Projectors 101
Why should you consider putting a projector in your Home Theater instead of a flat-screen TV? Here are three common reasons you may choose a projector over a TV:
- You want the biggest picture possible. Projectors have the capability to produce huge images, with the most popular sizes ranging between 100-120 inches (diagonally). Most projectors produce high-quality images at 90 to 180 inches, but it’s important to remember that an enlarged image over a greater area could lose some clarity depending on the resolution of your projector. Comparatively, flat-screen TVs are smaller in size with a common range capped at 85 inches.
- You have budget constraints. There is some crossover with price points depending on the size and quality of your TV versus higher-end projectors. If you’re after a larger picture, a home theater projector may be the least expensive option.
- You don’t have enough room for a large TV. With the versatility in projectors and screens regarding size, mounting options and portability, a projector can be a more practical solution if you have a small space to utilize.
If you’ve decided a projector is the way to go, there are a couple basic features you should consider.
Projector Light Source Types
There are two common light sources that define projector types: lamp or LED. Lamp projectors provide the greatest brightness and tend to offer the most features, such as networkability and brightness settings. A lamp-based projector is ideal for a larger room where high brightness is required but will also need bulb changing eventually. LED-based projectors last longer but do not deliver as high levels of brightness as lamp projectors. LED projectors are great options for anybdy looking to be mobile with their projectors.
Lumens
Lumens refer to the light output, or brightness, of a projector. The higher the lumens, the brighter the picture the projector produces. Bright, sunlit rooms where the light cannot be controlled will require a projector with at least a couple thousand lumens or more for the image to be visible. Other factors to consider when determining how many lumens your projector should be are the content that will be projected and the image size you are projecting.
Screen Types
There are a few different screen options to choose from for a Home Theater Projector. Projecting on a wall in your home is an option but you will run into image quality problems with that solution. Another option is a fixed-frame screen. A fixed-frame screen is a permanent fixture in your home that stays on display on your wall. If you’re looking for a screen that can be hidden, consider a retractable or portable floor screen. Retractable screens can be mounted in walls or ceilings and are motorized, so at the push of a button, you can reveal or hide your screen. Portable floor screens are durable, lightweight, easy-to-store and budget-friendly.
If you’re considering a projector in your Home Theater, visit Quest4 Electronics and talk to our experts today or book a free in-home consultation. We are happy to help you determine which projector will be the perfect fit for you and your project.
