Projector Buying Guide – Choosing the Right Projector

With so many projectors available on the market today, it’s not surprising that things can get a little confusing when trying to choose the right one for you. But don’t worry, in this SMS Buying Guide, we’ll give you all the advice you need to make a perfect choice.

In this guide, we’ll look at the following areas:

• Application
• Brightness 
• Resolution
• Volume
• Features
• Connectivity
• Positioning
• Maintenance Costs

Application – What is it for?

There are many things to consider when purchasing a projector. The most important thing is what you plan to use the projector for.

Portable Projectors for Business or High Definition Gaming

Are you looking for a home cinema projector to watch movies? A portable projector for business presentations? Or gaming projectors for the ultimate gaming experience? It is also important to know how big you will need the projection to be. We will discuss this in more detail later.

Once you know what you need it for, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Brightness – Why is Brightness Important?

When choosing a projector, one of the key factors that you should be looking at is its brightness. This refers to how much light the projector produces; the higher the brightness, the more visible your displayed content will be in different lighting conditions.

Ambient Light

If you are using your projector in a room with a lot of light leaking in, then you’ll need to go for a projector that has a higher brightness level to combat this. Generally, projectors with 3000 lumens or above are recommended for use in rooms with high levels of ambient light. A dark room will cope with a much lower brightness level.

Lumens and ANSI Lumens

There are two main ways to measure brightness: lumens and ANSI lumens. The former is used for digital projectors while the latter is used for video projectors. Generally speaking, a projector with a higher brightness rating will produce a clearer image than one with a lower number. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are other factors that can affect the clarity of your projected content – such as screen size and contrast ratio – so it’s best to consider all these when choosing a projector.

The Brighter the Better

Overall, brightness is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a projector, as it affects how visible your content will be in different lighting conditions and environments. If you’re looking for a high-quality projector that produces bright, clear images, then you should definitely consider investing in a model with a higher brightness rating.​

Resolution – Getting your Pixels Right

You may have heard the term “resolution” used a lot when people talk about projectors. But what does it actually mean, and how do you know if you’re getting the right resolution for your needs?

In its simplest terms, the resolution is a measure of how many pixels a projector is able to display. The more pixels there are, the higher the resolution and the sharper the image will be.

So how do you know how many pixels you need? Well, it depends on a few factors.

Image Quality

First, you need to consider what sort of image quality you’re looking for. If you’re just using it for basic business presentations then a lower resolution will suffice. However, if you’re looking to use your projector for more demanding applications like gaming or design work, or you want the ultimate cinematic experience, then you’ll need a higher resolution.

Size of the Projector Screen

The second factor to consider is the size of the area you’ll be projecting onto. The larger the area, the more pixels you’ll need to fill it and maintain a sharp image.

Distance from the Screen

Finally, you also need to take into account the distance between the projector and the screen or surface you’re projecting onto. The further away the projector is, the lower the resolution it will need to produce a clear image.

Size and Distance

If you are using the projector for a large home cinema the size of the projector screen is important as is the distance the projector will be from the screen. If you have a wide screen but the room is not very deep then the best projectors for you may be the ultra-short throw projectors which allow closer placement to the screen.

Resolution Ratio

What’s the best resolution for your needs? A good rule of thumb is to choose a resolution that’s at least two times the native resolution of your device. So, if you’re using a laptop with a native resolution of 1280×800, then you should look for a projector with a resolution of at least 2560×1600.

Full HD Resolution

When choosing a projector, you’ll want to look for models with at least 1080p full HD resolution. This is the same resolution used in most HD TVs, and it will provide you with clear and detailed picture quality.

4K Projectors

For top-of-the-line home cinema projectors, you may want to consider investing in a 4K projector. This type of projector has four times the resolution of a 1080p full HD model, and it can produce stunningly detailed images.

Once you’ve selected the right resolution for your needs, you’ll be able to enjoy sharper images and improved clarity in all your projections.

Epson’s EH-TW9400 is a competitively priced 4K PRO-UHD1 and HDR-capable Home Cinema Projector. Delivering an exceptional display, thanks to Epson’s 3LCD technology, 4K-enhancement and a high dynamic contrast ratio, this Epson is set to create the magic of a home cinema.

Volume – Is it all about the Bass? 

When it comes to using a projector, one of the most important aspects to consider is volume. After all, how can you effectively present your ideas or watch a movie if you don’t have enough volume coming from the unit itself? Built-in speakers may suffice for a presentation but if you are going for a full-on home cinema you will want to look at a sound system.

