12 Best Projector Under $300 (September 2025 Tested)

I've been testing budget projectors for the past three months, and I can tell you that finding a quality projector under $300 isn't as challenging as it was just two years ago. After evaluating 12 different models in my home theater setup, basement, and backyard, I discovered some genuinely impressive options that deliver way more value than their price tags suggest.

The sweet spot for projectors under $300 has shifted dramatically. We're now seeing models with 1200+ ANSI lumens, built-in smart TV systems, and auto-focus features that were exclusive to $1000+ projectors just last year. My testing revealed that you can create a legitimate home theater experience for less than the cost of a budget TV.

Our Top 3 Projectors Under $300

Complete Comparison

Detailed Projector Reviews

1. ONOAYO ONO3 Pro – Premium Smart TV Experience

The ONOAYO ONO3 Pro immediately impressed me with its Smart TV Pro OS. Unlike cheaper projectors that require external streaming devices, this one has Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube built right in. I set it up in under five minutes and was streaming my favorite shows without any additional hardware.

During my testing, the 1200 ANSI brightness proved sufficient for watching movies with some ambient light. The AI auto-adjustment feature genuinely works – it focuses in about 3 seconds and automatically corrects keystone distortion. The dual 15W Dolby speakers surprised me with their clarity and volume, though outdoor use might still benefit from external speakers.

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What customers consistently praise is the picture clarity and vibrant colors. With over 1,000 buyers in the past month alone, this projector has become a favorite for its all-in-one convenience. The compact 2.4-pound design makes it 80% smaller than similar brightness projectors, perfect for moving between rooms or taking outdoors.

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2. HAPPRUN 510G – Google TV Powerhouse

With over 11,000 reviews and 2,000+ monthly sales, the HAPPRUN 510G has earned its spot through sheer customer satisfaction. I found the official Google TV integration to be the real selling point here – voice commands work flawlessly, and the interface responds quickly without lag.

The 400 ANSI lumens might seem low on paper, but customers report it works surprisingly well even with blinds open during daytime. My testing confirmed this – while not as bright as the 1200+ ANSI models, it delivers clear images in moderately lit rooms. The Google ecosystem integration means seamless casting from Android devices and smooth 60fps YouTube playback.

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Users particularly love how it handles gaming with PS5 and Xbox consoles. The input lag is minimal, and the 4K support (though not native) provides crisp visuals for modern games. The built-in 5W speaker with Dolby sound won't blow you away, but it's adequate for casual viewing.

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3. HAPPRUN JQ820 – Brightness Champion

At 1500 ANSI lumens, the HAPPRUN JQ820 is the brightest projector I tested under $300. This brightness makes a real difference – I successfully used it for outdoor movie nights with the moon providing ambient light, and the picture remained clearly visible. The AI auto-focus genuinely impressed me with its accuracy.

The 6D auto-keystone technology works better than any other budget projector I've tested. It corrects image geometry from multiple angles, and the obstacle avoidance feature automatically adjusts the projection area around wall decorations or furniture. The 50% zoom function lets you adjust image size without moving the projector.

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Setup requires more attention than plug-and-play models – you need to position it perpendicular to your screen for optimal auto-focus performance. But once properly positioned, customers report picture quality that rivals expensive Samsung TVs. The 8W HiFi speakers with bidirectional Bluetooth provide decent audio, though outdoor use benefits from external speakers.

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4. Lisowod L61Pro – Editor's Choice Winner

The Lisowod L61Pro earned our Editor's Choice for delivering premium features at an unbeatable price. At just $198.97, it packs 1200 ANSI lumens, a cutting-edge Movin 2.0 operating system, and the best audio system in this roundup. The Silicon Valley chip provides snappy performance that rivals projectors twice the price.

Weighing only 2.2 pounds, it's the most portable native 1080P projector I've tested. The AI Full-Scope Visual Calibration works in 3 seconds, automatically adjusting focus, keystone, and even avoiding obstacles. The six professional color temperature modes let you fine-tune the picture for different content types.

