3M Mpro 150

It's not the brightest projector, but decent image quality for one-on-one presentations or very small groups, coupled with lots of features and a reasonable price, has most experts pointing to the 3M MPro150 as a solid choice among pico projectors. Small enough and light enough (at just 4 ounces) to fit into a big shirt pocket, the LED light source can project a 20-inch image under normal lighting conditions, or up to a 40-inch one if the lights are turned low, despite the paltry 15-lumen brightness rating.

Among the pluses is the ability to read and display lots of different file types, including PDF files, Microsoft Office files, and most common video, graphics and photo file formats without the need of a connected laptop. When a laptop is called for, Wi-Fi lets you make the connection wirelessly -- a good thing because cable drag makes the MPro150 susceptible to toppling over. Files can be downloaded from your laptop and stored in the 1 GB of internal memory, or loaded via the USB port or MicroSD memory card slot.

Among pico projectors, the Optoma PK301 (*Est. $380) scores somewhat better reviews overall, but it also costs more If you need something just a little bigger and a little brighter, the BenQ Joybee GP1 (*Est. $380) is a micro-portable projector that weighs just a pound more, yet can display images up to 80 inches in dark rooms, or 60 inches when light levels are a little higher.

The 3M MPro150 earns a fair share of recommendations from reviewers. ProjectorCentral.com, PicoProjector-Info.com, and GadgetSpeak.com offer the best insights.