Having a projector gives you choices on where and how to watch shows since it depends on how you set it up.
But how far can you take this? Can you mount a projector vertically and watch shows on your ceiling or floor?
The answer is: yes, you can!
However, to mount a projector vertically, you must plan everything out nicely.
But no worries, we’ve researched it for you. All you need to do is read our guide below!
Quick Navigation
Materials You Will Need
Although the materials you’ll need depend entirely on your type of setup, here are some most vertical projection setups need.
These include:
- a projector
- a projector mount
- a streaming device
- video cables
- audio cables (optional)
- adapters (optional)
- a mirror
- a fan
By putting all of these together, you’ll be able to create the mentioned setup!
1. Projector
The first thing you need is a projector, of course!
You may already have a projector at home, which should work well enough.
However, if you don’t or consider getting another projector, especially for mounting vertically, you should consider buying a small projector.
A small projector will make it much easier to angle vertically, especially if you have difficulty finding a proper mount.
- Brighter is Better: DLP IntelliBright technology projects a radiant 500-ANSI-lumen image at...
- Cinematic Sound: Dual 10W audio drivers work together to deliver sensational sound and deep,...
- Expand Your Entertainment: Plug and play your favorite HDMI and USB 2.0 devices, including laptops,...
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
A projector compatible with standard tripods is the ideal one to get.
- Ultra Bright 25 Lumens, High Definition 720p (1280x720) Native Resolution (Max 1080p), Vibrant Color...
- Ultra-portable with 80 Minute Built-in Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery that can be charged via...
- Built-in Speakers, 16:9 compatible, mini-HDMI, 3.5mm Aux Audio Out, Composite A/V connections, and...
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Having a projector compatible with a standard tripod solves the problem of finding an excellent vertical mount. You can just buy any short tripod and use it with a compatible projector.
2. Projector Mount
Next, you will need a mount for your projector.
Mounting will depend greatly on what kind of projector you have, but there are three popular options.
The first is a short tripod if your projector has a screw-on feature. This setup makes it much easier to mount and tilt your projector vertically, whether towards the ceiling or the floor.
- Mini Tripod With extendable legs. Extends from 4.5" to 7"
- Ball Head with universal mounting screw for 360° Rotation
- Can be used with Small Point and Shoot Digital Cameras, Smartphone Adapters, GoPro Cameras and...
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
The tripod is also able to turn 360 degrees. Unfortunately, it can only support the weight of a small projector.
The second is to make a custom mount. Some individuals make mounts using malleable materials like metal grids, but you can get creative and use anything from a stack of books to a utensil holder, so your projector is propped up.
The third is to use a specialized vertical projector mount, such as Chief’s VPAUW Vertical and Portrait Projector Mount. This is the easiest, least DIY way to mount a projector vertically, but it can be a bit pricey.
3. Streaming Device
Of course, you’ll need a streaming device. The streaming device will be the source of whatever video or image you’ll be projecting.
It will depend on what you have, but the smaller, the better. After all, it’s much easier to connect to a phone or laptop than a computer several feet away!
You could also use a special streaming device, such as a Roku . This device can make watching content from applications like Netflix and Hulu easier.
4. Cables and Adapters
Now that you know which devices you’ll be using, you’ll need to gather all the necessary cables to connect them.
Most projectors should have an HDMI input port, so a high-quality HDMI cable is a good piece of equipment to have.
However, older projectors may only have a VGA input port. If you’re connecting from an HDMI output port on your streaming device to a projector with a VGA input port, you will also need an HDMI to VGA adapter .
If you’re streaming from your phone, you will need a USB-C to HDMI adapter or a USB-C to VGA adapter .
Finally, you need the corresponding audio cables to connect your audio to a sound system.
5. Fan
As you may already know, mounting a projector in a vertical position can cause several technical issues — the most significant problem is overheating. It is also not usually recommended by projector manufacturers.
It overheats because projectors typically have their vents on their back. The exhaust may get blocked by mounting it vertically, and the device will start to heat up.
Although you should ensure the vents have enough space, a good fan can also help.
