Toshiba TLP-650

If you are willing to carry just a tad extra weight in a slightly larger form factor, the Toshiba TLP-650 may be a good option for you. Though it has an MSRP of $6,995, this model can be purchased for about $5,000. With an ANSI lumen rating of 1100, it is the second brightest projector among the twenty smallest XGAs, second only to the Mitsubishi X70. It will accommodate both SXGA and UXGA via compression, and offers a 1:1.3 zoom lens, which is the best available in this group.

At 7.9 lbs and a volume of 391 cu.in., it is one of the larger units among the twenty. From a price/performance perspective, the new Epson and Mitsubishi models have the edge. But if the street price drops to around $4,500 anytime soon (as we expect it will) then this projector will be worth a close look.