The 8 Golden Rules for Buying a Projector: Unveiling the Secrets to a Wise Investment

I also chose to set up a projector at home instead of buying a TV, but I wasn’t sure how to make the right choice. It took me three tries to figure out that buying a projector should follow these eight rules:

1. Opt for a projector with a 1080p resolution

When selecting a resolution for your projector, consider choosing 1080p as it is a widely adopted standard and meets most users’ needs. If your budget allows, you can explore 4K projectors for even sharper images.

However, it’s worth noting that finding a quality 4K projector under $10,000,000 VND is challenging. Hence, a 1080p projector is more than sufficient within this price range.

2. Choose a projector with a 0.47DMD chip size

For 1080p resolution, go for a projector with a 0.47DMD chip size. If you come across a 4K projector with the same chip size, it may be using a shaking technique to achieve the higher resolution, but this won’t affect your viewing experience.

On the other hand, avoid projectors with a 1080p resolution paired with a 0.23DMD or 0.33DMD chip, as they won’t perform optimally.

3. Pay attention to the projector’s brightness

Lumens are the standard measure of the light intensity projected by a projector onto a screen or surface. There are three types of lumens classifications: ANSI lumens, CVIA lumens, and ISO lumens.

For the best image quality, look for a projector with the following lumen ratings: ANSI lumens above 3,000, CVIA lumens above 1,800, and ISO lumens above 2,500.

4. Avoid single-panel LCD technology

Among the available display technologies, DLP (Digital Light Processing) is the preferred choice due to its high contrast ratios and vibrant colors. Alternatively, you can consider 3LCD (three-panel LCD) technology, although it tends to be more expensive.

The advantage of 3LCD is its ability to reproduce natural colors and deliver bright images. On the other hand, single-panel LCD technology is not recommended.

5. Avoid side projection

There are two projection methods: front projection and side projection. Front projection is the recommended method, as it provides a more stable and clearer image, and makes alignment more accurate since the projector faces the screen directly.

Side projection can affect image accuracy and brightness. Additionally, choose a projection ratio between 1.2:1 and 1.3:1 for optimal results.

6. Choose a projector with Dolby Audio technology

When selecting audio equipment for your projector, prioritize those with Dolby Audio technology—a renowned surround sound technology that enhances audio realism. Avoid HiFi stereo equipment, as it cannot match the cinematic audio experience provided by Dolby Audio.

7. Opt for a laser-based projector

Consider a projector that uses LED or laser technology. While both produce similar image effects, barely distinguishable by the naked eye, laser projectors typically deliver sharper images than LED projectors in daylight conditions.

Traditional lamp-based projectors, on the other hand, require periodic bulb replacements to maintain image quality. Laser projectors offer continuous lighting and superior color accuracy.

8. Choose a projector with automatic trapezoidal correction

Look for a projector with automatic trapezoidal correction, which adjusts trapezoidal distortions for more geometrically accurate images. Avoid projectors with only vertical correction, as they limit adjustments to up and down movements, making usage more complicated and less effective.