We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Home Products Patio Furniture & Outdoors The 5 Best Outdoor Movie Projectors of 2024, Tested in Real Backyards Stream your favorite rom-com in your own backyard By L.A. Hubilla L.A. Hubilla L.A. Hubilla is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE who specializes in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content. She also regularly tests products for multiple digital outlets, including InStyle and Byrdie. When she's not window shopping online or creating pro and con lists, you'll find her drinking tea and talking about her feelings. People Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 31, 2024 02:05PM EDT In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Others We Tried What to Know Behind the Scenes FAQ Why Trust PEOPLE What Is People Tested? Photo: People / Alli Waataja There’s nothing quite like experiencing a movie under the stars. Forget the drive-in, create an outdoor movie night right at home — it’s easier than you might think. The days of large, complicated projector setups are over. With WiFi and Bluetooth technology, many outdoor projectors are cordless, portable, and easy to use. We tested nine projectors for a total of 63 hours to evaluate the overall user experience and performance of each. After observing each projector’s setup and design along with the audio and video quality, we narrowed down our final recommendations. Prep that popcorn, grab your bug spray, and read on for our top picks for outdoor projectors. Coming Soon! Our current top pick — the Nebula Solar Portable projector — is being discontinued this summer, so our team has set out to test two more projectors in its place: the Nebula Mars 3 and the Nebula Capsule 3. Check back soon for results, and grab our top pick while you still can! It's almost 50 percent off at Amazon while supplies last. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Nebula by Anker Solar Portable Projector at Amazon $320 Jump to Review Best Budget: Purshe Bluetooth Projector at Amazon $137 Jump to Review Best Investment: Anker Laser 4K Projector at Amazon $2,000 Jump to Review Easiest Setup: SALE Epson Mini EF12 Projector at Amazon $1,000 $800 Jump to Review Best for Gaming: Samsung The Freestyle Gen 2 at Amazon $798 Jump to Review Best Overall Nebula by Anker Solar Portable Projector PHOTO: Amazon $320 at Amazon View on Seenebula.com Star Qualities Simple setup with a Google account and an Android phone Auto-focus feature proved helpful Included battery lasted for a full movie Red Flags Included cord was too short; we needed an extension cord Additional apps needed to install Netflix and use Apple devices Editor’s note: This product is being discontinued, so check back for more options soon. Our best overall pick is this portable projector from Anker. Setup was a breeze with an existing Google account and Android phone. This outdoor projector operates on Android TV9 software, and in mere minutes we were connected and able to download various apps and streaming platforms. We found this projector easy to use for Android users, and the included remote was user-friendly as well. With an additional app, you can also use the projector with Netflix and any Apple device. This projector’s design is sleek and portable — ideal for travel. We love that it’s battery-powered and can be used anywhere. Campfire movie night, anyone? It has 3 hours of battery life and we were able to watch a full movie without needing to recharge the battery. However, the included USB-C cord was very short, and we needed to use an extension cord when plugging it in during testing. This projector yielded bright, clear, and sharp images. We were impressed with the auto-focus feature and found the picture quality great from all angles. The built-in speakers sounded great during testing from various positions and distances. With the speakers built onto the back of this projector, we found the best audio was experienced when sitting behind it. Overall, the volume levels were spot on for a delightful movie-watching experience. Another great feature is the diverse connectivity options with this outdoor projector. You can use WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C, USB, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, and HDMI. This projector is a little more expensive than the median price of others we tested, but the ease of use, versatility, and portability make it an all-around winner. Add this and some yard games to your summer entertaining essentials. How It Held Up Months into testing, this projector continued to deliver high-quality performance. The auto-focus feature continued to function flawlessly keeping set-up and use streamlined and simple. The battery continued to work well, lasting for a full movie without recharging. We didn’t experience any connection issues and could easily stream movies and TV shows via various platforms over Wi-Fi. Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 400 ANSI lumens | Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Chromecast | Size: 7.56 x 7.57 x 2.15 inches PHOTO: People / Tammy Gardini PHOTO: People / Tammy Gardini Best Budget Purshe Bluetooth Projector PHOTO: Amazon $137 at Amazon Star Qualities A variety of connectivity options Quick and easy to set up in less than 30 minutes Red Flags Finding the correct angle was tricky Included cord was too short; we needed an extension cord Additional streaming device (like Roku stick) required for major streaming platforms Hosting a backyard movie night on a budget? This Dr. J Bluetooth Projector is the most affordable one we tested and outperformed several other more expensive models. We found the setup straightforward and simple and completed it in less than 30 minutes. We had minor difficulty finding the best angle but with an added wedge placed under the projector we were able to get it just right. The included cord is about 6 feet long so we supplemented it with an extension cord for outdoor use. The image quality was clear and bright with vibrant colors. (We experienced the best image quality with this projector after sundown with minimal additional outdoor lighting.) The best view was right in front of the projector, with the image quality degrading only slightly from very sharp angles. We found the best sound quality in pairing this projector with a Bluetooth speaker, though the built-in speakers will do just fine in a pinch. We were able to connect in multiple ways on various devices using an HDMI input, AV cord, and USB drive. It’s also enabled for WiFi and 3.5mm input for audio. All in all, this is a basic and effective projector at a great price. How It Held Up Over many months, this projector’s performance continued to impress. It inspired fun watch parties for various holidays and seasons. In the cooler months, it easily transitioned to an indoor projector. Setup and operation remained simple and easy, and we experienced no connection issues via wifi or bluetooth. Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 13,000 lumens | Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1, 5G Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB, AV, 3.5mm audio | Size: 12.13 x 8.9 x 6.46 inches PHOTO: People / Kimberly Souza PHOTO: People / Kimberly Souza PHOTO: People / Kimberly Souza Best Investment Anker Laser 4K Projector PHOTO: Amazon $2,000 $1,800 at Amazon View on Seenebula.com Star Qualities Built-in handle for easy carrying and maneuvering Image quality was incredible from every angle and on various surfaces Remote has preset buttons for YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Netflix Red Flags Cord was too short; needed to use an extension cord If you’re looking to invest in a high-quality projector that delivers impeccable 4K image quality, this one from Anker is the ticket. Setup was streamlined and easy during testing using the Google Play store to download all the desired apps and platforms. All we needed was a Gmail account to get started. The projector comes fully assembled and ready to go, so most of our setup time was dedicated to selecting, downloading, and logging into apps, which was very easy. The remote includes convenient presets for Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Disney+. Plus, the compact size and built-in handle make for extra portability and maneuvering. We were able to try it all around the house before setting it up outside. However, the cord on this projector is only about 4 feet long, so we needed to supplement with an extension cord of our own. What really blew us away was the image quality of this projector. The auto-focus feature provided impressive clarity when we tried projecting onto other surfaces like the back of a couch and curtains. In 4k, the images were bright and the colors were nicely saturated. We were able to enjoy great image quality even at dusk and with occasional backlighting. We tried viewing from various vantage points during testing and were pleased with the great video quality at every angle. The built-in speakers sounded great for a 10 to 15-foot radius around the projector. This projector also has many different options for playback: We connected it to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, Chromecast, Android TV, and screen mirroring — and they all worked great. The price tag is hefty but worth it for the cinephile longing to create their own personal outdoor movie theater. All you'll need is a pizza oven and a patio heater to make it an outdoor pizza and a movie night! How It Held Up The sound and image quality remained top-notch over several months of testing. It performs just as well as when it came out of the box. There were no issues with connectivity or set-up. Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 2,400 lumens | Connectivity: USB, HDMI, Aux, AC-In, Bluetooth, WiFi | Size: 10.4 x 8.7 x 6.5 inches People / Jennifer May Easiest Setup Epson Mini EF12 Projector PHOTO: Amazon $1,000 $800 at Amazon $41 at Walmart $800 at Best Buy Star Qualities Fastest setup time — only about 8.5 minutes Remote control was straightforward and easy to use Red Flags Doesn’t include a carrying case for protection With this projector from Epson, we had the fastest and easiest setup of all the projectors we tested. We went from unboxing to home screen in just 8 minutes and 30 seconds. The overall setup is very intuitive with easy-to-follow instructions. This projector has an auto-focus feature and once we turned it on, everything looked super sharp immediately. This projector offered a manual setup or “Google quick set up” and we opted for the latter which paired our phone to the projector. We were able to connect via WiFi and then select all our desired compatible apps and sync via a Google account. The projector was ready in 5 minutes and it took just a few more minutes to finish installing 10 apps in the background. The included remote was more robust than others we tested with access to features like input select, auto keystone, the settings menu, and voice control. The projector natively runs on Android TV, allowing access to a wide range of apps in the Google Play store. Unfortunately, like other Android TV devices, the Netflix app is not supported. However, we were able to stream Netflix from a laptop via HDMI. This projector is bright enough to deal with evening ambient light and even the light from street lights. It performs best during sunset and dusk and delivers rich and vibrant colors. The sound quality of the internal speakers impressed us with a range of 20 to 30 feet. We only wish it had a carrying case to transport it indoors to outdoors while protecting the lens. If you want to skip any of the fuss and get straight to streaming, this projector is for you. How It Held Up The brightness and picture quality continued to impress over time. We found it worked great as an indoor projector as well and appreciated the automatic software updates. It operated just as well nine months in as it did on day one. Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 1,000 lumens | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack | Size: 6.89 x 6.89 x 5.04 inches PHOTO: People / Rafa Soriano PHOTO: People / Rafa Soriano The 7 Best Outdoor Solar Lights of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Best for Gaming Samsung The Freestyle Gen 2 PHOTO: Best Buy $798 at Amazon $800 at Samsung $800 at Best Buy Star Qualities Built-in apps are user-friendly and easy to navigate Battery remained at full charge after watching an entire movie Compact and easy to transport Red Flags Included cord was too short for use outdoors; needed an extension cord Now you can bring your gaming setup outdoors. This projector from Samsung includes a gaming hub so you can stream all your games without plugging in your console. During testing, we found the setup very simple and straightforward, and the built-in apps user-friendly and easy to navigate. Those familiar with Samsung TVs or devices will find the process very streamlined. This projector delivered great picture quality throughout our tests. The picture looked best in darker environments and from directly in front of the projector. We tested out the front projection option, but this projector offers rear and ceiling projection too. We were impressed with the sound quality of the built-in speakers and felt they worked great outdoors; we amplified our audio experience even more by connecting via Bluetooth to external speakers. The compact size is ideal for traveling or bringing your gaming setup to a friend’s backyard. The battery life on this projector also won us over. Even though the included cord was too short for outdoor use, we were able to watch a full movie using the internal battery with no issues. Afterward, it was still at full charge. You’ll be able to game uninterrupted for hours on end and under the stars. How It Held Up This portable projector gets better with time. The longer we tested the more places we got to try it out. Indoors or outdoors, it was always a hit. The battery continued to work well and setup was super easy every time, thanks to the auto-focus feature. We couldn’t get enough of this projector. Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 230 ANSI lumens | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, HDMI, Chromecast, screen mirroring | Size: 4 x 6.8 x 3.7 inches PHOTO: People / Jodi Espinosa PHOTO: People / Jodi Espinosa Other Outdoor Projectors We Tried Anker NEBULA Capsule, Smart Wi-Fi Mini Projector: We loved the portability of this $299 mini projector, and the battery lasted about 4 hours, making it ideal for outdoor movie nights when traveling. We found connectivity via HDMI input fairly seamless but had issues connecting to an external audio source when screen mirroring. Also, the internal apps on the projector did not perform well, and an additional app was required to stream Netflix. BenQ GS50 1080p Wireless Outdoor Projector: This $799 projector’s small profile makes it easy to pack for travel. We like that it comes with its own carrying case that holds the included cords and remote as well, but we found that a dark environment with minimal light is necessary to enjoy the best view. We also felt setup was a little tedious and not intuitive for those pairing a non-Android device. XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector: For $399, we appreciate this projector’s portability and overall performance. Setup was the toughest part for us. Navigating the features and determining the correct distance and sizing was not intuitive. This projector operates on Android TV, which worked great for streaming many of the desired platforms, except Netflix. We also had some issues with Bluetooth connectivity and needed to reset the focus anytime someone walked in front of the projector. KODAK Luma 350 Portable Smart Projector w/Luma App: This $350 projector is lightweight and very portable. We liked the battery life on this projector and found the picture quality great, but the sound quality was a little lacking, so an external speaker would be best for an ideal viewing and sound experience. We also experienced connectivity issues with the companion app, making it difficult to control the projector. People / Kimberly Souza What to Know About Outdoor Projectors Setup and Environment “When projecting outdoors, how dark an image can get is dictated by mother nature and any light pollution for that particular area,” advises Bill Ng, an audio and video technician for Skyline Drive-In NYC. In testing, we found the darker the surrounding environment, the clearer the video quality. On top of light pollution, consider whether you want your projector permanently installed or easy to tote around. Another major part of the setup during testing was creating and logging into accounts to download various apps. If you have a Google account, a projector like the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Laser Projector is a great