Monthly Archives: March 2015

Head-to-Head: Epson 5030UB vs Panasonic PT-AE8000

When it comes to home theater projectors, there are hundreds of options in the mid-range budget category, from about $1,500 to $3,500. Yet, few are as popular and widely used as the Epson Home Cinema 5030UB and the Panasonic PT-AE8000. Both combine the best features to deliver stunning HD images, excellent 3D performance, and quick and flexible installation.
 

Panasonic PT-AE8000 Projector
Panasonic PT-AE8000 Projector

If you’ve narrowed your choices down to the Epson 5030UB and the Panasonic PT-AE8000, it can be a challenge to make that final selection. They’re just both such high-performing pieces of hardware. They’ll provide many of the features that you need, and they both deliver excellent image quality. But if you had to whittle it down to the best, which one would it be? How do the Epson 5030UB and Panasonic PT-AE8000 stack up against each other?
 
Epson Home Cinema 5030UB Projector
Epson Home Cinema 5030UB Projector

  • Image Quality: In terms of image quality, it’s an extremely close race. But ultimately, the Epson Home Cinema 5030UB slightly outperforms. Both projectors produce a pretty bright image rated at 2,400 lumens. But the Epson provides better contrast, thanks to the Epson Ultra Black technology. That makes dark colors even deeper, and greens, reds and blues more defined. The Panasonic, on the other hand, has a slightly lower contrast ratio, but it also uses the Pure Contrast Plates to produce dark black colors. Overall, though, the Epson produces colors that are brighter and images that are more defined, albeit slightly. Winner: Epson Home Cinema 5030UB
  • Standard Features: Both projectors are equipped with a long list of useful features, but in this regard, the Panasonic has a few added benefits. For instance, both projectors are 3D ready, but with the 3D Motion Remaster technology, the PT-AE8000 is a contender. Plus, the Panasonic features 3 HDMI ports, compared to 2, as well as lens memory. Both do share many similar features though, including vertical and horizontal lens shift, lens zoom and available sound. Winner: Panasonic PT-AE8000
  • Set-Up Flexibility: In terms of installation, both of these projectors have features that enable users tons of set-up flexibility. For instance, with horizontal and vertical lens shift, you can adjust picture size and shape without moving the projector. Those are features on both projectors. Plus, both are equipped with lens zoom, and they’re both considered long-throw projectors. So in terms of set-up flexibility, they’re practically even. Winner: Tie
  • Price: The price of Panasonic PT-AE8000 is slightly lower than the Epson. The Panasonic starts at $1,699, while the Epson comes in at $2,299. But the winner isn’t just the lower of the two – it’s more about value. What features are you getting for the price? Is the Epson a better value? Probably not. The features of the Epson are extensive and the image quality impressive, but there’s just too much overlap between the two. The Panasonic is the better value. Winner: Panasonic PT-AE8000

 
So what’s the bottom line? If you had to choose one of these projectors, which would it be? There’s just so much overlap; it’s really a touch decision to make. Yet, the Panasonic is a formidable opponent, and it comes out victorious. Here’s why: The Panasonic boasts impressive image quality that only slightly underperforms. In fact, to the untrained eye, the differences may only be negligible. Is that slight jump in image quality worth an extra $600? It’s not. Plus, you’ll find that there are no glaring features that the Epson has, that you don’t find in the Panasonic. Winner: Panasonic PT-AE8000

The 15 Best Movies for Your Home Theater Projector

Owning a home theater projector is bliss. You can screen your favorite movies, with theater-quality image and sound, and the comfort is off the charts. Chances are you installed your home theater projector for yourself and to entertain guests. But what movies best show off your setup?
Everyone has their personal favorites, sure. But the big screen asks for feature films that deliver something more. The best films defy expectations and blow you away visually, with vivid, impressive cinematography, stunning action sequences, and excellent storytelling and acting.
Many of today’s films are formatted for the home theater experience, and many of my selections are more recent releases. But many classics have been completely remastered and now they look great on the big screen. Here are my picks of the 15 Best Movies:

Transformers: The first installment of the Transformers series delivers brilliantly composed action sequences and truly realistic CGI. Oh, and the storytelling is great too. Home theater operators will appreciate the Blu-ray release, which features impressive detail and excellent color quality. If you like action films, this is a must-own in your home theater.
Saving Private Ryan: In the war film genre, it doesn’t get better than Saving Private Ryan. Stephen Spielberg’s 1998 film was a show-stopper when it was released in theaters, featuring vivid cinematography and award-winning sound design. For the Blu-ray release, the film was transferred in 1080p in the original 1:85:1 aspect ratio, which truly captured and enhanced the film’s original fog-of-war color profile.

