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The video projector is a versatile projection device that can be used for different purposes. At home it can be used to create a real home cinema, at the office it can be used to lead a training or a meeting. The uses are numerous and the models available on the market are just as many. To choose your projector from the jungle of offers and understand the basic features, it is advisable to do some research. In the following guide we have therefore compiled most of the useful information to help you before making your choice.

In this section:

Why buy a video projector?

They are not as prevalent as televisions and yet video projectors have many advantages. For home use, they easily get a much larger picture size than a TV. The price / screen size ratio is therefore largely in their favor. For video games or to watch a movie, the size of the screen creates an incomparable immersion that it would be difficult to do without once you have tasted it.

For professionals or mobile users, it is a means of being able to keep a screen at hand and whatever the situation. Indeed, due to the low weight and bulk of some models they can be transported more easily than a television.

Are there any drawbacks?

Of course, not everything is perfect and the video projector does not only have advantages. First of all, it should be noted that the installation is not always easy. If you want a discreet installation, you will need a support to be fixed to the ceiling. This support must be placed at a good distance in order to obtain an optimal image size.

Another negative aspect: the lifespan of some lamps, especially in DLP models. After several thousand hours of operation, it will be necessary to plan to replace the lamp inside.

Note also that some models, although very powerful, will require sharp adjustments to colorimetry and other image parameters (to be done manually) so that you can use them to their full capacity. Some professionals even specialize in what is called projector calibration. Fortunately for less seasoned consumers, consumer models are often adjusted correctly right out of the box.

Finally, you should know that video projectors behave better in dark spaces or even in complete darkness. For a good projection in a bright space, you will have to pay the price and opt for models with luminosities of several thousand ANSI Lumens. This is why it is not obvious to find the best projector and that using a guide and reading detailed tests will go a long way in helping you make up your mind.

The different types of video projectors

As with televisions, there are different models of video projectors that will suit different types of use.

First of all, there are home cinema projectors.. Full HD resolution, or even 4K ideally, these are fairly bulky devices that are intended to be installed in your living room or in a dedicated room. With their 16: 9 format and their connections, they will be able to broadcast all types of content: sports transcriptions, films, series, etc. Some are even suitable for video games by offering very low response times as we explain below. article.

For professionals, the requirements are different. You need devices that are often more easily transportable and above all very bright. Indeed, it is not always easy to place yourself in the dark during a training or a meeting, which is why we will opt here for suitable models. The aspect ratio is often more “square”, type 4: 3 and we can afford to opt for resolutions a little lower than for a home cinema.

For backpackers, beginners or those who are simply looking for a cheap and space-saving second screen, we can turn to mini (or picos) video projectors. These devices weigh around 1kg (sometimes less) and are extremely compact. Their power is often lower than home cinema models but some are very versatile and offer excellent full hd images. It is often in terms of brightness that you should not be too demanding on this type of models.

What are the technical aspects to know?

To design a bright image with the closest colorimetry to reality, video projectors use different projection techniques. Each technical aspect has its advantages and disadvantages.

Projection technology

There are 2 main families which are the most widespread, LCD and DLP. While LCD is the first technique that emerged, it was later overtaken by DLP which relies on the use of microchips. This technology harnesses human retinal persistence to create color. Indeed, it is thanks to the very fast rotation of a transparent chromatic wheel containing the 3 primary colors that everything is played out. This technology makes it possible to offer excellent images for a fair price, however it also has its drawbacks. Some people are indeed sensitive to the rainbow effects produced by this projection technique. It can spoil their experience. Fortunately, DLP projector manufacturers are making efforts and the latest models on sale are generally less sources of chromatic aberration. The LCD is not subjected to this constraint but it has the reputation of being a little less efficient on the contrasts.

Types of lamps

The lamp is essential in the process of creating the image. It is the source of creation of the colors and the luminous power of the device. There are 3 main types of lamps which each have their advantages:

UHP (ultra high pressure) lamps: very good performance but not optimal lifespan and heats a lot, inexpensive.
LED lamps: do not heat up and consume very little energy. Extended life. A little less powerful than the UHP.
laser lamps: the best technology but also the most expensive. It is found on the most high-end devices and combines the advantages of UHP lamps and LED lamps.

