However, the 10 Best Projectors under Dollars 500 are enlisted here with their attributes. But the selection entirely depends on your requirements. I mean;
- Do you want a projector for gaming sessions?
- Do you want a projector for the home cinema experience?
- Do you want a projector for business presentations?
Happily, all kinds of projectors are available here to fulfill your specific needs. Even these high-end projectors under 500 show sheer craftsmanship to keep the quality alive for years. You can enjoy every moment of watching movies, playing games, and presentations.
Our Top 3 Recommendations
YABER Y30 – Best Projector Under 500
3W dual stereo speakers with SRS
Includes lots of connectivity options
4D horizontal and vertical keystone
ViewSonic PG603X – Best Movie Projector Under 500
Offers 4D keystone correction
Simple setup and easy to control
Support most multimedia devices
Epson VS250 – Best Home Projector Under 500
Fan noise reduces efficiently
Lightweight and portable design
Ambient colors with high accuracy
Our well-researched and intended buying guide provides you essential information about key factors that should be kept in mind while buying a projector.
Are Projectors Under $500 worth it?
Yes, the high-quality projectors under 500 are worth it. Because they offer all the essential features in a budget-friendly solution. Following are the reasons that show the worth of a standardized projector in this price range.
- HD projector with big screen size.
- Good picture quality with keystone correction.
- High resolution to ensure better video quality.
- High pixels density and color accuracy.
- The projector delivers HD content with a high contrast ratio.
- Equipped with a cooling system and connectivity options.
- You can get a DLP projector to showcase 3D content.
Now, let’s get started with the reviews of the top 10 projectors under 500 dollars.
Best Projector Under 500 Dollars in 2023 At a Glance:
- YABER Y30 – Best Projector Under 500
- ViewSonic PG603X – Best Movie Projector Under 500
- Epson VS250 – Best Home Projector Under 500
- BenQ MX525A – Best Office Projector Under 500
- ViewSonic PX700HD - Best 1080p Projector Under 500
- ViewSonic PX701HD – Best Projector For Gaming Under 500
- Epson EX3240 – Best Home Theater Projector Under 500
- DBPOWER T20 – Best Portable Projector Under 500
- BenQ TH585 - Best Outdoor Projector Under 500
- ViewSonic PJD5134 – Best Home Entertainment Projector Under 500
Best Projector Under 500 Dollars in 2023 Reviews
YABER Y30 – Best Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: YABER | Brightness: 7200 Lumens | Weight: 6 pounds | Native Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels | Projector Dimensions: 11.3 x 10.6 x 4.35 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ 3W dual stereo speakers with SRS
✓ Includes lots of connectivity options
✓ 4D horizontal and vertical keystone
✓ High-quality LCD display technology
✓ Supports up to 4K Ultra HD image quality
✓ Clear and big projection screen of 300 inches
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Just a healthy price tag due to superior design
YABER Y30 is the best 4K projector under 500 that provides an outstanding watching experience and admirable attributes at a reasonable price. The projector lens zoom follows the arrangement idea of the HD reverse lens and uses a semi-hidden lens design. Consequently, it covers the zoom ring and stops unexpected scrapes or marks successfully.
Taste of technology and trend emphasizes 3D design. There is the availability of integrated dual stereo speakers with an SRS sound system. Practical and robust speakers provide you with highly alluring music sensations with a double crisp quality of sound. The projector’s chip of YABER is composed of millions of reflective lenses. Each lens is switched periodically to deliver full HD image quality with 1080P. Optical Coating Technology is used in such a projector.
Besides, this Projector utilizes a superb quality of glass for first-class penetration. The YABER projector does not adopt virtual focus. A controlled low dispersion lens reduces the color brightness deviation, and you can entertain your most-liked movies with excellent clarity. YABER projector can deliver 4K videos by associating the laptops or smartphones quickly. Even this is one of the best business projectors under 500.
Final Words:
If you are looking for an all-rounder best HD projector under 500, then the YABER projector is simply exceptional with multiple connectivity features and outstanding image quality.