Ghost Busters: This 1984 sci-fi comedy, starring Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray, has been a fan favorite for generations. More recently, the film has been remastered for home theaters, first with an impressive 25th anniversary Blu-ray release and then with an upgraded 30th anniversary release in 4K. For the home theater, the film has everything you need to wow viewers: Hilarious character acting from Murray and Aykroyd, an engaging plot, plus the remastered Blu-ray versions pack in impressive color quality and sound.
Finding Nemo: A favorite Pixar movie, Finding Nemo is an impressive example of modern animation. Following its successful 3-D 2012 rerelease, the film was released on Blu-ray, and that version is a must-own for home theater enthusiasts. What’s not to love, whether you watch at home in 3-D or 2-D, the animation transfers well to the big screen, and in 1080p, the image detail and color quality are off the charts.
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark: Everyone’s favorite adventure film dazzles on the home theater screen, especially the recently remastered Blu-ray versions. Not only do Harrison Ford’s death-defying action sequences play well on larger screens, but the film’s entire color palate has been updated and restored. The result: Raiders of the Lost Ark on Blu-ray breathes new life into the 1981 classic.
Psycho: It’s impossible to write a best-movie list, without mentioning a contribution or two from Alfred Hitchcock. His 1960 thriller Psycho, set at the creepy Bates Motel, continues to captivate audiences now more than 50 years after its release. For your home theater, the 50th Anniversary Blu-ray release is a must-own. The film’s original black-and-white look as been preserved and enhanced, with impressive clarity throughout.Titanic: Another James Cameron box office behemoth, Titanic is one of the most visually stunning movies ever made. At the time, we’d never seen anything like it. For home theaters, that original image quality and detail has been preserved and enhanced, and Cameron’s tale of love on that fateful voyage is a must-screen at your home theater.

Jaws: Another Spielberg-directed film, Jaws was one of the original summer blockbusters. The plot revolves around a fictional man-eating shark that terrorizes a summer resort town, and even today continues to engross audiences. At the time, the film was a marvel of modern movie-making, featuring a realistic animatronic shark. More recently, the film has been completely remastered – and Spielberg himself oversaw much of the remastering process.
Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon: With masterfully choreographed martial arts sequences, Crouching Tiger exposed Western audiences to the wuxia film. Later transferred to Blu-ray, the effects-heavy movie maintains its subdued, yet vivid, color profile, as well as its impressive score and sound design.

Lord of the Rings Trilogy: Watching the entire Peter Jackson trilogy on the home theater screen is truly unreal, and you’ll be quickly transported to Middle-Earth. The later released digital transfers have been nothing short of impressive. The films have been expertly remastered for the digital screen, with rich, bold color and detail that enriches the original cinematography and CGI effects.  
The Dark Knight: Christopher Nolan’s 2008 Batman flick The Dark Knight is a must-see at your home theater. The filmmaker’s original vision was preserved on the Blu-ray release, featuring realistic detail and excellent color quality. Plus, the film features a masterful performance from the late Heath Ledger, whose turn as The Joker is completely engrossing.

Toy Story 3: If you want to show a movie at home in 3-D, you can’t go wrong with Toy Story 3. The 2011 3-D Blu-ray 1080p/MVC-encoded transfer creates impressive depth, while preserving the film’s vibrant colors and attention to detail. Not to mention, the 2-D version dazzles, as well.
Skyfall: Many cite Skyfall as the best James Bond movie starring Daniel Craig. I agree. Here’s why it’s great for home theaters: The film’s action sequences are made for the big screen, and they transfer extremely well. Plus, it’s one of the most artistic Bond films ever; the cinematography is expressive and the color profile is impressive. With Blu-ray releases, all those details have been updated, making this a must-own.
James Cameron’s Avatar: James Cameron’s 2009 masterpiece Avatar smashed box office records on its way to becoming the highest grossing film ever. But Cameron wanted to preserve the Avatar experience at home, and Blu-ray versions, like the 2012 3-D release, do just that. The 2012 version is in the film’s native 1.78:1 format and vivid colors and detail are bold. On the big screen, Avatar is larger-than-life and the cinematography is truly dazzling; it’s a perfect film for home theaters.

