Are cheap projectors worth buying?

For occasional dark-room use, camping, kids' rooms, and backyard movie nights — yes. For daily TV replacement or bright rooms — no. Set expectations appropriately and you will enjoy a sub-$100 projector.

Why is brightness measured in ANSI lumens?

ANSI lumens is a standardized measurement of projector brightness. Many cheap projectors advertise 'LED lumens' or 'lux' which are not comparable. Always compare ANSI lumens. Under $100, expect 150-300 ANSI lumens — adequate for dark rooms only.

Best Mini Projectors Under $100 2026