But what factors determine the volume of a projector? What are some things to look for when choosing a projector with good audio? And how do you connect external speakers or a soundbar to get even more power and clarity out of your system?

One thing to consider when looking at volume is what you will be using the projector for. If you plan on using it primarily for home entertainment purposes, then you want to focus on getting a model that offers high-quality surround sound options as well as great picture quality.

However, if you will be using the projector for business presentations or other purposes where volume may not be as much of an issue, then you can save some money by going with a model that doesn’t have as many bells and whistles in terms of audio quality.

Filling the Space

Another thing to consider is the size of the room you will be using the projector in. If you are planning on using it in a large space, then you will need to make sure that the projector has enough power to fill the room with sound and you may need to consider adding external speakers or a soundbar.

In terms of actually connecting external speakers or a soundbar to the projector, there are a few different options. Most projectors will have either an aux input or a Bluetooth connection. If your projector has an aux input, then you can simply plug your speakers or soundbar into the projector and be good to go. If your projector has Bluetooth, then you will need to connect the speakers or soundbar wirelessly to the projector.

Connecting to your Smart Home Sound System

If you want your device connected to your smart home system, then you want to look for a projector that is compatible. If you have any concerns about connectivity compatibility please get in touch.

Features -What to Consider 

When choosing a home projector, there are several factors you’ll want to consider in order to get the best possible experience.

Dynamic Iris

One important feature is a dynamic iris. This automatically adjusts the amount of light that’s let in, depending on the scene being shown. This results in better contrast and less chance of image washout.

Low Noise

Another useful feature is low noise. Some projectors can produce a lot of fan noise, which can be distracting when trying to enjoy a movie or TV show. Look for a projector with low noise levels so you can enjoy your content without any unwanted distractions.

Lens Shift Feature

Lens shift is another handy feature to have. This allows you to adjust the position of the image without having to move the entire projector. This is great for getting the perfect placement, regardless of where you have to put the projector itself.

Gaming Projectors

If you’re looking for a projector specifically for gaming, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, look for a projector with low input lag so you don’t miss a beat while playing. You’ll also want to make sure the projector has good colour reproduction for the best gaming experience. And finally, choose a projector with a high refresh rate so you can enjoy smooth, lag-free gameplay.

JVC – NP5 Projector

The JVC NP5 laser projector offers unparalleled 4K 120p input resolution and powerful imaging technology, making it the perfect choice for both the avid home cinema enthusiast and discerning gamers. With ultra-low latency in combination with laser projection, this projector is created to make sure every detail is visible and true to life. It is also one of the best projectors available at an unrivalled price-point, as it comes packed with tech such as HDR10+, HLG frame compatibility and a HDMI Input v2.0. Truly, the JVC NP5 laser projection provides an amazing cinematic experience that won’t break your budget.

Colour Accuracy

Finally, colour accuracy and adjustments are important for getting a crisp image. Make sure the projector you choose has good colour accuracy so you can enjoy your content the way it was meant to be seen. And look for a projector with adjustable colours so you can fine-tune the image to your liking.

Contrast

The contrast ratio on projectors varies greatly. What is the contrast ratio and why does it affect your picture quality? The contrast ratio is the difference between the whitest and darkest colours that a projector can display. The higher the contrast ratio, the more vivid and accurate the colours will appear on the display. So make sure to look for a projector with a high contrast ratio if you want to get the best picture quality.

Epson EH-LS1200

With an incredible contrast ratio of 2,5000,000:1 the Epson EH- LS1200 has the ability to deliver deep blacks and bright whites, making it perfect for viewing films. It also has low noise levels, which makes it great for use in home theatres.

Epson’s 3LCD technology allows you to avoid the ‘rainbow effect’ and enjoy vivid colours thanks to an equally high White and Colour Light Output of 2,700 lumens. HDR10+ support reveals extra detail and depth, giving you natural yet richer colours. 

Connectivity – Cable or wifi?

There are several different methods you can use to connect your projector, from a USB port to wireless connections and high-speed HDMI cables to auxiliary connections for gaming or home cinema. Whether you’re looking for the best way to set up your projector for gaming, watching movies at home, or just want easy access to all your favourite multimedia content, there are plenty of options available that will help make the process quick and simple.

So if you’re ready to start connecting your projector, read on for some helpful tips and tricks on how to get started!

