Vivitek D511

Reviewers say the Vivitek D511 portable digital projector delivers good image quality, but that its real advantage lies in its value. At 2,600 lumens, things aren't quite as bright as better performers, such as the Epson PowerLite 1775W (*Est. $1,150) , but there's more than enough light output to meet the needs of most presentations. That said, a limited zoom range and short throw does limit placement flexibility to some extent, though finding a spot in a moderately sized meeting room shouldn't pose too much of a challenge.

Images are sharp and colors and contrast are good, but uniformity isn't perfect. The color wheel in this DLP projector is on the slow side, meaning a small percentage of viewers might see DLP's rainbow effect artifact. Ease of use is good -- as long as you don't lose the small remote control. The speakers are on the weak side, though sound quality itself isn't bad. Some complain that the construction could be sturdier. The inclusion of 3-D capability comes in for some praise, though reviewers also say few people will need that feature.

The most helpful review of the Vivitek D511 is at ProjectorCentral.com, which puts the portable digital projector through its paces and details pluses and minuses. The review in Britain's What Laptop isn't quite as detailed, but is balanced and testing based. More than 50 users at Amazon.com are generally complimentary of the projector's overall value.