Gaming visuals are at an all-time high, with 4K quickly becoming the norm thanks to consoles like the Xbox Series X and powerful GPUs capable of handling highly detailed visuals. While there are plenty of 4K TVs out there, more and more users are being drawn to projector screens as an alternative.
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While these may be more expensive than large TVs on average, the best projectors for gaming do have a few advantages over traditional screens. The fact that it’s simply light on a wall means that minimalist homes won’t have to deal with a big screen against their walls when they aren’t gaming or watching a movie. Gaming projectors also make it easy to change rooms at any time, a necessity for anyone with very young children or an otherwise busy household. Plus, the size of the projection can often be adjusted to perfectly fit any sized room, even going so far as being useful for watching content outdoors. Those looking for a versatile, high-quality display will find gaming projectors to be a much better choice over traditional TVs and PC monitors.
Game Rant’s Top-Rated Gaming Projectors for 2024
BenQ GP500
Best Overall Gaming Projector
The BenQ GP500 Smart Projector offers true 4K HDR to create a premium viewing setup in any home. Featuring a 360-degree sound field, auto focus, 2D keystone, and a convenient optical zoom dial, this projector has everything you might want in a high-quality projector. Plus, being a smart device, the projector also provides access to the Google Play store, meaning that most streaming services are available out of the box.
- Brand
- BenQ
- Native Resolution
- 1920 x 1080
- ANSI Lumens
- 1500
- Connectivity
- USB, HDMI, bluetooth, 3.5mm
- HDR
- HDR10
- Maximum Supported Resolution
- 4K
- Stunning 4K visuals
- Offers Google Play store and device mirroring
- 360-degree sound field
- Heavy
- Auto focus can be troublesome
At just under $1,000, the BenQ GP500 Smart Projector manages to ride the line between an exceptional display and affordability. Offering 4K visuals, gamers with current-gen consoles will have little to complain about while playing on the GP500. With a screen size that can be set between 100 and 150 inches, this projector is ideal for users who want a huge display while they sit somewhere between 7 and 11 feet away.
Although this projector is pretty heavy and unwieldy, it’s easy enough to set up, especially considering the fact that there are two HDMI ports, two USB-A ports, and even two different audio ports for connecting more advanced sound systems. Of course, BenQ’s projector already comes with an impressive 360-degree soundscape, supported by four drivers that adapts to its placement in a room to further enhance audio.
Visually, things are no less immersive. The GP500 utilizes HDR10, plus 90% DCI-P3 color coverage, to deliver accurate and smooth content. Even when playing competitive, fast-paced games or watching exciting action movies, the display is crisp and stunning, as is expected of a 4K projector. The price might scare off some, but gamers who want a gigantic screen with high quality for gaming, or any other content consumption, the BenQ GP500 offers the best experience overall.
WiMiUS P64 4K Projector
Best Budget Gaming Projector
The P64 movie projector delivers much higher brightness and wider color gamut than comparable projectors, despite offering native support for both 1080P and 4K video. Using industry-leading Wi-Fi 6 technology, the P64 is able to achieve fast and stable visuals, especially when gaming! Plus, with Bluetooth capabilities, this projector supports two-way transmission between mobile devices, doubling as a Bluetooth speaker with immersive, 6W Hi-Fi speakers.
- Brand
- WiMiUS
- Native Resolution
- 1920 x 1080
- ANSI Lumens
- 600
- Connectivity
- bluetooth, hdmi, usb2.0, 3.5mm
- Audio
- 2x 6W speakers
- Maximum Supported Resolution
- 4K
- Often available at less than $300
- 1080p and 4K support
- Built-in bluetooth speakers
- 4K quality is questionable
- Not ideal for bright rooms
Gamers who want to get a powerful projector without breaking the bank are in luck with the WiMiUS P64. This projector is perfect for darker rooms, as it has native support for 4K with a 600ANSI brightness rating. While that’s not very impressive for bright areas, it’s decent enough for non-competitive gaming. Some users do report that the 4K quality is less than stellar during high-action sequences, but the 1080p display performs perfectly every time. Considering the price tag of just $300, with frequent sales bringing it lower, this projector is well in-line with comparable gaming TVs.
The big difference is, ironically, the big screen size, which is adjustable to up to 300 inches. However, with the low brightness overall, it’s probably best to stick to 100-200 inches, which is still more than enough for an immersive viewing experience.
On top of the excellent display quality, this projector uses bluetooth to connect to devices and stream audio through two 6W speakers. Plus, the projector offers a somewhat overkill Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, allowing for easy streaming of Netflix, Youtube, and other popular content services. This budget projector is a no-brainer for gamers with limited funds who want a new screen for their favorite titles across devices.
