If you already have a full-size projector at home that you’re using for movies, TV, and gaming, then you’re basically set. The same projector will work great for your art projects.
But maybe you don’t have a projector and are only thinking of one for artwork. That’s fine, although your purchasing decision depends on where you would like to use the projector and how often. Also, the scale of your art matters, and whether you’d like to take the projector with you to shows and other occasions. If the latter is important, then indeed a good portable digital projector is your best bet. In case you want to combine art and home entertainment, then we recommend investing in a full-size home-class projector. These models will meet all of your needs, although they’re not nearly as versatile as portable projectors. Keep in mind that larger projectors are meant to mostly stay in place, and in this article we’re focusing on portables for people who wish to take their art on the go, or at least have that option.
We’ve already discussed brightness as it pertains to clarity, but there’s also a device size connection here. If you see portable projectors that appear almost as compact as your smartphone, that’s not what you need. These are “pico” LCD projectors and simply don’t have the power to showcase a good image. They also lack the battery life you’d expect out of a serious product. With good portables, you get up to three hours when unplugged. Cheap LCD models will drain out after an hour. Stay away from those.
Connectivity with other devices is essential. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are integrated into good portable projectors, plus they have USB and HDMI. Beware cheap and tiny projectors with no Wi-Fi or no HDMI.
Lastly, good digital portables use LED light sources. These last a lot longer than traditional projector lamps, and there’s no need to replace them as often. You’ll probably feel like buying a new projector before a replacement is due, whereas older technologies would mean a change every couple of years.