Star and Galaxy Projectors – Reviews and Buying Guide
Though you might remember falling asleep to glow in the dark stickers of planets and stars on your ceiling, you now have a much easier way to view those constellations thanks to star and galaxy projectors. It’s not just constellations either, some will project nebulae other features too.
These constellation projectors are easy to use because they work with any nearby power outlet. You simply plug one in and climb into bed as the stars and planets move across the room around you. These small devices can also replace the night light that your child uses.
To find the best star projector, you can view the following product reviews and descriptions and then check out the frequently asked questions section to learn more.
Our New #1 Best Choice Star Projector
Encalife Atmosphere Star Light Galaxy Projector – Alexa / Google Assistant App Controlled Projector
This is by far the best star projector we have ever reviewed! What makes it better than the rest?
Controllable with a Smart App – Voice control through WiFi / Bluetooth for a fun bedtime story.
The game changer with this star projector is the Alexa and Google Assistant integration controls. It enables you to get creative with your bedtime stories. The Encalife Star Projector is voice command-activated for a handsfree experience. It means you can prompt Alexa to turn on the galaxy light as you tell amazing and spellbinding stories of deep space adventures to your children.
The quality of the star projection is exceptionally good. It’s like a portable planetarium that you can take on your travels. No matter where you are, the projector can make you feel like you’re drifting calmly into space at night. The packaging and branding is lovely as well. Well made and well designed product.
Ideal for the bedroom, living room use or in your home theater. Enjoy having dinner under the stars or create a soothing spa environment. It’s also great to use when doing yoga or meditating. I know plenty of users that have the Encalife Atmosphere as a backdrop to their games room or for their DJ lighting effects. The Encalife Atmosphere is an instant game changer for any room in the house.
There’s multiple light effects of nebula backgrounds to choose from with around 16.7m colors which include green, red and blue star systems and multiple brightness settings.
An Excellent Sleeping Aid for both Adults & Children
One of the major benefits of this model is the ability to help calm your mind and drift away to a deep sleep. The soothing and relaxing galaxy light calms the senses, and helps to properly wind down from a hard day at work or school.
Note: Normally we recommend buying from Amazon, but since the price is the same and there is even a multi buy discount at the checkout, it is far better to buy this product directly from Encalife.
AVAILABLE NOW ON ENCALIFE
#2 –
In close second is the Aurora Borealis star projector from Encalife. This star projector has so many features its unreal! It not only projects stars and nebula, but also the Moon and the mystical Northern Lights!
It’s jam packed with 16.7 million colors that you can choose from, all controlled from your smartphone via the app. You can simply move the color dial on your smartphone to create the perfect cosmic ambience in your own home.
AVAILABLE NOW ON ENCALIFE
Our Best Star Projector Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick reference chart of what we think are the best star and galaxy projectors on the market today.
| RANKING | Product Name | IMAGE | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 – STAR CHOICE | – Bluetooth – Alexa and Google enabled. – Built in speaker – Play music from smartphone – 16.7m different colors – Great for adults & kids. – Comes app remote control | ||
| #2 – STAR CHOICE | – Bluetooth – Built in speaker – Play music from smartphone – 4 different color modes – Great for adults & kids. – Comes with remote control | ||
| #3 | Sega Homestar Original Black Planetarium and Star Projector | – 3 automatic timers – Shooting stars setting – Works on any white surface. – Projects up to 90ft away. | |
| #4 | Sega Homestar Classic | – several constellation & star discs – compact size – vivid star projection | |
| #5 | YSD Modern Star Rotating Sky Projector | – Comes with remote – Built in battery and charging cord – Indoor and outdoor use. | |
| #6 | SOAIY Soothing Aurora Night Light Projector | – Built in speaker – 3 brightness settings – Still and rotating display settings | |
| #7 | DSTANA Star Projector Night Lights | – Includes rotating and still display options – Runs on USB power or AA batteries – Works as both a projector and a night lamp | |
| #8 | Merece LED 3 in 1 Star Galaxy Projector | – 10 LED colors – 360-degree rotation – Built-in Bluetooth speaker – White noise generator | |
| #9 | Smithsonian Optics Room Planetarium and Dual Projector Science Kit | – High quality projections – Easy to use | |
| #10 | BlissLights Sky Lite – Laser Projector w/LED Nebula Cloud | – 3 Button controls to select different modes – Patented blue Nebula effect – 6-Hour Timer |
In more detail.. Best Star Projector Reviews
Second on the list is the Encalife Ambience Star Projector. This mini home constellation projector is compact yet packs a punch when it comes to visually projecting amazing galaxies, nebula and stars across your room. It also comes with a Bluetooth music speaker, to add another dimension to your star light projector environment.
