Global Projector Market

I. Why is the global projector market also "unable to hold up"?  

Since 2020, driven by the rise of new consumer groups, increased awareness of smart and portable projectors, and the continuous penetration of scenarios such as cross-border e-commerce and outdoor camping, the global projector market had been advancing rapidly. However, entering 2025, the industry’s growth momentum has clearly stalled. Why has the global projector market also faced "sales pressure" this year? We believe the reasons for this market decline are complex and multifaceted.

Firstly, global trade uncertainty has significantly intensified. Fluctuating U.S.-China tariff policies have not only disrupted companies’ quarterly shipment rhythms—creating a pattern of "surges in Q1 followed by sharp declines in Q2"—but also led to volatile end-product prices, dampening consumer demand in certain segments. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical conflicts in regions such as the Middle East and Eastern Europe have further disrupted international supply chains and market confidence.  

Secondly, 2024— a major year for global sports— saw events like the UEFA European Championship and the Olympics significantly boost demand for both household and commercial projectors, establishing a high market baseline. In contrast, the first half of 2025 lacked comparable global events, making it unable to replicate last year’s demand peak.  

Furthermore, ultra-low-cost products, once represented by “$99 barrel projectors,” have notably receded. Although these products once swept the market with their low prices, growing user complaints over quality issues—coupled with adjustments in e-commerce platform algorithms—have greatly reduced their market penetration, further dragging down overall shipment performance.

II. What does the declining popularity of last year's hit "barrel projectors" signify?

Last year, with its unique cylindrical design, rotatable stand, and "novelty" appeal, the "barrel projector" quickly gained popularity in overseas markets, particularly among younger consumers. It was seen as a fun electronic gadget—even a trendy gift for social occasions. Its innovative appearance and user-friendly operation sparked a consumer frenzy in a short period, making it a remarkable "dark horse" in the projector market.  

However, this boom did not last. Since the beginning of this year, the popularity of barrel projectors has sharply declined, primarily due to a critical weakness: quality issues. Most of these products adopt low-cost 1LCD technology and compete on ultra-low prices. In practical use, however, frequent problems with brightness, clarity, and durability have led to a user experience far below expectations. Numerous after-sales issues and negative feedback have eroded consumer trust, ultimately causing the market to shrink rapidly.  

Industry experts point out that the decline of such ultra-low-cost products is not necessarily a bad thing—rather, it is an inevitable step toward market maturity. Only when the "low-price, low-quality" competition model is broken can the smart projector industry gradually shed its "cheap toy" image and evolve into home entertainment devices that prioritize performance, image quality, and reliability. Although this cooling-off period brings short-term challenges, it will pave the way for the industry’s long-term healthy development, shifting competition from price wars to value-based competition.

III. Future Outlook: Lowering Annual Expectations, Focusing on Laser and High-End Breakthroughs

Postscript Note: Based on performance in the first half of the year, the global projector shipment forecast for 2025 has been revised downward from 22.08 million units to 20.34 million units. While market pressure is inevitable, there are still glimpses of hope.  

In the second half of the year, the holiday consumption season and economic stabilization in certain regions may bring about a phased rebound. Regionally, stable supply in North America, concentrated releases of education tenders in Western Europe, and sustained demand in emerging markets will serve as crucial buffers against decline.  

At the product level, high-spec technologies such as laser and 4K are not only core drivers of shipment growth but also key catalysts for industry structural upgrading. As more brands join the laser technology camp, 4K content becomes more accessible, and user experiences improve, the projector industry is gradually shifting from "price wars" to "value-based competition."

Name: Janice

Email: sales11@ihomebox.com

Tel/Whatsapp: +86 19926651189