1. Compatibility

While all 8mm film projectors will work for 8mm film, we had to consider the compatibility with Super 8mm film, film camera slides, 16mm film, and other formats. Plus, the size of old film reels played a hand as well, because not all film projectors work with the smallest and largest reel sizes.

3. Durability and Build Quality

The best projectors are long-lasting and well-built for good durability. This is a huge consideration since most 8mm film projectors you can buy these days are used, refurbished, and vintage. Plus, it’s sometimes hard to find new parts, adapters, and components, so having one that doesn’t break down is a major concern.

5. Availability

If you cannot really find a projector then there isn’t much use in adding it to our list, so we only chose options that were both available and easy to purchase online. Plus, we considered the price of projectors as well because availability doesn’t mean much for rare retro projectors that cost 10 thousands of dollars.

This Super 8mm projector has high-quality sound capabilities, the ability to read two tracks, an easy-to-use lens holder, and a reel capacity of up to 360-meter reels (1200 feet). It can project motion picture forward, reverse, and still frames and is available for a pretty good price of around HK$1500 on eBay. The one issue is that it will only play Super 8mm film, so if you have standard 8mm film then you will have to check out other options on our list.

2. Bell and Howell 10MS 8mm Dual Movie Projector

This Bell and Howell 8mm projector may be old, but it’s a classic that still holds up with a durable design built to last. Plus, you can sometimes find them online for around HK$800, which is a steal for a historical device that can play both Super 8mm and standard 8mm film reels. The reel capacity is only 400 feet though, so if you have reels bigger than 6 inches, you need to choose another film projector for your home movies. 

Another Super 8 movie projector that’s very affordable and offers decent image quality is the Chinon SS1200. It looks modern and has tons of settings to perfect your movie picture, which makes it perfect for family gatherings. However, it isn’t as durable as other options on this list because it is made mostly of plastic. It’s also a little more difficult to use than others.

4. Sankyo 800 Stereo

Released in 1978, this projector holds up for its magnificent design and both 8mm and Super 8mm capability. While a little bulkier than their older Dualux models, the knobs are durable and easy to adjust for good image quality and the light output is better than most. Plus, the sound quality is as good as it gets with sound dubbing, mixing, and track-to-track transfer options available. The main complaint is that it’s a little hard to find in good condition and may cost you around HK$3500.

This option is popular because it’s lightweight and easy to use with autoload, which makes it a good choice for people who don’t know how to play an 8mm film on an 8mm projector. The image quality isn’t superb, but it’s good enough for showing to the family and is available for a good price with used options available on Amazon and elsewhere with a checkout price of around HK$1500.

6. Kodak Instamatic 8mm and Super 8 Film Projector

If you want a vintage look for your retro home movies, then this option is fantastic with a vinyl woodgrain finish and satin black case. It has forward, reverse, and still projection options and a handle for easy portability. It is a little difficult to load film, but the projector lamp bulb is easy to replace and it is very durable. Plus, you can get it for around HK$600 to HK$1000 on Etsy or eBay.

This 8mm film projector may seem outdated because it doesn’t offer more advanced features like keystone correction and autoload, but it’s about as durable as you can get and affordable with some sellers offering it for as little as $300-400. However, while the image quality is excellent, these older models do not offer sound. Still, for a retro family home movie experience, you can’t do much better at this price point.

8. Eumig Mark 610D Projector

For exceptional performance and image quality at up to 18 fps and variable speed settings, this projector is as good as you can get without transferring to digital video using professional services or a Wolverine MovieMaker or other digitisation device. It plays both standard 8mm and Super 8mm film with a reel capacity of up to 400 feet. Plus, it offers autoload threading, although the manual format change is a little outdated.

This Super 8mm offers exceptional brightness and sharpness using a fully automatic threading system for easy operation. Plus, it’s very sturdy and offers flicker-free slow-motion settings. The design looks a little outdated without looking vintage, but the Swiss manufacturing design is durable and easy to operate so you can view your home movies.

10. Argus Showmaster 500 8mm Film Movie Projector

This autoload projector is cheap and available, which makes it a good option if you need a projector fast. Plus, it’s easy to set up and operate even if you’ve never used a film projector before. With good focus settings, auto load options, a multiscope lens to easily change picture size, variable speed control, and a film trimmer for splicing and editing, this device offers it all for a low price.

11. Dejur Model 750

This antique option deserves mention just because of the simple design, durable metal construction, and cool switches. Plus, it works great for 8mm film with a bright projector lamp, easy maintenance, and comes with an awesome carrying case. It’s not as available as some of the newer options so you may have to spend more for this 8mm film projector for sale.