Projectors

Last updated on February 13th, 2024 at 10:07 am

If you are just learning about sewing with projectors, all the information can be overwhelming. Don’t waste your time on what has already been done for you! We have compiled the list of the top projectors specifically for sewing that combines features, abilities, and budget.

Best Projectors for Sewing

The best projector for sewing is different for everyone. Every sewing situation is different.

The best sewing projectors fit in your space and mount in a way that is accessible to you! The most budget friendly options are typically called “mini” projectors and are available for purchase in many places including Amazon. However, specifications and image size can be vastly different for “mini” projectors. It is best to choose a “mini” projector from a projector that has been tested for sewing. Check out the recommendations below!

If you are not sure which projector type is right for you, please visit the “How to Choose a Projector Page“.

Do you have at least 50″ (127cm) between your ceiling and cutting surface? If so, then a mini projector could work for you! Check out the Akiyo or Yoton models below.

Less than 50″ (127cm) or want a larger cutting image than a mini projector can give you? Then, you will want to look at short throw or ultra-short throw projectors. Check out the Best Budget and Screen Size projector below!

If you want a large image size and to place the projector on your cutting table or on a shelf next to your table, then check out secondhand ultra-short throw projectors.

Table of Contents

These Are Our Top Choices

Thumbnail
Budget Short Throw
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Budget Mini
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Best Overall
Magcubic Auto Keystone Mini Portable...
Title
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Magcubic Auto Keystone Mini Portable...
Brightness
184 Lumens
120 Lumens
-
Throw Ratio
0.7
1.2
0.9
Minimum Height for A1 (36" wide)
33" (plus 8" for mount)
43" (Plus 8" for mount)
40" (Plus 9" for mount)
Minimum Height for A0 (48" wide)
42" (plus 8" for mount)
57" (Plus 8" for mount)
44" (plus 9" mount)
Price
$189.99
$42.99
$75.99
Custom Sewing Projector Mount
Budget Short Throw
Thumbnail
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Title
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Brightness
184 Lumens
Throw Ratio
0.7
Minimum Height for A1 (36" wide)
33" (plus 8" for mount)
Minimum Height for A0 (48" wide)
42" (plus 8" for mount)
Price
$189.99
Buy on Amazon
Custom Sewing Projector Mount
Budget Mini
Thumbnail
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Title
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Brightness
120 Lumens
Throw Ratio
1.2
Minimum Height for A1 (36" wide)
43" (Plus 8" for mount)
Minimum Height for A0 (48" wide)
57" (Plus 8" for mount)
Price
$42.99
Buy on Amazon
Custom Sewing Projector Mount
Best Overall
Thumbnail
Magcubic Auto Keystone Mini Portable...
Title
Magcubic Auto Keystone Mini Portable...
Brightness
-
Throw Ratio
0.9
Minimum Height for A1 (36" wide)
40" (Plus 9" for mount)
Minimum Height for A0 (48" wide)
44" (plus 9" mount)
Price
$75.99
Buy on Amazon
Custom Sewing Projector Mount

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Alternative Projectors for Sewing

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Best Mini Projectors for Sewing

Mini projectors are among the most popular projectors used by those who projection sew. These projectors are smaller projectors that are mounted from the ceiling directly above your cutting surface. It is a good idea to have about 60 inches of height between your cutting surface and ceiling. This height will give you enough room to mount your projector pointing down and still have enough distance to create an image size around 36”x24”. However, some of the newer mini projectors can be mounted as low as 50″ for an image size close to 36″x24″.

These mini projectors have a throw ratio of 1.2-1.5. Most sewists can achieve an image size of an A1 cutting mat or 36″x24″ (90cmx60cm). If you want a larger image size, you will need to increase the throw distance or get a shorter throw projector.

Most mini projectors have HDMI connection ports, but all are not WiFi capable. If you plan to use miracast or screen mirror technology, then make sure the projector is able to do that. You will still need a power cord plugged in! If you want a projector that runs on batteries, check out the pico projectors.