Brightness / Contrast

These two values are important when choosing your projector. The luminosity, expressed in ANSI Lumens, will make it possible to represent its light power. If you plan to place your device in a dark room, then no need to look for the highest value. Contrast is a ratio expressing the difference between dark image and light image. It is of great importance in the image quality.

focal length

This notion will have a direct impact with the placement of your video projector. If you do not have much space and want to place your projector close to the projection wall, you will have to opt for a short or ultra short throw model.

Resolution

Resolution is an important criterion for image quality. It determines the number of pixels displayed and therefore the precision of the image. Today, full HD video projectors are very popular and generally offer good value for money. For several years, 4K video projectors have also become more and more affordable with entry-level models that can be found at prices starting at around € 1000. Be careful not to confuse compatibility with an input resolution and the projection resolution of the video projector. Indeed, some models accept for example 4K input but will only render Full HD, read the product descriptions carefully so as not to be disappointed.

Connectors

We sometimes neglect to dwell on the connection and yet this is an important aspect depending on the use you plan. So depending on the sources you are going to use for the projection, remember to check if you need one or two hdmi ports, vga ports, powered usb socket etc. Remember also that not all video projectors integrate wifi natively. Some can be equipped with a dongle to be able to use it (to be purchased separately).

Image correction technologies

There are several systems that allow you to adjust the image and give you a little freedom over the placement of the projector. the zoom meeting is an element that will allow you to adjust the size of the image without moving the device. The keystone correction (or keystone correction) is a correction that eliminates trapezoidal image effects when the projector is not properly placed. Finally, the lens shift, either the image shift allows to shift horizontally or vertically the image of your projector without losing quality.

Response time

Response time is one of the most important criteria for gaming projectors. In fact, to be able to play in good conditions, the image refresh time must be as short as possible, of the order of a few milliseconds, as for a computer screen. This value is also called input lag.

Options that can tip the scales

After studying all these basic criteria, it is possible that some models have caught your attention. Thus, for an equivalent budget, your final choice could depend on the details or options offered by certain models.

Sound quality

If you want to enjoy the best immersion in home cinema or gaming mode, you will have to opt for separate sound equipment. However, video projectors integrate their own sound systems. The internal speakers offer powers ranging from 2W to 10W in mono or stereo. Some manufacturers, like Xgimi, have teamed up with specialists like Harman Kardon to deliver sound systems that are superior to the competition, with more bass, clarity and power.

Clutter

The size and weight of the device can be important selection criteria for people who plan to move their device or store it from time to time. The best home cinema projectors can weigh more than 10 kg, so it will be difficult to consider moving them. For the same use, some models can weigh less than 5 kg and still perform very well. Don't forget to take a look at the product sheet to avoid surprises.

The operating system

The OS (operating system) is the internal software that will allow you to use the video projector. Its ergonomics, features and scalability will have an impact on the satisfaction you will have using it. Recently we have seen the emergence of intelligent operating systems based on Android that allow you to use your projector in wifi like a smart TV. You can then install your favorite VOD or streaming applications (Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney +…). The projector then becomes a real multimedia box which can operate without a video source.

Operation noise

To prevent the components from heating up, fans are used to cool the components inside the case. Some video projectors will therefore be noisier than others and during the projection of a film the noise can sometimes be annoying. Look at the manufacturer's specifications for your model for the operating noise expressed in db. Below 30 db you should not be bothered by operating noise.

What are the best brands and flagship models?

For a long time, certain brands have established themselves with flagship models. Sony and JVC offer very high-end models at particularly high prices, which are difficult to access for most consumers. When looking for the best home cinema projector, one model often comes up, it's the BenQ W1090. This video projector released several years ago has established itself as a reference model for those looking for beautiful full hd images at a fair price. BenQ's direct competitors such as Optoma, Acer, Viewsonic or even LG offer very complete product ranges with devices calibrated for all types of requirements: 4K video projectors, video projectors for professionals, mini video projectors, short focal length video projectors, you will find necessarily your happiness. Finally, be aware that recently new brands, often of Chinese origins, have appeared on the market and have somewhat upset it. By bringing their know-how in terms of quality / price ratio, Xgimi and its “h2” or xiaomi with its “mi smart compact projector” offer boxes with astonishing performance given their prices.