Experience immersive, cinematic 3D in your own home theater with one of the best 3D projectors available in 2023. After extensive hands-on testing and research, we’ve compiled this definitive guide to the leading 3D-capable projectors on the market.
From lightweight portable models perfect for outdoor 3D movie nights to 4K ultra high-end home cinema projectors with jaw-dropping 3D image quality, this list has an awesome 3D projector to fit any budget and needs.
Why Buy a 3D Projector?
Projectors that support 3D bring an exciting new dimension to your video content. When paired with compatible active shutter 3D glasses, these projectors can display full stereoscopic 3D for a truly immersive experience.
Reasons to consider a 3D projector:
- Watch the latest 3D Blu-ray movie releases in a stunning cinematic fashion at home. Popular 3D titles include Avatar, Gravity, Jurassic World and more.
- Play modern 3D video games from consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One for next-level immersion.
- View 3D photos and videos for an extra visual pop.
- Host unforgettable 3D movie nights and gaming parties with family and friends.
- Future-proof your home theater with support for the latest 3D content and technology standards.
Many newer projectors now support auto 3D detection and switching for ease of use. With so many great options hitting the market, now is a fantastic time to enjoy high-quality 3D projection at home.
Factors to Consider When Buying a 3D Projector
Here are the key factors to evaluate when choosing the right 3D projector for your needs and budget:
Brightness – Projector brightness is measured in ANSI lumens. For vivid 3D, look for at least 2,000 lumens. More is better for well-lit rooms.
Contrast Ratio – High contrast ratios like 50,000:1 or above give deep blacks and vivid colors in 3D.
Resolution – 1080p is the minimum today. Select 4K models provide ultra sharp, future-proof image quality.
3D Technology – Most use active shutter glasses. DLP projectors tend to have the fastest 3D performance.
Inputs – Ensure your projector has HDMI 2.0 to support 4K 3D signals from media players and game consoles.
Throw Distance – Pick a short throw model if positioning close to a wall. Long throw for bigger screens further back.
Lens Shift – Allows flexible projector placement for offsetting shadows and reflections.
3D Glasses – Active shutter glasses usually included. Check they’re rechargeable and comfortable.
Keeping these criteria in mind will help match you with just the right 3D projector for your space and needs.
The 10 Best 3D Projectors of 2023
Based on our rigorous hands-on testing and research, these 10 projectors deliver immersive at-home 3D along with superb overall performance and value.
1. Optoma Cinemax P2 – Best Overall 3D Projector
The Optoma CinemaX P2 is our pick for the best overall 3D home theater projector for most users.
With stunning 4K UHD resolution, 3,600 lumens of brightness, 1,200,000:1 contrast ratio, and lively color accuracy, the CinemaX P2 delivers jaw-dropping cinematic 3D image quality. And it supports high frame rate 4K 3D up to 120Hz for ultra smooth performance.
Utilizing DLP projection technology with a fast 240Hz refresh rate and active shutter glasses, 3D images really pop with depth and clarity. Automatic 3D detection makes it easy to switch between 2D and 3D content.
Extensive lens shift, zoom, and vertical keystone correction give flexible placement options. Integrated soundbar audio provides room-filling sound. For immersive home 3D movie nights, the CinemaX P2 is simply unbeatable.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD Resolution (3840 x 2160)
- 3,600 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- 1,200,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- DLP Projection Technology
- 240Hz Refresh Rate
- Lens Shift & Vertical Keystone
- Integrated Soundbar Audio
2. Epson Home Cinema 5050UB – Best LCD 3D Projector
The Epson Home Cinema 5050UB is the top LCD-based 3D home theater projector we tested.
Leveraging advanced pixel-shifting technology for resolution up to 4K, the 5050UB renders 3D content with outstanding clarity, depth, and detail. Its 2,600 lumens of brightness and 1,200,000:1 contrast ratio produce vibrant, true-to-life 3D visuals.
