Why I Chose a Portable Projector Over a TV for My Bedroom – And Who Might Want to Think Twice
Not everyone wants a TV in their bedroom—whether for aesthetic reasons or to minimize screen time. When designing my bedroom, I intentionally omitted a TV, as I already have one in my living room and didn’t want to sacrifice the space. However, I soon missed the ability to unwind in bed with my favorite shows.
Having dedicated significant effort to creating a serene, visually pleasing bedroom—especially after years without separate living spaces—I was reluctant to disrupt the ambiance with a large black screen. Instead, I sought a space-saving alternative that could deliver entertainment without compromising my room’s tranquility.
While I’d previously used the Anker Nebula Cosmos 4K SE projector for movie nights, its size and noise made it impractical for bedroom use. Fortunately, I discovered the perfect solution: the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 1080p Mini Google TV Projector (priced at $529.99 / £499.99 / AU$1,599—comparable to a budget TV). With the same intuitive Google TV OS but in a compact form, it proved to be an ideal replacement.
Below, I’ll outline three key advantages of this projector—and one potential drawback to consider before making the switch.
1. Flexible Placement Options
Unlike a TV, which demands careful positioning, the Nebula Capsule 3 fits effortlessly into any space. Its compact 3.1-inch (78mm) diameter and lightweight design (just 1.9 lbs / 850g) allow it to perch on shelves, tabletops, or even a tripod (thanks to its built-in mount).
Even if the projection angle isn’t perfect, the projector automatically adjusts keystone correction and focus to deliver a sharp image—eliminating the hassle of manual tweaking.
2. Adjustable Screen Size On Demand
One of the biggest perks of a projector is the ability to customize screen size instantly. The Capsule 3 lets me switch from a 49-inch bedside projection to an 80-inch home theater experience by simply rotating the device. Its auto-adapt feature ensures optimal image alignment, making it seamless to transition between cozy solo viewing and immersive movie nights.
3. Portability for On-the-Go Entertainment
Whether traveling, visiting friends, or simply navigating awkward bedroom power outlets, the Capsule 3 excels in portability. Its built-in 15,000 mAh battery provides 2.5 hours of runtime, and USB-C charging compatibility means a power bank can extend usage. For those who value versatility, this projector is a game-changer.
The Trade-off: Optimal Viewing Requires Darkness
While the Nebula Capsule 3 offers impressive convenience, it can’t match the deep blacks and contrast of a high-quality TV—especially in daylight. Like most projectors, its image appears washed out in bright environments unless you have blackout curtains.
That said, this hasn’t been a dealbreaker for me. Since my bedroom isn’t my primary daytime viewing space, the occasional compromise in picture quality is a fair trade for the flexibility of a pocket-sized 50-inch screen.