Setting up a regular projector takes so much time and effort. You need a desktop, an outlet, and a lot of cords.
If you’re going to use it for traveling, it will be inconvenient.
Fortunately, mini projectors can do the job for you. These work just by connecting it with a phone.
After that, you can go on to play and watch whatever you want.
Today, we’re going to talk about the top-ranked mini projectors that will work best with your iPhone.
This will be a good guide if you plan on buying one soon.
Best Mini Projector for iPhone
![QKK 2021 Upgraded 6500Lumens Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P & 200" Display Supported, Portable Movie Projector Compatible with Phone, TV Stick, PS4, HDMI, AV, Dual USB [Tripod Included]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41WKNfn3RdS._SL160_.jpg)
1. ViewSonic M1 LED Mini Projector
The first on our list is the ViewSonic M1 LED Mini Projector from late 2019. Approximately, its size only goes does to 4 by 4 inches with 0.6lbs. This is an ultra-portable device which means that this can easily fit in your pocket.
This makes it suitable for any activity. This won’t also take too much space in your baggage.
As for the design, this comes in a combination of blue and white by default. However, you can purchase additional plates. This will replace the blue roofing with either yellow or white. You can change this anytime you want even without professional assistance.
You can compare its appearance with a regular projector. This, however, comes with a stand that also functions as a lens cover.
Here are the features that you can expect from the ViewSonic M1:
- Built-In JBL Speaker
- SuperColor+ Technology
- LED Display Technology
- Automatic Vertical Keystone
- Blue-Light Free
- 80-Inch Max Projection
- 6.9 Feet Max Distance
- 2.5-Hour Battery Power
Setting this up only takes seconds. You can connect your device through HDMI, USB, or Micro USB cable.
You can directly display any photo or video once the projector successfully connects with your phone. You can place this anywhere through the stand. If you prefer, you can also mount this to the wall for better display.
2. Vamvo Ultra Mini Portable Projector
The VamVo Ultra Mini Portable Projector has been featured multiple times in tech reviews. This gathered great recognition because of its distinct style. This has been around since 2018.
Like the former, this is also a portable gadget. Roughly, it measures 5 by 3 inches. It weighs 1.48lbs. This is slightly heavier than the ViewSonic M1 but is still light regardless.
This device has a minimalist design. It consists of glossy black and silver hues. Unfortunately, they don’t offer any other variations, but this is already enough to give a classic touch. Its overall structure, on the other hand, is similar to a power bank. It is rectangular, with the lens at the device’s bottom part.
Below is a list of the specifications of the Vamvo Ultra Mini:
- Built-In SRS Speaker
- DLP Technology
- LED Display Technology
- Touch Key Control
- Built-In 1800 Lumens LED Lamp
- 130-Inch Max Projection
- 10 Feet Max Distance
- 2-Hour Battery Power
To set this up, you first need to install the EZCast App. This is available for both iOS and Android. This will allow the projector to connect directly to your smartphone. You can start watching your media files once it’s done. This also supports wall mounting.
The package will already come with a tripod, a power cable, and remote control.
3. Miroir M75 Micro Projector
Next up, we have the Miroir M75 Micro Projector. This is much smaller and lighter than the previous models. This comes up to only 3 by 3 inches with 0.6lbs. This is the most ideal product to get if you plan on bringing this on long trips. This is also suitable for camping activities.
The device is available in two colors: black and grey. Although small, you can expect it to be a bit bulky. Its structure looks somewhat like a cube. All in all, it has a classic design. There is nothing too extravagant.
Refer to the following for the device’s functions:
- 2 Built-In IW Speakers
- DLP Technology
- LED Display Technology
- Manual Focus
- 50-Inch Max Projection
- 2-Hour Battery Power
For the media source, you can use HDMI, USB Type A, or Digital AV Adapter. For iPhone units or any Apple device, you should use the Digital AV Adapter. It will be better if you use Apple’s adapter. This is a necessary thing to take note of. You can simply mount this on the table for efficient streaming.
4. Anker Nebula Capsule Smart Mini Projector
The most distinct quality of the Anker Nebula Capsule Smart Mini Projector is its structure. From its name, it looks like a capsule rather than a cube or regular projector. This is a part of Anker’s Capsule Series. Its dimensions are 4.7 by 2.6 inches. It weighs 0.9lbs. Compact-wise, this is still a portable device that won’t be hard to carry.
The product is only available in black color. Even so, this gives it a classic look. You can choose to mount this on either a tripod or a table.
For the functionalities, see below:
- 360 Speaker
- DLP Technology
- Built-In 100 ANSI Lumen
- Automatic Focus
- 100-Inch Max Projection
- 4-Hour Battery Power
Unlike the previous models, the Nebula Capsule offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and screen mirroring. This allows for more flexible connections. This also retains connections from HDMI and USB. You can also download the Nebula Connect App to have an instant remote control.
This is available for both Android and iOS.
5. QKK 2021 Mini Projector
![QKK 2021 Upgraded 6500Lumens Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P & 200" Display Supported, Portable Movie Projector Compatible with Phone, TV Stick, PS4, HDMI, AV, Dual USB [Tripod Included]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41WKNfn3RdS._SL500_.jpg "QKK 2021 Upgraded 6500Lumens Mini Projector, Full HD 1080P & 200\" Display Supported, Portable Movie Projector Compatible with Phone, TV Stick, PS4, HDMI, AV, Dual USB [Tripod Included]")
Finally, we have the QKK Mini Projector. This is the most similar to the projector that we regularly see.