Star Wars – The Complete Saga: Your collection wouldn’t be complete without the Star Wars films. Enough said. I won’t try to pick a few; you should own the entire series. In 2013, remastered versions of all 7 films were released on Blu-ray, and you can’t go wrong with these remastered versions. The image and sound quality has been transferred well, although there was controversy about some of the digital updates. Either way, if you want a completely immersive experience, start at the beginning, pop in one of the remastered versions and press play.
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Top 9 Classroom Projectors Under $1,000 from 2014-2015

Top 9 Classroom Projectors Under $1,000 from 2014-2015
Finding the best projector for your classroom or business presentation can be a challenge. What specs should you be looking for? How bright does the projector need to be? And should you opt for a short-throw or long-throw projector?
Fortunately, all of these questions are fairly easy to answer, but before you start shopping, you should know what you’re looking for. First things first, start with resolution.

Projector In Classroom
Projector In Classroom

Classroom Projector Native Resolution Types
Currently, the majority of classroom and business projectors are set at specific native resolutions. This means that they’re designed to display images from particular devices. So if you have a computer with an XGA resolution, you should opt for an XGA projector. This will ensure that the image you project appears the same as it does on the computer.
Common resolutions:

  • XGA (1024×768) – Many laptop computers display images in XGA, and this resolution provides a decent amount of detail. If you need a projector for PowerPoint presentations, simple graphs or business presentations, an XGA projector will suffice.
  • WXGA (1280×800) — In the last few years, WXGA have become increasingly common. These projects display even more resolute images in widescreen format. For instance, a WXGA is ideal for detailed architectural designs, large format digital photography and complex drawings. Many computers are set in WXGA resolution.
  • SVGA (800×600) – The SVGA format was long the budget resolution, but that’s changing as the prices of XGA and WXGA projectors have come down dramatically. The picture here is less resolute, but yet an SVGA projector is capable of showing similar presentations to the XGA.
    WXGA vs SVGA
    WXGA vs SVGA

What Else Do You Need to Consider?
You should also consider brightness and throw ratio. First, brightness refers to the image. In large classrooms or in spaces with large amounts of natural light, you’ll need a projector that casts a brighter image or will need to darken the room. Generally, a projector with a bulb rating between 2,000 and 3,000 is sufficient for most classrooms.
Additionally, you should consider throw ratio. Simply put, throw ratio is the distance the projector needs to be placed away from the screen to project an image of a certain size. There are three types of throw ratios: Long-throw, short-throw and ultra short-throw. For classrooms, long throw projectors can be mounted to the ceiling. But short-throw and ultra short-throw projects can be placed closer to the screen, which diminishes the amount of shadows that are cast on the screen.
So Which Projectors Are Best?
Here are a few of the top classroom projectors in each resolution category. Projectors were chosen based on a few criteria, including brightness, price, features and construction. All of these projectors are 2014 or 2015 models.
XGA Resolution
These three projectors provide great data-image quality, long lamp life and they’re also all feature-rich which make these ideal in business and classroom settings. Plus, they’re all offered at unbeatable prices. The NEC model is a bit more expensive, due to its USB thumb drive connectivity.

  • BenQ M529 — $399 – 3000 Lumens
  • NEC NP-M282X – $595 – 2800 Lumens
  • Optoma X316 – $379 – 3200 Lumens

WXGA Resolution
The top 3 WXGA projectors are all 3D ready. Both the ViewSonic and BenQ are PC 3D ready, while the Vivitek model is Full HD 3D ready. Overall, these projectors provide a lot of value – excellent image quality, built-to-last construction, and long lamp life – and each one would work nicely in the classroom.

  • Vivitek DW868 – $432 – 3200 Lumens
  • ViewSonic PJD5555W – $810 – 4500 Lumens
  • BenQ MW526 – $499 – 3200 Lumens

SVGA Resolution
As you can see, the SVGA and XGA models are comparable in price, whereas these were once much more affordable than XGA projectors. For the price, these projectors cast bright images, and they data-image quality is sufficient.

