Buying guide for best galaxy projectors
There’s something about looking up at the stars and contemplating the vastness of space that makes you appreciate your place in the universe. A galaxy projector creates a lovely glow in any room, and you can enjoy the feeling of being at a planetarium without leaving your home. Some people use a galaxy projector to create a space-themed room or enjoy romantic stargazing indoors. A child (or adult) may appreciate a galaxy projector as a soothing nightlight.
When shopping for a galaxy projector, think about what type of projector and display you want. Next, decide whether you prefer LED or laser lights. The projector’s power source, size, and lighting modes also add to the ambiance.
What is a galaxy projector?
These delightful gadgets project combined images of stars and nebula clouds or other celestial objects to create the look of surrounding galaxies. These are similar to the images you might see at a planetarium. Some project on the walls and ceiling to “surround” you; others have a more limited range.
Many people find the images of a galaxy projector soothing. They can be an excellent tool for those who have trouble falling asleep or struggle with anxiety.
Types of galaxy projectors
The most common galaxy projector types include the following:
Classic galaxy projectors: These tend to produce the most realistic images by combining stars, planets, and nebula clouds. They can cover your ceiling and/or walls and can suit multiple purposes.
Night sky projectors: These primarily use star images to recreate the look of the night sky. They’re great for those who enjoy stargazing and spotting constellations.
Wave projectors: These produce realistic ocean waves on the wall and can be highly effective in helping people fall asleep.
Kids’ galaxy projectors: Designed specifically as a nightlight for a child’s room, these projectors may feature stars, planets, and other space-related images such as spaceships, astronauts, and aliens.
While many galaxy projectors offer multiple color options, some can transition from one color to another for a particularly striking effect.
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Top considerations
Display style and type
Galaxy projectors are available with several display styles. As mentioned, there are those with highly realistic images of stars, planets, and nebula clouds. These projectors may recreate the constellations as you’d see them in the night sky so that you can have a planetarium experience in any room. Others feature more imaginative designs for children, such as astronauts landing on planets or aliens in their spaceships.
In addition to various types of imagery, you can also choose from different display types. For example, some galaxy projectors have a still display. The images don’t move. Other projectors produce rotating images that move across the walls or ceiling. And some projectors allow you to choose between still and rotating images.
LED vs. laser light
Some galaxy projectors are LED-based. Others are laser light projectors.
LED: LED galaxy projectors are usually more affordable, but they aren’t as bright as laser light projectors. Their details can be somewhat fuzzy, too, so they aren’t the best option if you want clear, distinct constellations on your walls.
Laser light: You’ll pay more for a laser light galaxy projector, but these are extremely bright and produce clear, distinct images that capture fine details. Laser light projectors work well on larger surfaces, too, so you can fill your entire room with galaxy images.
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Do you plan to use your galaxy projector as a night light? Consider a model with a built-in Bluetooth speaker. You can listen to your favorite white noise tracks or lullaby playlists as you drift off to sleep.
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What features do galaxy projectors have?
Size
Most galaxy projectors are roughly the same size, but if you’re shopping for a child, it’s important to keep size in mind. Some projectors are fairly compact with small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Further, children usually have an easier time with large button controls. If you’re buying for a young child, look for something childproof, and note that a projector with small buttons may be difficult for a child to use.
Power source
Many galaxy projectors are equipped with an AC adapter, so you only have to plug them into an outlet to work. Others feature a rechargeable battery that you charge with a USB cord. These projectors can usually be plugged into an outlet with a USB wall adapter, too.
If you opt for a battery-powered galaxy projector, consider how long the battery can go between charges. If you want your projector to last all night, a battery life of at least 8 to 10 hours is key. In fact, some galaxy projectors can run for up to 14 hours before the battery needs recharging.
Brightness and color
Most galaxy projectors offer several lighting options. This is helpful because, if you’re using the projector as a nightlight, you likely don’t want the light to be too bright. If you’re creating a planetarium effect at home, however, you would likely want a brighter lighting mode to enliven the images.
Many projectors allow you to toggle between brightness modes. Some even let you choose the color setting to suit your mood.
Auto-focus
A model with built-in auto-focus helps prevent blurry images. You can also find projectors that zoom in to provide an up-close view of the stars, planets, and other images.
Timer settings
You may plan to use your galaxy projector to help you fall asleep, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you want it to run all night. Some projectors have a timer that lets you choose a shutoff time. For example, you could program the projector to run for just 15 minutes before shutting off, or you could program it to last a few hours before shutting off.
Remote control
Some galaxy projectors have a remote control that gives you control of the projector from across the room. This may not be an essential feature for everyone, but it can make operating your projector more convenient.
Some galaxy projectors with a moving display let you control the speed of the imagery. This is helpful because, if the projection moves too quickly, you may find it difficult to relax.
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How much do galaxy projectors cost?
Inexpensive
Basic models that don’t offer many lighting modes or options cost between $10 and $40. These projectors usually have a still display and LED lights.
Mid-range
Mid-range galaxy projectors with several customizable lighting modes or options tend to cost between $40 and $100. These allow you to choose from a still or moving display and often have built-in speakers.
Expensive
The most expensive galaxy projectors offer the widest range of lighting modes and options. They also provide the most realistic images, which are ideal for creating a planetarium experience at home. These galaxy projectors generally cost between $100 and $250.
Tips
- Choose the right placement for your projector. If you want your projected images to cover as much space as possible, place the projector near the floor in the corner of the room, and position it to face the center of the room.
- Consider options beyond the bedroom. While it can create a relaxing mood for sleep, you could also place it in your bathroom when you take a bath or your dining room when you’re having a dinner party.
- Use two or more projectors for a dramatic look. If you want to create the perfect mood for a party or other occasion, try using multiple projectors to produce a variety of striking images.
FAQ
Q. Why should I use a galaxy projector?
A. A galaxy projector can be helpful for children and adults who have trouble falling asleep. The soothing lights create a relaxing mood to calm the mind or help you feel more secure as you lie in bed. It can also create a fun atmosphere for a party, holiday, or special event. Those interested in space, stargazing, or astronomy may also find a galaxy projector entertaining.
Q. Can I use a galaxy projector on any wall?
A. Galaxy projectors can theoretically work on any wall, but the lights show up best on light-colored walls without wall hangings. Note that the images may be distorted if you project them onto a patterned wall.
Q. Do children need a special “kid’s” galaxy projector?
A. While some projectors are marketed for kids, nearly any projector would work in a child’s room. That said, if you want your child to be able to operate the projector on their own, make sure the gadget is kid-safe and the controls are easy enough for children to understand and use.
