable for a projector at this price. It is the 200 ANSI brightness and high contrast ratio that help to place it among the best projectors under 500. You can experience a display screen as large as 200 inches, giving you amazing cinematic vibes.

With this projector, you not only get the conventional HDMI and USB ports but also wireless connectivity options. You can use the wifi, Bluetooth, or screen mirroring options to stream your favorite media effortlessly. This way you do not have to deal with long wires and struggle to keep your place neat. The built-in speakers are a source of amazing quality audio accompanying the high-definition display.

This is a really great option for dorm rooms, and RVs as well. The small size may look wimpy, but this tiny projector really packs a punch with picture quality!

What We Like Best

You can use the projector for a variety of different purposes. The Android 6.0 and iOS interface makes it possible to surf the web, download apps and games directly on the projector. You have to use it to believe in it. This feature makes its use uncomplicated and simple. The compact dimensions make it a good portable option. The lamp life of 30,000 hours will keep it working for a long time.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Amazing picture quality
  • Bluetooth compatible

Cons

  • Average speakers

8. BenQ MW560

Brightness: 4000 ANSI Lumens | Aspect Ratio: 16:10| Lamp Life: 15,000 hours | Contrast Ratio: 20,000:1 | Native Resolution: WXGA

Pros

  • High Contrast Ratio
  • Dedicated Presentation Modes
  • High ANSI Brightness
  • SmartEco Mode
  • Flexible Setup Features

Cons

  • Missing Wireless Connectivity

If you need a projector to handle all your office projection purposes then the BenQ MW560 is a great option to consider.

The reason the projector stands out is the high brightness. Compared to other projectors in the price range, the MW560 has a much higher 4000 ANSI Lumens brightness. This allows it to be used in brightly lit rooms and even rooms with daylight.

The MW560 has a 1280 x 800 WXGA resolution to show crisp text and figures without blurring. To optimize your presentations, the MW560 has three separate modes to enhance content; Data Review mode, Infographic mode and Presentation mode.

Data Review mode enhances clarity and contrast, the Infographic mode is built to handle graphics and detailed text, while Presentation mode improves color reproduction for vivid presentations.

Compared to another BenQ projector, the BenQ MS536, the MW560 comes out on top with a higher 1280 x 800 WXGA resolution and upgraded 10W built-in speaker setup.

Both these projectors are available at the same price, but the difference is substantial, making the MW560 our projector of choice between the two.

Additional features that complete the MW560’s offerings include a Smart Eco mode with 15,000-hour lamp life. It also includes various options to alter picture positions like auto-vertical keystone correction and a retractable foot to adjust horizontal viewing angles.

The MW560 is an excellent performer out of the numerous business projectors around. The price is a bit high for under $500, but considering everything it has to offer, you’re getting your money’s worth with this one.

9. Epson VS260 Projector

Epson VS260 Projector

The next product on our list of the best projector under 500 selections is the Epson VS260 Projector. Epson went a step ahead with this one and included exemplary resolution, lumens, contrast, and color technology all in one.

Compared to the older version, the Epson VS250, the VS260 evolved to include a higher XGA resolution, slightly higher brightness & lamp life, and a built-in picture skew sensor to automatically adjust the keystone.

Better resolution ensures sharp, clear images while the additional quality-of-life features shows the steep evolution from the previous iteration.

The 3300-lumen brightness makes it fit to display in both bright and dark rooms. Furthermore, the XGA resolution sharpens the text and images even more. Hence, you get a high-quality color display with a cinema feel.

Epson VS260 also has an additional 3-chip 3lcd technology which highlights the RGB color wheel to provide vibrant images. Moreover, it takes extra care to maintain the quality of the display without any rainbow or discoloration issues like some other projectors. You can use the HDMI port to display pictures and use your videos and presentations on the big screen.

What We Like Best

It has an automatic keystone correction feature that adjusts the frame according to the display. The built-in speakers provide a good means of audio to compliment your family movie nights. The screen size is huge, giving you 150 inches of bright display. You can easily zoom in or out according to your needs through the remote control.

Pros

  • Great adjustment options
  • Good quality focus
  • Amazing brightness

Cons

  • Built-in speakers are average

10. VANKYO Performance V600 Projector

VANKYO Performance V600 Projector

One of the best projectors under 500 you will find in the market is the VANKYO Performance V600 Projector.

Compared to other projectors in the price range like the XIAOYA Outdoor Projector, the Vankyo V600 has a higher resolution, brightness, and contrast ratio, and can project images up to 300″.

This is a huge difference in performance that is noticeable in daily usage.

The V600 is a big step above the competition, showcasing its true value packing picture quality, vivid colors and massive image size in a portable projector form factor.

This dynamic projector is an amazing investment for gaming enthusiasts who need a smooth and bright projector to enjoy their gaming sessions. It supports Full HD 1080p resolution with a high contrast ratio of 5000:1 giving outstanding display performance.

If you have a place that gets bright light, this projector would be the answer to all your worries. The high lumen brightness gives you razor-sharp graphics on a massive 300-inch display screen. Be it a business meeting, classroom presentation, or gaming session with friends, this projector will be your best find. The best part is that you get all this on a budget.

