What are the features that make the best projector stand for secure and flexible projector installation? It starts with high-quality construction and enough load capacity for wobble-free and secure mounting of your home or work projector unit. Next, the best projector stands should offer some flexibility, including adjustable height, to help position your mobile projector properly in various spaces.
Finally, the best adjustable projector stands for your needs will be compatible with your projector and projection screen, including retractable projector screens. They may also come with useful features like a built-in cord organizer or level.
If you use a projector to watch movies, play games, or give presentations, you may find that a projector stand offers just the mix of flexibility and stability that you need. For example, you may find that a projector on a stand is easier to set up than a great ceiling-mounted projector if you have a space with a high ceiling. Keep reading our Projector Stand buying guide to learn more.
Top Projector Stands
#1 HOLDOOR Projector Stand
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This sturdy and stable unit features incredible adjustability that can suit many settings and situations. Users will love the lightweight design and included carrying case that let you take this model to a work meeting or home theater.
- Impressive versatility
- Tall maximum height
- Phone holder included
- Plastic threads on some parts
The HOLDOOR projector stand is an excellent pick for users looking for a stable base for their home projector. In addition to serving as a projector stand, this heavy-duty tripod stand works perfectly as a portable laptop stand or to expand a traveling DJ setup. The lightweight metal frame keeps this unit light and durable. While some of the adjustment knobs feature plastic and stripable threads, the standard size screws can be easily replaced in a pinch.
In addition to stability and portability, the HOLDOOR projector stand offers an incredible base for a traveling workstation. With a maximum weight of 15lbs, this model can easily support most laptops and computer equipment. Additionally, the included gooseneck mobile phone holder is perfect for video chatting with coworkers while you type. The included carrying bag is big enough to fit the entire stand, and the sturdy handles help you carry this stand wherever you go.
#2 LIUGAST Projector Stand
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model offers fantastic build quality and great adjustability so users can find the perfect position to watch their favorite streaming media. Additionally, users will love the multi-purpose nature of this unit which can serve business people, traveling musicians, or artists.
- Fantastic stability
- Included phone holder
- Great adjustability
- Not great on carpet
The LIUGAST projector stand is an excellent pick for users looking to watch outdoor movies or expand their deskspace. This 15 x 11-inch shelf is wide enough for most projectors and laptops, and the tilt feature ensures that users can find the perfect position to work or play. With a height range between 17 and 48 inches, users can use this stand as a portable standing desk or match it with their usual setup. While this isn’t the most stable on the carpet, the wide tripod base features rubber feet to lock in place on hard flooring.
In addition to supporting most devices, the LIUGAST projector stand ensures that your devices stay safe and supported with multiple included extras. The two elastic straps lock into place over your projector or laptop, and the sponge gasket can protect devices from slipping to the ground. Additionally, the gooseneck phone holder lets users easily broadcast media from their mobile device without needing to place it on their projector.
#3 AMADA HOMEFURNISHING AMPS01 Projector Stand
Award: BEST FOR SAFETY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model offers a stable place to showcase your favorite shows or present your latest project at work. The wide tray and fantastic adjustability make this an excellent unit a perfect fit for a variety of jobs.
- Strong safety pin
- Tilting tray
- Quick setup
- No elastic strap
The AMADA HOMEFURNISHING projector stand is a stellar pick for users looking for a stable and reliable surface for their home projector. This model is extremely simple to assemble and provides a much more portable option than traditional projector mounts in a ceiling or wall. The portability of this stand, coupled with a great outdoor projector, allows users to enjoy outdoor movies or bring their ideas to life at their next business meeting. While there isn’t an included strap to hold a projector in place, the height safety pin locks the stand in position.
In addition to portability and ease of use, the AMADA HOMEFURNISHING projector stand offers a portable base for many activities. Whether a user wants a small portable desk or a place to display their electronic music equipment, this model offers enough height adjustment to suit a variety of setups. Additionally, the adjustable tilt and 180-degree rotation ensure that users can find the perfect position for movies or presentations.
#4 FOUR UNCLES Projector Stand
Award: BEST FOR RUGGED TRAVEL
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model features impressive adjustability and strong build quality for users who need a stable foundation for campsite movie nights or their next work presentation. Additionally, this unit offers multiple extras to keep your devices safe from suffering a fall.
- Exceptional build quality
- Included safety straps and mat
- 63” maximum height
- Tray doesn’t fit in the travel bag
The FOUR UNCLES projector stand is an outstanding pick for users looking for a heavy-duty surface for their home projector or laptop. This sturdy projector stand is constructed from aluminum alloy that stands up to travel or camping. With raised edges, an elastic belt, and a non-slip mat, this adjustable stand ensures that your valued electronics never slide to the ground. While the tray doesn’t fit inside the included travel bag, it easily screws into place so you can start enjoying your favorite films in no time.