  • Epson V230 – $349 – 2800 Lumens
  • Acer P1173 – $305 — 3000 Lumens
  • BenQ MS504 – $339 – 3200 Lumens

These were a few of our favorites that were released in 2014 and earlier this year. In terms of performance, many 2013 models are still very competitive, but we narrowed it down a bit. Did we miss anything? What are your favorite business and classroom projectors released in 2014 and 2015?
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Home Theater Projectors: 4 Questions to Ask

Are you on the market for a home theater projector? There’s an allure to using a projector in your home theater: ultra-large, crisp images, impressive image quality, you name it. Although HD TVs compete, there’s nothing quite like a projector.

Home Theater Projector
Home Theater Projector

But unlike TVs, buying a projector is a bit more complicated. You need to know things like what brightness you’ll need, the type of installation you’re planning, and the available features you’re looking for, among other factors. So which one is right for you? Here are four questions you should ask yourself before picking a projector:

  1. How Bright Should My Projector Be?

Projector brightness is measured in lumens, and it’s an important factor to consider. If you choose a projector that’s not bright enough, your image will appear washed out and dull. Here’s a rule of thumb: If there’s more ambient light in your theater – whether natural light or light from lamps and other sources – you’ll need a projector with a brighter bulb.
Generally, most home theater projectors start at around 1,000 lumens. If you have a theater that’s very dark, a projector rated at 1,000 lumens and up will suffice. But if there is more natural light, that’s just not bright enough. For moderately lit rooms, you’ll need a projector that’s rated at about 1,500 lumens, and for brightest rooms, you’ll need to choose something at around 3,500 lumens.

  1. How Will You Install Your Projector?

When you start exploring possible projectors, you should consider the way that you will be mounting it – whether from the ceiling, on a tabletop, or near the screen. Different types of mounts work better, depending on the space. For instance, if you have a small theater, you might get better results from a short-throw projector. Short-throw projectors can be placed closer to the screen, while still casting a large screen.

Short Throw vs Long Throw Projector
Short Throw vs Long Throw Projector

Another option is a long-throw projector. These projectors need to be placed further from the screen, and they work well in larger spaces and with ceiling mounts. Plus, there are features that will make set-up easier. For instance, options like keystone correction, lens zoom and lens shift provide flexibility in your setup. All three allow you to adjust the picture to the screen, without moving the projector.

  1. What Features Do You Want?

You should also narrow down the features that you want based on how you’ll be using your projector. For instance, if you’re interested in screening 3D content, you need a 3D-ready projector – which these days, includes the majority of home theater set-ups. For gaming set-ups, you’ll need a projector with high resolution, a high refresh rate, and one that’s capable of handling both data images and HD content.

3D Projector
3D Projector

Other features to consider include wireless HDMI connectivity. This is important because it allows you to connect devices to your projector wirelessly, which can help you avoid clutter and extra wiring. Plus, you might want to consider USB connectivity, built-in sound capabilities if you won’t be using a receiver, and image quality features like contrast ratio and native resolution.

  1. What Will Your Viewing Habits Be?

Projector bulbs have “lamp lives,” which the amount of time you can run your projector before the lamp can only achieve half its original brightness. Generally, the majority of today’s LCD and DLP projector bulbs have lamp lives between 2,000 and 4,000 hours. That’s quite a long time – for instance, you can watch the entire Harry Potter series 204 times on a 4,000-hour bulb – but when your lamp is nearing the end of its life, it will need to be replaced.
Typically, projector bulbs start around $200, and they can be quickly and easily replaced by you at home. They’re designed to be taken out efficiently. Plus, today, there’s a trend to LED-based bulbs, which have much longer lamp lives of up to 20,000 hours or more. That’s another option.
***
So which projector is right for your home theater? Of course, it depends on your budget and the theater experience you want to create. Here are a few Full HD suggestions in the sub-$1,000 price range, and also our favorite projectors of 2014.
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Mini Projectors: What Are They Capable Of?

Just like other gadgets, projectors are shrinking. Today, you can find a projector that fits right in your pocket, or one that’s lightweight enough to carry with you anywhere.
But are there mini solutions that can replace home theater projectors? The short answer is not yet. Instead, micro projectors work well for on-the-go multimedia presentations and lower image-quality video viewing. So is a mini projector worth the investment? It depends. There are different types available with a range of capabilities that will work nicely for some people.

