ANKER NEBULA CAPSULE II

Whether you're planning a backyard movie night, a camping trip, or just want a "TV in a can" for your bedroom, the Anker Nebula Capsule II has likely popped up in your search. But in 2026, with newer models like the Capsule 3 Laser and Google TV-integrated projectors hitting the shelves, does this "soda-can" legend still hold up?

I’ve scoured years of user feedback, tech specs, and long-term durability reports to give you the ultimate lowdown. Here is everything you need to know about the Anker Nebula Capsule II.

Why The Anker?

The standout feature of the Capsule II remains its form factor. Roughly the size of a 12oz soda can, it’s built like a tank. The solid aluminum body feels premium, and at just under 1.5 lbs, it slides into a backpack or even a large coat pocket without a second thought.

• Pro Tip: It features a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount on the bottom, and Anker sell a new circular stand that screws on so you can angle the projector to the ceiling if you like!
  

Let’s talk specs. The Capsule II offers 720p native resolution and 200 ANSI Lumens of brightness.

• The Reality Check: In broad daylight? Forget it. You’ll see a faint ghost of an image. However, in a dimly lit or pitch-black room, the DLP technology punches above its weight. Colors are surprisingly vibrant, and the 1-second autofocus is a lifesaver—you move the can, and it snaps into focus almost instantly.
• Screen Size: While Anker claims it can hit 100 inches, the "sweet spot" for clarity and brightness is actually around 60 to 70 inches.

The Capsule II runs on Android TV 9.0, which gives you native access to YouTube, Hulu, and Disney+. It also has Chromecast built-in, making it easy to cast from your Android phone or laptop.

• The Big Catch: Netflix. Due to licensing quirks, you can’t simply download Netflix from the Play Store. You have to use the "Nebula Manager" app to sideload a mobile version of Netflix.
• The Fix: Most users skip the headache entirely by plugging a Roku Stick or Fire TV Stick into the HDMI port. It draws power from the projector's USB-A port, essentially fixing the software limitations in one go.
  

Battery & Sound

For a device this small, the 8W Scan-Speak driver is remarkably loud. It’s not "home theater" quality, but it easily fills a bedroom or a small tent. If you aren't watching a movie, you can toggle it into Bluetooth Speaker Mode and use it as a dedicated music player for up to 30 hours.

This is where the Capsule II shows its age. On a full charge, you’ll get roughly 2 to 2.5 hours of video playback.

• Planning Tip: If you’re watching a long epic you’re going to need a power source. Thankfully, it supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD), so a high-output power bank (like the Anker 737) can keep the movie going in the woods.

The Positives

• Insane Portability: Truly "pocketable" compared to "portable" box projectors.

• Build Quality: It feels like a piece of high-end hardware, not a plastic toy.

• Connectivity: HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C make it a versatile hub for consoles (Nintendo Switch is a favorite) and sticks.

• Autofocus & Keystone: Very user-friendly for non-techies.

The Negatives

Brightness: Requires a dark environment to shine.

Netflix Workaround: Sideloading apps can be a chore.

Battery: Just barely makes it through a standard feature film.

Glitches: Often misfires when side-loading apps, and will go to a black screen instead of returning to the homescreen when you exit. This means you have to turn the projector on/off again, which takes a good 2-3 minutes to reboot and can be very, very annoying if it keeps happening consistently. Which it does.

Final Thoughts

The Anker Nebula Capsule II is no longer the "top-of-the-line" model, but it has transitioned into the best value-for-money portable projector. If you find it on sale (often significantly cheaper than the newer Capsule 3 or Laser versions), it is still a fantastic entry point into portable cinema.

It’s perfect for the digital nomad, the casual camper, or the bedroom binger. If you need "daylight" brightness or native 4K, look elsewhere—but if you want a reliable, stylish, and rugged "TV in your pocket," the Capsule II still earns its spot in your bag.

Pick one up here: https://www.seenebula.com/eu