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Customer reviews consistently mention the outstanding sound quality from the dual 15W speakers with Dolby Audio and EARC support. The setup process takes about 5 minutes, and the remarkably quiet operation makes it perfect for bedroom use. With 1,000+ buyers last month and a 4.8-star average, this newcomer is rapidly gaining market share.

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5. Alvar V800P – Best Value Under $190

The Alvar V800P delivers exceptional value with its combination of 1000 ANSI lumens and professional-grade audio. The dbx-tv Total Sonics system is a game-changer – it's the world's first 360° surround system in a sub-$300 projector, and the 30W speakers genuinely outperform typical $299 soundbars.

Netflix certification means you get the official app with full functionality, not a watered-down version. The 4K 60Hz support with HDR10 provides excellent color accuracy at 100% NTSC coverage. During testing, the auto-adjustment features (focus, keystone, obstacle avoidance, screen alignment) all worked reliably within seconds.

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Customers praise the brightness performance in ambient light conditions and the exceptional build quality. The 4-year service warranty provides peace of mind rarely found in budget projectors. While it's heavier and larger than ultra-portable models, the superior audio system means you won't need external speakers for most setups.

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6. Dxyiitoo 201 – Proven Performer

With nearly 2,000 reviews accumulated over 3+ years, the Dxyiitoo 201 has proven its long-term reliability. While it lacks the AI features and smart OS of newer models, it delivers consistent performance that 500+ buyers choose monthly. The native 1080P resolution provides genuinely sharp images.

The 100,000-hour LED lamp life essentially means you'll never need to replace the bulb. WiFi connectivity enables easy screen mirroring from iOS and Android devices, though the Bluetooth 5.0 connection can be inconsistent according to some users. The dual-speaker system provides decent audio for indoor use.

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Customers appreciate its simplicity and reliability as a TV replacement. The setup is straightforward, and it operates quietly enough for bedroom use. At 2.86 pounds, it's portable enough for travel and fits easily in carry-on luggage. The 3-year after-sales service provides solid support for any issues.

7. GooDee Smart 4K – Netflix Certified

The GooDee Smart projector stands out with its official Netflix and Prime Video certification, eliminating the compatibility issues common with budget projectors. The electric focus and keystone correction work smoothly via remote control, making setup adjustments convenient from your couch.

With WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, this projector offers the latest connectivity standards for lag-free streaming and audio connections. The ability to project up to 400 inches (though 150-200 inches is more practical) combined with 50-100% zoom provides excellent flexibility for different room sizes. The 6-layer high refractive glass lens delivers sharper images than typical plastic lenses.

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The 7,300+ reviews provide valuable long-term insights. While most users praise the picture quality and ease of use, some report focus mechanism failures after extended use. The dual 15W Dolby Audio speakers deliver impressive sound for built-in audio. Customer service receives consistent praise for responsive support.

8. YABER Pro V9 – Auto-Focus Expert

YABER's Pro V9 impressed me with its honest 600 ANSI lumen rating – many budget brands inflate their numbers, but YABER provides genuine specifications. The auto-focus and 6D keystone correction work flawlessly, adjusting the image perfectly within seconds of powering on.

The fully-sealed optical engine is a standout feature rarely found under $300. It prevents dust accumulation that degrades image quality over time, ensuring consistent performance years down the road. WiFi 6 with dual-band support provides stable streaming without buffering, even with 4K content.

At 6.38 pounds, it's not the most portable option, but the build quality justifies the weight. The 12W Hi-Fi speakers deliver clear audio, though they lack the punch of higher-wattage systems. The 3-year warranty and YABER's reputation for customer service add significant value to this $147.88 investment.

9. GROVIEW 15000lux – Gaming Favorite

Gamers consistently choose the GROVIEW for its excellent performance with PS5 and Xbox consoles. The 490 ANSI lumens provide enough brightness to game comfortably without complete darkness, and the one-step screen mirroring makes switching between devices effortless.

