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Have you ever wanted to turn a blank wall into a movie screen, share photos with a crowd, or give a presentation without crowding around a laptop? A multimedia projector does exactly that — it expands your visuals into a bigger, more immersive experience. In the UK market you'll find everything from tiny pocket-sized projectors to full-blown home cinema machines, and they suit uses from casual streaming to serious gaming. This guide will help you understand what to look for, where to shop, and how to get the most from models such as the Picco USB Mini Pocket Projector and the Smartphone Projector Version 2.0 while pointing you to trusted UK retailers like Menkind, Currys, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, Argos, and specialist shops.
Pocket and mini projectors are like the Swiss Army knife of display tech — compact, convenient, and surprisingly capable. If you travel for work, enjoy alfresco movie nights in the garden, or just want a portable entertainment option, these tiny units can be a perfect fit. They often have built-in batteries, plug-and-play connectivity, and enough brightness for dimmer environments. Think of them as a flashlight that paints pictures instead of beams: small but mighty in the right setting.
Brightness and resolution are the two pillars of a satisfying projection. Brightness is measured in lumens, and while the number itself doesn’t use imperial units, you’ll want higher-lumen models when projecting in rooms with ambient light. For pocket projectors you might expect around a few hundred lumens — fine for a dark room or cozy garden night — while living room setups benefit from 1,500 lumens or more. Resolution matters for detail: 720p is adequate for casual streaming, 1080p is the sweet spot for movies and gaming, and 4K projectors bring serious clarity if your budget allows.
Throw distance tells you how far the projector needs to be from the screen to achieve a certain image size. Instead of meters, think in feet: a typical short-throw projector might deliver a 100-inch diagonal image from around 6 to 8 feet away, while standard projectors may need 10 to 15 feet for the same size. If you live in a small flat, a model with a shorter throw is like choosing a compact umbrella for a narrow hallway — it fits where full-size options won’t.
Choosing the right place to buy can be just as important as choosing the right model. The UK has a healthy mix of high-street names and specialist retailers who stock everything from novelty pocket projectors to premium home cinema systems. Below I’ll highlight several reliable places to shop and what they tend to offer.
Menkind is known for carrying quirky tech and novelty electronics, and it’s a good spot to find compact and lifestyle projectors. Items like the Picco USB Mini Pocket Projector and the Smartphone Projector Version 2.0 fit their catalogue well — compact, giftable, and easy to use. Menkind’s range often appeals to buyers who want a simple way to share content on the go or to add a playful twist to movie nights. If convenience and portability are high on your checklist, Menkind is worth a look.
Currys is a go-to for many shoppers because it pairs broad inventory with in-store displays and staff who can demo products. Expect to find projectors across price bands, from entry-level LED models to mid-range 1080p projectors. Currys is handy if you want to compare several models side-by-side, try connections, or get hands-on advice about what works with your TV-free living room or home office.
John Lewis has built a reputation for quality and solid post-purchase support. They often stock reputable brands and mid to higher-end projectors suitable for living room cinemas. Shopping there can feel reassuring because of long warranties and helpful staff. If you value a dependable purchase experience and might want a more premium projector, John Lewis is a sensible destination.
Richer Sounds is a specialist retailer beloved by audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts. Their staff understand how image and sound work together, so you’ll get expert advice on pairing a projector with a soundbar or AV receiver. If you’re building a dedicated cinema room and want guidance on throw distance, screen type, and acoustic treatment, Richer Sounds is like having a coach in your corner.
Argos and Amazon UK serve shoppers who value quick availability and a huge selection. Argos often carries popular budget and mid-range models for immediate pickup, while Amazon has an enormous catalogue including niche pico projectors and older models at discounted prices. These are great options when you’re hunting for deals or need a specific accessory fast, though you may want to couple purchase with reviews and third-party guides to ensure the model meets your needs.
Not all projectors are created equal, and the room you plan to use changes everything. Small living spaces, multipurpose rooms, and dedicated cinema rooms each have different requirements — like how tall your ceiling is, the wall color, and how much ambient light you tolerate. Consider the room like the stage and the projector like the lead actor: the setup needs to suit the venue to deliver a convincing performance.