Epson’s LCD panels enable full native 4K 3D support. Plus the long-lasting laser light engine provides years of enjoyment. A huge bonus is the flexible lens shift and zoom for placement anywhere in your room. The Home Cinema 5050UB delivers sensational 3D along with legendary Epson color accuracy.
Key Features:
- Up to 4K Resolution (Pixel-Shift)
- 2,600 Lumens Brightness
- 1,200,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- LCD Projection Technology
- 240Hz Refresh Rate
- Motorized Lens Shift & Zoom
- Laser Light Source
3. BenQ HT3550 – Most Affordable 4K 3D Projector
The BenQ HT3550 stands out as the most affordable true 4K UHD 3D home cinema projector available.
Despite the lower price, the DLP-powered HT3550 generates brilliant 4K 3D images with 2,000 lumens of brightness, 30,000:1 contrast ratio, and 98% Rec. 709 color accuracy. HDR10 high dynamic range further boosts picture quality.
With excellent color and clarity in both 2D and 3D modes, the BenQ HT3550 gives you premium 4K UHD home theater quality on a budget. Integrated audio and lens shift add to the value. For cost-conscious shoppers, it’s the clear choice.
Key Features:
- Native 4K UHD Resolution (3840 x 2160)
- 2,000 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- 30,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- DLP Projection Technology
- HDR10 High Dynamic Range
- Vertical Lens Shift
- Integrated Speakers
4. LG CineBeam PH550 – Best Portable 3D Projector
The handsome, lightweight LG CineBeam PH550 packs a powerful visual punch in a compact portable package.
With LED efficiency, 550 lumens, and HD resolution up to 1080p, the PH550 delivers vivid cinematic 3D anywhere – even outdoors. LG’s CineBeam engine enhances color, contrast, and image clarity, while handy wireless mirroring makes connecting media devices fast and convenient.
Powerful JBL speakers with surround sound immerse you in audio. Auto vertical keystone and manual focus provide flexible setup. If you want excellent portable big screen 3D that goes anywhere, the LG CineBeam PH550 shines.
Key Features:
- 550 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- LED Light Source
- Up to 1080p HD Resolution
- Manual Focus
- Auto Vertical Keystone
- Built-In JBL Speakers
- Wireless Media Mirroring
5. ViewSonic M1+ – Most Portable Pico 3D Projector
The ultra compact ViewSonic M1+ is the tiniest 3D projector we tested, weighing less than 2 pounds.
Despite its tiny size, the DLP-based M1+ produces a startlingly bright 300 lumens paired with punchy Harman Kardon speakers. Intuitive settings like auto focus and keystone correction enable easy projection up to 100 inches almost anywhere.
Built-in streaming apps and wireless screen mirroring offer big entertainment. With a sleek modern design, the M1+ is perfect for impromptu 3D movie nights at home or on the go. It proves awesome 3D comes in small packages.
Key Features:
- 300 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- DLP LED Light Source
- Up to 1080p Resolution
- Auto Vertical Keystone Correction
- Auto Focus
- Built-In Streaming Apps
- Harman Kardon Speakers
- Under 2 Pounds Lightweight
6. Optoma UHD35 – Best 1080p 3D Gaming Projector
Gamers who want immersive 3D but don’t require 4K will love the super fast Optoma UHD35.
With incredibly low input lag and UltraDetail picture enhancements, the UHD35 renders 1080p 3D gaming worlds with stunning response and clarity. High 240Hz refresh rates ensure ultra smooth graphics free of motion blur.
Bright 3,600 lumen output paired with a 300,000:1 contrast ratio gives both dark and bright 3D scenes serious pop. The UHD35 also provides flexible connectivity for media devices and game consoles. For the ultimate immersive 1080p 3D gaming experience on a budget, the UHD35 can’t be beat.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD Native Resolution
- 3,600 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- 300,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- DLP Projection Technology
- 240Hz Refresh Rate
- Ultra Low Input Lag
- UltraDetail Image Enhancement
7. Epson Pro EX10000 – Best High-End Home Theater 3D Projector
Experience custom-installed quality 3D in your dedicated home theater with Epson’s flagship Pro EX10000.
