For those passionate about movies, TV shows, live sports, and gaming, the allure of a big screen is undeniable. However, supersized TVs come with a hefty price tag and lack portability. Moreover, there’s a limit to how big they can get. For a truly captivating media experience, consider another option: a video projector.
Available in various designs, these devices can revolutionize your viewing and gaming sessions. Most are portable, straightforward to install, and adaptable to diverse settings. While they might be an investment, their durability ensures years of enhanced entertainment.
Factors like cost, mobility, resolution, sound quality, lamp lifespan, screen dimensions, and projection distance play crucial roles in determining a projector’s quality and how well it aligns with your needs.
This detailed guide will explore the best video projectors available in Canada right now, helping you make the right decision for your home.
The Best Video Projectors Right Now
- Top Pick: Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector
- Runner-Up: Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector
- Outdoor Pick: Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector
- Short-Throw Pick: Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector
- Budget Pick: BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector
Our Top Pick for the Best Video Projector
Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector Review
What We Think of the Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector
We are very excited to introduce you to the Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector. It’s just the best! Your screen size can range from 65 inches to 300 inches, and with a highly adjustable design (360-degree horizontal and 135-degree vertical ranges) and optical zoom, you’ll be able to set it up perfectly in every space. It can also connect to devices over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or you can wire them in with HDMI and USB cables. We love that versatility!
The actual projecting performance is pretty flawless, too. With its 3,000-lumen brightness and 4K resolution, your games and videos will look better than they ever have before. AI technology can even upscale poor-resolution videos for you! The audio packs a punch, too, thanks to the 3D sound. If you’re a gamer, the refresh rate (HSR 240) will make you very happy. Your projector will automatically optimize settings for stunning lag-free gameplay, too.
The only thing you might not like about this video projector is the price. It’s at the high end of the price range, so if you’re shopping on a budget or you’re looking for something simple, it might be too much, in all respects. If you’re willing and able to spend more, you sure won’t regret investing in this one. It’s got a lot to give in return.
All in all, the Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector has everything you could ask for. Whether audio quality or video quality is more important to you, you’ll be happy, and it can connect to any device you might need to use. It’s super user-friendly and portable, too. How does it get better?
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 5/5
- Price: 2/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector
Reviewers could not have a higher opinion of the Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector. They’re blown away by how easy it was to set up, the audio quality is outstanding, and they love that everything they put on the screen looks amazing, even if the original resolution was quite low. They’re really happy to have the optical zoom feature, too. They wouldn’t change a thing about it.
Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want to see and hear everything with maximum clarity
- You like to game on a projector
- You want to get the viewing angle just right everywhere you set up
- Seamless connectivity with a variety of devices will be essential
Don’t Buy If…
- Affordability is something you need to think about
Hisense C2 Ultra 4K UHD Smart Mini Projector Specifications
- Dimensions: 9.7” x 11.3” x 9.7”
- Weight: 13.9 lbs
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Throw Range: 4.2 ft to 19.7 ft
- Screen Size Range: 65” to 300”
- Brightness: 3,000 ANSI lumens
- Lamp Life: 25,000 hrs
- Warranty: 1 year
Our Runner-Up
Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector Review
What We Think of the Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector
There are tons of things to like about the Hisense M2 Pro-4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector, and we’re going to tell you all about them right now. One of the things we like most about this option is the VIDAA system. It makes streaming a whole lot easier and faster, so if services like Netflix or Disney+ are your jam, this is a fantastic projector to get. It comes with a travel case, too, so you can easily share the fun with your friends and family members when you go visiting.
With features like a 4K UHD resolution, 3D audio and video, and automated focusing, screen straightening, and colour correction, you’ll be treated to the most immersive experience you can imagine. You’ll even get to enjoy an optical zoom feature so you can change the screen size without moving the projector or affecting the video quality. It’s absolutely brilliant.
There are a couple of features that we’d improve if we could. First, the 1,300-lumen lamp won’t be bright enough to produce a clear picture in a bright room, so you’ll have to make sure you have a dimly or moderately lit space to set this one up. The maximum screen size is also limited to 200 inches, so if you’re looking for more, you’ll have to consider other options.
Overall, we think you’ll be really happy with the Hisense M2 Pro-4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector. It isn’t perfect in every feature, but it comes pretty close. No matter where you plan to set it up, it has the features you’ll need for a great movie night, gaming night, or daily TV watching.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 4.5/5
- Price: 3/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector
Reviewers have been having a great time with their Hisense M2 Pro-4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projectors. They could not have asked for better audio or video quality, and the optical zoom makes it really easy to achieve different screen sizes without moving the projector. It has a great gaming mode, and they love how easy it is to connect to streaming services. They highly recommend it.
Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want the best audio and video quality you can get
- You mostly use streaming services for your shows and movies
- Longevity and portability are really important to you
- You don’t want to do without an optical zoom feature
Don’t Buy If…
- You’ll need a massive screen size for your space
- You need a video projector that’ll work in bright spaces
Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Smart VIDAA Projector Specifications
- Dimensions: 7.6” x 9.1” x 8.6”
- Weight: 8.6 lbs
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Throw Range: 4.6 ft to 19 ft
- Screen Size Range: 65” to 200”
- Brightness: 1,300 ANSI lumens
- Lamp Life: 25,000 hrs
- Warranty: 1 year
Our Outdoor Pick
Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector Review
What We Think of the Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector
We have a lot of great things to tell you about the Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector. Of course, when you’re looking to watch movies outside, you need a projector that can handle the outdoors. This one is drop-proof, water-resistant, and dust-resistant, so it’s durable enough for travel anywhere. It can run on battery power, too, and even doubles as a power bank when you need some extra juice!
It has an incredibly versatile screen size range, and since you’ll likely be watching movies in full darkness (or close to it), the lower brightness of the lamp is absolutely perfect. This projector offers some pretty cool automations to speed up the setup process, as well. It has keystone correction, an automatic focus, and an automatic screen fit. It all takes only three seconds, too! You won’t have to do anything but turn it on and hit play.
We have two features to mention that might not be exactly what you’re looking for. Unlike some other video projectors, this one doesn’t offer any adjustability in terms of vertical or horizontal tilting/swivelling. To get the right angle, you’ll have to put in a bit more work. It also doesn’t have top-tier video and audio quality (it’s still good, though!), so if that’s important to you, you’ll have to spend more on a higher-end projector.
All in all, the Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector is our favourite option for people who like to spend time outdoors. It’ll put up with the hazards of travel and outdoor life with ease, and it’s got the perfect settings for dark nights or sunny days. You can’t do better, especially at this price!
- Performance: 4/5
- Usability: 4.5/5
- Price: 3/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector
Reviewers have great things to say about the Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector. They love how travel-friendly it is and appreciate the extra features, like the camping light. They’re also happy with the screen size range, and the video and audio quality are pretty good. All of the automations during setup are a huge help. They’d choose it again and recommend it for others.
Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You need a projector that travels well
- Outdoor viewing is your main focus
- You’d love a video projector that can double as a power bank
- You don’t want the setup to be a hassle
Don’t Buy If…
- You’d appreciate a highly adjustable projector
- You’re looking for outstanding video and audio quality
Nebula Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.2” x 9.8” x 6.3”
- Weight: 9.9 lbs
- Resolution: 1080p
- Throw Range: 2.6 ft to 17.4 ft
- Screen Size Range: 30” to 200”
- Brightness: 1,000 ANSI lumens
- Lamp Life: 30,000 hrs
- Warranty: 1 year
Our Short Throw Pick
Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector Review
What We Think of the Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector
The Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector is so cool, it’s hard to know where to start. Of course, its short throw distance is probably the most compelling thing about it. For a screen size between 80 and 150 inches, the projector only needs to be placed 1.5 feet (or less) away from your wall or screen. That’s unheard of! We also love that it has Alexa and Google TV built right in.
The performance of this projector is just as amazing as you’d expect at this price, too. With an adjustable brightness that will work for every space, 4K UHD resolution, 3D video and audio, and IMAX enhancements, you’ll be treated to the best and most immersive experience of your life. It has an outstanding gaming mode, too, with lag-free gameplay and amazing visuals.
There are a few potential negatives we want to mention as well, but we don’t think any of them are dealbreakers, except maybe the price. This is one of the most expensive video projectors out there, so if you’re shopping on a budget, it just won’t work out. Otherwise, the limited screen sizes and its poor portability are the only reasons this projector might not be the perfect choice for you.
Overall, the Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector is one of the most outstanding video projectors you’ll ever use, and while its price is reflective of that statement, we feel that it’s worth it. If you’re looking for the best of everything with an ultra-short throw distance, this is the only way to go.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 4.5/5
- Price: 1/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector
Reviewers are incredibly impressed by the Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector. They can’t believe it can produce such a large screen from only a foot away, but it does it exceptionally well. The video and audio quality are unmatched by other projectors they’ve used, and they appreciate having Alexa and Google TV built in. The gaming mode is also superb. They highly recommend it.
Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- Built-in assistants would be nice
- You’re looking for the best possible video and audio quality
- You want large screen sizes in small rooms
- You’ll be gaming with your projector a lot
Don’t Buy If…
- You’re looking for a wide range of screen sizes
- You’re not prepared to spend a lot of money on a projector
- You want to travel with your projector
Hisense PX3-PRO TriChroma Laser Projector Specifications
- Dimensions: 21.7” x 4.8” x 11.7”
- Weight: 19.8 lbs
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Throw Range: 0.39 ft to 1.5 ft
- Screen Size Range: 80” to 150”
- Brightness: 3,000 ANSI lumens
- Lamp Life: 25,000 hrs
- Warranty: 2 years
Our Budget Pick
BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector Review
What We Think of the BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector
The BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector is our top recommendation this year for anyone looking for a great projector on a budget. With one of the lowest price tags you’ll find right now, it’ll make your bank account happy, but it has a lot more to offer than that. It weighs only 5.5 pounds and is supremely easy to set up, so it’s a great choice if you’ll be moving it around the house or travelling with it.
