Cheap Projector for Backyard Movies and Camping

Looking for a cheap projector that can be used for watching movies in the backyard and when camping.

BCF has one that I will use as a benchmark, not all that fussy about picture quality, but 12v input (and low power usage) would be pretty important for any future camping trips. Have looked at some second-hand reasonable quality projectors but at a similar price point, they are all pretty bulky and without any convenient (digital) inputs.

Comments

  • +3

    320x240p … you sure you can handle that ? and dim as blackhole

    local has no cheap but acceptable projector

    you'll need to source it from aliexpress that's gonna take a while

    unless amazon has flash sale for gp90/100

    • Yeah, I am not too fussy, it will mainly be for the kid's movies. I suspect the BCF one would be overly crap though. Not necessarily in a huge rush, sooner would be better but not the be-all.

    • I am assuming this is just a rebagged something, do you know what it is? https://www.australiandirect.com.au/buy/12-volt-outdoor-cine…

      • +1

        Touyinger T4 mini

        AC3 version is brighter

        • Thanks very much, any thoughts on the T4?

          • +1

            @tryagain: Yeah, for 720p projector, the T4-mini AC3 is one of the popular choice from aliexpress for its price & brightness, currently on sale at USD$80+ (good price)

            the fan is loud, not sure if that's a problem since you're using it outdoor

            you can get the T4-mini WM version which allows you to use your mobile phone as media player (streaming netflix, etc)

            • @dcep: Thanks again, I think this one meets the sweet spot for me in regards to cost and value. Looks like the WM version is only with the basic version specs, not the AC3. So I think I'll go the AC3 and then use my spare Chromecast for screen mirroring.

            • @dcep: Do you know anything about the cheap screens? this one looks like it's is only $23 inc GST shipped from Aus. https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000111809039.html?spm=a2g0o…
              For the price, I am not expecting too much, but would rather not waste my $$$ if it's going to be total rubbish.

              • +1

                @tryagain: not sure about that particular screens, best to read those user reviews/feedbacks

                things to note,

                • quality smooth fabric with no wrinkle (some requires you to iron it before use)
                • some coated with grey metallic compound that enhance the brightness / contrast
                • you need to have something to tie on
  • +3

    A projector with an internal resolution of 320x240 would look terrible…

    • Hence, why I am looking for something better, although doesn't have to be great.

  • +2

    Honestly don't bother.

    • What is the minimum you would think is worthwhile?

      • I'm talking in general.
        You have to compete with wind, natural light, bugs. You'll probably spend all that money and only use it once or twice.

  • +1

    We picked up an Acer C101i Projector from Officeworks on clearance for $228.

    We currently use this in our bedroom projecting onto the ceiling. It means we can watch TV under the warm blanket without having to tilt head. Brightness and sound good enough for night time viewing. Questionable if you don't have window shades/blinds down.

    Advantages:
    -LED Lamp which has a long life. (Don't bother with older style Halogen lamps as they can get pretty expensive to replace
    -Has battery to allow it run without mains
    -Small and portable. (about the size of a USB portable hard drive)
    -Short throw so suitable for small spaces

    Disadvantages
    -Sound is good if your using it in small area (bedroom). If you after an outdoor cinema, you'll need to hook up a sound bar or external speakers
    -Dim if you are intending on using it during the day in loungeroom/office. Perfectly find to use at night.

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