You can choose and combine 4 different colors – red, white, blue, and green and makes for an amazing tool to help you relax or send your kids off to a calming goodnights sleep.
The projector is easy to use and you can set the stars in static or in motion.
As just mentioned, this star projector is ideal for both adults and children. Use it as a calming and relaxation aid for those days where you’ve been stressed out and under pressure. Or for children who find it hard to settle at bed time and need a little bit of help. Adjust the speed freely according to your child’s preference.
Another great feature is the ability to connect your smartphone via bluetooth. Listen to soothing music before bed, lullabies for the kids – connect this Bluetooth speaker with your phone, laptop, or any device.
It comes with a really handy remote control that allows you to adjust settings from anywhere in the room, saving you having to get up out of your relaxation position.
Sleep timer lets you shut it off anytime you want so you don’t have to worry about switching it off yourself. A perfect gift for space lover, gadget geek or to set a romantic scene for Valentines Day! Multi buy discount at checkout when you go direct to Encalife.
AVAILABLE NOW ON ENCALIFE
MOKOQI Star Projector Night Lights
Here’s another rotating lamp worth checking out. It has a very similar design to the previous model. However, the lighting system is a little more in-depth. You’re getting a multi-LED arrangement. In total, there are 17 different show modes to choose from. Cycle through them and find one that your kid will love!
This lamp also has a simple control scheme and a built-in timer for automatic shutoff. It’s also pretty versatile as far as power goes. You can use standard AAA batteries for ultimate mobility. However, a compatible power adapter will keep it powered all night long.
Key Features:
- Multi-colored LED lights
- 17 color modes
- Built-in timer
- Powered by USB or AAA batteries
- Rotating
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Sega Homestar Classic – Best Seller on Amazon
Another star and galaxy projector that is worthwhile is the Homestar Classic from Sega. It has a fun case in a shade of metallic blue that might remind you of the night’s sky. You can set the timer to run for 15, 30 or 60 minutes and add a shooting star effect to the display. The Homestar Classic comes with a small stand that supports the projector and doesn’t require a lot of counter or table space. Included with this cosmos star projector are several discs that let you select the display and images that you want to view. It’s compatible with other discs that are available from Sega too.
Pros
- Compact size reduces its overall footprint
- Includes constellation and galaxy discs
- Features 15, 30 and 60 minute timers
- Compact base keeps the projector in place
- Recreates the planetarium look in your home
Cons
- Is not as bright as other projectors are
- Image quality is a little lacking
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
YSD Modern Star Rotating Sky Projector
Perfect for kids’ bedrooms, this YSD projector has a fun design that incorporates bright colors across the surface. It comes with a remote control that lets you set the timer, turn the projector light on and off and change its rotation. That remote also lets you turn on a warm light function when using the projector as a night light. This is one of the only galaxy projectors that you can use outside, which makes it a good choice for camping. It has auto-shut off timer settings of up to five hours and a built-in battery that lasts for up to 14 hours. You can choose from several color options, all of which work with an included USB cord for charging.
Pros
- One to five hour timer auto-shut off settings
- Comes with an included remote control
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Has an LED display on the front
- Includes built-in battery and a battery charging cord
Cons
- Not suitable for small children because of its small parts
- Images and displays can look fuzzy
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
SOAIY Soothing Aurora Night Light Projector
When you can’t go to the aurora borealis, you can bring the aurora borealis to you with this SOAIY night light projector. It recreates the gorgeous looks of the northern lights and places those lights in your home. If you want to switch to a different setting, you can choose from seven different light displays. The projection lamp can run all night, but it also has one, two and four hour timers that you can use. It also lets you choose between a still or a rotating image and from three different brightness settings. Thanks to the built-in speaker, you can plug in a phone or music player and listen to music as you relax to the moving lights.
