Looking for the best mini projector for your iPhone or iPad? While most projectors are device-compatible, finding a good mini projector specifically designed for iPhones and iPads can be tricky. The choice often boils down to portability, image quality, and budget. Compact projectors often come at a premium since you’re paying for both quality and convenience.
To make things easier, this article highlights the top eight mini projectors for iPhones and iPads. Whether you’re glued to TikTok, YouTube, or streaming your favorite shows like The Boys or Stranger Things, sharing the fun with others can be challenging when everyone’s crowding around a small screen.
Anker D2423
KODAK Luma 350
AuKing M8-F
An iPhone projector solves this problem, offering a big-screen experience for everyone in the room. However, searching for “phone projectors” online can yield hundreds of options, many of which aren’t worth your money. That’s where we come in. After testing dozens of projectors from brands like Kodak, Nebula by Anker, and ViewSonic, we’ve narrowed it down to the best options. Keep reading to discover the top projectors for your iPhone or iPad.
1. Anker D2423
The Nebula by Anker Capsule Max is a compact powerhouse, slightly larger than a soda can (or a tall boy). Its sleek cylindrical design immediately impresses, and the intuitive setup and interface enhance the experience. Connecting wirelessly to an iPhone via the built-in Chromecast is seamless, with sharp visuals supported by the Capsule Max’s reliable autofocus.
One standout feature is the Android TV 9.0 interface, preloaded with essential apps, making it incredibly versatile. The sound quality is a pleasant surprise—rich and room-filling, defying its small size. The projector also delivers on its promise of a 2.5-hour battery life, perfect for movie nights or presentations.
However, at 200 lumens, it does face challenges in well-lit spaces. While the image clarity and 720p resolution are impressive, the picture truly shines in a pitch-black setting. Despite its higher price, the Capsule Max checks all the boxes for portability, quality, and ease of use.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Easy iPhone setup and excellent interface
- Autofocus, keystone adjustment, and sharp 720p resolution
- Portable, stylish cylindrical design
Cons:
- Struggles in dimly lit environments
- Higher price tag
2. KODAK Luma 350
The Kodak Luma 350 had the potential to top our list as the best iPhone projector for 2025, and it came very close. With Kodak’s trusted brand name on a compact, durable, and visually appealing design, we had high hopes for this little powerhouse.
Once connected, the performance didn’t disappoint. Its 150 lumens provided sufficient brightness in dark environments, and the 1080p resolution delivered sharp, high-quality visuals. While it struggles in partially lit spaces, that’s typical for small projectors. The Luma 350 also impressed with its crisp sound quality, making it a great option for movie nights or presentations.
However, the interface was a significant drawback. Setting up the wireless connection proved frustrating, with the process taking over an hour even after entering the WiFi password. Fortunately, this issue can be bypassed by using a Lightning-to-HDMI adapter for a hassle-free setup. Once connected, the Luma 350 truly shines, offering a fantastic viewing experience in a tiny package.
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Bright 150 lumens for a small projector
- Durable build with excellent picture and sound quality
Cons:
- Clunky, time-consuming wireless setup
3. AuKing M8-F
The AuKing mini projector for iPhone and iPad is a versatile option for watching TV shows, streaming videos, or playing games. Compatible with laptops, smartphones, tablets, and Xbox One, it offers easy connectivity, low operating noise, and impressive durability.
Equipped with advanced fan cooling technology, this projector efficiently dissipates heat, extending the lamp life to an impressive 55,000 hours—enough for over six years of regular use. Its compact design makes it ideal for casual movie nights, presentations, or on-the-go entertainment.
The AuKing projector delivers a projection display of 32 to 170 inches and provides decent image quality for its size. While its brightness is best suited for dark environments, the loud sound quality and multi-device compatibility enhance its overall value. Its affordability and portability make it an excellent choice for small spaces.
Pros:
- 32–170 inch projection display
- Excellent sound quality
- Easy connection with multiple devices
Cons:
- Picture resolution could be improved
4. KODAK Luma 150 Ultra
The Kodak Luma is a versatile and compact mini projector with multiple viewing options. It includes HDMI and micro USB cables, allowing seamless connection to cameras, laptops, storage devices, and other compatible gadgets. For added convenience, it supports wireless screen mirroring via AirPlay.
Designed for portability, the Kodak Luma is perfect for streaming movies or playing games on a larger screen. It features built-in speakers and intuitive onboard controls for an effortless viewing and listening experience. Its sleek design makes it easy to carry anywhere, adding versatility to its list of strengths.
This projector is also ideal for creative purposes like art projects, thanks to its clarity and hassle-free setup. While the battery life isn’t exceptional, the fact that such a small device includes a battery is impressive.
Pros:
- Stylish, sleek design
- Compatible with various multimedia devices
- Compact and versatile
Cons:
- Limited brightness
5. ViewSonic M1 Mini Ultr
The ViewSonic M1 Mini+ Ultra Portable Projector resembles the Kodak Luma 350 in both shape and size, but it offers a more budget-friendly alternative for Apple users. While the Kodak edges out as the better overall iPhone projector, the M1 Mini+ holds its own as a solid choice for those seeking affordability and portability.
One major advantage is its ease of setup, which is significantly faster and simpler than the Kodak. However, the M1 Mini+ relies entirely on a tiny remote for controls—losing it leaves the projector unusable. Despite this drawback, the setup convenience still gives it an edge. Another highlight is the built-in stand that doubles as a handle, making it easier to position and carry. As a short-throw projector, it’s best used close to the wall or screen for optimal results.
The main limitation lies in its brightness, offering only 50 lumens—a quarter of the Kodak’s output. Even within 3 feet of the screen, the projection struggles in anything but dark environments. However, if portability is your top priority, the pocket-sized ViewSonic M1 Mini+ is a worthy option.
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup
- Convenient built-in handle/stand
- Good short-throw performance
Cons:
- No on-device controls, reliant on remote
- Limited brightness at 50 lumens
How We Selected the Best iPhone Projectors
To identify the top iPhone projectors, we conducted side-by-side comparisons, scoring each product on key criteria:
- Resolution and Streaming: We tested each projector by playing YouTube videos, streaming live TV, and watching movies in both daytime (curtains drawn) and nighttime settings, evaluating clarity and sharpness.
- Sound: Each unit was tested without external speakers. We assessed volume and clarity at close range and from 5–10 feet away, ensuring the audio could be heard over the internal fan.
- Setup: We connected an iPhone 13 to each projector via hardwiring and, where applicable, Bluetooth. Units with WiFi were connected to the same network to gauge ease and speed of connection.
- Ease of Use: We evaluated the interface, built-in control buttons, remote control, and apps (if applicable). Basic commands like play, pause, volume control, and input switching were tested for simplicity.
All units were tested in the same room, using the same iPhone 13, under filtered daylight and nighttime conditions.
What to Consider When Buying an iPhone Projector
- Connectivity: Ensure your iPhone can connect. Some smaller units lack Bluetooth or WiFi, requiring a Lightning-to-HDMI or Lightning-to-Mini-HDMI adapter. Additionally, Netflix is no longer AirPlay-compatible, so a hardwired connection is necessary for streaming.
- Brightness: Compact projectors often have smaller bulbs that struggle with light interference. Look for the lumens rating—higher lumens mean a brighter picture.
- Resolution: While 4K resolution is premium, many portable projectors deliver excellent 720p quality at a more affordable price.
- Battery Life: Portability means relying on rechargeable batteries. Check the runtime on a full charge to avoid interruptions during your favorite show or movie.
