The TV market has many great budget options that are good enough for most consumers, but the cheapest projectors tend to be small, portable models, which are typically extremely dim. Still, some cheap and budget-friendly projectors can deliver a decent viewing experience, and many of them have great smart features, eliminating the need to spend more on an external streaming device. You can find many models excelling in different facets, such as movies, gaming, or portability. If you're unsure about the size of screen you can accommodate at your distance, you can also use our projector throw calculator to determine how each model fits your room.
We've bought and tested more than 80 models, and below, you'll find the lowest-priced projectors to buy. If you're shopping at a price point, look at our best projectors under $500 and under $1,000. For a more exhaustive list of projectors at all price points, look at the best projectors instead, or the best home theater projectors if you're shopping for a blacked-out room. You can also vote on which ones you want us to purchase and test.