BenQ X3100i
Best Premium Gaming Projector
The BenQ X3100i graces players with a dazzling 3300 ANSI lumens, 100% DCI-P3, 4K display. Players can experience gaming with near-zero latency, thanks to industry-leading response times as quick as 4ms (1080p@240Hz). Users can also enjoy endless entertainment with Google-Certified Android TV, or effortlessly cast content from devices using AirPlay and Chromecast. Plus, the projector provides immersive 7.1-channel and Dolby Atmos audio, with support for eARC and S/PDF connectivity.
- Brand
- BenQ
- Native Resolution
- 3840×2160
- ANSI Lumens
- 3300
- Connectivity
- usb, hdmi
- OS
- Android
- Image Size
- 100-150″
- Maximum Supported Resolution
- 4K
- Size
- 15.7 x 15.3 x 13.3 inches
- Weight
- 18.96 pounds
- Incredibly low input lag
- Includes auto game mode for consoles
- Offers 7.1 surround sound system
- Very expensive
- Max screen size of 150?
On the other end of the spending spectrum is BenQ’s X3100i true 4K UHD projector. This hefty box will cost players over $2,000, but makes good on a number of promises that gamers will find very enticing.
First and foremost is the incredible input lag, which is one of the lowest in the industry even when including standard TV screens, with less than 5ms for 1080p/120Hz and around 16ms for 4K/60Hz. One thing helping this spec is the fact that the X3100i can only be adjusted to a 150-inch screen size, which is still massive to most gamers.
It can be adjusted further using the 40-60% vertical lens shift. Adding to the visual quality is an incredible brightness rating of 3300ANSI and a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. On top of this, the projector offers auto game mode, which automatically optimizes visuals even more when connected to a console. Gamers can even take things into their own hands and save adjusted settings for each console and device they want to connect, making it easy to switch between tasks without losing out on overall quality.
The high price tag is definitely tough to get over, but comparable large TVs are going to cost nearly the same and not get close to the max 150-inch display size. Additionally, unlike most TVs, this projector offers a 7.1 sound system supported by spatial audio software. This high-end gaming projector is the answer for gamers in search of a way to get a large, striking display for all of their content.
NEBULA by Anker Capsule 3 Laser
Best Portable Gaming Projector
Experience vibrant visuals with the NEBULA Capsule 3 Laser from Anker, which delivers 300 ANSI Lumens of brightness in 1080p HD, ensuring your images stay bright and clear. At just two pounds and about the size of a soda can, this Anker projector slips into your bag for presentations or movie nights anywhere. Plus, the 52Wh battery offers 2.5 hours of continuous play. With built-in Chromecast and an 8W speaker, this little projector is ready for any adventure.
- Brand
- Anker
- Native Resolution
- 1920 x 1080
- ANSI Lumens
- 300
- Connectivity
- HDMI, USB-C, AUX, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Maximum Supported Resolution
- 4K
- Image Size
- 40 – 120”
- Size
- 3.27 x 3.27 x 6.57 inches
- Weight
- 1.98 pounds
- Extremely portable design
- Easy, versatile connectivity
- Offers 1080p quality
- Battery life is about as long as most movies
- Brightness isn?t ideal for daytime viewing
The NEBULA by Anker Capsule 3 Laser is a mid-range projector perfect for gaming while on an adventure, even if that adventure is just in the backyard. The tiny, soda can-shaped device packs in quality 1080p visuals primed and ready for content with Android TV 11.0 and built-in Chromecast support. Along with these convenient streaming solutions, gamers can plug in consoles and PCs with the HDMI port, add speakers using an AUX out port, or connect additional devices via bluetooth.
The brightness rating is just 300ANSI, but that’s fine enough for dark rooms and nighttime showings. However, without the use of a power bank, most movies are going to just barely roll the credits before the 52W battery dies. Again though, that’s more than enough time for animated films and gaming sessions.
The bulb-based projector has been outfitted with advanced durability, leading to a lifespan 10 times that of its competition while implementing features such as eye guard, keystone correction, and auto focus. These settings also make it so that the projector can be set up on the fly, almost anywhere. The 25ms input lag isn’t great news for competitive gamers, but anyone who wants a portable projector will have little to complain about, especially with the sub-$1000 price tag.
Samsung The Freestyle 2nd Gen Projector
Best Projector for Cloud Gaming
$596 $800 Save $204
The Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen Projector is the ultimate no-hassle portable projector for gaming and watching streaming content. Viewers can set up the FreeStyle 2nd Gen in a matter of minutes with auto focus, auto leveling, and auto keystone for a perfectly sized image from 30 to 100 inches.
Improving on Samsung’s popular portable Freestyle projector, the 2nd gen version adds support for cloud gaming services, a SolarCell remote control, and a speedier Tizen OS. With Smart Edge Blending, buyers can also now combine the power of two Freestyle projectors for an even larger image.
