10 Best Outdoor Projectors Under $500 2024 – Affordable Outdoor Entertainment

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We live in an age when shopping was made it easier than it ever was. You can get everything you like online. That’s amazing! God bless the internet and Jeff  Bezos. Yes, there are many more mediums for online shopping but Amazon remains the leader. One thing regarding shopping still hasn’t changed despite all the technological advancements.

We are all on a hunt for a bargain. It is not always easy to find one, but if you give it your best it’s achievable. If you’re looking for an affordable outdoor projector, wait no longer.  We are here to help you.

The old rule says that if you want high quality you have to pay for it. While that remains true, it is possible to get a bargain for items such as outdoor projectors. If you want to buy one and your budget is set below $500 we can help you.

Below you’ll find product reviews for some of the best projectors that fit this price scale. Check out what we deem as the best outdoor projectors under $500 in 2024. As you’ll see there’s plenty to go around for this price. You’ll find value for your money for sure.

Movie Night Under the Stars with Top Picks

1. DBPOWER RD828 Full HD 1080P Native Projector

As we said, it is possible to find value for money if you know where you’re looking. This should be the place. At only $239 this product truly provides value for money. We are talking about a device equipped with both LED and LCD tech in terms of display quality.  With the performances, it provides in terms of the lumen, contrast, brightness, and sharpness many consider it the ideal option in this price range. We agree.

It is also packed with Wi-Fi technology which makes it perfect for outdoor use. Even if you plant it on the ceiling, the connection will never be an issue.  While all of the above is great, what sets it up from the competitors is the 4-point keystone correction. This option allows you to dictate the position of your projector even once you have set it in that position. It is a genuine user-friendly option that comes with an adjustable zoom sequence that also can be used once the projector is settled.

DBPOWER RD828 Full HD 1080P Native Projector is a truly innovative device in its domain. It is one of the first with multiple options for playing Microsoft Office and Adobe PDF files directly from a USB. We are sure that you’ll enjoy using this product, and you can do it almost as much as you like. It comes with a 3-year warranty and guaranteed 1000000 hours of usage.

2. AuKing Mini Projector

We’re moving on and in AuKing Mini Projector we have another great option under $500. It packs 1080p resolution with brightness set up to 7500 lumens. The contrast ratio lies at 2000:1 and you can already tell that it is a far cry from our first suggestion. Furthermore, the manufacturer only guarantees 55 thousand hours which is a far cry from the number above. Beyond that, it is quite a handy option, especially at its $185 price tag.

But, don’t let the price fool you. This is not a device that should be underestimated. It is made with built-in speakers and a fairly good 7500 lumens which makes it quite good for outdoor use. When you combine everything we said, yes it is a cheap option, but one that shouldn’t be neglected. With the right care, you can be enjoying this one for years to come without even a little fuss about it.

3. XGIMI MoGo Pro Portable

Let’s get one thing straight. This is one of the priciest items on this list. It can go as far as $550. But, on a good day, you can get your hands on one at somewhere between $400 and $550. Is it worth it? We certainly believe so. If you’re looking for a highly portable version this one should be yours. It is small and lightweight making it an ideal companion on your travels.  What people find not good about it is the quality of sound.

But, XGIMI MoGo Pro Portable makes up for it with a built-in battery that can operate for two hours, auto keystone correction, sharp resolution, and amazing brightness levels. For all of you who love the big screen performances, it comes packed with Android TV.

4. LG PF50KA Portable Full HD LED Smart Home Theater Projector

If you desire a true home theater, this projector is your poison. The best part is that it arrives at an affordable price. It stands at perfect proportions of being 6.7 inches long and wide and a height set at 1.9 inches. At 2.2 pounds it’s one of the heaviest options on this list, but you can see that as a testament to its quality. Brightness and display stand at 600 ANSI lumens and up to 100 inches respectively. If you own other LG products you’ll notice that it perfectly fits with LG smart TVs.

Furthermore, its plug-and-play capabilities are high and it is very well connected both wirelessly and via Bluetooth. As far as Wi-Fi goes you should know that it only pairs with Windows and Android devices. Also, don’t let the price get you away from buying this one. In its original package, it is well over $500. That’s why you should always seek a renewed version that will cost you way less but still offer the high-end performances you desire.

5. Epson Home Cinema 880

Another amazing option comes at a fair price and delivers what can be seen as a great tech for a good picture and high-end satisfaction with the end product. The starting point should be its 3300 lumens of brightness. What this means is that you can use it in both small rooms and open spaces regardless of the light present. Also, its HD option is quite good and when paired with a 16000:1 contrast ratio it delivers an amazing end product.