Mini Projector
Mini Projector

Types of Mini Projectors

 
The options for portable projectors are pretty endless. In fact, projectors that are labeled “portable” by their manufacturers are often permanently installed, because, although they’re small enough to take anywhere, they’re powerful enough for business presentations, gaming and video – all at a price that’s competitive.
Yet, there’s a difference between portable and mini projectors. Namely mini projectors are smaller and less powerful than projectors that have been labeled “portable.” The biggest advantage, though, is the size. The majority of micro projectors can fit in your pocket or bag – you can take them virtually anywhere.
Really, there are two main size classes for micro projectors – pico or pocket projectors and palmtop projectors.
 

Pico Projector
Pico Projector

Pico projectors are the smallest, and some are roughly the size of a graphing calculator or smartphone. Pico projectors are used for many different things, from video to business slides, although they’re usually more geared toward multimedia presentations. Due to their size, though, picos generally don’t have many features or the brightest bulb.
Palmtop Projectors are larger in size and generally cast a brighter image than their pico counterparts. Plus, as they’re built in larger frames, palmtops may have more ports, built-in sound and more storage, but they’re still lightweight enough to add to your bag and hardly notice.

Palmtop Projector
Palmtop Projector

Mini Projectors: Pros and Cons

 
So what is the point of owning a pico or palmtop projector, especially considering all the “portable” options? There are pros and cons, but in some cases, they make a lot of sense.
 

Pros:

  • Size: Of course, the biggest advantage is size. Many pico options can fit in your pocket or your laptop bag. That’s why these projectors work well for the business traveler; they need a projector that can travel anywhere. Plus, there are options available for those that want to project videos and even movies on the go.
  • Easy Set-Up: Set-up is another advantage of the pico projector. Compared to some other portable options, picos and palmtop projectors can be set up in a minute or two. Plus, the majority run on batteries – a great feature when an outlet isn’t near.
    Easy Set Up with Mini Projectors
    Easy Set Up with Mini Projectors
  • Built-In Sound, Storage: It’s increasingly common for pico and palmtop projectors to have built-in sound and storage systems. Although you won’t find a hard drive with tons or space or an extremely powerful speaker, these features are still very functional. For instance, the Optoma PK320 has 2GB of internal space and a 1-watt speaker.

Cons:

  • Brightness: Generally, pico and palmtop projectors have limited brightness, ranging from 10 lumens up to 100 or more. But that seems to be changing. Using LED lamps, many micro projectors can now display images as bright as 1,000 lumens, like the Dell M115.
  • Limited Features: As these projectors are very small, you won’t find many features. For instance, there are usually a limited number of ports. Yet, the technology is slowly but surely catching up, and options like 3D and wireless connectivity are slowly becoming standard features.
  • Low Resolution: You won’t find an affordable Full HD pico projector. They just don’t exist yet. There are some Native 720p options available, like the AAXA P2 Jr., yet the majority fall into the WGXA and XGA resolutions or lower. That’s fine for business presentations, but it’s not ideal for watching video or gaming. Plus, the contrast is generally fairly low, up to about 1,000:1, but this is changing thanks to the LED projectors.
  • Cost: Pico and palmtop projectors are relatively affordable, starting at about $200. But for the features, brightness and their native resolutions, a larger, more powerful projector makes the most sense.

Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Pico or Palmtop Projector?

 
It’s tough to say. If you need a low-cost projector for small, on-the-go business meetings, a pico projector will likely suffice. And if you’re always on the go, and need something that will cast a video on the wall of wherever you are, a pico might be the right option.
But the technology is still catching up. In a few years, picos and palmtop projectors will likely be even more competitive with their larger counterparts, but right now, if you’ll only be moving your projector from time to time, a “portable” projector is the better option.
 

4 Factors To Consider When Buying a Video Game Projector

Today’s projectors have elevated the gaming experience to all new levels. But if you’re considering purchasing a projector for video gaming, not just any projector will do.
 

Gaming on A Projector
Gaming on A Projector

 
In fact, gaming projectors hug the line between home theater projectors and business presentation projectors. That means gaming projectors need to be able to project data images and video images. Many projectors designed for “home entertainment” meet this requirement, and increasingly, there are projectors that are designed just for gamers. There are many options available today. So how can you decide? To choose the best video game projector, you need to consider resolution, brightness, refresh rate and contrast.
 