- Brand
- Samsung
- Native Resolution
- 1080p
- ANSI Lumens
- 230
- Image Size
- 30-100″
- Weight
- 1.8 pounds
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI
- Size
- 3.7 x 4 x 6.8 inches
- Wide compatibility
- Fairly compact and portable
- Very affordable
- Only offers 1080p and max 100? display
- Dark images don’t look great
Samsung is known for creating spectacular visuals with their TVs and smartphones, so it should come as no surprise that their Freestyle 2nd Gen Projector is the best option for cloud gamers. The Freestyle 2nd Gen is shockingly affordable at less than $800 MSRP and makes few sacrifices along the way. Two of the most notable cutbacks gamers will have to deal with when choosing this projector: a max screen size of 100 inches and a resolution limitation of 1080p. However, considering that most cloud gaming is unavailable or unstable at 4K, Samsung’s offering has more than enough for competitive gamers with limited funds.
Console and PC gamers will find a lot to love about this projector too, given it comes with both HDMI and USB-C ports. The Freestyle Gen 2 is also fairly portable, meaning gamers can move it between rooms or even take it outside for a movie night. Although it should normally be plugged into an outlet, it can also run off of a portable battery when needed.
Overall, the Freestyle 2nd Gen with Gaming Hub has a lot to offer with auto leveling, auto focus, and auto keystone technology that adjusts pictures for the best view possible every time. Game Rant’s review of the Freestyle 2nd Gen found that thanks to Samsung SmartHub and compatibility with Apple Airplay 2, streaming is easy on this projector. Players can connect consoles, PCs, and other devices through the HDMI and USB-C ports on the side or via bluetooth. Plus, 360-degree audio provides you with immersive audio throughout everything.
Dangbei Atom Google TV Laser Projector
Best PC Gaming Projector
The Dangbei Atom is an exceptionally compact and bright way to bring movies, TV, and gaming to a display up to 180 inches. Unlike most projectors, the Atom comes loaded with Google TV, which unleashes an incredible selection of smart apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu. With a healthy maximum brightness of 1200 ISO lumens, the Atom can be enjoyed even with ambient light in a room. Supporting HDR10 and HLG, the Atom projects crystal clear and vibrant 1080p HD images, with surprisingly potent 5 watt Dolby Audio supported speakers.
- Brand
- Dangbei
- Native Resolution
- 1080p
- ANSI Lumens
- 1200
- Image Size
- 180 inch max
- Weight
- 2.82 lbs
- Connectivity
- HDMI, USB
- Size
- 7.68 x 7.68 x 1.87 Inches
- Very bright display
- Compact, quiet design
- Can stream content without a PC
- Auto focus isn’t reliable
Dangbei’s Atom Google TV Laser Projector is a great option for PC gamers on a budget, as it comes in with a price tag well under $1000 and offers a compact build that’s ideal for even small gaming desks. Though it only has one HDMI port, the built-in Google TV and bluetooth connectivity allows for thousands of streaming options even when a PC isn’t connected. Plus, with its small size, it’s easy to use it for both PC gaming and watching TV elsewhere in your home.
This projector is limited to 1080p visuals, but adding 4K graphics to a gaming PC setup can be quite costly anyway, with lower-quality displays still being competitive as a result. Despite the lack of 4K support, this projector offers stunning visuals, with HDR10 support and 1200 ISO lumens making everything look good even in brighter rooms. Plus, Dangbei combats blurry images with its ALPD technology.
Considering its extensive streaming library, ease of use, and the fact that it comes with two 5W speakers, the Dangbei Atom Google TV Laser Projector is one of the best options for PC gamers who are looking for an affordable gaming projector.
How to Choose the Right Gaming Projector
You should consider some of these key features when choosing a gaming projector:
- Planned Use: Whether you’ll be gaming, watching movies, or watching the big game, you may want a projector with different features. Although most gaming projectors are ideal for fast-paced imagery, brightness and clarity can vary between models depending on what kind of content they’re specifically designed for.
- Compatibility: Most projectors are ready to be hooked up via HDMI, but there are some available that can stream using USB-C, bluetooth, or another type of connection. Any gaming projector you purchase should work with your gaming platform of choice.
- Room Size: Although the biggest, fanciest projectors are very alluring, not everyone needs the best of the best. In fact, smaller rooms often aren’t equipped to deal with extra-large and bright displays. In the same vein, large rooms need extra brightness and sharp details in order to look good.
Best Surround Sound Gaming Setups for 2024
Surround sound setups are an excellent way to upgrade the audio setup for any gamer to improve the immersion or give gamers a competitive edge.
FAQ
Q: Are projectors any good for gaming?
Projectors can be excellent displays for gaming, though compared to standard TVs and gaming monitors, you will likely have to spend more on a projector to get the same quality.
Q: Do projectors have input lag for gaming?
Yes, all displays have input lag while gaming and streaming, including projectors. While projectors tend to have more lag than PC monitors and TVs, they are almost always below the industry standard of 25ms of lag input.
Q: Can you play Xbox and PS5 on a projector?
Yes, most projectors have HDMI ports compatible with Xbox, PS5, and any other gaming console that uses HDMI. However, some projectors only allow for cloud gaming.
