I wanted a smart TV, but these projectors are starting to make more sense

Thinking of buying a smart TV? These projectors offer large screens, built-in apps, and simple setup, making them a practical option for home viewing.

Projectors are now replacing smart TVs, offering larger screens, streaming apps, and flexible home viewing options.

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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Many buyers look at smart TVs for home viewing, but projectors are now offering a practical alternative. With support for large screen sizes, built-in apps, and simple setup, they can handle movies, games, and presentations in one device. Several brands have introduced models with Full HD or 4K support, wireless connectivity, and built-in systems for streaming. Here is a list of projectors in India that can replace a TV for many use cases.

1. Zebronics Pixaplay Projector

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The ZEBRONICS PIXAPLAY Projector runs on a quad-core processor and supports Full HD resolution with 4K input. It can project up to 210 inches. With 11,500 lumens of brightness and 1500:1 contrast, it works in rooms with some light. It includes HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Miracast. It suits users who want a simple setup for movies or work use. The LED life is rated up to 50,000 hours.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p, 4K support

Brightness

11,500 lumens

OS/Smart

No

Key Features

Bluetooth, Quad-core

Audio

Stereo

Reasons to buy

Bright picture in lights on

Vivid colors for movies

Easy HDMI audio pass-through

Simple lens protection cap

Reason to avoid

Attracts dust inside quickly

Gets loud during use

Bluetooth audio lag

Random auto power-on

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers praise the bright, colourful images even with lights on and easy setup. Some note good movie quality but complain about dust buildup causing spots and fan noise in quiet scenes.​

Why choose this product?

Pick it for budget home movies where brightness matters in casual rooms. Great for everyday viewing if you can handle basic upkeep.

2. Samsung The Freestyle 2nd Gen Portable Projector

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The Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen Portable Projector offers Full HD resolution with HDR10 support. Its compact design includes a rotating stand for flexible placement. It comes with built-in apps, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The projector is suited for users who want a portable device for casual viewing.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p, HDR10

Brightness

550 LED lumens

OS/Smart

Google TV/Tizen

Key Features

Auto setup, portable

Audio

5W 360 degrees

Reasons to buy

Tiny and easy to carry

Auto adjusts anywhere

Smart apps ready

Tilts for any spot

Reason to avoid

Dim in bigger rooms

Grey blacks at night

Slow response for fast games

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Owners love the portability and simple setup on walls. Note it's best dark and small-scale.

Why choose this product?

Grab for travel or quick parties. Perfect portable pick for casual, on-the-go screens.

3. Epson Eh-Tw6250 Smart Laser Video Projector

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The Epson EH-TW6250 Projector uses 3LCD technology with 4K PRO-UHD output. It delivers 2,800 lumens of brightness and supports HDR formats. The projector can display up to 500 inches. It includes Android TV, lens shift, and optical zoom for flexible placement. This option works for users building a home setup with long-term use in mind.

Specifications

Resolution

4K PRO-UHD

Brightness

2800 lumens

OS/Smart

Android TV

Key Features

Lens shift, zoom

Audio

10W

Reasons to buy

Bright colours in light

Big screen options

Flexible positioning

Reason to avoid

Greyish dark areas

Patchy bright colours

Noisy fan in HDR

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Many like the light-handling brightness for family rooms. Some find blacks washed out in dark films.​

Why choose this product?

Ideal for lit-room movies with easy install. Good for shared spaces over pure dark theatres.

4. Lumio Arc 5 Portable Home Projector

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The Lumio Arc 5 Portable Home Projector supports Full HD resolution with HDR formats and runs on Google TV. It includes auto focus, keystone correction, and obstacle detection. With HDMI ARC and built-in speakers, it can handle direct streaming. This model is useful for small rooms or travel setups with limited space.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p, HDR10

Brightness

200 ANSI lumens

OS/Smart

Google TV

Key Features

Auto focus, dust-proof

Audio

5W Dolby

Reasons to buy

Sharp on textured walls

Easy dark-room immersion

Long-lasting light

Simple plug-and-play

Reason to avoid

Needs dark for the best look

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers highlight the theatre feel in dark and clear details. Great for series or games on walls.

​Why choose this product?

Best for bedroom binges without fuss. Choose if smart ease and compactness top your list.

5. BenQ X3100i Gaming Projector

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The BenQ X3100i Gaming Projector is designed for gaming and supports 4K UHD resolution. It offers 3300 ANSI lumens of brightness and a high contrast ratio. Input lag can go as low as 4.2ms at 1080p. It includes HDMI ports with eARC support for external audio. This model fits users who play games on large screens and need a fast response time.

