Which home projector should you choose?

The projector is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to the TV. What to look for when choosing a projector? Check out the most important parameters worth checking when buying equipment.

The use of multimedia projectors has a long tradition, although not so long ago this equipment dominated predominantly in schools. Today it is a very popular TV replacement - it is convenient to use, takes up little space and guarantees a much larger picture than the longest TV models on the market.

With the help of the projector, you can not only watch movies and use streaming services, but also play games. This versatile device is ideal for those who want the ultimate viewing experience without investing in expensive, bulky equipment. However, how you can use the projector depends on the solutions used in it. Which home projector should you choose? It really depends mostly on your own image preferences as well as the space you have at your disposal. Let's analyze some of the most important parameters that should influence the choice of equipment.

What is the optimal resolution for a home projector? 

Resolution is critical when using an overhead projector to watch movies or play games. This is a parameter that expresses the number of pixels vertically and horizontally. The quality of the displayed image primarily depends on this. The greater their density, the sharper it will be. Projectors used in schools or at conferences to show presentations may have a lower resolution, but a higher resolution will be required at home.

Minimum is 1280 × 720 (HD standard). These projectors are usually affordable, such as the Phillips NeoPix Easy2 model. If high image quality is important to you, it's worth investing in Full HD or 4K. Note, however, that the price caps for these two permits are quite distant. You can buy a good Full HD multimedia projector for just over PLN 1000 (check out the Optoma HD146X for example), while a 4K resolution projector such as Acer's H6815BD or BenQ's W1720 costs over PLN 5000.

Image format - what will work at home?

Projectors can display images in three different aspect ratios - 4:3, 16:10, or 16:9 (the widescreen aspect ratio that features, for example, the EPSON EH-TW5700). Due to its width, the latter will be the best choice for home theater. However, if you find a good 16:10 projector, you can also invest in one without worrying about viewing comfort. But avoid 4:3 format, which is good for schools or conferences, but not for home theater purposes.

Type of light source - how does it affect image quality?

A home projector can use one of two types of light sources, or both. The first is LEDs, and the second is a laser. The type of light used in this equipment depends, among other things, on the age of the equipment or on the contrast. LEDs guarantee energy efficiency, but the image emitted with their use may be somewhat worse in quality. Equipment based solely on LEDs is also usually less durable.

The use of a laser beam guarantees a long service life and high image quality. This solution was used, among other things, in the Xiaomi Mi Laser series, which is also distinguished by the use of digital light processing technology. However, these models are quite expensive. The trade-off could be choosing a projector that combines laser and LED and is slightly more affordable.

Port types - which ones will be useful?

A home projector with many different ports including HDMI, USB, AV, stereo or mini jack is a good investment. The option of wireless communication via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi can also be a convenient solution.

Image display technology - LCD or DLP?

DLP is a technology readily used in premium projectors. It is based on a system of micromirrors through which light passes. The result of this mechanism is an image with finer colors, well-balanced contrast, and high fluidity. The big advantage of DLP is that the pixels are less visible than in the case of LCD.

The LCD variant uses a slightly different display technology. In his case, the light emitted by CCFL lamps, filtered by polarizers, hits the liquid crystal matrix. This solution was used, among other things, in the OWLENZ SD60 model, which is distinguished by its affordability. Its undeniable advantage is low power consumption. If you choose LCD, you can also look forward to picture clarity, rich colors and even brightness.

Minimum and maximum distance - how to find the golden mean?

This parameter depends primarily on the focal length of the projector. The shorter the focal length, the closer the projector is to the screen (without loss of image quality). At home, models with a short focal length are perfect, they can be placed close to the screen or hung next to the wall that acts as a display plane. Why is it important? The closer it is, the less risk of shadows appearing in the image.

A projector is a great alternative to a TV, thanks to which you can enjoy a great picture in excellent quality. Follow our tips and you will definitely find the perfect model for you!

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