It also has one of the brightest lamps out there at 3,800 ANSI lumens, so you’ll always get a clear image, even in bright spaces. We love the versatility that brings you. This projector really stands out in the gaming field, though. It offers more clarity and precision, even in dark scenes, so you can play your best. The low latency keeps you lag-free, too, so your winning potential will only be boosted.
We have a few shortcomings to mention before we wrap this up. With only a 1080p resolution, it won’t offer the same video quality as 4K or 4K UHD projectors, but at this price point, it’s the best you can get. The lamp life is quite short, too, so it’ll need replacement much sooner than other projectors. Lastly, you’ll have to do without Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity if you choose this one.
All in all, the BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector has more to offer than you’d expect from such a budget-friendly option. It doesn’t have the best resolution or the most comprehensive screen size range, but it’s ideal for gaming and will be a good choice for movies and TV shows in most cases.
- Performance: 4.5/5
- Usability: 4.5/5
- Price: 5/5
- Quality: 4.5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector
Reviewers have mostly great things to say about the BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector. It performs very well with a variety of game types, and they never struggle to keep up with fast-paced action or to make out details in dark scenes. Setup is quick and easy, and it produces great clarity even in bright spaces. The resolution could be better overall, though, and some people miss having Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity as an option.
BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You’ll mostly be using your projector for gaming
- An affordable price tag is essential
- You’ll want clarity in brightly lit rooms
- You’d appreciate a portable projector
Don’t Buy If…
- You’re looking for a projector that’ll last a long time
- You want a really high resolution
- You’d appreciate Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth connectivity
BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector Specifications
- Dimensions: 11.8” x 4.7” x 8.7”
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
- Resolution: 1080p HD
- Throw Range: 10.8 ft to 16.1 ft
- Screen Size Range: 100” to 150”
- Brightness: 3,800 ANSI lumens
- Lamp Life: 6,000 to 15,000 lumens
- Warranty: 3 years
Why Trust Shopping Trends?
At Shopping Trends, every product we review goes through rigorous hands-on testing to ensure we’re recommending only the best for Canadian households. With over a decade of experience in product evaluation and consumer reporting, I personally oversee each test and comparison.
Our process is transparent, methodical, and grounded in real-world usage. Whether it’s a cordless vacuum, a 4K TV, or a hammock for your next camping trip, we evaluate items the way you’d use them at home. When needed, we also consult Canadian industry experts to offer context and help readers make confident, informed decisions. Every “top pick” featured in our guides has earned its spot through careful analysis, not sponsorship.
How to Properly Choose Your Video Projector
When selecting a video projector for your home theatre needs, there are several key factors to consider:
Price
Projector pricing ranges widely, from budget models under $100 to premium options over $2,500. Set a budget up front to narrow your search to models that fit. Generally, more expensive projectors offer higher resolution, smarter features and impressive longevity.
Portability
If you plan to use your projector in different spaces, prioritize lightweight and compact models that are easy to transport. Tabletop and tripod mounting add flexibility. Bulkier stationary projectors work best for permanent home theatre setups.
Throw Range & Screen Size
The throw range dictates how far back you must place the projector from the screen or wall to achieve a clear image. Screen size potentials also vary. Evaluate your space to ensure the projector’s parameters fit your needs. Larger ranges provide more flexibility.
Resolution
1080p is the standard for most projectors today, but you can find HD, 4K and even 8K models too. Consider what resolution your media uses and choose a projector that matches or exceeds it for optimal clarity.
Audio
Projector speakers range from non-existent to decent quality. If audio is a priority, factor in costs for external speakers. Or ensure the built-in sound meets your standards.
Brightness
Brighter projectors starting at 2300+ lumens work best in well-lit rooms, while lower luminosity models under 1000 lumens suit dark theatre spaces. Choose lumens based on your planned environments.
Lamp Life
Bulb longevity affects value over time. Aim for 20,000+ hours for extended use. This doesn’t always correlate directly with price, so shop this feature wisely.
Connectivity Options
Ensure the projector has a variety of ports such as HDMI, USB, VGA, and audio out. This will allow you to connect various devices like laptops, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and more.
Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate (measured in Hertz) ensures smoother motion, especially important for action movies and gaming.
Fan Noise
Some projectors can be quite loud when in operation. If you’re setting up a quiet viewing environment, consider the noise level of the projector’s fan.
Smart Features
Some modern projectors come with built-in streaming apps, voice control, and other smart features. If these are important to you, look for projectors that offer them.
