From family movie nights to business meetings and classroom lessons, a projector is the ultimate tool for taking your viewing experience to the next level.
But, with so many factors to consider, how can you make sure you’re making the right choice for your viewing needs?
That’s where we come in.
In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to consider to ensure you get the best projector for your needs.
Let’s get started!
First, consider what type of projector is ideal for you. SkyMall offers a wide range of projector options including portable projectors, pico projectors, and smart projectors.
Portable Projectors
If you’re always on the move, a portable projector like the Kodak Luma 75 might be right for you. These mini projectors are lightweight and compact, making them super easy to transport and set up anywhere. Perfect for schools, offices, and casual use, they can easily be taken on the go without needing permanent installation, thanks to their integrated battery, built-in audio, and multiple connectivity options.
Pico Projectors
Designed for even easier transport, pico projectors like the Kodak Luma 150 fit right in your pocket or bag. Often, these projectors come equipped with an integrated battery for ultimate portability, allowing up to 2.5 hours of use on a single charge.
Smart Projectors
Last but certainly not least, smart projectors like the Kodak Flik HD10 and Kodak Luma 400 integrate Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even onboard streaming platforms so you can wirelessly connect and view your favorite movies and shows. Easy to navigate, travel-friendly, and pre-loaded with dozens of streaming apps, these projectors make streaming Netflix, MAX, Hulu, and more a breeze.
Once you’ve got a handle on the different types of projectors, consider other technical details, such as projector technology, brightness, resolution, and more.
Projector Technology
SkyMall offers two display technologies: LCD and DLP.
- LCD projectors use an LCD panel to create sharp, true-color images. These projectors are often found in classrooms or conference rooms with ample natural light.
- DLP projectors use a set of small mirrors to produce colored images. Generally, these are the most compact and affordable projectors and are easy to transport and use in multiple settings.
Brightness
When it comes to brightness – measured in ANSI lumens – the most important factor is how much ambient lighting is in the room; the brighter the room, the brighter your projector will need to be. A lower brightness is ideal for home theaters and other similar dark environments, but brighter settings like offices will need a higher lumen rating.
Resolution
A projector’s resolution refers to the total number of pixels the projector can display, with higher resolutions creating clearer pictures. The right resolution for you will ultimately depend on how you intend to use your projector – gaming or movie-watching may require a 1080p resolution, but presentations and lessons will be fine with anything between 480p and 720p.
Weight and Size
If you plan on taking your projector on the go, you’ll need something lightweight and compact. SkyMall offers a variety of pico and portable projectors designed for travel, as well as stylish and lightweight projector cases for ultimate convenience.
Connectivity
Next, consider what connectivity options you’ll need.
- Wired & Wireless Connections: All projectors sold on SkyMall have HDMI and USB ports for easily connecting your laptop, smartphone, or tablet (via adapter), or even a streaming stick. Some projectors feature additional ports like component video, VGA, and microSD, or even wireless compatibility via built-in Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth.
- Smart Technology: Smart projectors also feature built-in Wi-Fi for screen sharing, and some feature smart technology so you can access preloaded apps and stream directly from Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
- Audio Connections: All projectors available on SkyMall feature integrated speakers, but you can also connect external speakers or headphones via the integrated 3.5 mm audio input or go wireless with applicable Bluetooth models.
Throw Ratio
A projector’s throw ratio describes the relationship between the screen width and the distance between the projector and the screen. The first number represents the distance and the second, the width, so a projector with a 1:1 throw ratio will produce a 4-foot-wide image at 4 feet from the screen. When researching projectors, make sure the throw distance is comfortable for viewing in your intended room.
Contrast Ratio
Ranging anywhere from 300:1 to 100,000:1, the contrast ratio compares the darkest value a projector can produce to the brightest. A high contrast ratio allows you to see clearly defined details for added depth.
Keystone
Keystone correction allows you to digitally correct distortion for a perfectly aligned screen, even if you can’t place your projector exactly perpendicular to it. Most of the projectors available on SkyMall feature manual keystone, allowing you to physically adjust the lens, while others come with auto keystone correction, which automatically adjusts the image up to a certain specified percentage.
Lamp Life
The lamp life of your projector is a measurement of how long the light source will last. All the projectors we offer have a lifespan of around 25000 – 30000 hours, so you can count on them to stay lit for a long time, saving big on replacements.
Last but not least, consider what projector screen is right for you.
While you don’t necessarily need a projector screen, it will significantly improve your viewing experience by creating a brighter, clearer, and better image than a wall alone. Home theater projector screens come in a variety of styles and sizes, each designed to provide the flattest, most cinematic image you can get.
For home theater use, a manual pull down projector is the ideal choice.
THX suggests the ideal screen size is about 0.84 x the viewing distance. So, for example, if the viewing distance is 12 ft. (144 inch), a 120-inch screen would be the “ideal” choice (0.84 x 144).
Whatever the size, all Kodak projector screens are crafted from high-quality materials that won’t warp over time, allowing for a pristine viewing experience in any setting.
Luckily, SkyMall sells plenty of affordable projectors and projector accessories, so you can get a quality viewing experience at any budget.
Choosing the best projector is a combination of considering how and where you plan to use it, understanding key specs, and considering screens.
Whether you’re on the hunt for smart capabilities, portability, or stunning clarity, SkyMall has a wide range of projectors perfect for any setting.
Explore the full range of projection technology now!
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