This content was originally published on OldHouseOnline.com and has been republished here as part of a merger between our two businesses. All copy is presented here as it originally appeared there.

One of the most exciting things about outdoor adventures, especially camping, is that you get to sleep under a sky full of stars. It is a wholesome experience you miss every day in your busy routine. But what if you could bring the night sky indoors? As crazy as it sounds, technology has made it possible to create an illusion of sleeping under the stars with the help of star projectors. Using these projectors, people can indulge in an immersive starlight experience from the comfort of their own homes.

Finding the right projector to watch constellations or create a moody ambiance before bed is not easy. There are plenty of options available in the market, making it hard to pick one that works for you. So, we created this guide with the reviews of some of the highest-rated star projectors. By the end, you’ll be able to choose the perfect projector that’ll bring a starry night to your home.

Buying Guide: Star Projectors

What To Look for When Buying a Star Projector

Size

The first thing to consider when purchasing a star projector is the size of the unit and the coverage area. These projectors come in different sizes, from small handheld units to large-scale commercial models. The size will determine how much coverage you’ll get and how many stars you’ll be able to see.

Brightness

Star projectors have various brightness levels; some are dim and are only meant for indoor use, while others are bright and can be used outdoors. The brightness level you need depends on the size of the area you’re trying to cover and how many stars you want to see.

Power source

Galaxy projectors usually use AC adapters and plug into wall outlets, but you can find models with a USB cord or a rechargeable battery. Most battery-powered projectors have large batteries lasting 12 to 14 hours. Choose a power source depending on your living situation and requirements.

Timer settings

Most star projectors come with timers that let you set how long it will stay on before shutting off automatically. This is a great feature, especially if you use the unit for sleeping.

Lighting modes and options

Many star projectors have different lighting modes that allow you to customize the look of the stars. For example, some units have a shooting star mode that randomly shoots stars across the sky. Others have a constellation mode that displays stars in their specific constellations.

What Are the Different Types of Star Projectors?

For kids

A star projector for kids is usually small, handheld, and dim. These are perfect for small areas, such as a child’s bedroom, and they won’t be too bright or overwhelming for your child.

For adults

Projectors for adults are large, bright, and battery-operated. These are perfect for large areas, such as a party room or a backyard, and they’re bright enough to see the stars even during the daytime.

Hybrid

Hybrid models are the best of both worlds. These units are usually large and bright, but also have a timer setting that lets you use them for a short period. So, this type of projector is perfect for those who want to use it in large and small areas.

What Are the Uses of Star Projectors?

Learning tool

Star projectors can be used to teach kids about the night sky. Even adults can learn more about the stars, galaxies, and cosmos using these devices.

Bedtime aid

Projectors are also great as a bedtime aid for a child having trouble sleeping. You can use it to help them relax and fall asleep peacefully.

Ambiance enhancer

Whether you’re trying to create a romantic mood or just add some fun to a party, a star projector can help. These projectors often have mood lighting to create ambiance in any space.

Relaxation

These projectors can also be used as a relaxation tool. If you’re feeling stressed or need a break from your hectic routine, a star projector can help you relax and unwind.

Are Still Displays Better Than Rotating Displays?

Still displays

Still, displays are the simplest type of projector and usually consist of a single image projected onto the ceiling or wall. These displays are better for those who want a simple, straightforward projection with an accurate representation of the night sky.

Rotating displays

Rotating displays, on the flip side, have a spinning platform that projects the image onto the ceiling or wall. These are better for those who want a more dynamic projection with a wider field of view.

Comparing Our Favorite Star Projector

Aimeizi Star Projector

– Best Overall

img

Buy on Amazon

The Aimeizi Star Projector is a unique and attractive choice for those looking to decorate and bring light into a room. This ocean wave light projector provides customized views of the starry sky with twelve different color options, adjustable brightness, and moving stars. Plus, it comes with a built-in music speaker that can be controlled through an app so you can play whatever music fits your mood.

This star projector also has various control methods which make it easy to switch between modes and adjust the volume, brightness settings, colors, wave effects and more. You can even set the sleep timer to turn off after a certain time if you’re using it to help you sleep. Thanks to its stylish design, the star projector makes a great gift for birthday, Christmas, or any special occasion. Plus, it’s ideal for parties, home theaters or just creating a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom. If you’re looking for an interesting way to light up your room in style, then these best overall lights should definitely be one of your top choices. With its customizable starry sky lighting effects, built-in music speaker, and multiple control methods, it brings convenience and beauty to any home.

Pros

  • Provides customized views of the sky
  • Great night light for kids
  • Fun for Christmas, parties

Cons

  • Not long-lasting

Aimeizi Star Projector

– Wider Projection Area

img

Buy on Amazon

The Aimeizi Star Projector is the perfect home decoration for bedrooms, gaming rooms, and kids’ rooms. This convenient light projector can create a relaxing atmosphere in any space. It features a variety of customizable lighting options, including a moving nebula and twinkling starlight. With this light projector, the entire room can be filled with gorgeous nebulae and fantasy galaxies that can be used to set the perfect ambiance for sleep, meditation, work, or relaxation.