ViewSonic PG603X – Best Movie Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ViewSonic | Brightness: 3600 Lumens | Weight: 5.1 pounds | Native Resolution: 1024 x 768 pixels |
** Projector Dimensions:** 11.6 x 8.6 x 4.35 inches **| Image Contrast Ratio:** 22000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Offers 4D keystone correction
✓ Simple setup and easy to control
✓ Support most multimedia devices
✓ Different connectivity input options
✓ Dynamic Eco mode for long lamp life
✓ Advanced visual features for multiuse
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Speakers are not of high-quality
ViewSonic PG603 XGA networkable video projector is ideal for personal and professional use with native resolution 1024x768. With a comprehensible design and a smooth white structure, this is the best automatic projector. Complete super color brightness technology provides a broad color gamut for the superb creation of pictures in nearby surroundings. Sonic Mode sound amplification technology offers a 10W speaker for an extraordinary auditory experience.
Moreover, the power-saving Super-Eco feature minimizes energy utilization, and lamp life is expanded by more than 15,000 hours. There is a built-in USB Type-A reader port. An optional wireless Wi-Fi dongle is also accessible. The Projector offers wireless demonstration options and adjustable media streaming.
The ViewSonic projector is equipped with a Crestron LAN controller. As a result, IT admins can control remotely and direct various projectors from their workstations. An efficient and modifiable set-up offers four corner adjustments and keystone features. This projector is a perfect companion for academic and business projects.
Final Words:
If you are looking for a projector with versatile plug-and-play features, the latest multimedia compatibility, and adaptable connectivity options, then ViewSonic PG603 would be an ideal choice for you in a medium price range.
Epson VS250 – Best Home Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Epson | Brightness: 3200 Lumens | Weight: 5.2 pounds | Native Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 12 x 9.1 x 3.3 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 15000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Fan noise reduces efficiently
✓ Lightweight and portable design
✓ Ambient colors with high accuracy
✓ Compatible with latest media players
✓ Light output color and white brightness
✓ Comes with a password security function
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ There is no audio output port
✗ The speaker size is mediocre
EPSON home cinema 3LCD projector is the most trustworthy projector present for home theatre. This projector is the matchless option if you desire to watch a movie in an illuminated room. A large number of lumen brightness is offered by this Projector. Such a projector arrives with a great Eco mode which reduces price and frequency.
Furthermore, this projector is among the small number of projectors that can be reused. An HDMI and USB port also come as well with the projector. A brilliant contrast ratio is also provided by EPSON. Highly attributed speakers offer an impressive sound. One more noticeable quality of this high-quality projector is that you can secure it by entering a password.
With advanced design, this SVGA resolution model is the first-class projector. The lamp life delivered by this projector is 10,000 hours. Extraordinarily sharp and precise colors and illumination is another trait. This projector operates flawlessly, even in very bright rooms. There is also usage of Eco mode technology for fan noise reduction.
Final Words: This EPSON SVGA resolution projector will be worth your money with easy setup and convenience for office demonstrations and home theater utilization.
BenQ MX525A – Best Office Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: BenQ | Brightness: 3300 Lumens | Weight: 4.2 pounds | Native Resolution: 1024 x 768 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.7 x 3.6 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 13000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Best to use for office or home
✓ Comes with one year warranty
✓ Long lamp life of 10,000 hours
✓ Remarkable DLP display technology
✓ Eco-friendly and long-lasting projector
✓ Includes SmartEco power saving feature
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Less throw distance
✗ Speakers have average quality
BenQ portable video projector is one of the best DLP projectors under 500 because of its high-quality vast features. Such a business projector is the perfect option if you want to deliver your projects either in the office or classroom. The most fascinating aspect of this projector is its smooth and fashionable design which makes it perfectly fit into an office, classroom, or home. Apart from looks, this projector is outstanding in its working too.
However, this projector is an excellent option for business use because of its high resolution and magnificent brightness. Even when the room is illuminated, 3300 lumens of brightness deliver clear and visible demonstrations. Using DLP technology and a suitable contrast ratio, changes of colors occur smoothly with the projector and make the content easy to read.
Because of dual VGA and HDMI inputs, multiple devices can be connected simultaneously and this mini projector creates comfortable association during meetings. BenQ DLP has a throw distance of 2.37 meters and can also be served as a home theater. An adequate orientation of the image is obtained with vertical keystone correction.
Final Words:
BenQ DLP is an all-around projector with 3300 lumens brightness at a reasonable price. This projector offers portability, realistic and bright pictures, and is highly recommended for official usage.