In addition to device safety and metal construction, the FOUR UNCLES projector stand offers an incredible height range and plenty of adjustment options to complement any setup. The tray features a 180-degree tilt adjustment so you can find the perfect projector position, and easily store the stand in a closet or small nook. Additionally, the included phone holder lets users enjoy hands-free calls during work or as a convenient position to broadcast family photos through a projector.
#5 Mount-It! MI-7943 Projector Stand
Award: BEST FOR WORK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model features multiple bases so users can safely showcase media from their notebook or game system without needing additional surfaces. With wheels and a wide four-point base, this unit can travel easily around your home or workplace.
- Multiple device surfaces
- Rolling wheels
- Extremely stable
- Not travel-friendly
The Mount-It! MI-7943 projector stand is an excellent choice for users that need a dependable and portable stand for workplace presentations or classroom activities. This model features multiple shelves so you can use your computer and projector on the same stand. Additionally, the ventilated tray ensures that your devices stay cool. While this model isn’t ideal for a traveling workspace, the smooth-rolling wheels let you move the unit between conference rooms and the locking mechanism means the stand will stay put during important presentations.
In addition to portability and multiple shelves, the Mount-It! MI-7943 offers users a versatile stand with the impressive build quality. The solid steel frame features a wide base that ensures maximum stability, and the tilting top platform is perfect for lining up your projected image with a screen. With a maximum weight of 88lbs, this base can handle heavy-duty laptops and premium projectors without risking a collapse. Additionally, this model can reach up to 57”, so you’ll never struggle to project over a crowd.
#6 AkTop Projector Stand
Award: BEST FOR HOME THEATERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model provides users with an extended and stable base for watching movies with a crowd or delivering an important presentation at work. The lightweight frame features multiple levels of adjustment to suit multiple viewing conditions.
- Fantastic maximum height
- Great device safety features
- Easy assembly
- Small travel bag
The AkTop projector stand is an excellent pick for users that need a tall stand for their home cinema or work presentations. With a maximum height of 63”, you can easily project your favorite movies or shows over a seated crowd, and the wide three-point base ensures that your projector remains stable. The included elastic straps and non-slip mat protect your devices while tilting the shelf. While the travel bag only fits the disassembled base, the sturdy shelf is easy to carry and lightweight.
In addition to a huge maximum height and device protection, the AkTop projector stand ensures that you can work or play wherever you need to go. The lightweight metal frame is extremely durable, and the simple assembly ensures that you can expand your multimedia setup in no time. Additionally, the wide 15” shelf will fit most laptops and projectors, and the lifted edges can hold documents or a tablet without letting them slip to the floor.
Beginner’s Guide to Projector Stands
What Are Projector Stands?
Projector stands are stands designed to hold a projector. They range in size from small tabletop stands for mini or pico projectors to large tripods up to 60 or 72 inches in height. A more flexible solution for mounting your projector at the right position, projector stands can be specific to certain models or brands, such as InFocus projectors, or they can be universal or compatible with a range of projectors. A heavy-duty projector stand offers additional peace of mind for mounting heavier projectors.
Projector Stands vs. Other Projector Accessories
Along with projectors themselves and accessories such as ceiling mounts, wall mounts, remote controls, projector screens, and cable management, projector stands help make the most of your projector viewing experience.
Like a good projector screen, a foldable or height-adjustable projector stand isn’t strictly necessary to operate a projector, but it is recommended for best results. Positioning the projector is key to good picture quality, and a projector stand allows you to place the device at the proper distance and angle to project crisp pictures.
Weight capacity is an important consideration when looking at projector stands. Unlike screens and cable organizers, a foldable projector stand is a load-bearing item and usually must be compatible with the type of projector you’re using.
Like ceiling and wall mounts, projector stands may have brackets that fit different projectors, while some are specific to a certain model. Projector stands also often feature adjustable tilt with up to 90-degree tilt function. Unlike wall and ceiling mounts, however, most projector stands have adjustable height and many also have a 360-degree swivel feature.
How Projector Stands Work
Projector stands may be tabletop or free-standing, or they may include the option of mounting solidly to a wall or the ceiling. In general, projector stands have a base that attaches to the projector, a tilting and swiveling head, and a height-adjustable pillar. Free-standing projector mounts are broadly similar to tripods used for cameras and portable lighting.
Some smaller, tabletop projector stands may employ a simple tilt mechanism, like a laptop stand, while others feature 360-degree swivel adjustment. Adjusting the height and angle of your projector typically involves turning one or more adjustment knobs on the projector stand.
The basic function of a projector stand is to securely hold your projector in the correct position to display a clear image on the projection screen. A well-designed projector stand can also make it easier to move and set up a projector.
Why Should You Buy a New Projector Stand?
A projector stand helps get the best results from your home or office projector. Precise and flexible positioning is the key to great image quality from a laptop projector, UHD home theater projector, or 3D projector. A multifunction stand with height adjustments lets you place the projector in the ideal spot for your chosen screen area while helping keep cords and the power cable organized.
