Laser projectors are one of the best types of projectors on the market, offering superior image quality, brightness, and contrast compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. However, laser projectors can be expensive. But don't worry, there are a number of affordable laser projectors under $1,000. In this article, we'll compare three of the best affordable ones on the market: the NOMVDIC L500, the Nebula Capsule 3, and the Jmgo N1, to help you make the best choice.
What to look into when choosing a laser projector?
When choosing a laser projector, consider the following factors:
Resolution
Choose a projector with at least a 1080p resolution for high definition viewing.
Brightness
Consider your living spaces and the user scenarios; you might need a high brightness projector (usually with higher ANSI lumens rating) for brightly lit rooms.
Contrast ratio
A higher contrast ratio will produce a more vibrant and realistic image, making the darker scenes darker, thus provide you a better viewing experience.
Lifespan
Generally, laser projectors have a long lifespan of at least 20,000 hours. When choosing the right projector, you should always consider the lifespan of it.
Smart features: Streaming, Projection Setup, Keystone Correction
Consider a projector with built-in smart TV features for easy streaming; such as wireless casting or Bluetooth audio output/input, or if there are any built-in streaming apps. Other smart TV features include projection screen setup; if you plan to move your projector frequently, such as carrying it to different rooms or projecting at different angles, it is recommended to look for a projector with auto keystone correction and auto focus features. This will significantly reduce the time it takes to set up your projector.
Portability
Choose a portable projector if you plan on moving it around frequently.
Now that you know the key features to investigate, let’s take a look at the three most popular choices of laser projector.
1.NOMVDIC L500
L500 is a newly released projector in 2023, boasting the world's smallest RGB triple laser projector. Considering its triple laser feature, it is really worth it at the promotional price of $699 on Amazon. L500 also provides 1080p image quality, HDR10 and HLG support, as well as automatic focus, automatic vertical and horizontal correction, making the setup quick and easy. It weighs only 2.6lbs, making it a very lightweight and portable projector. Even in a well-lit environment, the image can be clearly displayed. The L500 has a throw ratio of 1.2, meaning users can project a 100” image at around 8 feet.
Another point worth mentioning is that the light source technology of L500 is RGB triple laser. This means that the L500 projector can provide richer and more realistic colors, reaching the 100% BT.2020 color gamut standard, as well as a contrast of 3,000,000:1, which is not available in other single laser projectors. Its triple laser light source also realizes a long lifespan of 20,000 hours. On their Amazon product page, you can also clearly see a comparison between the L500 triple laser projector and a single laser projector.
2.Nebula Capsule 3
The Nebula Capsule 3 is a tiny laser-phosphor projector that's perfect for people on the go. It's small enough—at merely 2.1 lbs—to fit in the palm of your hand, but it still offers good image quality at 1080p and auto keystone features. The Capsule 3 is a great option for people who want to be able to watch movies and TV shows anywhere they go. However, with a brightness of only 300 ANSI lumens, it is not suitable for use in well-lit environments and the projection size is limited.
3.JmGO N1
JMGO's N1 is another RGB triple laser projector under $1000, currently priced at $999 on Amazon. JMGO N1 has the same 1080p Full HD image quality and image correction features as Nebula Capsule 3 and L500. In addition, because it is equipped with triple lasers, this machine also has a wide color gamut of 110% BT.2020 and a contrast ratio of 1600:1. JMGO's machine weighs 4.4 lbs, which is heavier than the other two machines and has no battery.
Here's a full comparison of the three laser projectors recommended:
|
Model |
NOMVDIC L500 |
Nebula Capsule 3 |
Jmgo N1 |
|
Sales Price (as of 10/6/2023) |
$699 |
$749 |
$799 |
|
Resolution |
1080p FHD |
1080p FHD |
1080p FHD |
|
Light Source Type |
RGB Triple Laser |
Laser-Phosphor |
RGB Triple Laser |
|
Brightness |
650 ANSI lumens |
300 ANSI lumens |
1,200 ANSI lumens |
|
Contrast ratio |
3,000,000:1 |
500:1 |
1,600:1 |
|
Throw Ratio |
1.2:1 |
1.2:1 |
1.2:1 |
|
Light Source Lifespan |
20,000 hours |
30,000 hours |
20,000 hours |
|
MEMC |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Digital Keystone |
Auto H/V Keystone |
H/V Keystone |
H/V Keystone |
|
Portability |
Yes |
Yes |
No |