ViewSonic PX700HD - Best 1080p Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ViewSonic | Brightness: 3500 Lumens | Weight: 7.8 pounds | Native Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 13.05 x 10.3 x 5.3 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 12000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Fixed input latency for gaming
✓ Dual 3D Blu-ray HDMI projector
✓ Best for intense gaming sessions
✓ Immersive colors with HD display
✓ Offers flexible connectivity options
✓ Includes wide color gamut technology
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ It does not allow horizontal keystones
Keeping gamers in view, ViewSonic designed this full HD 1080p projector. ViewSonic has put many struggles in to boost up the experience of gaming consoles. This Projector provides clear pictures quickly, whether it’s minimized input interruption or cinematic colors. Besides, it’s a 3-dimensional, highly compatible projector.
With upgraded lower input latency, this Projector is perfect for action-packed gaming lovers. Moreover, it holds Super color technology which assures a wide variety of colors and fantastic pictures. Crystalline clear and plain images are offered without any interruption. Owning amazing lamp life, this Projector can endure more than 15,000 hours.
A large number of connectivity options are available such as USB and dual HDMI. Another characteristic of this Projector is that it is facilitated with a dedicated sports model. We can also amuse Netflix videos with the dongle offered. Besides all these attributes, this is not a projector with a short-throw ratio. But overall, this is one of the best projectors under 500 dollars.
Final Words:
If you are hunting for exceptionally great gaming and home projector under 500 dollars, then ViewSonic should be your top preference. The projector provides a full HD 1080p resolution.
ViewSonic PX701HD – Best Projector For Gaming Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ViewSonic | Brightness: 3500 Lumens | Weight: 5.8 pounds | Native Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 12.25 x 8.7 x 4.5 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 16:9
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Quick and easy installation
✓ Immersive and large sound system
✓ Allows vertical image adjustment
✓ Supports most HDMI input devices
✓ Delivers 3D content from 3D Blu-ray players
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Does not allow horizontal adjustments
ViewSonic PX701HD is a full HD dual HDMI projector with 1080p resolution. Its patented super color technology gives a wide variety of colors. These colors facilitate the viewers to entertain energetic color performances in illuminated and dark surroundings without compromising quality. Additionally, there is 10% flexibility in regular image modification. Without deforming the picture with remote control, users can move the image to the desired position.
The PX701HD projector meets the personal requirements of users as they can make their own color profile with the help of a cloud-based color profile exchange. Apart from these properties, such a projector is compatible with a giant speaker, which offers an enchanting auditory experience for game consoles. The lamp life of this Projector is expanded up to 20,000 hours with modern technology and Eco mode.
This projector is simply fantastic for providing big-screen enjoyment for any event. To connect all of your HDMI audio-visual tools, dual ports offer you abundant connectivity options. Even this projector can project 3-dimensional content from PCs, media players, tablets, and 3D Blu-rays.
Final Words:
ViewSonic Full HD projector facilitates you with portable remote control, integrated mono speaker, and outstanding image quality. So, go for it if you want to worth every single penny of yours.
Epson EX3240 – Best Home Theater Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Epson | Brightness: 3200 Lumens | Weight: 5.25 pounds | Native Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 14.5 x 13.9 x 6.3 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 15000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Portable projector with easy controls
✓ Compatible with latest media players
✓ Comes with innovative setup features
✓ Offers digital zoom and vertical keystone
✓ Includes built-in speakers for better sound
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ The zoom function may include some artifacts
The EPSON EX3240 portable 3LCD projector offers SVGA (800) resolution, 3200 lumens of both color and white brightness. All these attributes make it one of the best home theater projectors ever made. This portable projector makes it convenient to use for active professionals. Such a projector is loaded with a host of innovative features. When you are on a moderate budget, then it’s a good deal for home entertainment. Such a projector also has a backup option for business plans.
Besides, this portable projector facilitates a carry bag with a string. Digital connectivity standards and HDMI are also offered for compatibility with PCs and other tools. With many other EPSON units, the button controls are all on the upper side. Various connection ports are present on the backside with adequate gaps.
A 3LCD chip is utilized by this mini projector for viewing, which reduces color dispersion. 3-dimensional video is not supported by such a projector. Both the automatic zoom feature and keystone are also accessible here. Living costs are minimal since they can endure 10,000 hours of usage. On a roof floor, it can be ascended conveniently.
Final Words:
EPSON 3LCD projector has got its position in the list of best projectors under 500 dollars and is considered ideal for home theater or impressive professional presentations.
