The 8 Best Christmas Light Projector Options of 2024

6 / 8

You’ll get your money’s worth with Sunbox’s Holiday Project Lights—after all, it comes with 16 pattern slides and 10 colors for Christmas, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, Easter and more holidays. Use the remote control to turn the projector on and off, as well as control the flash and speed mode. Better yet, you’ll never have to remove this projector, because as soon as one holiday is over, you’ll be able to start celebrating the next one.

Pros:

• Includes patterns for a range of holidays and occasions
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• Comes with a ground stake, wall mount base and remote control

Cons:

• Must manually change pattern slides

7 / 8

Unlike many projectors, there’s no need to waste time inserting slides to change images. The Water Wave Projector Party Light lets you browse through 15 dreamy and undulating color waves to fit your mood. Get your backyard party started by presetting the remote to cycle through monochrome or multicolored lights. Or press “auto” and let it fade through a kaleidoscope of neon hues.

Pros:

• Three water ripple speeds (fast, slow or still)
• Has two-, four-, six- and eight-hour timer durations
• Low power consumption and no noise

Cons:

• Batteries not included

8 / 8

Set the cinematic scene for childlike wonder in both young and old when you shine a bit of holiday magic via Gemmy’s Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Christmas Holiday Wall Lightshow projector. Shoot the titular Grinch’s head encircled by multicolored iconic images from the story onto your front or garage doors, fences or walls.

Pros:

• Projects the Grinch’s face
• Can be used indoors or outdoors
• Housing looks like a wrapped present to blend into scenery

Cons:

• Short cord length

Types of Christmas Light Projectors

• LED: LED projectors use energy-efficient LED lights to produce vibrant colors and patterns. “They are relatively affordable and have a long lifespan,” says McCoy. “Most LED projectors are also compact and portable, which makes them easy to store. However, these projectors are less bright than laser projectors,” he adds.
• Laser: This type of projector is the most popular and available in various forms, from stationary to moving models. “It’s the brightest option, but it’s also the most expensive and largest compared to other projectors,” explains McCoy. “Depending on your needs, investing in a laser projector is worthwhile considering the quality of the projection,” he adds.

What to Look for When Buying a Christmas Light Projector

• Patterns and effects: “The light pattern and design determine what the projector will display,” says McCoy. So, the first step is to consider how you intend to use the projector, and then select a model that matches your decorating preferences, he suggests.
• Projection type: Decide if you want a projector with moving lights for a dynamic display or a stationary one for a simpler effect.
• Light source: LED projectors are long-lasting and energy-efficient, which helps save on holiday energy bills. Alternatively, laser projectors offer bright, vivid colors but require more power.
• Coverage area: Determine the size of the area you want to cover to ensure it has a sufficient range. “For small spaces that are indoors, you’ll want a projector that is less bright than one you might use outside,” advises McCoy.
• Mounting options: Consider how the projector can be mounted or placed. Some use stakes in the ground, while others are mounted on a wall or roof.
• Weather resistance: If you plan to use the projector outdoors, ensure it is waterproof and can withstand exposure to the elements.
• Operation: Some models feature a power switch directly on the projector. “For convenience, it’s easier to have an outdoor projector with a remote so you can turn it on and off without needing to go outside,” notes McCoy.

How We Found the Best Christmas Light Projectors

To find the best Christmas light projectors, we began by researching the wide range of models available on the market. We considered factors such as brightness, coverage area, color options, ease of setup and durability. To further refine our selection, we analyzed real user reviews to gain insights into performance, reliability and overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, we consulted with lighting experts to understand the latest trends and innovations in holiday lighting technology.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m a freelance writer, editor, journalist and blogger living and working in a medieval hill town in Italy. As a product reviews expert, I regularly contribute to Family Handyman on various subjects inside and outside the home. Lighting and Christmas are two topics I’ve covered extensively, from Christmas tree storage bags and backyard snow machines to solar, LED and motion sensor lights. So, you can trust my expertise in this area.

To ensure the most informed recommendations, we also sought input from industry professionals, including Gary McCoy, a Lowe’s store manager and lighting expert. With decades of experience in the home improvement industry, McCoy possesses first-hand knowledge of sales trends and customer needs.

FAQ

How many watts do I need for an outdoor light projector?

That’s a tricky question. Light output, or wattage, refers to the brightness emitted by the device. Outdoor light projectors are designed for decorative purposes, not for security lighting. There are several variables to consider. These include the size of the area you want to cover and the proximity of the projector to the object you want to illuminate. The surrounding light level (such as a house on a remote country road versus one on a city street) is also a factor.

Do outdoor light projectors work in daylight?

Indoors, yes. However, achieving optimal visualization outdoors typically requires full darkness.

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