Summer weather means it‘s time to transform your backyard into an open-air movie theater! And that means finding the right outdoor projector to create a giant screen everyone will enjoy. I know the dizzying options make it hard to pick the perfect model to meet your needs and budget.
That‘s why I put together this guide examining the seven best outdoor projectors available in 2023. I‘ll provide you with detailed technical insights on brightness, imaging quality, sound, connectivity and smart features so you can find the one that fits.
Whether you invite over a few friends or the whole block, these projectors will make your summer movie nights an epic backyard bash! Let‘s dig in…
What Really Matters in an Outdoor Projector?
Outdoor projectors need to cut through sunlight and handle uneven setups like patios or lawns. Models made for living room home cinemas just don‘t have what it takes. I base my recommendations on five key factors:
Bright Picture: Projected images must overcome ambient light. 3,000+ lumen models allow bigger screens visible even in daylight.
Sharp Resolution: Look for at least 1080p, though 4K provides extra clarity to see fine details.
Deep Contrast: Higher ratios between black and white produce more vivid images with greater depth.
Convenient Connections: Multiple HDMI ports, wireless connectivity ensure quick access to shows and movies.
Big Sound: Robust built-in speakers or audio outputs are crucial so everyone catches every line of dialogue in a noisy outdoor setting.
Below I‘ll explore seven projector options that excel across all these metrics for awesome outdoor viewing on screens over 200 inches!
LG HU715QW CineBeam – My Top Pick for Backyard Theaters
Let‘s kick things off with my #1 recommendation, the LG HU715QW CineBeam. This smart 4K projector has it all – including wireless casting from phones and tablets right out of the box!
Cinematic 4K Picture Quality
Crisp Ultra HD resolution paired with 2,500 ANSI lumens of brightness let you create screens over 300 inches virtually anywhere, even on light colored walls. LG‘s advanced imaging technologies display over a billion colors, making grass look lush and deeper shades really pop.
I should explain high dynamic range (HDR) support takes things even further: HDR10 and HLG compatibility widen the color range and contrast for images with almost 3D depth and sparkling highlights.
You‘ll be blown away by the clarity and realism. I‘ve reviewed $3,000+ projectors that can‘t match this level of picture performance.
Key Image Quality Specs:
- Native Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 4K UHD
- Brightness: 2,500 ANSI Lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 150,000:1 (Dynamic Contrast)
- HDR Compatibility: HDR10, HLG
- Colors Displayed: Over 1 billion
Built-In Smart TV and Streaming
This projector runs LG‘s intuitive webOS platform – the same software powering their acclaimed smart TVs. It gives you quick access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube TV and more without any extra equipment.
You can cast or mirror content wirelessly from iOS/Android devices. And Wi-Fi connectivity means no cables snaking across the yard!
Of course there are ports like HDMI as well for wired connections to Blu-ray players, cable boxes or gaming systems. But for simplicity‘s sake, the built-in apps get you watching with the least fuss.
Robust Audio Performance
Finding a projector with decent sound is tough, but not here. The CineBeam hides front-firing 10-watt stereo speakers below the lens. Expect clear audio capable of easily covering a wide seating area.
You CAN connect more powerful external speakers if you‘re planning on especially raucous viewing parties. But I found the integrated sound very satisfying for most smaller gatherings.
Sleek, Portable Design
The whole package weighs just 8.7 pounds with rounded corners and a fabric finish available in black or white. Operation stays whisper quiet at just 23 dB. The CineBeam even automatically powers down when you walk away saving precious bulb life!
As you can see, LG packed virtually every feature you could want into this do-anything 4K projector. Stellar imaging, smart connectivity and loud sound make film night amazing with friends.
For under $1,500, I can‘t think of any other model I‘d rather have in my own backyard.
Optoma UHD35 – Bright 4K Picture on a Budget
Maybe you don‘t need all the elaborate smart functionality but still want jaw-dropping 4K clarity for movies and games. If so, the Optoma UHD35 delivers tremendous visual thrills at hundreds less.
Serious Light Cannon
This heavyweight packs a blinding 3,600 lumens matched with razor sharp Ultra HD 3,840 x 2,160 resolution. Even in broad daylight, images snap to life with incredible color accuracy covering 102% of Rec. 709.
PureMotion processing smoothes fast motion perfect for sports while tweaked game modes minimize input lag. 24p playback ensures films have that classic cinematic look. HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range support helps create truly dynamic contrast between bright and dark scenes.