 Native Projector Resolution

 
Today’s video games are becoming more and more cinematic, and that’s why resolution is so important. XGA and SVGA projectors, which were well in the classroom or for business presentations, just won’t cut it for gaming. For the best results, opt for a true HD projector, with a native 1080p resolution. This will ensure the best image quality, and the good news is Full HD gaming projectors are becoming more and more affordable. There are tons of options with 1080p native resolution, including the BenQ HT1075 and the Panasonic AR100U.

Panasonic AR100U
Panasonic AR100U

 

Projector Brightness

 
Brightness is determined on two factors: ambient light in your game room and the size of the screen you want to project. For instance, if you’re gaming room receives a fair amount of sunlight during the day, you’ll need to opt for a brighter projector. Projectors with brightness ratings of 3,000 lumens or greater would be necessary for a space with tons of natural light. If you’re in a very dark room, you can choose sometime less bright.  The Optoma GT1080 is one option that provides excellent image results in a variety of settings.
Plus, screen size also helps determine the brightness you will need. One rule of thumb: Larger screen sizes require brighter projectors. So if you want a massive image – who doesn’t when gaming – you’ll need a brighter projector, especially in spaces with lots of ambient light. The largest screens of 100+ inches or greater require brighter projectors, rated at 3,000 lumens or higher. Smaller screen from 50-100 inches can be supported by a projector rated at between 1,000 and 2,000 lumens.
 

Projector Refresh Rate

 
Refresh rate – or the speed at which your projector processes video – is especially important in gaming. A better refresh rate results in more detailed, continuously flowing images. Many projectors are designed with specific gaming modes, which boost refresh rate for gaming or 3D video.  As for specific refresh rates, 120Hz is a good benchmark, although the next level up 240Hz may be better suited for gaming. If the budget allows, a faster refresh rate is generally better.
 

Projector Contrast Ratio

 
Contrast ratio is a measure of color contrast, and it’s important in gaming because many games have varied color ranges. That means your projector needs to handle very dark moments, as well as brighter images during game play. Projectors with lower contrast ratios won’t display images as crisply and detail may be lost in the shadows. The greater the contrast ratio, the better and brighter the image will be. For gaming, a 100,000:1 ratio or better will provide the best image results, but these projectors also cost more. Or something in the 40,000:1 contrast ratio range is another alternative.
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The 5 Top Full HD Home Theater Projectors Under $1,000

Looking for an entry-level home theater projector? You’re in luck. Just a short time ago, the budget-friendly projectors sacrificed image quality, for price. If you didn’t have the budget to pay more than $1,000 for a projector, you could expect sub-par image quality and construction.
The good news is that has changed. Today, there is a range of sub-$1,000 options that provide impressive image quality and that will completely enhance your home theater. So which budget-friendly projector should you choose? Really, it depends on what you’re looking for, but here are 5 projectors under $1,000 that provide excellent picture quality, solid construction, configuration flexibility, and competitive brightness.

  1. BenQ HT1075 – For years, BenQ manufactured one of the most popular sub-$1,000 home theater projectors – the W1070. Finally, they released an update last year, the HT1075. For the price, the 1075 is tough to beat, especially in terms of picture quality. The HT1075 provides crisp, detailed images with a vibrant color array and strong contrast. Plus, the HT1075 incorporates vertical and horizontal lens shift, which is a useful feature during installation. The W1070, on the other hand, remains a solid option for your home theater, as well.
    Benq HT1075
    Benq HT1075

Features:

  • Native Full HD Resolution
  • 2,200 Lumens
  • 3D Ready, Available Wireless Connectivity
  • 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio
  • Price: $799

 

  1. Optoma HD26 – Optoma is a market leader in budget-friendly projectors, and the HD26 is hands-down the best option they offer that’s less than $1,000. As far as a home theater projector, the HD26 does reasonably well, providing a bright picture even in modestly lit living rooms. Plus, the HD26 has a built-in speaker – a 10-watt mono – which makes this a great, affordable “out-of-the-box” system for your home theater. The Optoma HD141X, which is a bit more affordable than the HD26, shares many of the same features, and is another great option from Optoma.
    Optoma HD26
    Optoma HD26

Features:                                                                                                      

  • Native Full HD Resolution
  • 3,200 Lumens
  • 3D Ready, HDMI Connections
  • 25,000:1 Contrast Ratio
  • Price: $699

 