DBPOWER T20 – Best Portable Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: DBPOWER | Brightness: 1800 Lumens | Weight: 2.15 pounds | Native Resolution: 800 x 480 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 4.4 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Clear and brighter image quality
✓ Equipped with the latest cooling system
✓ Suitable for the home cinema experience
✓ Supports a wide array of multimedia devices
✓ Comes with one year warranty and lifetime support
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Not suitable for business presentations
✗ Low contrast ratio as compared to others
DBPOWER is a renowned and trusted company that has launched a T20 LCD mini-movie projector. This projector is available at a very reasonable price for someone wishing to have theater experience within the range of 500$. There are lots of features in this projector that you will get to see on a big screen.
This portable projector gives you a good quality picture in a dark room or at night. If you are concerned about connectivity options, then this Projector supports an HDMI port, and on the other side, there’s a micro SD card slot. Moreover, you can easily connect the Projector with your smartphone by using a screen mirroring feature or attaching a USB cable.
Furthermore, this device is highly portable, which means that you can lift it to any party, but there’s no carry bag available at this price, so you should buy one. You can place this projector on a table or a tripod because of the bottom design. There is a small remote with all the essential controls on it, which shows the smart design of the projector. Last but not least, under the budget of 500 dollars, this Projector is best for you to experience the home theater feel.
Final Words:
If you are looking for a projector that provides good quality pictures with color brightness at a reasonable price, then DBPOWER T20 is a good option for you.
BenQ TH585 - Best Outdoor Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: BenQ | Brightness: 3500 Lumens | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Native Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 18 x 13.5 x 7 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 10000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Delivers full HD image quality
✓ 16ms low input latency function
✓ Suitable for use in a lit environment
✓ Excellent graphics and picture quality
✓ Best for an intense gaming experience
✓ Provide lamp power up to 15,000 hours
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ You need to purchase an extra speaker
BenQ is distinguished because of its sharp and bright image quality. The TH585 home theater projector is best suited for gaming purposes. Graphics in game mode appear to be very striking and provide you with strong results. With this product, you can avail the benefit of playing games and watching movies in a bright environment because of the 1080p resolution and 3500 ANSI brightness lumens.
Moreover, you will get an ultra-smooth gaming experience because of the microsecond DMD fast response and the 16ms low input lag feature. This projector throws 100 inches of a big image at a distance of 3 meters for absolute gaming concentration. Another noticeable feature is that there’s a clear Loud built-in 10-watt speaker designed for every party occasion like TV, movies, and games.
Due to the power mode, the lamp life of the projector extends up to 15,000 hours. There’s a 3-year warranty that BenQ provides you so that you can rest easy while other competitors give you a 1-year warranty.
Final Words:
BenQ TH585 is best suited for those who are in the gaming field. This product possesses different cool features you might like. If you are searching for a good quality projector for a good gaming experience or outdoor activities, you should choose this.
ViewSonic PJD5134 – Best Home Entertainment Projector Under 500
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ViewSonic | Brightness: 3000 Lumens | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Native Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels |
Projector Dimensions: 10.5 x 8.6 x 3.25 inches | Image Contrast Ratio: 15000:1
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Dynamic Ecotechnology for focus
✓ Includes latest integrated speakers
✓ High-quality 1.1x optical zoom lens
✓ Comes with broad connectivity options
✓ Filter-less design for better picture quality
✓ Energy-saving mode and keystone correction
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Audio quality is not so good
✗ Sometimes it shows a rainbow effect
ViewSonic is one of the best brands available in the market because of its ultimate performance. Subsequently, PJD5134 possesses the same qualities along with many other fascinating features. This projector is an all-rounder in the case of any entertainment, and you can entirely rely on this product.
Moreover, this projector possesses DLP projection technology along with an SVGA native display so that you can have the best visual results. The quality of the image is astonishing because this projector possesses a contrast ratio of 15000:1 and 3000 ANSI lumens of brightness.
The most important feature is the color accuracy of this model, which is incredible because of the brilliant color technology and the six-segment color wheel. Finally, this Projector supports 3D content, which shows that this Projector is a complete entertainment package. ViewSonic PJD5134 is considered pure artistry because it won’t let you down in any part.
Final Words:
Suppose you are in search of a projector that gives good visual performance and supports 3D Blu-ray technology. Then it would be best if you consider buying this product.
Buying Guide: Best Projectors Under $500
Considering the point that your budget lies within 500$ and you are in search of the best Projector. In this case, while making any purchase, do consider several features that you should remember. We’ve enlisted these features to make sure that you get to buy the desired Projector.