Pros
- Includes three timer settings: one, two and four hours
- Comes with a handy remote control
- Has three brightness and eight different color displays to choose from
- A built-in speaker is compatible with most electronic devices
- Includes both still and rotating display settings
Cons
- Some features may stop working after a few months
- The displays aren’t as bright as shown on the box
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
DSTANA Star Projector Night Lights
Turn your child’s room into an out-of-this-world oasis! This night light from DSTANA is great for kids of all ages. The LED lights inside shine through a rotating dome. Without any covers, the dome shines warm light. Your young one can use it to feel secure at night or to illuminate the room as they play. But once you add the starry night film, the room turns into a whimsical trek through the cosmos!
The color-changing lights are captivating and calming. Meanwhile, the slow rotation adds some dimension to the show.
The light features a built-in timer. Set it to shut off after only a few minutes. Or, let it run all night long. The choice is yours!
Key Features:
- Multi-colored LED lights
- Integrated timer with LCD screen
- Rotating lights
- Powered by USB or AAA batteries
- Simple control panel
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Merece LED 3 in 1 Star Galaxy Projector
Turn your room into the cosmic oasis you’ve always wanted. This galaxy projector is small but mighty. It can produce ten colors with powerful LED technology. The lights are vibrant and bright. Plus, they can cycle through to create a spectrum of shades and one-of-a-kind shows.
The lights shine through a refractor dome. It features unique angles that bounce light in all directions, creating that signature galactic feel. It even rotates, bringing some motion into the mix. Take control of the lights with the included remote. You can cycle through modes, set the timer, and more.
The projector is feature-rich on its own, but this unit does so much more than just shine lights. It also has a built-in Bluetooth speaker. Connect it to a compatible device and enjoy some tunes. Or, take advantage of the white noise generator as you drift off to sleep.
Key Features:
- 10 LED colors
- 360-degree rotation
- Built-in Bluetooth speaker
- White noise generator
- Integrated timer
- Wireless remote
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Smithsonian Optics Room Planetarium and Dual Projector Science Kit
Kids who love watching the Smithsonian Channel will love this science kit from the same company, which lets them view stars and constellations in their bedrooms. It comes with slides that use high-definition images and lets kids choose the type of skies they want to view. They can combine those images together to create more than 50 displays that include stars, planets and even astronauts. Designed for those over the age of eight, this home planetarium star projector helps kids study the planets and learn about space. This makes it one of the few projectors that serve as a STEM toy. It also features a timer setting that shuts the projector off after 15 to 30 minutes.
Pros
- Includes dozens of slides that create more than 50 combinations
- Uses high-definition images
- Has 15 and 30 minute timer settings
- High-Quality and easy to use
- Suitable for children as young as eight
Cons
- Some images are more blurry than others
- Includes some cheap parts
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
BlissLights Sky Lite – Laser Projector w/LED Light Nebula Cloud
The BlissLights Sky Lite with Nebula Cloud, can bring a relaxing ambiance to any room. It is particularly popular for bedrooms and living rooms, where you can kick back and enjoy the starry night sky in comfort. The patented blue Nebula cloud effect adds an extra level of aesthetic to the night sky star field, which is projected as green stars.
The simple design houses a user friendly 3 button control panel. With these buttons you can cycle through three different settings, (stars only, nebula only or a combination of both) you can adjust the brightness and you can turn the rotation on or off. Just select your favorite setting and kick back to enjoy the light show!
The BlissLights Sky Lite comes with a 3 foot long 120v adapter for AC power, and a timer that can be set up to 6 hours. It’s advisable to stick to using the projector within this time range to maintain the life of the product. It uses real laser diodes to provide the laser stars and lighting. These can get a bit hot with use over long periods of time.