  1. Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 2030 – Compared to the two previously mentioned projectors, the Epson 2030 is a LCD-based projector. So you won’t see any rainbow artifacts with the 2030 – which is one advantage. Plus, the Home Cinema 2030 is built for home entertainment – it can be used in your home theater, for gaming, or as a replacement for your TV. The biggest disadvantage: The 2030 doesn’t have lens shift, which limits your configuration options.
    Epson Powerlite Home Cinema 2030
    Epson Powerlite Home Cinema 2030

Features:                                                                                                      

  • Built-in Audio
  • 2,000 Lumens
  • 3D Ready, HDMI Connections
  • Native 16:9 Aspect Ratio
  • Price: $799

 

  1. Acer H6510BD – When it was introduced in 2013, the Acer H6510BD was one of the most affordable 3D-ready projectors on the market. Now, the space is a bit more crowded, and prices on a few better performing models have dropped. Overall, the Acer performs reasonably well. The picture quality is vibrant in rooms with ambient light, but in theaters, the Acer is prone to showing rainbow artifacts.
    Acer H6510BD
    Acer H6510BD

Features:                                                                                                      

  • Full HD, 3D Ready
  • 3,000 Lumens
  • HDMI Connections
  • 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio
  • Price: $699

 
5. LG PF85U – The LG PF85U might be the best replacement for your TV. LG bills this as a LED Smart Projector, which means it has a built-in smart TV. The LG PF85U can connect easily to web-based viewing sites like Hulu or Netflix. Also, the projector has a reasonably loud stereo sound system built-in. Where the LG falls short is in image quality. Overall, in dimly lit rooms, the LG performs well, but when more light is present, you’re likely to experience washed-out colors and less detailed images. Also, the LG isn’t 3D ready and there aren’t zoom capabilities, which are two other disadvantages.

LG PF85U
LG PF85U

Features:                                                                                                      

  • Built-in Audio
  • 1,000 Lumens
  • HDMI Connections
  • Extended-life LED lamp
  • Price: $999

 
If you’re planning a home theater on the cheap, you have options available to you that will enhance your home theater. Is there a clear winner? The BenQ HT1075 is one of our favorites, but depending on the features you’re looking for, all five of these projectors offer something a little different. Plus, they’re all affordable and perform well.

What’s the Best Short-Throw Projector for the Home Theater?

When it comes to buying a projector, a short-throw lens makes a lot of sense for home theater enthusiasts. Short-throw projectors are ideal for small spaces, like a game room or home theater, and their short throw ratios mean that they can be placed much closer to the screen than their long-throw siblings. But yet, only a few short-throw projectors are capable of displaying quality 1080p video.
 
So which ones are the best? There are a range of options, from the recently introduced native 4K ultra short-throw projectors, to more budget-friendly options. But the key is finding a short-throw projector that provides stunning image quality, image brightness and that will last you for years. Some of the super portable short-throw projectors aren’t designed to last or provide stunning images. Fortunately, there are some great options for your home theater that won’t break the bank.
 

BenQ W1085ST

BenQ is a leader when it comes to budget-friendly short-throw projectors, and last year they released the W1085ST. It was released last year to replace the ever-popular W1080ST – another great short-throw option for the home theater. For the price – ranging from about $850 to $1,000 – the W1085ST is a great piece of hardware for home theaters.

Benq W1085ST
Benq W1085ST

The 1085 has a brightness rating of 2,200 lumens, ideal for dark rooms or those with modest amounts of ambient light. Plus, it’s a native 1920x1080p and can cast a large screen, up to 300 inches. At just 1.5 meters from the screen, the 1085 creates a gargantuan 100-inch screen. Additional features like wireless connectivity, horizontal and vertical lens ship, 3D capabilities and an impressive color profile make this a wonderful option for home theaters – and at around $850 to $1,000, the price is right.
 

Optoma GT1080

Although it’s positioned as the projector for gamers, the Optoma GT1080 does double-duty as a home theater projector. In fact, it’s a more-than-capable home theater projector, competing brilliantly with other options in the price range. Plus, the price is nearly unbeatable, coming in at right around $750.

