When it comes to entertainment, a projector is quickly becoming the preferred choice over traditional TVs. With a budget of 400, you can purchase an entry-level projector that offers much higher resolution and more features than any TV in the same price range.
Additionally, projectors offer a much larger viewing area, allowing you to enjoy movies and television shows from almost anywhere in your home.
Plus, with its portability, you can take your projector outdoors or on vacation for larger-than-life movie nights! So if you’re looking for an affordable way to upgrade your home cinematic experience, investing in a projector under $400 is worth considering.
In this article, we will discuss all the important factors and features one must consider when choosing a project for under $400. We’ll review performance, features, connectivity options, and more to help you pick the best projector within your budget.
We’ll also list some of our top picks so that you can quickly select an option without extensive research.
7 Best Projectors Under 400 In 2023
| Image | Name | Features | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | ViewSonic 3800 | Lumens: 3800 Resolution: 1280 x 800p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | BenQ MS560 | Lumens: 4000 Resolution: 800 x 600p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | Anker NEBULA Capsule II | Lumens: 200 ANSI Resolution: 1280x720p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | LG PH510P | Lumens: 550 ANSI Resolution: 1280 x 720p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | Jimveo Outdoor | Lumens: 18000L Resolution: 1920 x 1080p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | ViewSonic PA503S | Lumens: 3800 Resolution: 800 x 600p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
 | Fatork Portable (D042) | Lumens: 150 ANSI Resolution: 854 x 480p | ★★★★★ | Check Price |
Top Projectors Under 400 Reviews 2023
ViewSonic 3800 Lumens
The ViewSonic 3800 offers an impressive 3,800 lumens and a powerful 22,000:1 contrast ratio to create vivid images with rich color. This projector also features horizontal keystone correction, allowing you to make minor adjustments to keep your image looking perfect no matter what angle it’s projected from.
The projector has numerous input options, including HDMI, VGA, composite video, audio-in/out jacks, and 3D capability. With this feature-packed projector, you can enjoy movies or gaming in high definition on any size screen. In addition, its Reduced Input Latency of 16ms helps you enjoy gaming and other fast-action content without lag or blurring.
The projector also supports 3D Blu-Ray-ready HDMI input, allowing you to enjoy 3D movies with compatible Blu-ray players and streaming services. This Versatile projector also comes with two 2W stereo speakers, making it easy to enjoy movies and gaming without having to set up external speakers.
The speakers provide a rich sound experience at any volume level, so you can easily hear dialogue or sound effects in all your content. Built with energy efficiency in mind, the ViewSonic 3800 offers quiet operation for a low total cost of ownership. In addition, its longer lamp life of up to 15,000 hours ensures you’ll have vibrant images for years.
The ViewSonic 3800 offers an amazing 1.96 to 2.15 throw ratio, allowing you to project a 100″ image from just 4 feet away. This projector can produce images up to 300″ in size and is ideal for projection screen sizes between 60-300 inches (diagonal).
This versatile projector allows you to accommodate almost any room size or home theater setup easily. The sleek design of the ViewSonic 3800 also makes it easy to set up and transport. In addition, it comes with a convenient carrying case that allows you to take your projector anywhere you go with ease.
The ViewSonic 3800 offers a variety of connectivity options to make it easy to connect with computers, media players, gaming systems, and more. It has two HDMI ports for HD video and audio streaming, one VGA port for connecting computers or laptops, and one composite video port.
It also includes an audio-in/out jack to hook up external speakers quickly to enhance your sound experience. Additionally, the projector has both wired and wireless network capabilities, letting you stream content from devices on your home network or the internet directly onto your projector screen.
Pros:
- High brightness of 3800 lumens, making images appear vibrant and clear even in ambient lighting conditions.
- Up to 1080p HD support for sharp and detailed images.
- Short-throw lens allows projection from a short distance while maintaining a large image size.
- DynamicEco technology helps conserve lamp life by up to 15,000 hours.
- Built-in 2W speakers provide crystal clear audio without an external sound system.
- Easy setup with HDMI connectivity, VGA, composite video, and USB inputs.
Cons:
- No WLAN or Bluetooth connectivity.
- Higher cost than comparable models with lower brightness levels.
- Small fans can be noisy during operation.
BenQ SVGA Business Projector (MS560)
The BenQ MS560 has a high brightness of 4000 lumens and can display clear images even in brightly lit rooms. The SVGA resolution allows the projector to display crisp, sharp pictures with excellent image quality. It also includes various connectivity options, such as VGA and HDMI ports, making it easy to connect with multiple devices.
