Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). We've tested and like this brand, but there are many options available. If you're watching in a room with windows, consider blackout curtains. Remember, though: External light is the enemy of projectors. Most projectors look pretty darn amazing right out of the box, as long as you set them up correctly. Just remember to change it back to Cinema mode when you're done, or you'll wonder why Netflix looks so weird. I typically keep mine in Cinema mode (or an equivalent) for most shows and movies but switch to the Game or Sports mode when playing F1 or watching Formula 1. One thing to be aware of is that, like TVs, projectors have different viewing modes. If you watch that and still don't think you're up for it, that's fine! Just stick to a TV.Įach projector has its own quirks and features in terms of optimizing it for your particular space and what you're watching. If you’re confused about how all of this works without seeing it (I am a visual learner too!) this video is a good explainer of how to set everything up. Then make sure it's in focus (also usually a manual lever, but there are an increasing number of digitally focusing projectors on the market).ĭon't be scared if everything I just wrote seems daunting. This is usually a manual lever near the actual projector's eye. You'll also want to make sure the zoom is set so your projector perfectly fills your screen. Many modern projectors have automatic keystone alignment, but you may need to look for a setting to manually adjust it if it doesn't correct the issue itself. Depending on how it is aimed at the screen (the straighter on, the better), you may have some amount of “keystone," where the top of the image looks smaller or larger than the bottom. Next, there's usually a menu selection that will display a grid view so you can manually adjust the projector to perfectly fit your screen. Look for the setting that sets it to “front, ceiling mount” or the equivalent, and the projector will flip everything the right way for you. Typically, this means that when you first turn on the projector, everything will be upside down. In most cases, you'll be mounting it in the front but upside down (because the screws for the mount are on the bottom). We have indoor and outdoor recommendations in our Best Projectors guide. Roll-down screens like those you probably had in school are a decent option if you refuse to see your screen between viewing sessions, but be sure you get a high-quality one that won’t warp over time. Outdoor screens with legs are awesome for occasional movie nights, but it’s annoying to have the legs in the way when you're indoors. They're typically lightweight and easy to assemble, and they hold tension better because they're secured on four sides. I recommend a wall-mounted screen for all instances where you don’t need to hide a screen between uses. Typically, screens come in three varieties: roll-down, wall-mounted, or freestanding. If you've been using white walls, a screen will make a noticeable difference.Ī good place to start is a 100- or 120-inch screen (measured diagonally), depending on the size of your room and your ability to mount the projector far enough away. These screens range in size and quality but are designed to provide the flattest, most cinematic image you can get. Strictly speaking, you don't need a screen-you can project onto any surface-but screens really do improve the viewing experience. Ideally, your projector projects images onto a screen (usually made of polyvinyl chloride or some kind of fabric), very much like a movie theater. Silver Ticket Screen Photograph: Silver Ticket
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