Projector Type:
Currently, there are five types of projectors available in the market. Within the price range of 500$, you can get your hands on two different designs: DLP and LCD. Both of these types possess merits and demerits. So while selecting the type, be sure that you choose according to your requirement. Further, we have mentioned below several pros and cons related to each kind of
Screen Size:
While searching for your projector screen, keep one thing in your mind: to look out for the screen size that functions well with your selected projector. First, keep the aspect ratio of your projector in your mind before choosing any screen size because the corresponding size relies significantly on the Projector you are using. Additionally, the content you will be using in your projector will also play an essential role in selecting the required screen size.
Hence, while selecting the screen size, you will also consider the requirements of the general audience. This means that you will require a different screen size for home theater according to the accommodation of the audience in a room. While for business purposes, you will need a different setup. So, size is also based on your projector’s place—for example, a white wall in your spacious room.
Brightness:
Brightness level depends on the setting and the location where you intend to use the Projector. It means that if you are placing your projector in a dark room, then you might need one with a brightness level of 1000 lumens. While on the other side if you are placing your projector in a room full of windows and sunlight, then you would want to go a bit brighter up to 3000 lumens, to see what is visible on the screen. On the contrary, if you don’t consider this point important, it will result in causing you trouble.
Contrast Ratio:
The distinction between dark and light in an image is called contrast. The more the difference, the merrier the contrast. Don’t forget to select a projector that possesses a vast range of contrast. In that manner, you will be able to adjust the image according to your favorite look.
Resolution:
The picture quality of your projector also depends upon resolution. The more the resolution, the better the picture quality. If you want to surprise your client or search for a unique entertainment experience, you might need a projector with a higher resolution.
However, most of the time, the projector possesses only fixed resolutions. This means that you will have a set amount of resolution regardless of the point that you demand. Make sure that you select a projector with a large variety of fixed resolutions; in this way, you will be allowed to find one that fits your needs. Moreover, if you can spend some extra dollars to get the best quality images, take a look at the projectors for under 1000$.
Throw Distance:
This simply describes at what distance a projector will create a clear and visible image. There is a variety of range that starts from a few and increases up to 15 feet. Although, some large and expensive projectors can expand the distance up to 30 feet. Before making any purchase, make sure that you know your distance requirements.
Lamp Life:
The bulb is the most important and expensive component in a projector. The most difficult part is switching it out. So you pay a lot more dollars to buy a projector with long lamp life, which should last at least 10,000 hours. Anything more than this would be more perfect. In this way, there will be no need to buy a new projector or to exchange the old bulb out. In this way, you will be safe from making extra efforts.
Connectivity:
In this modern era, there are lots of connectivity options that you can consider while purchasing a projector. For example, you can select one with the Bluetooth connection option, which means you can connect the device wirelessly. An option for connecting HDMI cable to get better picture quality is also available. If you have an older device, you should select a projector that can connect to a VGA cable or the tested white, yellow, and red RCA connectors necessary for home theater structures.
Compatibility:
Though it might seem weird in this era, some devices still don’t work nicely with specific computer setups. So, while selecting a projector for your home or office, be sure that you are choosing one that can work efficiently with either a PC-type computer or Mac.
Conclusion:
Well, this is pretty much about the top 10 best projectors under $500. All of them are meticulously designed to fulfill your personal and professional requirements. No matter whether you are planning to watch movies at home with your family or preparing office presentations, these projectors help out your ventures.
However, they are expensive than some other models available on the market. But spending a few bucks extra can give you an extraordinary viewing experience. There are a ton of features that you earn in every single model. To make the selection process even quicker, we recommend you buy YABER Y30. While it depends on your needs, so make sure to see the whole list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best projector under $500?
With a ton of features and superior structure, YABER Y30 is the best projector under 500 dollars. Even this LCD projector delivers a giant screen size of 300 inches with 1080p native resolution and excellent contrast ratio. It includes dual stereo speakers, extensive connectivity options, and vertical keystone correction.
What is the best home theater projector under $500?
Undoubtedly, the Epson VS250 projector is the best projector under 500 for the home theater experience. With color accuracy feature, this delivers pretty fine brightness and contrast for watching a movie or TV show with family or friends. A major advantage of this model is that it comes with password security.
Why should you Buy a Projector Under 500 Dollars?
You should buy the projector under 500 dollars for extraordinary home entertainment or captivating presentations. This type of projector can provide you with all essential things like high-resolution, brightness, contrast ratio, better picture quality, big screen size, zoom lens, and handy adjustments.