The built-in audio system provides excellent sound quality, which is great for presentations or video conferences. Additionally, the projector has an energy-saving design that helps save up to 70% on electricity costs compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. The BenQ MS560 has an impressive contrast ratio of 10,000:1 and a native resolution of 800×600. This makes it ideal for displaying highly detailed presentations and movies with great clarity.
The projector also performs well outdoors, thanks to its high brightness rating. It can display images with clear visibility even when there is natural light, making it perfect for outdoor events and meetings. Additionally, this projector is designed to be durable and can withstand extreme temperatures and humidity levels. This ensures that you can use it outdoors without worrying about performance issues.
It also is equipped with Auto Vertical Keystone, which automatically corrects the image distortion caused by angled projection. This allows you to set up your projector quickly and easily without worrying about manually adjusting the keystone settings. In addition, the projector has stand adjustments that will enable you to adjust the height and angle of the screen for a more comfortable viewing experience.
The projector also includes Plug and Play technology, eliminating the need to install drivers or software before using the device. This makes it easy to connect the projector to computers, laptops, and other devices with minimal effort. This projector is also compatible with various operating systems, such as Windows and Mac OS so you can use it with almost any device. The MS560 also offers a range of security and longevity features that make it ideal for business use.
For example, it has a Kensington Lock slot, which allows you to physically secure the projector to the mounting surface or other stationary objects. This prevents theft or unauthorized access to your device and ensures that confidential information is kept safe. Additionally, it includes an Anti-Dust Sensor that detects dust particles inside the projector and stops operation when there is too much buildup. This helps keep your projector free from dust and debris and prolongs its lifespan.
The projector also includes an eco-mode that helps reduce power consumption, making it even more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, the versatile design makes it easy to set up in different environments, and the lamp life is up to 10,000 hours. As a result, the BenQ SVGA Business Projector is a great choice for business use, as it offers excellent image quality and reliable performance at an affordable price. It also comes with a three-year warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment will last for years.
Pros:
- High brightness of 4000 lumens, allowing for clear and sharp images in any light condition
- Large throw ratio of 1.51-1.99:1, resulting in a wide viewing angle
- Built-in 10W speaker produces loud and clear sound quality
- Easy to set up and control with intuitive user input port options
- Long lamp life of up to 10,000 hours for extended use without needing to replace the bulb frequently
Cons:
- Heavier than other projectors of similar size, making it more difficult to transport anywhere without help
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
- Limited native resolution of SVGA
Anker NEBULA Capsule II
The Anker NEBULA Capsule II Projector is a portable and versatile projector that provides an incredible cinematic experience no matter where you are. This compact and lightweight device feature LED projection technology with advanced DLP IntelliBright algorithms for enhanced image quality and brightness that rivals many traditional projectors.
With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability, the Anker NEBULA Capsule II allows you to stream up to 720P content from your laptop or smartphone directly onto any wall or screen. Additionally, this projector has built-in 8W speakers that provide impressive sound quality and volume control options to customize your viewing pleasure. With a long-lasting battery life of up to 2.5 hours, the Anker NEBULA Capsule II Projector is perfect for movies, gaming, and presentations.
The Anker NEBULA Projector boasts a bright 200 ANSI lumens and offers a wide range of colors for an immersive viewing experience. This projector also features advanced DLP IntelliBright algorithms to ensure the images are clear, detailed, and vibrant. Additionally, the LED lamp has an impressive life expectancy of up to 30,000 hours, ensuring that your projector will continue to deliver superior performance for years to come.
This projector offers a throw ratio of 1.2:1, allowing you to achieve large-scale images from short distances and making it ideal for any room size or seating arrangement. Furthermore, the auto keystone feature helps correct the trapezoidal distortion that can occur when projecting at an angle, ensuring that your images remain sharp and accurate. This device supports 16:9, 4:3, and auto aspect ratios to customize the viewing experience based on your specific needs, whether a movie or a presentation; the Anker NEBULA Capsule II Projector can display your content optimally and accurately to life.
The Anker NEBULA Capsule II is designed with portability in mind and weighs just 0.59 kilograms, making it easy to take anywhere. Its unique circle-shaped design adds a touch of style to any room and allows for easy storage. Additionally, the projector has an adjustable focus wheel that can be turned to adjust the image size from 30″ to 100″. This makes it perfect for presentations and movie nights, regardless of where you are. Its onboard media player allows you to store and access music, photos, and videos directly from the projector.
