Buying a projector is quite an effortless task, but choosing the projector isn’t. The projector is a large domain, and there are a lot of factors that come into consideration when you are about to choose a projector. From projection type to lumens figure to resolution, you will have to take all the things into account. So, take a look at our detailed guide or you can take a tour on Picking Hut which will pave the path for you to get the most appropriate projector.
Reasons to Buy Projector
Requirement
Before you purchase, you need to ask yourself, ” why you need the projector?”. If you are looking for a projector for entertainment, then you should go for a home theater projector. However, if the presentation is your requirement in the office or classroom, a business or classroom projector should be your target. You should look portable or Pico projector if you want a projector that you can carry wherever you go. For organizing outdoor movie or football session, you need to go for outdoor projectors rather than utilizing indoor models.
Projection Type
Even though there are different types of projection technology available in the market, but DLP, 3LCD, and LCoS are utilized mostly. DLP is all about vibrant color, sharp visual, and bright images but lacks in lamp life and faces video banding issue. 3LCD projection, on the other hand, offers deep blacks, fast motion visuals, vivid pictures, and affordable price tag. However, they are slightly expensive than DLP and requires a lot of maintenance. LCoS is the most expensive one in this lot, but it offers an exceptional picture quality, high contrast ratio, massive color depth, and high-clarity images.
See more: How to Buy a Home Theater Projector
Resolution
Resolution is probably the most essential factor that defines the visual quality you are going to enjoy. If you want to get the best visual quality possible for home entertainment, then 4K and 1080p serve as the best deal. Although you can opt for 720p or something lower if you have a budget constraint. For outdoor projection, 720p or full HD resolution serves as the best deal because you will get the optimum quality. However, for data projection, you shouldn’t go above HD resolution.
Lumens
Lumens play a crucial role in deciding the image quality, and you should never compromise on the lumens amount. If you are getting a projector for home entertainment, then you should never go below 1500 ANSI although it would be best to go over 2500 ANSI for optimum image quality. For outdoor, business, and classroom, you should favor models offering more than 25000 ANSI lumens if image quality is your priority.
Contrast Ratio & Color
Pay attention to the contrast ratio and color when you are getting a projector. Always look for entertainment projectors that offering high contrast ratio around 50000:1 and color accuracy around 100% because it will ensure clear image quality with solid color and black depth. This is also applicable for outdoor and Pico models. However, the contrast ratio and color aren’t that important for business and classroom projector as they don’t affect the data images much.
Screen Size
Whether you are going for outdoor, classroom or business projector, always look for a wide screen size range. The ideal range should be 30-300 inch, but it will vary depending upon the model you will choose. However, for home, you won’t need a wide range as there is less chance that you can go above 170 inch.
Connection Facilities
The minimum connection facilities that your projector should offer is HDMI, USB 2.0 or 3.0, D-Sub, VGA, SD card, and audio 3.5mm out. This minimum threshold is applicable for all type of projectors. However, if you also want to enjoy wireless streaming or using your smartphone as a media device, then you should check whether the projector has MHL, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless dongle support or any other connection facilities.
Lamp Life
Never ever compromise on the lamp life because it dictates the longevity of the projector. For home theater or outdoor projectors, 6000 hours serves as the minimum criteria, while 10000 hours serves as the minimum criteria for business, classroom, and Pico models. Always look for higher lamp life because it will not only extend the run of your projector but will also save you from frequent lamp replacement cost.
