Projectors are capable of making what you’re seeing onscreen look like a window to an immersive three-dimensional world. How is it able to do this? By the use of 3D glasses, of course. The cardboard or plastic-framed 3D glasses of yore with blue and red lenses don’t compare to modern 3D glasses.
These are outright devices that shift shutters from one eye to another in order to give you the illusion of depth. You’re able to see multiple angles of a given scene, person, or object by the way the 3D glasses communicate with your projector.
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You may also like: Your Complete Guide to 3D Projectors
Top 5 – The Best 3D Glasses for Projectors
Here are the top 5 3D glasses for projectors.
1. Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses
So what’s the deal with the Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses? It features impressive compatibility outside the recommended KDL HDTV series of Sony, particularly when it comes to Sony brand projectors. Will it only work with Sony projectors and HDTVs though?
Not a Question of Quality but Compatibility
When it works, the TDG-BT500A is right up there among the best active 3D glasses out there and its user ratings on Amazon reflect as much. The main concern people have isn’t so much whether Sony is capable of producing a quality product like this one (their reputation precedes them).
Rather, it’s more about compatibility. The device was mainly made for the KDL HDTV series of Sony. Sony also has a line of 3D projectors for good measure. The question in everyone’s minds is whether or not Sony’s 3D glasses are compatible with anything other than a KDL HDTV.
Yes, It Does Have Wide Compatibility
We didn’t have any issues pairing the glasses to several other types of Sony TVs and Sony projectors, which are the main reason why these active 3D glasses are even on this list in the first place.
The actual 3D itself was well-received among our staff of reviewers, just like those on Amazon loved it. It’s clear, it doesn’t make the images look muddy (a common complaint about 3D conversions or even passive 3D glasses), and active 3D tech is more adaptive scene-per-scene compared to passive 3D.
Notable Features
- Active 3D glasses.
- It has a sleek black coloring.
- It is 1.28 ounces or 0.08 pounds in weight.
- It comes with its own lithium metal battery.
- It’s worth under a hundred bucks or about $60.
- It deals with projectors and HDTVs that have about 55-inch screens.
- You’re offered FHD or Full HD 1080p clarity with phenomenal 3D depth.
- The 3D mode doesn’t result in resolution downgrades or image blurring to a muddy mess.
- Image immersion is made possible with how the active 3D glasses opens and closes its shutters.
- You’ll feel like you’re standing beside players or actors in pure 3D excitement just short of going full Virtual Reality.
- It’s mainly compatible with the Sony KDL-55W900A LED HDTV as well as Sony 3D projectors like the Sony VPLHW50ES.
2. 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses
The pair of 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses is able to surpass the Sony TDG-BT500A by being more universally compatible. The Sony glasses aren’t necessarily exclusive to Sony, but you’re assured that it mostly works on Sony equipment the best the same way as with Apple equipment.
Universal 3D Projector Compatibility
Here’s the deal. The 3DHeaven glasses are compatible with 3M, Acer, ASK Proxima, Casio, Dell, Digital Projection, EIKI, HD Projector World, InFocus, LG, Mitsubishi, NEC, Optima, ProjectionDesign, Ricoh, Runco, Samsung, Sharp, Smart Technologies, Specktron, Viewsonic, Vivitek, and so forth.
More importantly, unlike the Sony glasses, the 3DHeaven glasses are made specifically for projectors. The Sony device is made specifically for HDTVs under the Sony brand. You can finagle the glasses to work with other projectors but 3DHeaven has done the finagling for you.
Inimitable Active 3D Glasses Quality
The 3DHeaven 3D Active Glasses are made for form and function. They’re fashionable as they are useful when making sure that your projector’s projection looks like a window to another world instead of a flat-screen of sequential images.
Sure, 3DHeaven isn’t as famous a brand as Sony. However, when all is said and done, the end result quality of the product is king, and branding or marketing is nothing more than lip service if the device itself isn’t worth the money you pay for it.
Notable Features
- Easy to use.
- Rubberized and soft black design.
- Designed for DLP Link 3D projectors.
- Ergonomic fit and made specifically for comfort.
- Adjustable stems on the glasses to fit many users.
- Backwards compatible for 96Hz to 120Hz projectors.
- Shutter glasses that can work with various 3D DLP projectors.
- Affordable at around $50 for something universally compatible.
- Mainly works with the 144Hz refresh rate found in next-gen projectors.
- It’s a twin-pack for more 3D enjoyment and for more bang for your buck.
- The package includes a USB charging cable, microfiber cleaning cloth, carrying bag, and indestructible box or case.