Additionally, it offers a variety of convenient connectivity options. Moreover, it has two HDMI ports, one USB port, an AV port, and a 3.5mm audio jack to connect to other devices easily. Additionally, this projector supports Airplay, Chromecast, Miracast, and DLNA, meaning that you can stream content from various sources without cables or adapters. Furthermore, it is compatible with iOS and Android devices and Windows 10 and Mac OS.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to take with you on the go
- High image quality with up to 200 lumens of brightness and a contrast ratio of 1000:1
- Supports multiple inputs, including HDMI, USB Port
- Built-in speaker for an immersive listening experience
- Long battery life – lasts up to 2.5 hours on a single charge
Cons:
- Maximum resolution is limited to 1280×720 pixels
- Limited color range and not suitable for HDR content
LG PH510P Portable CineBeam Projector
The LG PH510P HD projector boasts a resolution of up to 1280 x 720, allowing for crisp and clear images on the big screen. This high-definition resolution ensures that all your favorite movies, shows, and games look their best. The combination of this resolution with advanced features like 3D compatibility makes the LG PH510P an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a movie theater experience in the comfort of their own home. With its bright light output, you can watch your favorite films in dimly lit rooms without compromising image quality. Plus, its compact size allows you to transport it from room to room quickly and easily should you need to move it around.
In addition to its HD resolution, the LG PH510P also features a brightness of 500 ANSI lumens and a contrast ratio of 100000:1. This combination of brightness and contrast allows images with stunning levels of detail and depth. With such high luminosity, you can enjoy vibrant colors and sharp details even in brightly lit rooms where other projectors may struggle. And with its incredibly high contrast ratio, you can experience intense black levels for an optimal viewing experience.
All these features come together to provide an immersive movie theatre-like experience right in your home. In addition, this projector has a lamp life of up to 30,000 hours, giving you plenty of performance throughout its lifetime. This long-lasting lamp allows you to watch your favorite movies and shows without worrying about needing to replace them in the near future. Additionally, it features an eco-mode setting that reduces power consumption and extends the life of the lamp. This eco-mode allows you to reduce your electricity bill while still enjoying a bright, crisp image on the big screen.
The LG PH510P has multiple connectivity options, so you can quickly hook up your laptop or streaming device. It is compatible with HDMI and USB inputs, allowing you to connect your favorite devices for a hassle-free setup easily. You can also hook up external audio sources using the 3.5 mm audio input port or Bluetooth connection. This makes it easy to create an immersive soundscape that takes your viewing experience to the next level. Additionally, its RJ45 port enables easy connection to a LAN network to access content from other devices on the same network. With all these features, you can enjoy a seamless home entertainment experience right home.
The LG PH510P HD projector also comes with a built-in TV tuner, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows without needing an external set-top box. This integrated tuner will enable you to access digital and analog broadcasts from your local TV station in stunning high definition. In addition, you can easily switch between channels using the included remote control and access the TV guide to browse through what’s currently airing. This makes it easy to stay up-to-date with your favorite shows and movies without manually searching for them. You can also pause live TV broadcasts, so you never have to miss a moment of your favorite programs. With this feature, you can enjoy an unparalleled home entertainment experience without sacrificing convenience.
Pros:
- Incredible color accuracy and contrast ratio, creating stunningly vibrant visuals
-Built-in Battery (up to 2.5 Hours) - High resolution makes for sharp, detailed images with minimal pixelation
- Supports several video formats such as HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) for an optimized viewing experience
- Easy to setup and use, with an intuitive user interface
- Minimal lag time due to its fast response rate
- Built-in Bluetooth technology allows users to stream content wirelessly
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other competitors in the market
- Not great when it comes to motion blur, which will be noticeable in fast-paced action scenes
- Limited settings for adjusting brightness, contrast, and color saturation
Jimveo Outdoor Movie Projector
The imveo projector offers a stunning 4K resolution, allowing you to experience cinematic clarity from any location. Its compact design makes it easy to move around and set up in different locations without sacrificing picture quality. The built-in speakers also provide crisp and clear sound, giving you an immersive audio experience that enhances your movie viewing pleasure. Additionally, this projector has been designed for optimal outdoor performance; it features an IP65 rating for dust and waterproof protection so that your outdoor movie night remains uninterrupted by rain or other environmental factors.
This projector features Lumens of up to 480 ANSI, providing a bright and clear image even in outdoor settings. This allows you to watch movies at their best without worrying about losing picture quality due to light interference. Additionally, the projector offers a high contrast ratio of up to 12000:1, giving you incredible clarity and detail when viewing darker scenes.
