Dell M109S

Dell M109S DLP Projector

Due to its low light output, the palm-size Dell M109S projector is limited in usefulness to very small groups in dark or dimly lit rooms. The tiny Dell M109S ($449 as of 8/7/09) is a palm-size LED projector with a low brightness rating of only 50 lumens, which makes it best suited for very small groups in dark or dimly lit conference rooms. Weighing just 12.8 ounces, the M109S is the smallest projector in the group of seven (four lamp-based and three LED-based) that we tested for our recent ultraportable projectors review. Even with its cables, AC adapter, and carry case, the M109S has a traveling weight of under 2 pounds, making it a snap to take on the road. The downside is that Dell had to sacrifice some features in order to achieve the M109S's ultralight design. Its low native resolution of 858 by 600 means you need to use a computer running at SVGA resolution to get the best image sharpness and clarity when making presentations. It has a small, fixed lens (no optical zoom) with a limited range of focus, it provides only two input options--VGA and composite video, but no audio or USB port--and it lacks a remote control and a built-in speaker. It also has no adjustable feet or tripod mount to help in positioning.