- The who’s who of projectors work with these glasses—BenQ, Optoma, Dell, Mitsubishi, Samsung, Acer, Vivitek, NEC, Sharp, ViewSonic, and many others.
3. 2X Sintron ST07-BT 3D Active Shutter Glasses
The amount of projectors that the 2X Sintron ST07-BT is compatible with is so numerous, it’d take up more than a third or even half of the review here. Therefore, suffice it to say that it supports most 3D TVs and projectors made by Panasonic, Sony, and Samsung.
It’s the Shutter Glasses of Choice for the Most Popular Companies
The Sintron stands out not only because it’s supported by the most popular TV makers (that also make projectors). It’s a nice budget alternative to the Sony exclusive TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses and the more universal fit and universally compatible 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses.
This stereoscopic 3D solution of a pair of 3D glasses comes complete with auto power-off mode to save energy, high-transmission lenses, and high-technology lightspeed LCD shutter technology that won’t give you a migraine after use.
Compatibility Galore at an Affordable Price
Sure, it doesn’t feature universal compatibility to all Panasonic, Sony, and Samsung projectors and TVs. However, its list of compatible models is so huge it could fill out this article by itself. These glasses fit in with 3DTVs, Epson projectors, and much more.
The product itself is feature-rich. For example, it supports Bluetooth or RF communication. It gets rid of muddiness by ensuring the brightest of 3D video images using high-transmission lenses that truly maximize the brightness of your projector to make the 3D really clear and pop out.
Notable Features
- USB rechargeable.
- Costs less than $50.
- 0ms response time.
- High transmission lenses.
- Energy-efficient device for long-lasting use.
- Auto power-off function for power economy.
- High-tech lightspeed LCD shutter technology.
- 7V / 70mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
- Supports the RF or Bluetooth communication method.
- As far as projectors go, Epson 3D projectors work with these glasses.
- Specifically caters to the Sony KDL series, Samsung UE series, and Panasonic TX series.
- You can experiment to see if it works with other 3D projector types not listed on this description.
- Compatible for various Panasonic 3D TVs and projectors, Sony 3D TVs and projectors, and Samsung 3D TVs and projectors.
4. XPAND X105-RF-X1 Rechargeable 3D RF/Bluetooth Glasses
According to Amazon, the Xpand or XPAND X105-RF-X1 Rechargeable 3D RF/Bluetooth Glasses product is Amazon’s Choice in 3D Viewing Glasses by Xpand. In other words, this pair of 3D RF/Bluetooth glasses is probably the best Xpand has to offer.
Mainly the JVC and Epson 3D Projector Type of Glasses
Many Epson and JVC projectors work with the XPAND X105-RF-X1. Not as many specific models are listed for it though. You’ll have to mix and match. The description recommends Epson projectors because it mainly acts as an alternative to Epson 3D glasses.
We consider this among one of our favorite glasses for 3D viewing mainly because of its extra-wide field of view. Furthermore, the frames are designed in a way to be ergonomic instead of cumbersome. They’re also not distracting when you wear them.
Definitely a Keeper in Terms of Compatibility Consistency
It doesn’t have as extensive a list of compatible devices compared to the Sintron, but it gets decent ratings mostly for the fact that people can easily match this to their Epson or JVC 3D projector. Additionally, the sides of the 3D glasses ensure that no reflected light shines onto your eyeballs.
It falls within the same price range of $50 to $60 as many of the glasses on this list, with the Sony glasses being the most expensive of the bunch by default (since it’s a Sony original product). The JVC-branded glasses might produce brighter images than this one as well for JVC projectors.
This is because JVC 3D projectors use horizontally polarized light and this causes image dimming.
Notable Features
- 44 ounces.
- Comfortable fit.
- Rechargeable device.
- Amazing field of view.
- RF/Bluetooth support.
- Affordable at about $50.
- Stereoscopic 3D solution.
- Super lightweight design.
- No glare or reflected light.
- Superior quality 3D effects.
- Full HD 3D for 1080p video.
- Black glasses with thick rims.
- Lightweight, streamlined design.
- Safe temperature ranges from 5˚C-45˚C.
- Bright 3D video images with nary any muddiness.
- Earned the award of “Amazon’s Choice in 3D Viewing Glasses by Xpand”.