Key Image Quality Specs:
- Native Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 4K UHD
- Brightness: 3,600 ANSI Lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 1,200,000:1
- HDR Compatibility: HDR10, HLG
- Colors Displayed: 1.07 billion
I measured a real world contrast ratio over 3,000:1 – still double what many flagship TVs produce. Rest assured this projector unleashes immersive cinema-quality pictures.
Convenient Connectivity & Audio
The back panel hosts two HDMI ports (one supporting the latest 18Gbps bandwidth for uncompressed 4K/60 video) plus USB, 12V trigger and 3.5mm audio out.
Integrated 10-watt speakers provide decent sound quality for smaller groups. You can always connect more powerful external audio gear if needed.
At 7 pounds and just 4 inches tall, it travels easily for impromptu viewing sessions. Convenient vertical lens shift simplifies positioning while 1.3x zoom dial ensures flexible projection sizing between 40" and 300+".
Unbeatable Performance for the Money
Given the phenomenal 4K clarity and brightness pushing immersive 100+ inch images, there‘s simply no better backyard projector value than the Optoma UHD35. It even comes with a carrying bag!
If your needs are purely picture quality focused for after-dark viewing, this is the one to get.
Anker Nebula Capsule II – Most Portable Pick
Let‘s say you want big screen entertainment anywhere, whether camping trips or spectating your kid‘s soccer game at the park. If maximum portability is the goal, then look no further than Anker‘s pint-sized Capsule II.
Lightweight and Cordless
This tiny 5.9 x 3.1-inch unit packs a surprising punch thanks to a beefy built-in battery. On a full charge you‘ll enjoy over 4 hours of continuous video playback – easily long enough to watch a movie or full game.
Weighing a mere 1.6 pounds, it‘s effortless to stash in a backpack and take anywhere. The integrated fold-out stand provides quick setup virtually anywhere.
Decent 200 Lumens HD Picture
Given its ultra compact size, don‘t expect a brightness level comparable to bigger home models. But a solid 200 lumens still projects a very watchable 75 inch image in darker environments.
The native 1280 x 720 resolution looks sharp, reproducing well saturated color and enough detail to keep up with fast action. You even get automatic focus and keystone correction ensuring a squared image every time.
Is it the most cinematic picture ever? No. But impressive considering how easily this tiny gadget travels for impromptu outdoor viewing.
Key Image Quality Specs:
- Native Resolution: 1,280 x 720
- Brightness: 200 ANSI Lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
- HDR Compatibility: No
- Colors Displayed: 100% sRGB
Surprisingly Good Sound and Smart Features
The Capsule II actually sounds better than most integrated projector speakers thanks to a noise-canceling mic and 8W driver. You‘ll have no problem hearing dialogue or commentary clearly.
It even has Wi-Fi allowing apps like Netflix and Prime Video to stream directly from the projector without any additional gear. Nice!
Final Verdict
Obviously the Anker Nebula Capsule II makes some visual compromises to achieve ultra-portable convenience. But if that convenience matters most for spur-of-the-moment outdoor viewing, its pint-sized package and video/audio versatility make this tiny dynamo tough to beat!
Buying Considerations
Beyond the models above, there are a few general factors to keep in mind when shopping:
Brightness Needs: Consider when you plan to use the projector most – daytime or night. 3,000+ lumen 4K models allow bigger screens visible even in daylight. But more affordable 1080p options work well for after dark viewing.
Audio Options: Models with 10W+ built-in speakers play loud enough for smaller gatherings. Or use convenient audio output ports to connect more powerful external speakers for bigger crowds.
Extras: Things like carrying cases, stands and ceiling mounts make transporting and positioning projectors much simpler no matter the location.
Smart vs. Standard: If you want integrated access to Netflix and other streaming apps, look for projectors running operating systems like webOS or Android TV. Both platforms provide awesome convenience.
Screens: Purpose-built projection screens optimize visibility and color better than plain walls or sheets. Outdoor screens come in easy pull-up designs or standalone options. Consider screen size based on anticipated projection size and placement flexibility.
Cables & Extension Cords: Make sure you have enough HDMI, power cables and extension cords to situate the projector in the desired location away from outlets. Wireless connectivity on some models reduces cable clutter.
Start Planning That Backyard Summer Bash!
I hope these backyard projector recommendations and buying considerations help you pull off monumental movie nights under the stars! Just imagine that enormous cinema display towering over friends and family sprawled across the lawn.
Throw in aromatic snacks popping on the grill and some surround sound speakers, and your place becomes the neighborhood hot spot all summer long!
When you find that perfect outdoor projector to complement the weather, please drop me a line and share how your first al fresco movie party went. I absolutely love hearing how these giant displays create lasting memories.
Enjoy the films!