For small rooms or bedrooms, look for compact models with short throw capabilities. A 60- to 80-inch diagonal image often works well in cozy spaces and keeps the projector just a few feet away from the wall — typically 4 to 6 feet. A compact projector with 200–500 lumens can be perfectly usable if you control the ambient light. Think of these units as a pop-up theatre you can tuck into a shelf after the show.
Living rooms are trickier because they usually have larger ambient light. Aim for a projector with at least 1,500 lumens for comfortable viewing during evening hours, and consider matt white screens or ambient light rejecting (ALR) screens if windows are a problem. For family movie nights you might want a 100-inch or larger screen, and that often means a throw distance of 8 to 12 feet depending on the model. Pairing with a good sound system is crucial because the audio completes the immersion.
Portable models like the Picco USB Mini Pocket Projector and the Smartphone Projector Version 2.0 are popular because they let you go from backpacks to garden parties in minutes. These are aimed at convenience: easy connectors, simple menus, and light enough to carry in one hand. Expect limitations in brightness and resolution compared to larger models, but for on-the-go use they’re a delightful compromise between size and capability.
Battery life varies widely — some mini projectors give you an hour or two of runtime, while others rely on mains power or power banks. If you plan to stream outdoors, check whether the projector supports HDMI, USB-C, or wireless mirroring. Built-in speakers are useful but rarely deliver deep bass, so bring a portable speaker for better sound. Think of battery life like fuel: the longer it runs, the further your movie night can travel.
Connecting a smartphone or laptop can be as simple as plugging in a cable or as seamless as using wireless casting. USB-C to HDMI adapters, MHL cables, or native Wi-Fi mirroring are common routes. For iPhone users, look for AirPlay compatibility or adapters that support your port type. Laptops often plug straight into HDMI for the most reliable connection. If you plan to mirror for gaming or high-bitrate streaming, wired connections reduce latency and ensure smoother playback.
A projector is only part of the equation. The right accessories can transform a good setup into a great one — think screens, mounts, cables, and sound. Investing in a few key additions can dramatically improve picture quality and usability.
A proper screen will reflect light more evenly than a painted wall; a pull-down or fixed-frame screen in the 100- to 120-inch range is a great choice for living rooms. Ceiling mounts keep the setup tidy and stable, and a soundbar or compact AV receiver will elevate the audio to match the image. Consider ALR screens if you can’t control ambient light — they’re like sunglasses for your projector, letting the image stand out even when it’s not pitch dark.
For portable projectors, a padded carrying case protects your unit and keeps cables organized. A lightweight tripod with a universal mount lets you position the projector at the right height without needing a shelf. These small accessories matter more than you might expect — they make setup quicker and protect your gear during transit.
Projectors span a wide price range, so set a realistic budget before you start browsing. Pocket projectors can be found at lower prices, while 1080p and 4K home cinema models demand higher investment. Compare features across stores like Menkind, Currys, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, Argos, and Amazon UK to find the balance between price and performance. Seasonal sales and comparison sites can help you spot bargains, but always read recent reviews to confirm reliability.
Watch for major sale moments like Black Friday, Boxing Day, or late summer deals when retailers often discount electronics. Price comparison sites and alerts are handy for catching a drop. When comparing, don’t just look at price — check what’s included (cables, adapters, warranty) and the honest user feedback. A slightly more expensive model with better reliability often saves money in the long run, like buying a well-made umbrella that won’t break in the first gust.
Choosing the right multimedia projector in the UK comes down to matching the device to your lifestyle and room. Pocket projectors like the Picco USB Mini or Smartphone Projector Version 2.0 are perfect for portability and casual use, while brands available through Currys, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, Argos, and other retailers cover higher-performance home cinema needs. Think about brightness, resolution, throw distance, and the accessories you’ll need — and don’t forget to shop around for the best deal. With the right combination, you can turn any wall into a captivating screen and bring big-screen experiences into your home, garden, or office.
| Multimedia Projectors | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Projector Version 2.0 | £ 23,- | |
| Picco Usb Mini Pocket Projector | £ 39,- |