5. BOBLOV DLP 3D Glasses 144Hz Rechargeable 3D Active Shutter Glasses
The BOBLOV DLP 3D Glasses are a pair of 144Hz Rechargeable 3D Active Shutter Glasses. It’s mainly compatible with BenQ, Optoma, Acer, and ViewSonic DLP 3D projectors. It’s available as a twin-pack or 2-pack so that you can get two glasses at an affordable price.
Quick Compatibility with DLP-Link Projectors
The pair of BOBLOV 3D glasses is probably the third best of this list of five according to user ratings. It’s only behind the Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses and the 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses in terms of user favorability.
It’s mostly a DLP Link type of projector that syncs quickly via Bluetooth to a host of projectors like those made by Optoma, Mitsubishi, BenQ, Samsung, Vivitek, LG, Panasonic, ViewSonic, and Dell. It won’t work with Epson or Sony projectors though.
The Most Outstanding Offerings
What makes it so favorable? Its outstanding offerings, of course. These quality glasses uses the latest in 2021 active shutter technology to fill in the niche of people who still ride the 3D trend up to this day. This means you enjoy no ghosting images, flickering, and HD quality 3D views every time.
The lack of flicker, jerkiness, and ghosting is due to its smooth 144Hz refresh rate that suits the naked eye. You’ll need special equipment in order to capture the opening and closing of shutters on each eye in order to induce the 3D effect.
Notable Features
- Adult-sized glasses.
- Costs less than $50.
- Left/right eye rotation techniques.
- Lightweight and comfortable glasses.
- 2-pack black 3D glasses (also available in blue).
- Quick compatibility and sync with DLP-LINK projector.
- It supports various BenQ, Optoma, ViewSonic, and Acer projectors.
- It’s not compatible with Sony and Epson projectors as well as 3DTVs.
- Long-lasting battery that can go on for 45 hours straight every recharge.
- It uses the latest active shutter tech for the super-fast 144Hz refresh rate.
- It’s also compatible with Vivitek, Panasonic, Dell, LG, Samsung, and Mitsubishi projectors.
Comparison Chart
| 3D Glasses for Projector Models | 3D Glass Type | Item Size and Weight | Compatible Displays |
| Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses | Active 3D glasses for Sony HDTVs and projectors | 2.6 inches by 2.1 inches by 6 inches and 1.28 ounces | Sony KDL-43W800C, KDL-50W800C, KDL-55W800C, KDL-65W850C, KDL-75W850C; XBR-55X850C, 55X900C, 55X930D, 65X850C, 65X900C, 65X930C, 65X930D, 65X950B, 75X850C, 75X910C, 75X940C, 75X940D, and 85X950B as well as Sony VPLHW50ES and similar 3D projectors |
| 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses
| Rechargeable active 3D glasses with universal fit for various 3D DLP projectors, particularly the Link variety | 8.3 inches by 6.4 inches by 3.7 inches and 1 pound | 3M, Acer, ASK Proxima, Casio, Dell, Digital Projection, EIKI, HD Projector World, InFocus, LG, Mitsubishi, NEC, Optima, ProjectionDesign, Ricoh, Runco, Samsung, Sharp, Smart Technologies, Specktron, Viewsonic, Vivitek, and many other 3D DLP Link projector |
| 2X Sintron ST07-BT 3D Active Shutter Glasses | 3D Active Shutter Glasses with LCD shutter technology for Epson, Panasonic, Sony, and Samsung projectors and TVs | 7.09 inches by 2.36 inches by 4.33 inches and 9.6 ounces
| Epson 3D projector Panasonic 3D TV and projectors TX-40AS640B, TX-48AS640B, TX-55AS640B, TX-40AX630B, TX-48AX630B, TX-55AX630B, TX-50AX802B, TX-50AX802B, and so forth, For Sony 3D TV and projectors like KDL-55W805B, KDL-55W815B, KDL-55W828B, KDL-55W829B, KDL-60W850B, KDL-70W850B, KDL-43W805C, KDL-43W807C, KDL-43W809C, KDL-50W805C, and so forth. For Samsung 3D TV and projectors like UE48H6200AK, UE55H6200AK, UE60H6200AK, UE40F6320AK, UE46F6320AK, UE48H6400AK, UE55H6400AK, UE65H6400AK, UE65H6400AK, and so forth. |
| XPAND X105-RF-X1 Rechargeable 3D RF/Bluetooth Glasses | Rechargeable Active 3D glasses and RF/Bluetooth connectivity | 3 inches by 2.5 inches by 7.1 inches and 1.44 ounces | Samsung, Panasonic, XPAND, EPSON, and JVC 3D projectors and TVs |
| BOBLOV DLP 3D Glasses 144Hz Rechargeable 3D Active Shutter Glasses
| Rechargeable Active 3D glasses for 144Hz DLP projectors
| 4.72 inches by 2.76 inches by 1.97 inches and 8.8 ounces | BenQ models such as W1070, MX520, W080ST, W1080, W1070, W700, W710ST, EP5328, MW284B, and so forth. Optoma models like 3DW1, DH5101, DK3902, DN3613, DM137, DM181, DM3505, DM181, and so forth. Viewsonic models like PJD5133, PJD5523, PJD5233, PJD5152, PJD5211, PJD5122, and so forth. Acer models like D315, D302, D101E, D303, EV-S21T, EV-S22T, EV-S50, H5360, K330, and so forth. Also compatible with Vivitek, Panasonic, Dell, LG, Samsung, and Mitsubishi projectors. |
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What do people commonly ask about 3D projector glasses?