This impressive product goes beyond a simple night light. It also boasts a built-in speaker that can be controlled through a mobile app. With the help of this app, users can play their favorite music while they enjoy the romantic starry sky. Plus, with the timer, users can set the working time of the projector so they can sleep well all night long. The projector also offers sound-activated and auto modes that respond to music and change the color and speed of light according to different frequencies in the music.

Pros

  • Creates chill atmosphere
  • Great for meditation
  • Works all night long

Cons

  • App isn’t the best

BlissLights Star Projector

– Great Lightning

img

Buy on Amazon

Check Price On Walmart

The BlissLights Sky Lite Star Projector displays a field of drifting stars against a transforming blue nebula cloud. With its multiple light settings and brightness levels, you can kick back and unwind in a truly relaxing environment. For your convenience, the device has three buttons that allow you to switch between three different settings.

With this laser-powered projector, you can immerse in an aesthetic experience of stars, constellations, and nebulas. Even better, it is also very affordable, making it an excellent gift for anyone who loves starry nights.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Can be controlled via a smartphone app
  • Adjustable brightness levels

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a remote control

Rossetta Star Projector

– Easiest to Use

img

Buy on Amazon

Transform your space in seconds with the Rossetta Star Projector. This light is the perfect way to bring the beauty of the night sky into your home – it projects a map of the stars onto your ceiling, walls, or any other surface, adding a touch of magic to any room’s decor.

This projector will surely be a hit with any star lover and makes a great gift for any occasion. Since it is multipurpose, you can use it as a nightlight in your child’s room or create a romantic ambiance in your bedroom. It comes with multiple soothing, natural sounds to relax you to sleep. But, if you want to change up the mood, you can play your desired music using the Bluetooth feature.

Pros

  • Combines lights, colors, and music
  • Comes with remote control for easy operation
  • Features a voice control mode

Cons

  • Volume control doesn’t work on the remote

YOVAKO Star Projector

– Brightest Option

img

Buy on Amazon

The YOVAKO Star Projector is the perfect way to light up your child’s bedroom or create a romantic getaway in the middle of your backyard. This rotating starry sky lamp projects a realistic image of the moon and stars onto the walls and ceiling, creating a magical, relaxing ambiance.

Even more, this star projector features multiple colors and more than 48 scene modes that can be changed with the remote control. Meanwhile, the built-in USB charging port makes it easy to keep the projector charged and ready to use.

Pros

  • Features an auto-control timer
  • Comes with a remote control
  • Features USB and Bluetooth play modes

Cons

  • Bluetooth connectivity is average

WORUIJIA Star Projector

– Budget-Friendly Pick

img

Buy on Amazon

If you want to project a field of stars onto your ceilings and walls to create a stunning, relaxing mood in any room, give WORUIJIA’s Galaxy Projector a chance. With up to 16 million color settings and a built-in music player, you can customize your projection to suit any mood. Meanwhile, you can use Bluetooth to play your favorite music, and this star projector can be turned off automatically with a 24-hour timer. It even has a user-friendly smart app that you can use to change its settings!

Pros

  • Adjustable brightness levels
  • Controlled with its remote or smartphone app
  • Bluetooth connection for music

Cons

  • Coverage is a little small

SunTime Star Projector

– Innovative Design

img

Buy on Amazon

For any kid who wants to be an astronaut, the SunTime Star Projector is the perfect item. It not only brings a starry sky into their room but is also designed in the shape of an astronaut. Multipurpose in nature, this projector can be used as a nightlight or to project stars onto the ceiling or walls. Meanwhile, the built-in timer ensures that the star projector will turn off within 45 to 90 minutes, making it perfect for a child’s bedroom.

Pros

  • Charming astronaut design
  • Comes with a remote control
  • 360-degree adjustable projection angle

Cons

  • Some may struggle with the timer

People Also Asked

Q: Where should I place the start projector in a room?

A: When choosing a location for your star projector, consider the size of the room and the type of projector. If you have a small, handheld projector, place it in a central location so it can be seen from all corners of the room. Meanwhile, a large, bright projector should be placed in a corner so it doesn’t overwhelm the room.

Q: Are battery-powered star projectors good?

A: Yes, battery-powered star projectors are a great option for those who want to use their projector in both large and small areas. They’re portable and don’t need to be placed near a power source.

Q: How long do star projectors last?

A: The lifespan of a star projector depends on the type and how often you use it. Handheld, dimmable projectors usually last for several thousand hours, while large, bright projectors last about 500 hours.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Old House Journal

Old House Journal

Founded in 1973, Old House Journal is the original authority when it comes to old-house restoration, traditional house styles, period kitchens, bath & kitchen restoration, DIY projects, gardens & landscaping, and more-- from Colonial and Victorian through Arts & Crafts and Mid-century Modern homes.

Learn More