Mini projectors, sometimes called pico projectors, are small but powerful portable projectors that make it possible to cast images, movies and more just about anywhere you go. Many of these portable projectors are so small that they can slip into a backpack or even a large coat pocket for easy transport.

You can pair your compact projector with a projector screen for clear, crisp images, or you can find a smooth white wall or other surface for your projection in a pinch.

To use your Pico projector, simply connect it to a device like a phone, tablet, digital camera or laptop. Depending on the input options on your projector, you may link devices via a USB or HDMI cable. A Bluetooth projector also offers the option of a wireless connection. For the best audio experience, it’s often good to pair your mini projector with an external speaker system, such as a portable speaker.

One of the latest popular uses for a mini projector is decorating, specifically using pocket projectors for cookie decorating and sometimes cake decorating. That’s because, thanks to the projector’s small size, it’s possible to set it up on a tripod above a decorating station and then cast an image from your phone or other device directly onto the cookie or cake you are decorating. Once the image is there, you can trace it with icing or food dye markers.

In fact, there are many handy design uses for a mini projector, including casting images onto a wall on which you want to paint a mural or pattern.

Whether you are shopping for a home projector or a portable projector, consider the brightness and resolution you want and whether you need a standard throw projector or a short-throw projector.