Optoma GT1080
Optoma GT1080

A few specs about the projector: This Optoma is fairly bright, rated at 2,800 lumens, and delivers impressive color quality with a 25,000:1 contrast ratio. The colors are saturated, and with video or gaming, rainbow artifacts are nearly non-existent. Additionally, the Optoma has a minimal lag, which makes this great for gaming. So is this really a home theater projector? For the most part yes. In Cinema mode, the 1080 works like a charm, and it provides Full HD 3D video. You won’t find many better options for the price; this is an ideal starter projector.
So which one is the best? It depends. If you’re not much of a gamer, opt for the BenQ 1085ST or the 1080. Both of these projectors provide impressive image quality, and they compete fiercely in the price range, even against long-throw projectors. On the other hand, if you’re a gamer – the clear winner is the Optoma 1080.

Are Laser Projectors Here to Stay?

Laser projectors: Are they a fad or the future of home theater projectors? That’s a good question. Today, commercial laser projectors and laser projectors for home theaters are making their way slowly to market.

Insight Laser 4K
Insight Laser 4K

In fact, at CEDIA this year, many of the best-selling projector brands, including Sony and Epson, rolled out new projectors that feature cutting-edge laser and hybrid LED technology.  Commercial movie houses, including IMAX, are embracing laser technology, too. There are even companies working on retrofitting kits to update bulb-based projectors.
But is this just a fad? Or will your xenon-bulb projector be obsolete in a year or two?
First, you don’t have to worry. Bulb projectors are here to stay, at least for a while. The home theater projectors that we use today are powerful and many provide stunning image quality. Eventually, though, they may give way to hybrid and laser technology. The reason? 3-D movies and 4K content are becoming more and more common, and that means our projectors need to be more powerful and brighter. In that respect, laser projectors might be the wave of the future.
 

How Laser Projectors Are Changing Movies?

Many directors loathe digital projection. When Director Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar” hit theaters, he said he preferred the movie to be shown at theaters with traditional 35mm print projectors. Director Quinten Tarantino went as far as to call the shift to digital the death of cinema as he knew it. Their reason is that today’s digital projectors can’t match 35mm film print.
The images are dimmer. The detail isn’t as crisp. The colors aren’t as vibrant and the contrast is weaker. For 3-D movies, these problems are even more pronounced, because of the way these movies are displayed. Movie theaters use passive 3-D projection, which shows each eye a dimmer, less resolute picture. Thus, with traditional digital bulb projectors, viewers see a very dim picture in 3-D, and a lot of the detail is lost.
But that’s the virtue of laser projection.
Commercial laser projectors can effectively double the brightness output of xenon-bulb projectors, 60,000 lumens compared to top-end digital projectors at 30,000. That brightness means greatly improved contrast, color saturation (they produce more perceivable color than today’s digital projectors) and they’re able to display content with higher frame rates. Plus, laser projectors have much longer bulb lives, up to 20,000 hours or more. Effectively, laser projectors compete much better with 35mm film stock, and that’s why movie houses are so interested in making the transition.
 

Laser Home Theater Projectors

Lately, there’s been a shift to lasers in home theater as well. First, there was a move to hybrid LED/laser projectors that boost both brightness and bulb life. In fact, there are several hybrid options on the market, and many are reasonably priced. Lately, though, the push for 100% laser home theater projectors has been taking place.
For instance, at CEDIA, Christie Digital Systems – which showed the first commercial laser-projected movie in 2012 – entered the home market for the first time. The company introduced the DDS555-GS, a single-chip laser/phosphor projector with a brightness rating of 5,000 lumens. The price: $14,000. Plus, Digital Projection unveiled the Insight 4K Laser projector. The specs are truly impressive: The Insight has a brightness rating of 12,000 lumens and projects in UltraHD 4K.  The cost: more than $100,000.
Plus, Sony and Epson introduced laser 4K projectors as well, that embrace the new technology. Of course, for most movie cinema enthusiasts, a laser doesn’t make sense. They’re impressive, sure, but as there just isn’t that much 4K content available yet. Plus, there are many bulb projectors available that can display 3-D and HD content well.
 

Price Is Very Limiting

Like any new technology, the price of laser projectors is astronomical right now. Commercial laser projectors can cost half a million dollars, compared to $60,000 for commercial xenon-bulb projectors. And early home theater projectors like Sony’s new Ultra Short Throw start at $50,000. They’re exponentially more than today’s standard digital projectors.
That means a shift to laser projection will take some time. Also, early iterations of laser projectors have had some issues like speckle phenomena. But as the technology evolves and improves, 4K and 3-D content continues to grow in popularity and the costs come down, it’s seems very likely that laser projectors won’t be just a fad.