Most mini projectors are mounted on a single-point mount hole. Mount holes are typically universal-sized. On occasion, some mini projectors have a 4-point mount setup. Always check the listing to be sure. Read about the best mounts for sewing projectors to see recommended mounts.

Preview
Top Choice
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Brightest
Mini Projector with 5G WiFi and Bluetooth W/...
Y3-PW Wifi Bluetooth Projector
Sovboi Projector, WiFi Mini Portable...
Title
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Mini Projector with 5G WiFi and Bluetooth W/...
Y3-PW Wifi Bluetooth Projector
Sovboi Projector, WiFi Mini Portable...
Native Resolution
1280x720
1280x720
1280x720
720p
Throw Ratio
1.2
1.4
1.2
1.24
Height needed for A1 mat (24"x36")
50" (127cm)
58" (147cm)
50" (127cm)
50" (127cm)
Height for A0 Size (48" wide)
67" (170cm)
75" (190cm)
67" (170cm)
67" (170cm)
Brightness
120 ANSI
9000 LED*
120 ANSI
8000L
Wifi Enabled
Price
$42.99
-
-
-
Top Choice
Preview
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Title
Yoton Mini Projector, Portable Phone small...
Native Resolution
1280x720
Throw Ratio
1.2
Height needed for A1 mat (24"x36")
50" (127cm)
Height for A0 Size (48" wide)
67" (170cm)
Brightness
120 ANSI
Wifi Enabled
Price
$42.99
Brightest
Preview
Mini Projector with 5G WiFi and Bluetooth W/...
Title
Mini Projector with 5G WiFi and Bluetooth W/...
Native Resolution
1280x720
Throw Ratio
1.4
Height needed for A1 mat (24"x36")
58" (147cm)
Height for A0 Size (48" wide)
75" (190cm)
Brightness
9000 LED*
Wifi Enabled
Price
-
Preview
Y3-PW Wifi Bluetooth Projector
Title
Y3-PW Wifi Bluetooth Projector
Native Resolution
1280x720
Throw Ratio
1.2
Height needed for A1 mat (24"x36")
50" (127cm)
Height for A0 Size (48" wide)
67" (170cm)
Brightness
120 ANSI
Wifi Enabled
Price
-
Preview
Sovboi Projector, WiFi Mini Portable...
Title
Sovboi Projector, WiFi Mini Portable...
Native Resolution
720p
Throw Ratio
1.24
Height needed for A1 mat (24"x36")
50" (127cm)
Height for A0 Size (48" wide)
67" (170cm)
Brightness
8000L
Wifi Enabled
Price
-

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Akiyo
Budget and Large Image Mini Projector
Akiyo
  • Small Size
  • Budget Friendly
  • Native Resolution 1280×720
  • Throw ratio 1.2
  • Manual Keystone
  • Not best brightness or contrast, so best used in dark environments
  • Minimum focus 1m or about 39 inches
  • Recommend at least 43″ from lens to table or 50″ from ceiling to cutting surface
  • Center above cutting surface
  • We HIGHLY Recommend THIS CEILING MOUNT
Yoton Y3-PW
Alternative projector to Akiyo
Yoton Y3-PW
  • Same design as the Akiyo
  • This one includes Wi-Fi, Y3-P does not include Wi-Fi if you prefer
  • We HIGHLY Recommend THIS CEILING MOUNT
Sovboi
Great Image Size
Sovboi
  • Native 720p
  • Throw Ratio 1.24, large image
  • WiFi connection
  • 8000 Lumens
  • Compact Size
  • 8000:1 contrast
  • No Basic Niche Mount available, we recommend a universal single-point mount
  • No keystone correction, so adjustments must be manual
Acrojoy 9000
Top Choice of 2021 and 2022
Acrojoy 9000 Lumens
  • Minimum height 53 in from ceiling to table
  • Large, bright image
  • Compact size
  • Lens to table distance for A1 mat size 60 inches
  • Native resolution 720p
  • We recommend the Basic Niche Mount
Alvar Review
Updated Vivimage Explore 2/ Acrojoy 9000
Alvar 9000
  • Often has coupons available on Amazon!
  • Minimum height 53 in from ceiling to table
  • Miracast, iOS cast
  • Wi-Fi
  • Carrying Case
  • Compact size (Same body design as Acrojoy)
  • Lens to table distance for A1 mat size 60 inches
  • Native resolution 720p
  • We recommend the Basic Niche Mount
Buy a Mini Projector in Canada

Looking for a mini projector in Canada? Check out this post with the top mini projectors available in Canada with links to Amazon.ca!