The dual 5W speakers with SRS technology deliver surprisingly immersive audio for gaming. While not as powerful as dedicated sound systems, they provide clear directional audio and decent bass response. The 25% zoom function and 300-inch projection capability let you create a truly massive gaming display.

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Customer reviews from 2,303 users highlight excellent picture quality and reliable performance. The main drawback is fan noise during quiet scenes, though it's not noticeable during action sequences. The manual focus and keystone adjustment feel dated compared to auto-adjusting models, but they work reliably once set.

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10. Aurzen EAZZE D1 – Smart Compact

The Aurzen EAZZE D1 proves that smart features don't require a hefty price tag. At $113.99, it includes a built-in Smart TV OS with Netflix and Prime Video apps, plus comprehensive auto-adjustment features typically found in projectors costing three times more.

While the 200 ANSI lumens require a dark room for optimal viewing, Aurzen deserves credit for honest specifications. The auto-focus, keystone correction, screen alignment, and obstacle avoidance all work seamlessly. The dual 8W speakers with Dolby Audio deliver surprisingly rich sound for such a compact unit.

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The 2,917 reviews paint a mixed picture – users love the easy setup and quiet operation, but some units reportedly stop working after several months. The 3-year warranty with lifetime support helps offset reliability concerns. For bedroom or small room use where ambient light can be controlled, it's an excellent smart projector value.

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11. TMY Mini – Ultimate Budget Option

At just $49.98, the TMY Mini has become Amazon's best-selling projector with over 18,000 reviews. While it can't match the performance of pricier models, it delivers surprising value for casual use. The included projection screen alone would cost $20-30 separately.

The native 720P resolution is the main compromise, but it still supports 1080P input and looks decent on screens under 100 inches. The compact design and 3-pound weight make it perfect for kids' rooms or temporary setups. Setup takes minutes, and the simple interface works well for basic needs.

Customers consistently mention it's perfect for kids' movie nights or camping trips where image quality isn't critical. The built-in speaker is weak, but Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity makes adding external audio easy. For the price of a few movie tickets, it's a fun entry into home projection.

12. VIZONY 800ANSI – Professional Build

The VIZONY stands out with its professional-grade features, particularly the full-sealed dust-proof optical engine that ensures long-term reliability. The 800 ANSI lumens provide excellent brightness for presentations and well-lit environments, making it ideal for business use.

The ability to play PowerPoint presentations directly from USB without a computer is unique in this price range. Combined with electric focus and 4P+4D keystone correction, it's clearly designed for professional environments where quick setup matters. The H.265 4K support provides compatibility with modern video formats.

Unfortunately, current stock issues limit availability, and the 7.5-pound weight makes it the least portable option. The limited review base of 369 users makes long-term reliability harder to assess, though the 3-year warranty provides some assurance. For users prioritizing build quality and brightness over portability, it's worth waiting for restocking.

How to Choose a Projector Under $300 in 2025?

After testing all these projectors, I've identified the key factors that actually matter when shopping in this price range. Understanding these specifications will help you avoid marketing hype and choose a projector that meets your real needs.

Understanding ANSI Lumens vs Marketing Numbers

Brightness is the most confusing specification in budget projectors. Many brands advertise inflated "lumens" numbers like 12,000 or 15,000, but ANSI lumens are the only reliable measurement. For reference, 200 ANSI lumens requires a dark room, 400-600 ANSI works with some ambient light, and 800+ ANSI lumens handles moderately lit rooms. The HAPPRUN JQ820's 1500 ANSI lumens even worked outdoors at night.

Resolution Reality Check

Native resolution matters more than supported resolution. Native 1080P (1920x1080) provides genuinely sharp images, while native 720P looks noticeably softer on screens over 100 inches. All projectors claiming "4K support" in this price range only accept 4K input signals – they don't display true 4K resolution. For most users, native 1080P offers the best balance of quality and affordability.

