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How we tested
Small projectors are finding places in homes as well as offices, so each model on test was fed a combination of PC PowerPoint presentations and Blu-ray films to gauge versatility. Wired tried each projector's picture preset options and positioned the models to deliver a 60-inch (diagonal) image size against a zero-gain screen, to make it easy to spot brightness differences. We also used a sound pressure meter to measure any operating noise.
Three advantages of the pint-sized projector:
- Unlike regular projectors, you can usually unplug a portable one as soon as you've switched it off, instead of having to wait for the lamp to cool down.
- They typically don't need to have filters changed for separate tasks.
- Their LED lamps last effectively for the lifetime of the projector.
This Kickstarter-funded projector pivots on a hinge in an easel-like stand, making it easy to set up. Connectivity is limited, though you can add Wi-Fi via an optional USB stick.
Pictures are bright, sharp and more contrast-rich than any of its rivals, and even the sound is passable. Slightly muted colours and vertical stretching of widescreen video are the only negatives to this capable machine.
WIRED Clever design; useful all-rounder
TIRED Colours are a bit lifeless; not many inputs to choose from £499
Vivitek's Q5 is the smallest projector on test, but still packs in plenty of connections. Dedicated movie, TV, gaming and presentation picture settings show it has ambitions as an all-rounder - but it can't quite deliver. Presentations look crisp and detailed, but a lack of black level leaves dark video scenes looking drab. There's also messy light-bleed at the picture edges, and audio is thin.
WIRED Compact; bright for its size
TIRED Poor contrast; weedy sound; messy light handling £465
The biggest and most expensive projector here, the ML1000 boasts a laptop-style touchpad control on its top edge.
Presentation-friendly features include lots of ports, a built-in media player and support for Microsoft Office and Adobe PDF files.
WIRED's PowerPoint popped with bright colours and pixel-perfect sharpness. However, video was less impressive, due to lack of contrast.
WIRED PC-free use; very bright images
TIRED Expensive; large; video can't produce dark blacks £675
This projector's USP is a powerful speaker system that is capable of pushing out a 360-degree soundstage -- ideal for sports and movie nights. On-screen menus include thoughtful touches such as being able to adjust the picture to compensate for your wall's colour. Picture quality is weak compared to the audio heroics, though. Presentations look bright, but dark film scenes are flat.
WIRED Bold looks; startlingly good audio
TIRED Darker movie scenes look grey and unconvincing £460
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