Mounts: Universal Single-Point

If you are looking for a ready-made mount, then these are good options. Some of the best mounts for mini projectors are the Basic Niche Mounts. There are many DIY solutions too!

Sale ARKON Mounts - Camera Wall Mount Robust...
2-Be-Best Projector Wall Mount, Angle...

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Pico Projectors for Sewing

Pico projectors are very similar to mini projectors. People love the portability of pico projectors. They can fit in the palm of your hand and run on battery power. Don’t forget you will need to access them to charge the battery periodically! They are a great portable option. Sometimes they have higher throw ratio and may create smaller images that mini projectors. You can mount pico projectors with any single-point mount including tripods and clamp mounts. They are great placed on a high shelf above the cutting area.

Most pico projectors have a single-point mount hole. Tripods, camera mounts, and clamp mounts all work well.

Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Best Short Throw Projectors for Sewing

Short throw projectors are a mix of the good qualities of a mini projector and ultra short throw projector. Short throw projectors are mounted on the wall or ceiling “offset” from the cutting table (instead of directly above). All short throw projectors should work for sewing. They usually need at around 1.5 ft distance to create a good image. Some take less, and some more. The max distance varies greatly, but this doesn’t really pertain to projection sewing because you would get a larger image than you need. Check out the Best Short Throw Projectors for Sewing for more details!

Preview
Best Image and Quality
Optoma Portable LED Projector | 1000 lumens...
Budget Choice
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
BenQ MW632ST WXGA Short Throw Projector |...
ViewSonic PS600X 3500 Lumens XGA HDMI...
Name
Optoma Portable LED Projector | 1000 lumens...
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
BenQ MW632ST WXGA Short Throw Projector |...
ViewSonic PS600X 3500 Lumens XGA HDMI...
Native Resolution
1280x800
1920x1080
1280x800
1024x768
Throw Ratio
0.8
0.7
0.9
0.61
Height for A1 (36" wide) image
36" (61cm)
33" (84cm)
40" (101cm)
30" (76cm)
Height for A0 (48" wide) image
46" (117cm)
42" (107cm)
51" (130cm)
37" (94cm)
Brightness
1000 ANSI
184 Lux Lumens
3,200 ANSI
3,500 ANSI
Contrast
20,000:1
-
13,000:1
22,000:1
Wireless
HDMI
Weight
0.9 lbs
1.1 lbs
5.7 lbs
5.7 lbs
Recommended Mount
-
-
Price
$631.12
$189.99
$614.99
$749.00
Best Image and Quality
Preview
Optoma Portable LED Projector | 1000 lumens...
Name
Optoma Portable LED Projector | 1000 lumens...
Native Resolution
1280x800
Throw Ratio
0.8
Height for A1 (36" wide) image
36" (61cm)
Height for A0 (48" wide) image
46" (117cm)
Brightness
1000 ANSI
Contrast
20,000:1
Wireless
HDMI
Weight
0.9 lbs
Recommended Mount
Price
$631.12
Buy Now
Budget Choice
Preview
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Name
Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native...
Native Resolution
1920x1080
Throw Ratio
0.7
Height for A1 (36" wide) image
33" (84cm)
Height for A0 (48" wide) image
42" (107cm)
Brightness
184 Lux Lumens
Contrast
-
Wireless
HDMI
Weight
1.1 lbs
Recommended Mount
Price
$189.99
Buy Now
Preview
BenQ MW632ST WXGA Short Throw Projector |...
Name
BenQ MW632ST WXGA Short Throw Projector |...
Native Resolution
1280x800
Throw Ratio
0.9
Height for A1 (36" wide) image
40" (101cm)
Height for A0 (48" wide) image
51" (130cm)
Brightness
3,200 ANSI
Contrast
13,000:1
Wireless
HDMI
Weight
5.7 lbs
Recommended Mount
-
Price
$614.99
Buy Now
Preview
ViewSonic PS600X 3500 Lumens XGA HDMI...
Name
ViewSonic PS600X 3500 Lumens XGA HDMI...
Native Resolution
1024x768
Throw Ratio
0.61
Height for A1 (36" wide) image
30" (76cm)
Height for A0 (48" wide) image
37" (94cm)
Brightness
3,500 ANSI
Contrast
22,000:1
Wireless
HDMI
Weight
5.7 lbs
Recommended Mount
-
Price
$749.00
Buy Now