Specifications

Resolution

4K UHD

Brightness

3300 ANSI lumens

OS/Smart

Android TV

Key Features

Low lag gaming

Audio

5W x2 TreVolo

Reasons to buy

Super responsive for games

Bright for day use

Vibrant colours and sound

Easy image adjustments

Reason to avoid

Heavy and pricey

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Gamers rave about instant response and clear details. Viewers enjoy bright, lifelike movies anytime.

Why choose this product?

Choose serious gaming or cinema with low delay. Best if you play competitively or watch in lit areas.

6. WZATCO Yuva Vibe Smart Home Projector

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The WZATCO Yuva Vibe Smart Home Projector offers Full HD output with 4K HDR support and up to 300-inch projection. It comes with auto focus and 4D keystone correction. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth allow wireless use. It also supports screen mirroring. This model works for users who want a quick setup without manual adjustment. It includes HDMI and USB ports for wired input.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p, 4K support

Brightness

14,000 lumens

OS/Smart

Yes

Key Features

Auto focus/keystone

Audio

Built-in

Reasons to buy

Clear picture with lights on

Smooth app performance

Netflix plays well

Solid build and remote

Reason to avoid

Limited info on long-term use

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Users like the clear video in lit rooms and easy Netflix streaming. They find the remote handy and the brightness sufficient for the price. High ratings around 8.6/10 from thousands.​​

Why choose this product?

Go for it if you want simple, smart streaming under 15k without hassle. Perfect for family series nights.

7. BenQ GV50 Projector

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The BenQ GV50 Projector supports Full HD resolution with laser light output. It can project up to 120 inches and includes Google TV for streaming. The rotating design allows projection on walls or ceilings. It also features built-in speakers with Dolby audio. This model is suited for bedroom viewing or travel use due to its compact form.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p

Brightness

500 ANSI lumens

OS/Smart

Google TV

Key Features

360-degree rotation, Dolby

Audio

18W Dolby 2.1

Reasons to buy

Easy wall-to-ceiling switch

Clear on any surface

Fun angles and sleep mode

Good for bedtime TV

Reason to avoid

Short battery

Slow software sometimes

Muffled low sound

Spotty auto setup

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Users enjoy versatile projecting and vibrant colours in dark spots. Some mention battery limits, but love the convenience.​

Why choose this product?

Opt for cosy ceiling viewing before bed. Suit renters or travellers needing quick fun.

8. Crossbeats Lumex Pro Projector

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The Crossbeats Lumex Pro Projector runs on Android 13 and includes apps such as Netflix and Prime Video. It supports Full HD resolution and 4K input with up to 300-inch projection. Features include auto keystone, AI focus, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth. Built-in speakers handle basic audio needs. It is suitable for users who want streaming without external devices.

Specifications

Resolution

Full HD 1080p, 4K support

Brightness

14,000 lumens

OS/Smart

Android 13

Key Features

Auto keystone, OTT apps

Audio

10W Hi-Fi

Reasons to buy

Sharp picture in moderate light

Built-in apps like Netflix

Good sound for rooms

Affordable home theater

Reason to avoid

Not for very bright spaces

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

People love the crisp display and easy OTT access. Brightness holds up with some lights, making it fun for movies and games.

Why choose this product?

Select for portable smart projection with apps. Ideal for small homes wanting big-screen fun on a budget.

Factors to consider before buying a projector for the home

Room lighting: Match brightness (lumens) to your space, higher for lit rooms, lower for dark viewing, to get clear pictures without washing out.

Screen size needs: Look at the max projection size and throw distance so it fits your wall or screen without crowding the room.

Smart features: Pick built-in apps or wireless casting if you stream often, or basic ports for simple HDMI use.

Sound quality: Check speaker wattage and Dolby support for good audio without extra speakers in small setups.

Portability and setup: Choose lightweight models with auto focus/keystone for easy moving, or fixed ones with lens shift for permanent spots.

Projector	Brightness (lumens)	Resolution	Smart OS
ZEBRONICS PIXAPLAY	11,500	Full HD 1080p (4K support)	No
WZATCO Certified	14,000	Full HD 1080p (4K support)	Yes
Crossbeats Lumex Pro	14,000	Full HD 1080p (4K support)	Android 13
BenQ X3100i	3300 ANSI	4K UHD	Android TV
BenQ GV50	500 ANSI	Full HD 1080p	Google TV
Epson EH-TW6250	2800	4K PRO-UHD	Android TV
Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen	550 LED	Full HD 1080p (HDR10)	Google TV/Tizen
Lumio Arc	200 ANSI	Full HD 1080p (HDR10)	Google TV

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.