What We Like Best

The lamp life is great, with 10 years of service on the use of 3 hours per day. You can connect your mobile phones, laptops, PC, and other devices using the double HDMI ports available. This is an excellent cheap option if you want to enjoy high-end quality without a large price tag!

Pros

  • No blur
  • Splendid picture quality
  • Massive display

Cons

  • The fan is not very quiet

11. Anker Nebula Capsule Max Projector

Anker Nebula Capsule Max

Anker Nebula Capsule Max is considered one of the best pico projectors under 500 . This projector comes with dimensions of 3.15 x 3.15 x 5.91 inches. It weighs about 1.6 pounds.

Nebula series of Anker is of prime importance because of its battery capacity.

The Nebula Capsule Max is actually a super-specced version of the Anker Nebula Capsule, and features a much bigger battery, higher 720p resolution, better contrast ratio, and a higher brightness with auto-focus support and a better built-in speaker.

These upgrades affect performance a lot which is why the Capsule Max is our pick of the two.

The projector comes with a brightness of 200 Lumens removing all the uncertainty around the power of mini projectors. It gives the users a brighter and more comfortable experience, even in such a compact casing.

This projector comes with built-in speakers of 8W which helps in providing a good sound quality. However, an external speaker through the Bluetooth option can be attached for a better sound experience for a larger area.

What We Like Best

This projector is considered one of the best choices for your kids since it provides an eye-strain-free experience. It has a battery life of almost 4 hours which is very satisfying, especially if you are trying to limit your little one’s screen time. It has a screen display of 40 inches to 100 inches. It has wireless connectivity options along with HDMI and USB options. It has a native resolution of 1280×780p.

Pros

  • DLP technology
  • Connect App
  • Connectivity options
  • Resolution of 1280×780p

Cons

  • Speakers quality could be improved
  • Not water-resistant.

12. Acer H5382BD 720P DLP Home Projector

Acer H5382BD 3D Projector

Acer H5382BD Home Theater Projector is one of the best budget selections since it offers high contrast ratio and high brightness. So if you are looking for the best projectors under 500, this might be the right option for you.

When compared to its predecessor, the H5380BD, it’s upgraded with a better contrast ratio, brightness, and better-sounding speakers.

These upgrades ensure colorful, deep image quality with better brightness for different ambient light levels.

The Acer H5382BD is slightly more expensive than the previous model, but the value-to-performance ratio matches up.

This projector comes with dimensions of 12.4 x 8.4 x 3.8 inches. It weighs about 5.3 pounds.

This projector has both wired and wireless connectivity options which makes it highly user friendly. It provides HD display technology that is not completely HD. There is a background light sensor that controls the settings by detecting external lighting and prevents the quality of pictures from being affected.

What We Like Best

It has a high contrast ratio which helps in providing detailed and sharp images, making it one of the best budget projector options. It is very easy to set up making it user friendly. It has 3300 ANSI lumens which are very impressive compared to its price. This is your go-to device if you want a budget-friendly projector that has almost all the necessary functions.

Pros

  • Background Light Sensor
  • 20,000:1 high contrast ratio
  • Mountable
  • Wired and wireless connectivity options
  • 3300 ANSI lumens

Cons

  • Lamp life is less than 12,000
  • Doesn’t provide with Full HD display
  • Short lamp life

Final Verdict on Your Budget Projector!

Now that you have gone through all the best projectors under 500, it’s time to make your pick. The fact that all these options are under 500 and are extremely versatile, means that you can make these projectors work in any space. Whether you want to play video games, watch movies, or make a presentation for the board!

Let’s break down exactly where we landed on these extraordinary options. After all, you can choose a product for a variety of reasons, but sometimes you just need someone to tell you in plain words!

If you are in the market for something portable, then we have a lot of choices for you. The KODAK Luma 350, the GooDee Mini Projector, the Epson VS350 Projector, and the Anker Nebula Capsule Max all work well on the go. Not to mention they are great for work, school, or even for kids!

Some people are looking for gaming projectors without having to spend an arm and a leg to get one. If you are shopping around for a gaming option, then we have the best choices for you! The ViewSonic PX701HD Projector, the Optoma HD146X Projector, the Acer H5382BD 720P DLP Home Projector, and the Epson VS260 Projector are all incredible for gaming.

If you want a projector for a home theater project, but simply do not have thousands of dollars to spend on a projector, then we have you covered. The VANKYO Performance V600, the BenQ MW526, the Epson VS350 Projector, the ViewSonic PA503S, and the YABER Y31 1080P are all great choices.

No matter what you need for your home theater, your business needs, or even your gaming sessions, we have something for you on this list. Not only are they fantastic projectors, but all of them are under 500 dollars! These incredible options could be your next entertainment purchase, all you have to do is use this helpful guide.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

How Many Lumens is Enough for a Projector?

For an 100″ screen projection, 350 lumens will be enough; however, the recommended lumens should be at least 1000. How many lumens is enough for a projector is determined by the brightness of the room, as well as the possible lumens range of the projector.

Can I Use 3D Glasses?

You can use your 3D glasses and enjoy the realistic images on almost every projector that supports DLP technology.

What to Do if I Do Not Have Enough Space?

If you do not have enough space you need to look for a projector that has a short throw. A short throw projector will fit in a small space and allow you to enjoy movies without needing a long throw distance.