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Budget Short Throw

Read the full review article on the AAXA SLC450.

Short Throw Mini Projector AAXA SLC450 Native…
  • [SHORT THROW] Short Throw 0.7 TR optics with…
  • [SUPER BRIGHT] Silicon Liquid Crystal 4K…
  • [ART SKETCHING] Perfect for Art Tracing and…
  • [COOKIE & CAKE DECORATING] For Larger Cookie…

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

optoma ml750
1 Top Short Throw Pick
Optoma ML750ST or ML1050ST
  • Compact size, o.9 lbs
  • Throw ratio 0.8
  • Lens to table for A1 size is 29 inches
  • Max height 11 ft (3.4m)
  • Minimum height 1.4 ft (0.4m)
  • Native Resolution 1280×800
  • “On edge” offset
  • We recommend a DIY mount or universal single-point mount
  • Read the Optoma Projector REVIEW
2 Runner up
BenQ MW632ST
  • Resolution 1280×800
  • 3200 Lumens
  • 13,000:1 contrast
  • Throw ratio 0.72-0.87
  • Manual focus, manual zoom
  • Throw distance 2.5′-15.2′
  • 5.7 lbs
  • 1″-2″ offset
3
Optoma GT1080HDR
  • 3800 Lumens
  • 50,000:1 contrast
  • Native Resolution 1920×1080
  • 15,000 Lamp hours
  • Throw Distance 1.3′-11.1′
  • Throw ratio 0.5
  • 6″ offset at 3 feet (changes at different distances)
  • 7.7 lbs
4
Epson PowerLite 530
  • Throw ratio 0.58
  • Native Resolution1024x768
  • Max height 4 ft (1.2m)
  • Minimum height 1.8 ft (0.5m)
  • 3″ offset
  • 8.2 lbs
5
Viewsonic
  • Resolution 1920×1080
  • 22,000:1 contrast
  • 3000 Lumens
  • Throw 3.6′-9′
  • Throw ratio 0.69
  • 5.9lbs
  • Offset 1″-2″

Best Ultra-Short Throw Projectors for Sewing

Ultra short throw projectors need very little throw distance to create a large image! A height of 17 inches or less is needed for an UST projector. These projectors can be placed on a table, ledge, or TV stand next to your cutting surface. These projectors create A0 sized images and bigger. To get a larger image size, just raise the projector!

Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Looking for a second-hand ultra-short throw projector for sewing? eBay is a great second-hand market with a lot of reputable sellers. Many items are offered with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For more details on choosing an UST projector for sewing, make sure to check the Best UST Projectors for Sewing.

*This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated.

Epson 575W
Our eBay Favorite Seller
Used Ultra-Short Throws Projectors from eBay
  • USE CODE: Projector Sewing for $15 OFF! (Just add the code in a message to the seller and give a bid for the projector that is -$15 price!) Top link only!
  • Great safe packaging
  • Top rated seller
  • Good prices
  • Used Ultra-Short Throw Projectors
  • Budget Friendly

Conclusion

As you can see the best projector for sewing is depended on your sewing needs. The cheapest option for a new projector is a mini projector that is typically mounted directly above your cutting surface. Ultra-short throw projectors are a favorite for the large image size they create, and are best bought second-hand. Short throw projectors are the best of both worlds that are mounted and create a large image size!

Don’t forget to think about how you will mount your projector. You may be interested in checking out the articles on How to mount a Projector or portable projector mounts.



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