Projectors now have a range of features designed to increase image quality.
Another factor that shouldn’t be overlooked is the importance of choosing the right projector screen.
So what makes the perfect projector screen, and which screen is right for you?
Image Credit: Kuznetsov Dmitriy/Shutterstock
Do You Need a Projector Screen?
If you’ve never owned a projector before, you might wonder whether you really need a projector screen.
The short answer to this question is no.
Some people even opt to forgo a screen because it allows them to save space.
The downside tousing a wall for your projector, however, is image quality.
Projector screens are perfectly white, flat, and highly reflective.
This maximizes the viewing experience by making the image as bright as possible.
How to Choose a Projector Screen
Projector screensare available in a wide variety of styles and sizes.
Fabric Gain
The fabric gain of a projector screen refers to how much light it reflects.
The optimal fabric gain depends on both your projector and the amount of ambient light in the room.
A 1.0 fabric gain is considered ideal for most purposes.
A higher fabric gain screen should be used if your projector isn’t particularly powerful.
However, it’s important to note that a higher fabric gain reduces viewing angles.
It should, therefore, only be used if you specifically want a brighter image.
A lower fabric gain should be used if you would like to reduce reflections.
This makes them useful in rooms with too much ambient light.
A low fabric gain screen is also useful for optimizing contrast ratio and producing a darker image.
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio of a projector screen is the ratio between its height and width.
16.9 is the most popular choice.
It matches television broadcasts and most video games.
This matches how movies are shot and is the aspect ratio typically found in cinemas.
Screen Size
Projector screens are available in a wide range of sizes.
Like televisions, screen size refers to the diagonal length and is primarily between 90 and 150 inches.
A popular method for determining the best screen size is painter’s tape.
After that, you should be able to determine whether or not that size is appropriate.
Screen Color
Projector screens are usually either white or a shade of gray.
This provides the ideal surface to produce accurate colors and is exactly what you get in the cinema.
Get the Most Out of Your Projector
Projector screens aren’t complicated products to shop for.
Despite this fact, the wrong screen can prevent you from making the most out of your home theater.
You should also take the time to choose an aspect ratio and size tailored to your personal preferences.