This is 9 by 9 inches small, weighing 3lbs. This means that among the mini devices in this list, the QKK 2021 is the largest and heaviest. Still, you shouldn’t cross this off your list just yet.
Design-wise, this comes in a simple, white projector box. It has a relatively larger lens than the previous ones. It also has a port below where you can mount the tripod. This can function through table and tripod mounting.
Below are the offers of the device:
- Built-In 5W Speaker
- LED Display Technology
- German WTS 2.0 Cooling System
- 170-Inch Max Projection
- 5 Meters Max Distance
This offers flexible connections. You can use this with smartphones, TV sticks, and HDMI. You can also insert a memory card. For smartphones like iPhones, you need to use an HDMI, along with an adapter.
Despite its larger size, this offers more features than the other models. This is also a budget-friendly projector as this is available for only $89.99 on Amazon. This already includes the charging cable, AV adapter, and tripod.
What to look for in Mini Projectors for iPhone
Compatibility
What if you have two different smartphones? If you own both an Android and iPhone, then it might be a good idea to invest in one mini projector that will work with either operating system.
It saves on storage space when transferring the device between different places because there’s only one unit needed for your needs no matter what smartphone you’re using. You will save space in storage but also money by not having to purchase another product for use with just one platform.
Connectivity
Mini projectors have come a long way since their inception. These tiny, handheld devices can be connected to your iPhone in many ways, wirelessly via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi or wired with an HDMI cable through the use of adapters.
If you want to use your projector with more than just your smartphone, make sure it has multiple connectivity options so you can use it with other devices too.
Battery Life
Mini projectors are portable because they come with rechargeable batteries. This means that you can use them even without an electrical outlet nearby, and when shopping for one make sure to check how long the battery lasts, the larger it is, the better. Most mini projects today last up between 1-4 hours on a single charge, but as features get more sophisticated this time decreases.
Image Resolution
Sharp, crisp pictures are what you want when it comes to mini projectors. Look for one that is compatible with an iPhone and has a high resolution like 1,280 x 720 pixels or better yet full HD at 1920×1080p.
Most pico and palmtop projectors have lower native resolutions than this but some do offer slightly higher such as 640x360px or 854x480px so be sure not to let the smaller size fool you into thinking they don’t produce quality images.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio is the difference between the brightest color possible and the darkest color possible. The bigger the difference, the more colors a projector distinguishes. The lower this number is, the pictures might be either too dark or washed out. If it’s higher, you will see more colors in your picture.
Brightness
A mini projector’s brightness is measured in lumens. The brighter you want your screen, the more lumens your projectors must have. Some models provide up to 4500 lumens. That means they can be used not only indoors but also outdoors as well. If you need something for dark or dimly lit rooms might consider lower lumen models.
Projection Size
A projector that is small enough to fit in your pocket could be a great investment for those who want an easy way of presenting themselves and their work on larger screens.
Especially if you are looking to showcase presentations, movies or games at any venue – big or small – it will allow others the opportunity to watch without having to squint from afar.
But before buying one, make sure they have high-resolution so images don’t appear pixelated when projected onto large screens.
Speakers
You might be surprised to find that some mini projectors come with their own speakers. Unfortunately, most of these integrated speakers are not loud enough for a large group to hear them clearly and they usually only work well in small audiences.
Some models allow users to connect their preferred sound sources via an audio jack or Bluetooth connection which can be really handy.
FAQ
Which is better projector LCD or LED?
LED projectors are more expensive and also have a more limited lifespan, but they offer many benefits. They require less maintenance than LCDs, produce better colors with higher contrast levels while being smaller in size and generating less heat which can lead to an increase in energy efficiency.
Does mini projector work with iPhone?
An AirPlay compatible mini projector will not need an adapter from an iPhone.
If the projector is not AirPlay compatible, you need a different type of adapter. Apple has different adapters for different iPhones.
Are mini projectors worth it?
Unlike a regular projector which takes up tons of space and is very difficult to set-up, mini projectors are much easier. You’ll be able to pack your mini projector in a small bag and take it anywhere.
Some models even allow you to project movies or videos while traveling without the need of being connected to a power outlet.
How do I connect my iPhone to a mini projector?
Connecting your iPhone to a mini projector is very simple.
Follow these steps:
1. Plug the Digital AV or VGA adapter into the charging port on the bottom of your iPhone.
2. Connect the HDMI cable to your adapter.
3. Connect the other end of your cable to the projector.
4. Turn on your projector.
5. Switch to the correct video source on your projector. Now the screen on your iPhone should appear on your projector.
Summary: Best Mini Projector for iPhone
To summarize, here are the top 5 mini projectors that you can look into:
- ViewSonic M1 LED Mini Projector
- Vamvo Ultra Mini Portable Projector
- Miroir M75 Micro Projector
- Anker Nebula Capsule Smart Mini Projector
- QKK Mini Projector
Note that these are not the same types. There are pocket-sized, palmtops, LEDs, and more.
Consider how and where you’re going to use the device. This will lead you to the right projector type.