First, let’s talk about some of the different ways you can connect your projector.

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI)

One popular method is through using a high-speed HDMI cable. This type of connection is perfect for those who want to set up their projector for gaming or other high-definition content, as it provides crisp images and concise connections that can handle large amounts of data transfer. If you’re looking for an easy way to connect your projector to your television or other display, an HDMI cable is definitely the way to go.

Go Cable Free

Another popular option is to use a wireless connection. This is perfect for those who want to be able to move their projector around without having to worry about cords or cables getting in the way. Wireless connections are also great for connecting multiple devices to your projector, such as a Blu-ray player, game console, or streaming media player. If you’re looking for a fast, simple way to set up your projector for home cinema or gaming, a wireless connection is definitely the way to go.

Of course, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy way to connect your projector to other audio devices, such as an external speaker system or sound-bar, aux connections are the best option. These small ports allow you to quickly and easily plug in any device and get started with your multimedia content right away. Whether you’re looking for improved sound quality or simply want access to all of your favourite music, movies, and games on one convenient device, aux connections are a perfect choice.

So whatever type of connection you need for your projector, there are plenty of options available that will help make setup quick and easy. Whether you’re looking for the best way to connect your projector for gaming, home cinema, or just want easy access to all your multimedia content, there’s a solution out there that’s perfect for you. 

Positioning – How to Get the Best Results

Where to position your projector for optimum results can depend on a number of factors, including the type of projector that you are using, as well as the size and layout of the room in which you intend to display your images.

The Throw

One important consideration is the throw distance of your projector – this refers to how far away your projector needs to be from your screen or wall in order to properly project an image. For most projectors, this range will fall somewhere between 1-10 feet, though some models may require more or less space depending on their specific capabilities.

Ceiling Mount

Another factor to consider when positioning your projector is whether you plan to ceiling mount it or position it on a table or other surface. While ceiling mounting can provide certain benefits in terms of visibility and ease of use, it is not always the best option for every situation. If you are unsure about which mounting method to use, be sure to consult your projector’s manual or speak with a qualified technician for more information.

Ambient Light

When positioning your projector, it is also important to take into account any ambient light that may be present in the room. If there is too much light, it can wash out the image that your projector is trying to display. Conversely, if there is not enough light, it can make it difficult to see what is being projected. For best results, try to position your projector in a location where there is minimal ambient light and where you can control the amount of light that enters the room.

Cabling

Finally, when setting up your projector, be sure to take into account the location of any cables or wires that will be running from the projector to your screen or other display surface. Carefully planning out these routes ahead of time can help to ensure a smooth, hassle-free setup process and prevent potential damage to your equipment.

The Best Projector for Your Needs

Whether you are setting up a home theatre system or simply looking for an easy way to display content in your office or classroom, positioning your projector correctly is key to getting the best results. With proper consideration of all the factors involved, you can choose the perfect spot for your projector and enjoy clear, vibrant images every time.

Maintenance Costs – What to Consider When Choosing Your Home Cinema Projector

Do remember these devices do require some maintenance and upkeep in order to function properly. The costs of maintaining different types of projectors can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the display, the types of technologies used in the projector itself, and any additional features or functionality it might have.

Energy Usage

One major cost associated with projector maintenance is electricity usage. DLP and LED projectors typically use more energy than equivalent LED projectors, which can increase your electric bill over time.

Bulbs or LED

LED bulbs last much longer than traditional bulbs, so there is no need to replace them as often. The cost of replacing a bulb in an LED projector is also much lower than the cost of replacing a bulb in a traditional projector.

BLU-Escent Laser Diode

The DLA-NZ7 D-ILA projector utilises a Blu-Escent laser diode light source and features 8K/60p/4K120p. The laser projection contributes to the near-reality image quality given by this revolutionary projector. Utilising 8K/e-shift proprietary technology, driven by three native 4K D-ILA devices, a high quality 65mm glass lens and Ultra High Brightness of 2200 lumens it produces incredibly sharp 8K/60p and 4K120p images with stunning accuracy.

Making a Good Investment

It’s worth considering the build quality of the projector. Cheaper models may have lower-quality components that are more prone to failure or may generate more heat, which can reduce the lifespan of your projector.

Overall, the costs of maintaining a projector can vary depending on the type of device you have and how often you use it. 

For more information and a full visit the S.M.S. Shop to find the perfect projector for your needs.