The best TVs have become better suited to gaming in recent years. Between high refresh rates, HDR, and more, gaming on a TV has never looked better. But what if you want a really big screen experience? In this case, it may be worth considering a gaming projector. Projectors are a bit more common for watching movies than gaming, but that doesn't mean there aren't great gaming projectors out there. In fact, the best projectors benefit from some of the same technological advances as gaming TVs, with the added bonus of being able to display much larger images than so-called big TVs. Do you want to get a gaming projector for yourself? Here is everything you need to know.
Why a game projector?
There are some major advantages to having a gaming projector over a gaming TV, but perhaps the most obvious is the size of the screen. Sure, TVs are getting bigger, but you still can't get a TV larger than 70 inches without breaking the bank. While most televisions are in the 55-65-inch range, projectors can project screens larger than 100 inches, some even reaching several hundred inches. If you want the screen to grow well into your periphery, a projector is easily the solution. Other benefits can also be found. For example, a gaming projector is much more portable, as long as you have the space to display it. And you can change the screen size whenever you want, which can be useful.
Gaming projectors price: how much does it cost?
Projectors come in all price ranges, but if you want one specifically for gaming, you should probably think about spending a bit more than just buying one for movies. This is because the best projectors will show lower input lag, the metric of the time it takes for controller input to register on the screen, which is crucial for fast-paced competitive gaming. On the low end, you should be able to get a basic projector you can use for gaming for around $600 to $700 ($450 to $550 / AU$800 to AU$950). At the high end, however, the sky is the limit. If you want 4K resolution with HDR support and relatively low input lags, plan on spending at least $1,500 (£1,150 / AU$2,000), and you could spend much more for something that offers high brightness or for ultra-short-throw technology.
What are gaming projectors?
Fortunately, there are some great gaming projectors out there and we've reviewed the best of the best, so you don't have to go out and do all the research yourself. Here are some of the best gaming projectors on offer.
![Optoma UHD50X]()
(Image credit: Future) The Optoma UHD50X is a perfect compromise between image quality and price. The projector offers 4K resolution, low latency, and solid brightness, making it a great choice for those looking for a gaming projector for gaming. You'll get a brightness of 3.400 lumens and a contrast ratio of 500.000:1 which is great. There's also a whopping 240Hz refresh rate, which is perfect for gamers. The projector is available in the US and Australia for €1,599 or AU$3,199. In the UK, it's available under a different name: Optoma UHD42, and is available for €1,199. Read our full Optoma UHD50X review Today's best Optoma UHD50X deals Optoma UHD50X True 4K UHD...
![Optoma CinemaX P2]()
(Image credit: Optoma) Short-throw projectors are the ideal solution if you want to save space. The Optoma CinemaX P2 allows you to place your projector just inches from your viewing surface, while maintaining excellent image quality. The projector supports 4K, supports HDR10 and has a very elegant design. The Optoma CinemaX P2 costs $3,299 (around $4,500, $2,999). Read our full Optoma CinemaX P2 review Today's best Optoma CinemaX P2 deals Optoma CinemaX P2 Smart 4K...
![Cápsula II de la Nebulosa Anker]()
(Image credit: TechRadar) Not everyone wants to spend a lot on a projector, and if you want a cheap and rugged portable projector, the Anker Nebula Capsule II is worth considering. Granted, you won't get high resolution or a high refresh rate, but you'll still get a decent experience overall, aside from the built-in Android TV and Google Assistant. The Anker Nebula Capsule II is available for €579.99 (£465, AU$830). Read our full Anker Nebula Capsule II review Today's best deals for the Anker Nebula Capsule II Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini...
When should you buy a TV or gaming monitor?
Let's be clear: For the truly big-screen experience, a projector is worth considering, but others should buy a TV instead. TVs can't deliver as big a screen as a projector, but the overall picture will be cleaner, with higher resolution, better HDR support, and a higher refresh rate, for a lot less. The same goes for a gaming monitor, which is better suited for PC gaming. Now, of course, there are some downsides to TVs that are worth considering. They are less portable, more permanent, and the larger ones can be quite expensive. But for anyone who'll accept a 55- or 65-inch image, they'll offer a better image for less money. If you're interested in buying a TV, something from HiSense, Vizio, or if you can afford it, one of those OLED TVs is worth considering. Today's best gaming projector deals Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini... Optoma CinemaX P2 Smart 4K... Optoma UHD50X True 4K UHD... SAMSUNG 130" The first...