On top of that, this projector is equipped with Auto 6D Keystone technology which intelligently corrects the projection when the projector is not perfectly aligned with the screen. This makes setup easy and ensures that your movie viewing experience remains sharp and clear regardless of how it’s set up.
The imveo projector offers the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for a seamless, lag-free streaming experience. This makes it easy to stream movies and other content from your smartphone or laptop without buffering or delays. Additionally, with its built-in Bluetooth 5.1 technology, you can easily connect to various compatible audio devices, such as headphones and external speakers, for an enhanced audio experience. This versatile projector also supports AirPlay and Miracast, allowing you to wirelessly mirror content from your iOS or Android device with ease. This simple setup process makes it easy to enjoy your favorite movies outdoors with friends and family.
This projector also offers several other useful features that make it an ideal choice for outdoor movie nights. It comes with a remote control and IR receiver, allowing you to control the projector from anywhere in the vicinity. Additionally, it has two built-in HDMI ports, making it easy to connect multiple devices, such as game consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming sticks. Finally, the projector offers a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD, for an immersive sound experience. These features make it easy to enjoy movies outdoors in stunning 4K without sacrificing picture or sound quality.
Pros:
- High brightness levels, up to 450 ANSI lumens, allowing for clear image projection even in outdoor settings
- Wide compatibility with most devices and media formats
- Built-in speakers that provide excellent sound quality
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable price point compared to other projectors
Cons:
- Image sharpness may not be as good as more expensive models
- Not compatible with 3D content
- Fans can be loud when running at full capacity.
ViewSonic 3800 (PA503S) Projector
The ViewSonic 3800 (PA503S) Projector is an excellent choice for home theaters, classrooms, and conference rooms. It combines a high brightness level of 3600 ANSI lumens with a 22,000:1 contrast ratio to deliver bright, detailed images. The projector also features advanced image processing technologies such as SuperColor and SonicExpert, which ensure accurate color reproduction and sharper images. Its intuitive user controls allow users to adjust the settings to create their desired viewing experience easily. It features a throw ratio of 1.96-2.15:1, which enables users to project images from a short distance. The projector supports screen sizes up to 300 inches, allowing large groups to view the projected content easily.
The projector also has a reduced input latency of 16ms, allowing gamers and other users to enjoy a smooth performance with minimal lag or delay in their content. The ViewSonic PA503S supports 3D content via HDMI and has two built-in 2W speakers for added audio support. Thanks to its eco-friendly design, the projector consumes up to 70% less energy than traditional models and features a long-lasting lamp life of up to 15,000 hours in Economic Mode.
Furthermore, this projector includes multiple ports, such as one HDMI 1.4a port for connecting to external media devices, one VGA port for PC or laptop connection, and two USB ports for connecting a mouse or keyboard. The projector also has an extensive range of security features, including password protection, a Kensington lock slot, and more to keep the device secure from unauthorized access.
This ViewSonic Projector also includes various other features to enhance the user experience. It comes with an auto power-off feature that automatically turns off the projector after a period of inactivity. The projector also has a built-in wall color correction feature which automatically corrects for discrepancies between the projected color and the wall color to give lifelike images.
Additionally, the projector has an image freeze feature that allows the user to pause a live projection to take notes or discuss certain topics without restarting their presentation. It also features a digital zoom function that enables users to enlarge any part of their projected content without compromising image quality. Lastly, the ViewSonic PA503S Projector includes a full-featured remote control with quick access buttons, which makes it easy to adjust settings and navigate menus.
Pros:
- Bright and clear image quality with 3,800 lumens
- Multiple connectivity options, including HDMI and VGA ports
- Compatible with many devices such as laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, etc.
- Filterless design reduces maintenance costs
- Easy to set up and adjust focus using the 1.3x optical zoom lens
- Comes with energy-saving Eco Mode feature to reduce power consumption
Cons:
- Onboard audio isn’t powerful enough for large venues
- No wireless connectivity options available
Fatork Portable D042 Projector
The Fatork Pocket Monster D042 Projector is a unique device that combines the latest in projection technology with the world of pocket monsters. This projector allows users to project their favorite pocket monster images onto any wall or surface and create an interactive 3D experience. It features three modes for gaming, movies, and even creating your pocket monster environment. The projector also has an onboard sound system that allows you to enjoy surround sound audio with your images projected. Additionally, the projector has a built-in rechargeable battery, so you can take it anywhere and use it for hours.