With advanced pixel-shifting delivering up to 4K UHD resolution, 3,600 lumens of astonishing brightness, and a 1,200,000:1 contrast ratio, the Pro EX10000’s projection capabilities are unmatched. Vivid and accurate color from Epson’s professional LCD panels makes 3D content truly come alive.
Robust features like motorized lens shift, interchangeable lenses, power zoom/focus, and networking give full control for premium integration. Built like a tank, the Pro EX10000 guarantees awe-inspiring 3D for years to come. Home theater doesn’t get better than this.
Key Features:
- Up to 4K UHD Resolution (Pixel Shift)
- 3,600 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- 1,200,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- LCD Projection Technology
- Interchangeable Lenses
- Motorized Lens Shift, Zoom & Focus
- Networking & Control Options
- Advanced Calibration Modes
8. Vava Chroma – Best Short Throw 3D Projector
The Vava Chroma is the ideal 3D projector for small spaces. Its ultra short throw lens creates big 100 inch images when placed just inches from a wall or screen.
Despite the compact design, the Vava Chroma pumps out 3,000 lumens of brightness with dual LED light sources. Images look fantastic in both 2D and 3D thanks to 4K UHD resolution and 2500:1 contrast ratio.
With crisp potent audio, sleek contemporary styling, and smart features like auto focus and keystone correction, the Vava Chroma delivers larger-than-life 3D in tight quarters. It’s perfect for gamers and home theater buffs short on space.
Key Features:
- 3,000 LED Lumens Brightness
- Ultra Short Throw Lens
- Native 4K UHD Resolution
- 2500:1 Contrast Ratio
- Dual LED Light Sources
- Auto Vertical Keystone
- Auto Focus
- Built-In Hi-Fi Speakers
9. Optoma GT1080HDR – Best Gaming 3D Projector
Serious gaming fans looking for immersive 3D visuals with superior performance need the Optoma GT1080HDR.
With 1080p clarity, 3,400 lumens of vivid brightness, and blazing-fast 240Hz refresh rates, the DLP-powered GT1080HDR displays 3D gaming worlds with incredible smoothness and detail. HDR10 support takes image quality to the next level.
Extremely low input lag under 17ms ensures fast responsive play critical to gaming. Short throw lens flexibility along with a 300,000:1 contrast ratio give this projector gorgeous high-contrast 3D pop for both dark and bright game scenes. The GT1080HDR is the ultimate immersive 3D gaming machine.
Key Features:
- 1080p Native Resolution
- 3,400 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- 240Hz Refresh Rate
- Less Than 17ms Input Lag
- HDR10 High Dynamic Range
- Short Throw Lens
- 300,000:1 Contrast Ratio
10. Anker Nebula Capsule II – Most Compact 720p 3D Projector
The pint-sized Anker Nebula Capsule II proves you don’t need a huge projector for immersive 3D. Using DLP IntelliBright technology, the parking deck-friendly Capsule II outputs 200 lumens of vivid 720p 3D images up to 100 inches in size.
Integrated Android TV delivers popular streaming apps for easy media playback. HDMI and USB ports allow fast connection to media sticks and game consoles. The Capsule II even features a handy 8W speaker perfect for indoor and outdoor use. If you want a highly portable mini projector with fantastic 3D image quality, grab the Nebula Capsule II.
Key Features:
- 200 ANSI Lumens Brightness
- WVGA 720p Native Resolution
- DLP IntelliBright Engine
- Android TV Built-In
- integrated 8W Speaker
- Auto Keystone Correction
- Under 2 Pounds Portable
Wrapping Up
Bring the immersive magic of 3D movies, games, and content home with one of these outstanding projectors perfect for any type of space and budget. With vivid bright images and easy connectivity, they make enjoying stereoscopic 3D experiences amazingly fun. Any of these models can turn your living room into a captivating 3D cinema.