Thus, a good projector stand adds flexibility and versatility to your home projector setup. If you own a projector that isn’t permanently installed on a ceiling or wall mount, a good projector stand is a must. Compared to wall and ceiling mounts, projector stands can work in a wider variety of spaces. Even if you have a very high ceiling or a ceiling fan that would get in the way of a traditional projector mount, you can run your projector at the right height with the appropriate projector stand.
Compared to older projector mounting solutions, the new projector stands to benefit from greater flexibility and wider capabilities. You can now find a projector tripod made with durable metal construction and non-slip pads for security, plus a wide range of height adjustments and 360-degree adjustable angles. You can also find specialized tabletop stands for mini projectors or a versatile folding projector stand that can double as a laptop stand.
New projector stands also feature more convenient, smoother height adjustment knobs and other hardware for quick adjustments.
Is a Projector Stand Worth Buying?
Tabletop Projectors: A versatile stand can help attain the best image quality from mobile and portable tabletop projectors. Many small projectors can produce clear images with great contrast, but placing them in the right spot is essential to get the desired image size. A stand or tabletop projector tripod can make it easier to angle your projector properly and get a focused image.
Cake, Pastry, and Cookie Decorating: If you use your projector for cookie decorating, the right stand is a must. To get the best results, a projector tripod can hold your pico projector for cookies at the correct angle.
High-Ceilings: If you plan to use a projector as part of an event in a large space, play movies, or display photos in a room with a very high ceiling, then ceiling-mounted projectors could prove inconvenient or challenging to install. A heavy-duty projector stand offers a more convenient setup. For example, a stand with an adjustable angle provides a good solution if you’re trying to figure out how to set up an Asus small projector on your wall.
Travel and Workplace Use: The portable design of a projector stand helps make a projector more of a viable tool for workplace presentations and home movie nights alike. Many of today’s projectors, such as the mini cube projector, are made with travel and portability in mind, and a comparably portable stand allows for ideal projector elevation on the go.
Why a Projector Stand May Not Be for You
Using a Large Projector: While a laptop stand may not work for larger, heavier projectors, many heavy-duty stands for projectors and universal device stands exist that can safely hold even the heaviest models. Make sure to look up the weight of your projector and check the rated weight capacity of your chosen projector stand.
Tabletop or Pico Projectors: Like some tablet cases and other portable electronic devices, many of the smallest smartphone projectors come with built-in folding stands. But these stands don’t preclude using a separate projector tripod; many projectors stands also offer more adjustments than the built-in stands.
Using Built-in Ceiling Mount: A projector stand may seem redundant if you use a ceiling-mounted projector or if your current setup includes a wall mount. However, a stand adds flexibility and can make it easier to connect and disconnect cables, change projector bulbs, and make other adjustments.
How Long Do Projector Stands Last?
How long a projector stand lasts depends on the type of stand, the hardware, and the type of use. Depending on the environment in which they are used, stored projector stands can last indefinitely.
Stands made with heavy-gauge cold-rolled steel or powder-coated aluminum are generally very durable and can last decades if stored properly. Tabletop projector stands will generally wear out sooner, but most will last at least as long as any projector or electronic device. On frequently-used stands, the adjustment knobs may wear out or become sticky over time. You may also find that the non-stick pads on the feet of a projector tripod might wear out.
How to Choose the Best Projector Stand
Various factors can help determine the best projector stand for your needs. The type of projector you use is generally the main consideration for what kind of stand you need. Other factors include the type of space, the ceiling height, the size of your projector screen, and how often you want to travel with your projector.
Other considerations include whether you want a universal stand, a multifunction stand that can also support a camera, or whether you need a stand that includes a cord organizer to keep your data cables and power cable neat.
Projector Stand Key Factors
1. How Big Is Your Projector?
When choosing a projector stand, one of the main considerations is, naturally, the size and type of your projector. Weight capacity is a primary factor; make sure the stand you pick can safely hold your projector without wobbling. The type of projector you use, along with screen size, will determine the best position for your projector stand.
2. How Often Do You Move Your Projector?
If portability is among your most important considerations in getting a projector stand, it should have travel-friendly features like lightweight construction, telescoping adjustable height, and folding legs. If you’re using an outdoor TV vs a projector, you’ll definitely want a stand that’s very portable.
3. How Large is Your Projector Screen?
The size of your projector screen plays a role in determining the ideal placement. In general, a smaller screen requires a closer projector. In contrast, the projector needs to move further back to accommodate a larger image size. Depending on the space, this helps determine how much room you have for a projector stand.
4. What Type of Media Do You Primarily Use?
If you mostly use a small projector to display photo sets, documents, and other files from your smartphone or mobile device, then a highly mobile, tabletop projector stand may allow for the most convenient setup. On the other hand, if you use a full-size projector to play movies from your PC or streaming device, then a floor-mounted tripod may work better.