choice for a streamlined setup since it includes Android TV and features a quick Google setup option. Design and Connectivity Choose a projector with design elements that support your desired viewing experience. If you’re hoping to stream movies while camping, a portable and battery-powered projector would be the best option. Decide if front projection, rear projection, or the option to choose between the two is important to you. It’s also important to consider the type of content you want to enjoy with your projector and what connectivity options you will require. Many projectors are equipped to download and stream apps. Some offer varied inputs like HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, or screen mirroring as other ways to connect. Also, consider if external speakers are something you want to integrate into your outdoor cinema and what connectivity will be required. Image and Sound Quality Image and sound quality are some of the most important factors to consider with outdoor movie projectors. You want clear, saturated images from all possible view angles. Sound should be robust and satisfying from all seats in the “house," even when the seat is outdoor furniture like an Adirondack chair or chaise lounge. When it comes to comparing brightness in projectors, “the brighter, the better,” says Ng. He recommends at least 10,000 lumens (or 4167 ANSI lumen) for an outside audience. Light and noise pollution will always be something to contend with when enjoying any movie outdoors, so switch off your outdoor lights and aim for a more secluded, dark environment to get the most out of your projector. Price Projectors can cost a pretty penny, but there are many affordable options that will deliver a high-quality experience. The projectors we tested ranged in price from around $120 to nearly $2,000 with a median price of $399. There’s a projector for just about every budget. People / Kim Vogt Behind the Scenes We researched the most popular outdoor movie projectors and selected nine to be tested. Our testers observed and documented their experience with each projector from unboxing to watching, and we scored them in the following categories: Setup: Each projector’s setup was timed from unboxing to full assembly when it was ready to watch. We noted how simple or complex this process was, plus additional steps like downloading apps.Design: We evaluated the overall design and key features of each projector including portability, power sources, front or rear projection, and cord length. Each element was assessed for its performance and ease of use over time.Image Quality: With each projector, we considered the brightness, vibrancy, and saturation. Our testers checked varied angles and distances to see if the images were ever warped or distorted. We noted how external light affected the image quality and any differences between day and night viewing.Sound Quality: We tested the sound quality from various viewing spots to check for inconsistencies. We also noted if the volume range felt sufficient or if we found ourselves wanting additional amplification.Connectivity: We tested the various modes of streaming media for each projector including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, screen mirroring, Chromecast, and more. Any disruptions in connection or difficulty streaming content were noted. What We Learned As you may have noticed, almost all of our top picks ultimately needed an extension cord, so this isn’t a dealbreaker, but rather something you should have on hand when using a movie or outdoor projector. Frequently Asked Questions Can a projector replace a TV? Projectors aren’t just for movies. You can stream your favorite TV shows or play video games using a projector like The Freestyle 2nd Generation Projector from Samsung which features a gaming hub. With diverse connectivity options, you can use projectors for anything you’d use your TV for and more, like revisiting family vacation photos. Should I mount my projector on the wall or ceiling? Choosing between a wall or ceiling mount will depend on what is possible for the projector (some come with specific mounts) and personal preference based on the design of your space. According to Ng, “Whichever mounting option is more convenient — as long as the projector can be installed perpendicular to the screen and has room for ventilation, the setup should be good.” Is it better to project onto a wall or a screen? “A proper projection screen with a coating that helps boost contrast is ideal,” says Ng, “though a flat wall with a special coat of paint can also do the trick.” This will come down to your preference and what your outdoor space can accommodate. Some folks prefer the ease of a wall, which eliminates the need to set up a separate outdoor movie screen, while others prefer the picture quality you get using a screen. Why Trust PEOPLE L.A Hubilla is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE and a lifelong cinephile. She also tests products for various digital platforms including PEOPLE, InStyle, Byrdie, and Travel + Leisure, among others. For this article, she surveyed the testing insights collected by the PEOPLE Tested team and spoke with an expert from one of NYC's infamous drive-in movie theaters. Our Expert Panel Bill Ng is an audio and visual technician for Skyline Drive-In NYC. He is passionate about high-fidelity audio and video and understands how it directly affects your movie-viewing experience. What Is People Tested? We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs. But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square. In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.