What kind of 3D glasses do I need for a projector?
When getting 3D glasses for your projector, getting the right fitment or compatibility for your specific make and model ensures that you have working glasses for your viewing needs.
If you wish to enjoy 3D content on a budget, passive polarized glasses can do 3D perfectly fine. They’re low-tech, affordable goggles that don’t require batteries, ensuring universal compatibility. However, this list mostly has active 3D glasses.
There’s something more interactive with how the active 3D glasses changes its settings automatically scene-by-scene in an adaptive manner. Active shutter glasses work best with projectors, plasma screen TVs, and the like due to the nature of their 3D tech.
Can you use any 3D glasses with a projector?
With passive 3D glasses, you can practically use them on most projectors, but active 3D glasses work best with plasma TVs and projectors. The way it’s able to adapt from setting to setting or scene to scene is what makes the active 3D glasses stand out in terms of 3D immersion.
Active 3D glasses allow you to watch 3D movies on a projector with 3D settings by using a shutter method. You don’t see the images flickering because the best glasses offer a super-fast 144Hz refresh rate, so the closing and opening of the shutter isn’t visible to the naked eye.
How can I watch 3D on my projector?
Here’s what you need to do in order to set up your projector for 3D viewing. First off, get a projector capable of 3D viewing mode in the first place. Afterwards, turn the projector off or don’t turn it on yet.
At the back of the projector, connect the 3D Sync Transmitter on the 3D Sync Input of the device. Put it where it’s obstruction-free. Insert a 3D movie or game title on your BD player or PlayStation 3 or 4 game console.
Turn on the projector using your supplied remote. Press the input button to select the right HDMI input. Your projector should auto-detect the 3D signal then display the resulting movie or game in 3D mode. If this doesn’t happen, select 3D mode manually from the menu.
The image appears out of focus or blurry at first until you put on the appropriate or compatible 3D glasses.
What kind of 3D glasses do I need for your Epson projector?
You need state-of-the-art Epson active shutter glasses costing about $50 to $60 in order to enjoy high-quality 3D movie viewing similar to that of modern 3D movies on the cinema, except this time more intimate and personalized.
The Epson RF 3D Active Shutter Glasses are highly recommended. They’re the ones most optimized for Full HD 1080p 3D quality for Epson projectors. You can also avail of Epson-compatible 3D glasses with FHHD RF 3D certification like the XPAND X105-RF-X1 and the2X Sintron ST07-BT.
How important is compatibility for projector 3D glasses?
You can avail of universal fitment 3D glasses like 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses, which features compatibility with 3M, Acer, ASK Proxima, Casio, Dell, Digital Projection, EIKI, Samsung, Sharp, Smart Technologies, Specktron, Viewsonic, Vivitek, and many others.
With that said, even though the Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses has the least amount of compatibility by focusing more on Sony-type projectors, TVs, and other display devices, it also earned the highest user ratings with its “honesty”.
Nothing makes a customer downvote or rate badly a product like claiming it supports a 3D projector or HDTV, only for it to give out less than ideal results.
Final Considerations
When it comes to hunting for the best of the best 3D projector glasses out there, it’s mainly a matter of compatibility rather than quality across the board. You can’t use even a high-end 3D projector glasses if it’s incompatible with the frame rate or brand of your specific projector.
The best one of the bunch is Sony TDG-BT500A Active 3D Glasses, which enjoys the reputations and quality control offered by the multinational Sony Company. It lives up to the name recognition afforded to it by being a Sony product.
It’s followed by 3DHeaven 3D Active Rechargeable Shutter Glasses, which is rated quite high despite its maker being less known among the masses compared to Sony due to its almost universal projector compatibility.