For this price tag, you get everything you want from home projections or outdoor cinema. Also, we shouldn’t neglect its four color modes and of course, the high-tech 3LCD technology that comes with this model. All of this for a little below $500 is a bargain.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing an Outdoor Projector Under $500

Choosing the right outdoor projector can greatly enhance your movie nights, presentations, and outdoor gatherings. With so many options available on the market, it can be daunting to find the perfect projector that suits your needs and budget. In the section below, we will discuss some crucial factors to consider in this purchase to get the best value for your money’s worth.

Brightness and Contrast Ratio

The brightness of a projector, measured in lumens, is crucial for outdoor use as it determines how visible the projected image will be under different lighting conditions. Generally, a projector with a higher lumen rating will provide a brighter image, which is essential for outdoor viewing. For outdoor use, aim for a unit with at least 2,500 lumens to ensure a clear and visible image even in moderate ambient light.

The contrast ratio is the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of an image. A higher contrast ratio means more vivid colors and better image quality. Look for a projector with a contrast ratio of at least 2,000:1 to enjoy rich and dynamic images.

Resolution and Aspect Ratio

Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the projected image. A higher resolution translates to a sharper and more detailed picture. For an outdoor projector under $500, a resolution of at least 720p (1280×720 pixels) should be sufficient for most uses. If your budget allows, consider the one with 1080p (1920×1080 pixels) resolution for an even better viewing experience.

The aspect ratio is the relationship between the width and height of the projected image. The two most common aspect ratios are 4:3 (standard) and 16:9 (widescreen). Choose a projector with an aspect ratio that matches the content you plan to watch most frequently. For movies and modern TV shows, a 16:9 aspect ratio is generally preferred.

Portability and Ease of Setup

Outdoor projectors should be easy to transport and set up to ensure a hassle-free experience. Look for one that is lightweight and compact, making it convenient to move around and store when not in use. Additionally, the projector should be easy to set up, with straightforward instructions and minimal required adjustments.

Connectivity Options

It is essential to ensure that the product you are buying is compatible with the devices you plan to use for streaming or playing content. Common connectivity options include HDMI, VGA, and USB ports. Some projectors also offer wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which can be convenient for streaming content from smartphones or tablets. Make sure the product you choose supports the input sources you require.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are outdoor projectors under $500 suitable for watching movies and playing video games?

Yes, they can provide a satisfactory experience. Ensure the projector has a minimum resolution of 720p and a contrast ratio of at least 2,000:1 for an enjoyable viewing experience.

2. How important is the brightness of an outdoor projector?

Brightness, measured in lumens, is crucial for outdoor projectors, as it determines the visibility of the projected image in different lighting conditions. Aim for a product with at least 2,500 lumens to ensure a clear and visible image even in moderate ambient light.

3. Do I need a special screen for my outdoor projector?

While you can project images onto a wall or a sheet, using a dedicated outdoor projector screen can significantly enhance the quality and clarity of the projected image. These screens are available in various sizes and materials, so choose one that fits your needs and budget.

4. Can I use my outdoor projector indoors?

Yes, they can also be used indoors. However, you may need to adjust the brightness and other settings to suit the indoor environment.

5. How do I connect my devices to the projector?

Outdoor projectors come with various connectivity options, such as HDMI, VGA, and USB ports, to connect your devices. Some units also offer wireless connectivity, like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, for streaming content from smartphones or tablets. Make sure your projector supports the input sources you require.

6. Is it difficult to set up an outdoor projector?

Most outdoor of them are designed for easy setup and use. Look for a projector with straightforward instructions and minimal required adjustments. In general, you will need to position it, connect it to a power source and input device, and adjust the focus and keystone settings for optimal image quality.

7. How do I maintain my outdoor projector?

Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your outdoor projector. Keep it clean and dust-free, and periodically clean the lens and air filters. Store it in a cool, dry place when not in use, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity.

Final Words

The best outdoor projectors under $500 offer a balance of performance, versatility, and affordability. Make sure to consider crucial factors such as brightness, resolution, contrast ratio, portability, and connectivity options, before spending any money.

With the right product, you will be able to transform your backyard into an entertainment haven, creating memorable movie nights, presentations, and gatherings with friends and family. Most importantly, remember to always perform regular maintenance to ensure your projector’s longevity and optimal performance.