Entry-Level Projector Recommendations Requested

Last year I bought a cheap no-brand projector that would make you cringe, from Amazon. It was a proof of concept purchase, just to see whether I’d enjoy such a thing if I were ever to buy something better.

I do enjoy it, so now I’m looking to upgrade. My use case is this: it isn’t my main screen. I have a nice television in my living room which I’m not looking to replace. The projector lives in my bedroom for the occasional lazy treat. I may watch 5-6 hours a week. I don’t need it to be 4K. I don’t care about sound as it’ll connect to Bluetooth headphones.

What I do want is maximum bang for my buck, decent brightness that can cope with medium to dim lighting, and a budget of ~$1.2k. I’m having a hard time finding units sourced from Australia and am considering the Epson CO-FH02. From what I can tell, for the price point it excels in nearly every way except the irreplaceable lamp, but given my usage, the lamp would still last me 10+ years, after which I’d replace.

What models am I missing? What’s in my blind spot? I’m no expert on this so any helpful advice would be appreciated. Thanks very much.

Comments

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  • I have a XGIMI Halo+ and it's served me very well. Like you, i was exploring and didn't want to break my bank and I bought on a sale and paid around $800.

    It's sitting on my bedside table, the small form saves lots of space if that's a consideration. Quiet enough. Picture's decent to me. It runs on Google TV but my version can't install the netflix app(something to do with licensing) and had to use another app launcher to use netflix I think the latest versions has fully licensed netflix though, that you have to check.

    If you're on a budget and looking for something under $1000. This could be for you.

  • I got one of these for around $100 just over a year ago…

    It's pretty good. I connect a Google TV to it paired to JBL speakers…. Instant entertainment on the go.

  • Try and pick up a BENQW1070 second hand and save your money

  • What projector did you end up going with? I'm in the same situation now.

  • I got an epson eh tw something for $150 off marketplace earlier this year. So good, definitely check your area first if there’s anything good. Either epson, benq, xigim. A couple others I forget

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