Why Go Battery
Running a cable across a walkway is a trip hazard and an eyesore. A rechargeable unit lets you project onto an arch, a remote corner of a garden, or a pop-up booth with no infrastructure.
Runtime You Can Trust
Check real runtime at the brightness you will use, not the marketing maximum. A unit rated '4 hours' at full power may deliver 2 in practice; for a ceremony plus photos, size for the worst case and carry a second unit.
Weight and Form Factor
Portable means shippable. Look for under roughly 3 kg, a simple gobo swap, and a flat base or clamp so it stands or mounts without rigging gear.
Brightness vs Battery
Brightness drains the cell fastest. A planning table:
| Use | Lumens | Expected runtime |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor monogram | 1,500–3,000 | 3–5 h |
| Dim event accent | 3,000–5,000 | 2–3 h |
| Outdoor evening | 5,000–8,000 | 1–2 h |
| Daylight (avoid) | 8,000+ | <1 h |
Weather and Placement
For outdoor use confirm at least IP65 and avoid direct rain on the lens. Set the unit on stable ground; vibration blurs the image.
Charging on the Road
A USB-C or standard charger is easiest at venues. Carry the original adapter — generic chargers may not deliver the current the battery expects.