The D042 projector is incredibly powerful, boasting up to a stunning 150ANSI Lumens of brightness and a contrast ratio of 1500:1. This ensures that your images are always clear and vibrant no matter where you project them. The projector also features a short focal distance, so you don’t need to be overly close to the wall or surface to get the best results. In addition, the built-in clarity control allows you to adjust the image quality depending on the environment, ensuring that your pocket monster images look their best every time. Finally, this projector offers an impressive 30,000+ hours of lamp life, meaning it will last for years and years with consistent use.
This Pocket Monster can project up to 110 inches off-screen size. This ensures that your images can be seen from far away, making them perfect for parties or presentations. The projector also features automatic keystone correction, which allows you to make sure the image remains aligned and properly proportioned no matter where you project it on a wall or surface. The keystone correction can adjust ± 40°, so you don’t have to worry about distortion in your images. Additionally, the projector has integrated speakers that provide stereo sound quality, making it ideal for watching movies and playing games with friends.
Additionally, it also comes with an array of connectivity options. It offers wired and wireless connection support, ensuring you can connect to various devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Additionally, the projector features USB Type C, HDMI, and VGA video inputs so you can easily connect external devices and project the content. The projector also comes with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and supports AirPlay for Apple devices, making it easy to share your pocket monster experiences with friends and family. Finally, the projector comes with 3D support and is compatible with multiple media formats such as MP4, AVI, and WMV files.
Pros:
- Lightweight, portable design makes it easy to take the projector anywhere.
- High native resolution of 1080P for clear and detailed visuals.
- Supports various media file formats, including AVI, MP4, MKV, and more.
- Easy setup with quick-release latch feature and auto keystone correction.
- Built-in 8W stereo audio speakers provide powerful sound without needing an external system.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to similar models on the market.
- Not as bright as some of the other projectors on the market.
Features Should Consider Before Buying a Projector Under $400
Projectors have become increasingly popular in recent years, and their ubiquity has led to a wide range of options available on the market. It can be difficult to determine which projector is right for your needs, so we’ve put together this guide to help you purchase the best projector for your situation.
Brightness
The brightness level of a projector is determined by the number of lumens it produces. The higher the lumens, the brighter the projected image will be. This is important if you plan to use your projector in a room that isn’t completely dark or in an outdoor setting. If you require maximum brightness and clarity, look for projectors with at least 3000 lumens or higher.
Resolution
Resolution will determine the sharpness of your projected image. The most common resolution for projectors is 1080p, which provides a Full HD image. However, to display high-quality 4K images, look for projectors with 4K UHD resolutions (2160p).
Throw Ratio
The throw ratio of a projector determines the distance between the lens and the screen. A smaller throw ratio means placing your projector closer to the screen, while a larger throw ratio requires more space. Make sure to consider this when selecting a projector for your needs.
Connectivity
Connectivity is an important factor to consider when choosing a projector. Many projectors come with HDMI, VGA, and USB ports for connecting external devices. Some models may also include wireless capabilities such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Make sure your projector has the necessary ports for connecting your devices.
Portability
If you plan to move your projector from one location to another, look for lightweight and easy-to-transport models. Many projectors come with a carrying case or bag, which makes it easier to move the unit around.
Reviews & Rating
Take some time to read reviews and ratings online before making a purchase. This will help you get an idea of how well the projector performs in real-world settings and any potential issues or drawbacks.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
There are various projector types available for under $400. These include DLP (Digital Light Processing), LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and LED (Light Emitting Diode) projectors. Each type of projector has advantages and disadvantages, so research is important to determine which type is best for your needs.
es, the resolution of a projector can affect its price. Generally speaking, higher-resolution projectors will cost more than lower-resolution models. So if you are looking for an HD projector that costs less than $400, you may want to consider a lower-resolution model.
Projectors that cost less than $400 offer several advantages over traditional TVs. Firstly, projectors have a much larger viewing area, allowing you to enjoy movies and show on a much bigger screen. Additionally, many projectors under $400 can produce higher resolutions than standard TVs.
Portable projectors offer several advantages over other types. Firstly, they are much more lightweight and easy to move around. This makes them perfect for taking with you on business trips or having a movie night at home. Many portable projectors also come with built-in speakers and media streaming capabilities, giving you access to various content.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best projector under 400 should be chosen based on your viewing needs and budget. If you are looking for a bright, portable projector with good connectivity options, then the ViewSonic PA503W is an excellent option.
Alternatively, if you need something more powerful for larger venues, then the BenQ (MS560) or LG-PH510P may be better choices. Ultimately, whichever projector you invest in will provide hours of entertainment at a great value.
