Can you get 4K under $1000?

Yes, 4K UHD projectors are available under $1000 using pixel-shifting technology. Models like ViewSonic PX701-4K ($799) and Optoma UHD35 ($899) display 3840x2160 resolution. True native 4K requires $3000+, but pixel-shifting is imperceptible on screens under 150 inches.

Is a $1000 projector worth it over $500?

Yes, $1000 projectors offer significant upgrades: 4K UHD resolution (4x more pixels), HDR support, 8-16ms input lag vs 20-30ms, higher brightness (3000+ lumens), and better color accuracy. The $500 to $1000 jump is the biggest performance leap in projectors.

Best Projectors Under $1000 (2025)

Q: What is the best projector under $1000?

The best projector under $1000 depends on your needs. For gaming, the ViewSonic PX701-4K offers 4K resolution with 4.2ms input lag. For movies, the BenQ HT2060 provides superior color accuracy with 4LED technology. For bright rooms, the Optoma UHD35 delivers 3600 lumens.

Compare 65 projectors under $1000 including 4K UHD options. The sweet spot for home theater and gaming.

What is the best projector under $1000?

Updated February 24, 2026 • Based on 65 projectors compared

The best projector under $1000 in February 2026 is the ViewSonic PA504W 4000 Lumens WXGA High Brightness Projector with Vertical Keystone, HDMI 1.4, USB 2.0 Type A, and VGA Inputs for Home and Office at $648.61. It delivers 720p resolution, 4,000 lumens brightness, and a 5.0-star rating from 2,684 reviews. At this price point, you get 4K UHD resolution, HDR support, and gaming-optimized features. The $1000 tier represents the sweet spot between budget and premium.

Our Top Picks Under $1000

Best Overall

ViewSonic PA504W 4000 Lumens WXGA High Brightness Projector with Vertical Keystone, HDMI 1.4, USB 2.0 Type A, and VGA Inputs for Home and Office

$648.61

★ 5.0 (2,684)

Top-rated at 5.0 stars with 2,684 reviews. 720p resolution, 4,000 lumens.

4,000 lumens720pLaserView on Amazon

Best for Gaming

LG CineBeam Home Cinema PU700R 4K UHD Smart Projector, HDR10, 1000 Lumens, Auto Screen Adjustment with 90 Degree rotation, Airplay 2 support, Bluetooth Dual sound out, Mood lighting (Renewed)

$800

★ 5.0 (581)

1ms input lag for responsive gaming. 4K at 1,000 lumens.

1,000 lumens4KLaser1ms lagView on Amazon

Best 4K Value

Optoma UHD35X Technology 3600-Lumen UHD 4K DLP Projector - White

$778.81

★ 3.8 (350)

4K UHD resolution under $900. 3,600 lumens with HDR support.

3,600 lumens4KDLP1ms lagView on Amazon

Prices updated daily from Amazon

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Current Deals - Save 15% or More

ViewSonic PS501X 3400 Lumens XGA HDMI Short Throw Projector for Home and Office

$529.99$1799.00

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InFocus IN116xv Projector DLP WXGA 3800 Lumens 3D Ready HDMI Projector

$589.00$1799.00

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LG CineBeam PF510Q Portable Full HD (1920 x 1080) LED Smart Projector, Airplay 2 and Screen Share support, Bluetooth Audio Dual Out

$199.99$599.99

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4K vs 1080p Under $1000: Which Should You Choose?

Choose 4K UHD ($700-$1000) if:

• You stream 4K content (Netflix, Disney+)
• You own PS5/Xbox Series X
• Screen size is 100+ inches
• You want future-proofing

Choose 1080p ($600-$800) if:

• You need maximum brightness
• Lowest gaming lag matters most
• Screen size under 100 inches
• Budget is tight

Note: 4K projectors under $1000 use pixel-shifting technology (not native 4K). The difference is imperceptible on screens under 150 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best gaming projector under $1000?

ViewSonic PX701-4K ($799) with 4.2ms input lag and 4K resolution. For 1080p gaming, BenQ TH685P ($699) offers 8.3ms lag with 3500 lumens.

Is $1000 worth it vs $500?

Yes - you get 4K resolution (4x more pixels), HDR support, 8-16ms gaming lag (vs 20-30ms), and higher brightness. It's the biggest performance leap in projectors.