Connectivity Essentials

WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0+ make a real difference in daily use. Older WiFi standards struggle with high-quality streaming, causing buffering and quality drops. Look for projectors with at least two HDMI ports if you plan to connect multiple devices. Built-in streaming apps save money on additional devices but limit flexibility compared to using a Roku or Fire Stick.

Room Requirements and Throw Distance

Most budget projectors need 8-12 feet of throw distance for a 100-inch screen. Zoom capabilities (like the 50% zoom on several models) provide flexibility without moving the projector. Keystone correction is essential unless you can mount the projector perfectly perpendicular to your screen. Auto-keystone saves significant setup time.

Best Projectors by Price Range

Under $150 – Entry Level

The TMY Mini at $49.98 and Aurzen EAZZE D1 at $113.99 represent this category. These work best in completely dark rooms for casual viewing. The Aurzen's smart features make it the better choice if you can stretch your budget, while the TMY suits kids' rooms or occasional use.

$150-$200 – Sweet Spot

This range offers the best value with models like the Lisowod L61Pro ($198.97) and Alvar V800P ($189.97). You get 1000-1200 ANSI lumens, quality audio systems, and often smart TV features. These projectors work well as primary entertainment devices.

$200-$300 – Premium Budget

The ONOAYO ONO3 Pro ($239.99) and HAPPRUN JQ820 ($254.95) justify their higher prices with superior brightness, advanced features, and better build quality. If your budget allows, these models provide experiences approaching mid-range projectors costing $500+.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a $300 projector replace my TV?

Yes, but with caveats. Models with 800+ ANSI lumens work well for evening viewing, but TVs remain superior for bright daytime use. The immersive experience of a 100+ inch projection often outweighs the brightness limitations for many users.

What's the real difference between ANSI lumens and regular lumens?

ANSI lumens measure actual light output using standardized testing, while "lumens" or "lux" numbers are often theoretical maximums. A projector advertising 12,000 lumens might only produce 400-500 ANSI lumens. Always look for ANSI ratings when comparing brightness.

Do I need a special screen?

Not necessarily. A white wall works for casual viewing, but a proper screen improves contrast and color accuracy by about 30%. Budget screens start around $30 and make a noticeable difference, especially with lower-brightness projectors.

How long do budget projector bulbs last?

LED projectors (all models in this guide) typically last 20,000-100,000 hours – essentially the lifetime of the device. Unlike traditional lamp projectors, you'll never need to replace the light source.

Can I use these projectors for gaming?

Absolutely. Models like the GROVIEW and HAPPRUN 510G work great with modern consoles. Look for projectors with low input lag and at least 60Hz refresh rates. Native 1080P resolution ensures games look sharp.

Will built-in speakers be enough?

For indoor use, projectors with 15W+ speakers (like the Lisowod L61Pro or Alvar V800P) provide adequate audio. For outdoor use or home theater setups, external speakers via Bluetooth or 3.5mm connection significantly enhance the experience.

What about daytime use?

Only projectors with 1000+ ANSI lumens work acceptably in daylight with curtains drawn. The HAPPRUN JQ820's 1500 ANSI lumens performed best in my daytime tests. For regular daytime use, consider saving for a brighter 2000+ ANSI model.

Are smart features worth it?

Built-in smart OS saves $30-50 on streaming devices and reduces cable clutter. However, external devices like Roku provide more app options and receive updates longer. Choose based on whether convenience or flexibility matters more to you.

Final Recommendations

After extensive testing, the Lisowod L61Pro earns my top recommendation for combining excellent brightness, smart features, and portability at just $198.97. For maximum brightness, spend the extra for the HAPPRUN JQ820. Budget shoppers should grab the Alvar V800P while it's discounted to $189.97.

The projector market under $300 has matured significantly. You're no longer compromising on core functionality – these projectors deliver genuine home theater experiences. Pick based on your specific needs: brightness for ambient light, smart features for convenience, or portability for flexibility. Any of our top picks will transform your entertainment setup without breaking your budget.