Shopping for a Home Theater Projector

Whether you're watching an HD movie or playing video games, you need the right home theater projector to get the best picture possible. Even though most types of projectors can play a range of video media, you'll still need to get the best one for your specific entertainment needs.

Types of Home Theater Projectors

Home entertainment projectors are categorized according to their display types. There are three main types in this regard: Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Digital Light Processing (DLP) display, and Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) display. While all types have sharp picture quality and accurate color representation, each comes with its own advantages.

LCD Projectors

For these devices to project images, light has to pass through three LCD panels (red, blue, and green). During this process, pixels can either allow or block light trying to pass through. This results in a wide range of colors projected as moving images on whiteboard projection screens. The images are sharp and vibrant with no shadowing. What's more, these types of devices are the most energy efficient.

DLP Projectors

These use microscopic mirrors to project images. When light passes through these mirrors, it's reflected off through the projector's lens. Each mirror projects one pixel on the screen. The result is a high color contrast and smooth motion for fast-action videos. They're also the most affordable. For best results, use them with electric wall and ceiling screens (Wide Formats).

LCoS projectors

With these projectors, you get the best of both worlds. They combine LCD and DLP display technologies to project images with impressive color saturation and smooth video motion. They're generally available on high-end 4K home projectors.

How to Select a Home Theater Projector

When shopping for a projector, be sure to check out its picture contrast. This is the difference between the brightest and darkest areas of an image on the screen. Good home projectors have high picture contrast, to put out images with deeper blacks and subtle color details. Many come with lamp settings that allow you to reduce brightness for optimal viewing in dark rooms.

Furthermore, check the resolution—the total number of pixels the machine can display. The higher the resolution, the more detailed and crisp the pictures will be. High resolution is especially important for home cinema projectors, as you'll sit closer to the screen. HD home theater projectors have 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, while 4K projectors come with 4096 x 2160 pixel resolution for the best viewing experience. Low-end models have a pixel range of 480p to 720p, which is sufficient for small screens. Also, if you're shopping for a projector, be sure to look for wireless presenters and laser pointers for convenient viewing. They act as remote controls, eliminating unnecessary movements.

Home theater projectors create a unique cinema experience that TVs can't offer. Check out B&H Photo and Video's wide assortment of home projectors, to upgrade your viewing experience.