Key Features:
- Simple to use laser light star projector
- 3 Button controls to select different modes
- Patented blue Nebula effect
- AC Power Only
- LED lighting
- 6-Hour Timer
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Can You Imagine Laser Twilight Stars Projector
We finish off our Best Star Projectors list with the Laser Twilight Stars Projector. Similar to the Sky lite product above, this star projector utilises green and blue light. The star patterns are projected in green laser light, and the blue hologram projector provides ambiance and a relaxing background. You can cycle through different levels of the blue ‘cloud’ effect, so that it is barely visible, vibrant or anywhere inbetween.
Key Features:
- AC Power Only (adapter chord included)
- Class II Laser, 10 Watt power output
- 4-Hour Timer Auto – Shut off
- Occasional Shooting Star effect
- Green laser star light & blue hologram projector
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Star and Galaxy Projector Buying Guide
The chances are good that you used some type of projector in the past. This type of technology allows you to host movie nights in your backyard and create work presentations that all employees and clients can easily see. No matter how much experience you have, you may have a hard time finding the right star and galaxy projector for you or your children though because these models are so different from those you used in the past. You can pick the right star light projector when you use this buying guide to learn what you should consider.
Size
One feature you should consider before buying a projector is its overall size. This is especially true of the one you want to use in a child’s bedroom. Some of the models designed for adults are small in size and feature small pieces that kids can easily pull off and put in their mouths. You should also think about the size of the buttons too. Kids often have an easier time with larger buttons, while adults can use smaller buttons.
Battery Power
Most star and galaxy projectors use an AC adapter and plug into a wall outlet. You can also choose models that come with a rechargeable battery and/or a USB cord. With a USB cord, you can buy a new adapter or use one that you have for an old cell phone. Most USB cords are quite short though. You’ll either need to use the projector close to an outlet or spend money on an expensive and long cord.
When shopping for a model that comes with a rechargeable battery, you’ll want to see how long it will last. A good light projector should run for up to 10 hours. This allows you to sleep through the night without the battery running out. Some batteries can last for 12 to 14 hours between charges, which lets you use the projector several nights in a row without charging it every day.
Timer Settings
Do you like the idea of using a star projector as you fall asleep but hate the idea of wasting power as you sleep? Most light projectors come with a timer setting that lets you set the timer for a specific amount of time. This can range from 15 minutes to several hours. As soon as it reaches that time limit, the projector will shut down. Some of the models suitable for parties and outdoor use have a timer of five hours or more, which help you can keep the party going all night long.
Lighting Modes and Options
When you’re relaxing and listening to music, you want a mild lighting effect that won’t disrupt your senses. This type of effect is also suitable for use as you sleep or head to bed. A brighter lighting effect can turn your home into a planetarium or the ultimate party pad. The odds are good that you’ll want to change between lighting and brightness modes based on how you want to use the projector. It’s important that you pick one that features more than one mode.
Reviews
One of the best ways to make sure that you choose the right projector is with a look at some reviews posted by customers who bought those same products. Some of the things you should consider when looking at reviews include:
- the star rating awarded
- who purchased the projector and who they bought it for
- whether the buyer purchased other products
- any details regarding battery life and other important features
It’s important that you consider both the overall rating and the number of positive and negative reviews. This lets you see whether the projector lasted beyond a few months and if it can meet all your needs.
Still vs. Rotating Displays
You’ll likely come across the terms still display and rotating display when shopping for a night projector. Both terms refer to whether the images move or remain still. A projector with a rotating display will move the images across the room and bounce them across the ceiling and walls. Those that have a still image project the display in one specific area, which can include one wall or the ceiling. You may find it helpful to look for one that includes both modes.
Display Type
Shoppers should also consider the display type because projectors can either feature realistic or whimsical images. Those with realistic images will include all eight planets and may include Pluto as well. You’ll also see constellations and star groups that are exactly the same as those you see in the sky. Those projectors let you recreate the feel of being in a planetarium in any room of your home. Those with whimsical or stylized images are better suited for kids. They may include aliens flying through the sky in spaceships and astronauts interacting with the stars. While these models are fun, they are generally better for kids than they are for adults.