You can use any small desktop fan, especially rechargeable ones.
- SMALL, POWERFUL PERSONAL FAN – The Honeywell Turbo on the Go Personal Fan is the perfect choice...
- PORTABLE – This small USB fan is ideal as a travel fan, for the gym, your desk and much more. It...
- INCREASE YOUR COMFORT – With this small battery fan, you’ll always be comfortable and cool....
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
6. Mirror (optional)
Finally, you might need a mirror if you want to tilt your projector downwards (which would help with the overheating issue).
But not just any mirror!
The image will bounce off the mirror and onto the ceiling, so you’ll need a high-quality optical mirror unless you want a blurry projection.
How to Mount a Projector Vertically
Now let’s get to how to actually mount a projector vertically.
We’ll divide this section according to the type of mount you use, so skip ahead to the mount you prefer!
Using a Tripod
If you’re using a tripod, you’ll need a bit of tweaking to mount your projector properly.
Step 1: Attach the Projector
Set up your tripod and screw your projector onto the mount.
You can then point it towards the ceiling or the floor, depending on what you want your setup to be.
Step 2: Angle the Mirror
If you’re using a mirror, simply angle it towards the surface you want to project onto.
Then, angle the projector, so it’s directed at the mirror.
Step 3: Position the Vents and Fan
Adjust the vents so they allow for optimal airflow.
Then, position the fan, so it cools the projector.
Step 4: Connect the Projector to Your Devices
Connect your projector to your streaming device using the proper cables.
You may also decide to connect it to your sound system.
Step 5: Adjust the Projector Settings
Lastly, adjust the projector’s keystone settings to align the image with your projecting surface.
Using a Vertical Projector Mount
Finally, if you’re using Chief’s VPAUW Vertical and Portrait Projector Mount, setup should be quick and easy!
Step 1: Attach the Projector
Set up the vertical projector mount and attach your projector as its manual instructs.
Step 3: Connect the Projector to Your Devices
Plug your projector into your streaming device with the appropriate cables.
If you want to use a separate audio device, connect the projector to your sound system as well.
Step 4: Adjust Projector Settings
Finally, turn on your projector and adjust its keystone settings.
This may take a while, but keep adjusting the settings until the projected image matches your projection surface.
Using a Custom Mount (Ceiling Mount)
Using a custom mount can be a bit more tricky, considering it all depends on what kind you’ve created, but there are seven main steps you need to take.
Step 1: Decide Where to Put the Projector
First things first: where will you put your projector?
The best place is a low, stable surface. This could be a shelf, a desk, a bed frame, or even the floor.
This decreases the risk of accidents since a custom mount may not be as stable as a tripod or vertical mount.
Step 2: Attach the Projector Mount
Next, you need to attach the projector to the custom mount.
Depending on the mount you created, this could mean anything from propping up the projector to laying it down at an angle.
Step 3: Angle the Mirror
If you’re using a mirror, you’ll need to angle the projector so that it’s facing the mirror.
Then, you’ll need to angle the mirror to reflect the projected image on the surface you want to watch.
This may take a while to get perfect, but it’s a small sacrifice for a good viewing experience!
Step 4: Position the Vents and Fan
If your projector has adjustable vents, you’ll want to position them to allow for the best airflow with your custom mount.
Next, place your fan near your projector so that it blows directly on it.
Step 5: Connect the Projector to Your Devices
Use the proper cables to connect your projector to your streaming device.
Then, if you’re not using the projector’s built-in speakers, connect it to your sound system.
Make sure to organize all cables to prevent accidents or hassle later on.
Step 7: Adjust the Projector Settings
Finally, you’ll need to go into your projector’s settings and adjust the visuals.
Depending on your setup, you may need to adjust the vertical and horizontal keystone settings until everything is aligned perfectly with the surface you’re projecting onto.

Vance is a dad, former software engineer, and tech lover. Knowing how a computer works becomes handy when he builds Pointer Clicker. His quest is to make tech more accessible for non-techie users. When not working with his team, you can find him caring for his son and gaming.