Top 3 Mini Projectors That Don’t Suck - Best for Movies, Streaming & More

Searching for an affordable projector that doesn’t compromise on quality? We tested 3 of the best-rated mini projectors under $100 — here’s what really delivered.

Whether you're setting up an outdoor movie night, building a home cinema on a budget, or just want a casual screen for YouTube and streaming — these picks all promise solid performance without a big price tag.

After reviewing their picture quality, ease of use, and real-world features, one clear winner emerged. Let’s dive in.

1. XGODY Gimbal Mini Projector – Compact. Smart. Surprisingly Powerful.

This stylish mini projector features a unique 180° rotating stand that lets you project onto any wall or ceiling without extra mounts. It’s a smart projector, so you get streaming apps built in — no need to plug in a laptop or phone.

It supports Bluetooth 5.2, delivers 1080p resolution support, and the auto-keystone correction works surprisingly well for a budget model. Great for small apartments or casual movie nights.

✅ Pros

• Rotating 180° stand — no tripod needed
• Compact and super portable
• Built-in apps and Wi-Fi streaming
• Auto-keystone for quick setup

⚠️ Cons

• Works best in dark rooms
• Speakers are fine, but not theater-grade

⭐ Rating: 4.4 / 5

2. HOMPOW Mini Projector – A True Amazon Favorite

The HOMPOW Mini Projector continues to be a popular bestseller for good reason: it’s insanely easy to set up, supports 1080p, and connects to almost anything — phones, laptops, Fire TV sticks, etc.

While it’s not a smart projector, its HDMI versatility and clear, bright image make it ideal for budget home theaters or dorm rooms. At this price, it’s a total steal.

✅ Pros

• High compatibility with all devices
• Good brightness for a budget model
• Compact and lightweight
• Great customer ratings and support

⚠️ Cons

• No built-in streaming (HDMI stick required)
• Needs a darker room for best results

⭐ Rating: 4.3 / 5

3. TMY Mini Projector – Best for Family Movie Nights

This projector brings a larger display size and a great image-to-cost ratio. It’s one of the few in this price range to include a projection screen in the box — ideal for beginners setting up a home cinema.

It’s bright, simple, and delivers good enough quality for weekend movie marathons or casual gaming. Add a streaming stick and you’ve got an instant setup.

✅ Pros

• Includes 100” screen
• High brightness and resolution for the price
• HDMI/USB/AV support
• Works with Chromecast, Fire Stick, etc.

⚠️ Cons

• Bulky compared to other mini models
• Built-in speaker could be louder

⭐ Rating: 4.2 / 5

Conclusion: Our Top Pick for 2025

All three models deliver excellent value — but one clearly leads the pack.

The TMY projector is a fantastic family option, and the HOMPOW wins on reliability and price.
But for smart features, portability, and unique design, the XGODY Gimbal Mini Projector is the best all-rounder under $100.

🏆 Top Pick: XGODY Gimbal – Smart. Flexible. Surprisingly Powerful.