Remote Control
You can only use projectors when you have enough space in the room, which may require placing it in the center of the room rather than next to your bed. If you select the wrong settings before laying down though, you’ll need to climb out of your comfortable cocoon to adjust the projector before bed. Those that come with a remote control give you the freedom to adjust settings while you’re in bed or sitting on the opposite side of the room. The only problem with these models is that you often need to use the remote control to access all the features and settings. If you lose the remote, you’ll need to purchase a new one or forgo some of those features.
Ease of Use
The last and most possibly important thing to consider is the overall ease of use of the galaxy projector. If you buy one that requires multiple steps to set up and use, you might leave that projector off every night. Some of the models now available require some setup and assembly on your part before you can use one. Unless you feel comfortable and confident in your assembly skills, you might prefer one that comes already put together and ready for use in your bedroom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Star and Galaxy Projectors
Where Should You Place a Star and Galaxy Projector?
The best place to set and use a galaxy projector is in the center of your room. You should check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that you have enough space for it. Most require that you have at least five to six feet of clearance between the projector and the wall or ceiling, and some require even more space. If you do not have enough room, the images and displays will likely appear blurry or fuzzy. This occurs because there is not enough space for the full display.
Can You Use a Projector on Any Wall?
Though you can use a project on any wall, you should keep in mind that they work best when used on walls that are clear and light in color. Any busy patterns in the area can interfere with that display, including striped curtains or floral wallpaper. The best place to use star projectors is on white walls because they provide a clean background that lets the images really shine. If your walls are dark, you might find that you can’t see all the images and designs displayed. You can use a projection screen that you set up against one wall to take advantage of the projector.
Are Projectors for Kids and Adults the Same?
As there are so many different star projectors available, you may think that you can buy one that will work for both you and your children. The truth is that you need one designed for either adults or kids. Kids’ projectors are usually more stylized or whimsical in design. They might look like a spaceship or a space shuttle and use bright colors that can overwhelm your space. Those designed for adults include more realistic displays and features such as rechargeable batteries and built-in speakers. That speaker lets you listen to music from your phone as you fall asleep or play loud music when you host a party.
What are Some of the Benefits of Using a Star Projector?
The amount of sleep that you need can vary based on your body type and age. While kids may need 10 hours or more of sleep every night, adults may only need to six to eight hours. After a long vacation or a weekend of sleeping late though, you may have a hard time getting up and getting ready for work on your first day back. Star projectors are an easy way to help you get the sleep that you need.
Many people benefit from white noise, which refers to sounds in the background. This can include an AC or a fan that runs as you sleep or a stereo that plays softly at night. Star projectors that come with built-in speakers let you fall asleep faster and save on your energy bills. When the projector shuts off, it will also shut off the connected music player and keep it from using power.
Star and galaxy projectors also have some benefits for children. These simple devices serve as a night light for kids who are afraid of the dark. Your kids can get up and go to the bathroom or get a drink of water at night without turning on all of the lights in your home. Star projectors can also foster their creativity and get them interested in science. The right one will encourage them to come up with new stories about the planets and stars that they see. A projector may also get your child excited to learn about the planets and constellations.
How Can You Use a Projector?
There is no limit to how you can use a star and galaxy projector. Though you might think that you need one to fall asleep at night, it has much more benefits beyond that. You can turn star projectors into the centerpiece of a quiet party at home as you project constellations and other images on the ceiling. Your guests will like relaxing and watching those displays. Some projectors are also suitable for outdoor use. You can set one up and have it create the ultimate light display as your guests dance and mingle.
What Features Should You Look for When Buying One for a Kid?
The most important thing to consider when buying a kids’ projector is the materials used in the design. You want to make sure that there aren’t any toxic chemicals because kids have a tendency to chew on things or put things in their mouths. It’s also helpful to look for the best star projectors that can produce noises or sounds that can help kids fall asleep. Some models do not include built-in sounds but are compatible with music players. This lets you create a playlist with songs suitable for your child.
