Laser projector buying guide
- What is a laser projector?
- How does laser projector work?
- Where are laser projectors used and what are they used for?
- Advantages and disadvantages of Laser projector
- Is Laser projector better than a TV?
- How to choose the right Laser projector?
- Does a laser projector require a screen?
- About Screening Room – What are Laser TVs?
Laser projectors are like the superheroes of the projector world. It’s a top choice in a world of high-quality projections. With its fancy internal design, it offers a sharper image and a wider range of colors, making it the ultimate choice for those who demand the best. Instead of just shining a regular light, a laser projector can make your room come alive with vibrant visuals.
In this guide, we've compiled a list of some laser projectors out there, so you can take your entertainment and professional needs to the next level. But first, let's get to know what makes a laser projector so special.
What is a laser projector?
A device that uses lasers to create a moving image on a screen for entertainment or professional use. Unlike traditional projectors, which use white light and filters, laser projectors generate laser light and color it for a more vibrant picture.
So Laser projectors do their thing in four epic stages. First, they generate some sweet laser light. Then, they color that light to make it pop with vibrant hues. Next, they modulate the intensity to make sure everything's crystal clear. And finally, they form an image that'll leave you in awe. Unlike those basic traditional projectors, laser projectors produce visuals so sharp and contrasty that you can see 'em from far greater distances.
How does laser projector work?
It generates laser light using laser diodes. This light is then separated into different colors using filters or mirrors. The separated laser beams are modulated or controlled using mirrors or micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). These mirrors rapidly move back and forth to direct the laser beams onto the projection surface, creating different patterns and shapes. By combining the colored laser beams and controlling their movements, the projector forms a complete image or video. Laser projectors are known for their high-quality and vibrant visuals.
Where are laser projectors used and what are they used for?
- Classrooms: Laser projectors are taking over schools and boardrooms like a boss, because they're too cool to need lamp replacements and hardly demand any attention. These projectors are like the Picasso of colors, giving you accuracy that will make your eyes pop. Plus, they're practically immortal.
- Conference: If you want to level up your business game without breaking the bank, laser-powered projectors are your secret weapon. They not only shine, but also make your images look sharper. Want to impress your audience? Throw in a 4K projector for a presentation. Whether you're pitching, training, or just showing off, projectors got your back like a trusty sidekick.
- Golf Simulation: Our laser projectors are like the caddies of golf simulators, making installation a breeze. With a lens shift range that's more flexible, you'll have perfectly proportioned pictures of the golf course without any wonky angles.
- Large Venues: Laser projectors are like the rockstars of the AV world, perfect for jamming in large venues or rockin' it outdoors. They shine brighter, and when it comes to creating art, these projectors bring more excellent palette resulting in more true-to-life hues when used to create art.
- Home-Theater: Laser-powered home theater projector is big, beautiful with sharp picture quality like a cinema-grade, you might start charging your friends for tickets! It’s like having a mini IMAX in your living room. Also has with built-in speakers to deliver good sound.
- Digital Signage: Whether you're a retail guru, a corporate wizard, or an art aficionado, laser display digital signage is your secret weapon to capture attention, engage minds, and create an experience that's out of this world. Messages are controlled by a magical software program, making updates and customization a piece of cake.
Check out the Epson BrightLink Interactive Laser projector for collaborative classrooms
Check out the Epson 3LCD Laser corporate with 4k enhancement
Check out the Optoma Short throw golf duracore laser projector
NEC has some great models for large venues.
Check out LG 4K UHD laser Ultra short throw projector
Check out Epson Powerlite Laser Display with free content management software
This means that businesses, higher education institutions, entertainment venues, houses of worship, and even community parks can now jump on the laser projector bandwagon and elevate the quality of their events.
Advantages and disadvantages of Laser projector
Pros:
- Blindingly Bright: They are so bright compared to other projector technologies, resulting in vibrant and sharp images
- Quick start and instant shutdown: It’s like a magician with a flick of a wand, instantly turning on and off without any need for a warm-up. No waiting around, no twiddling your thumbs, just bam!
- Long-lasting love: They have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lamp projectors (boasting a rated life of 20,000 hours compared to traditional lamp projector of 4000 hours), you won't have to worry about replacing bulbs every few months. It's like having a faithful companion that'll stick around for the long haul.
- Money-Saving Magic: Sure, laser projectors might have a higher upfront cost than their lamp counterparts, but think of it as an investment in your future.
- Best possible technology: We're talking about the absolute pinnacle of modern technology here. Some of these laser projectors come fully equipped with wireless interfaces, allowing you to connect your mobile device, and also offer image and sound optimization specifically designed to work seamlessly with your favorite gadgets.
- Portability: You can pack up the laser projector, grab some popcorn, and head to the summer house without breaking a sweat. It's like having your own portable cinema, ready to dazzle you with its glorious image quality, no matter where you go.
Check out Epson Ultra Short Throw Smart Streaming Laser Projector:
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost: As mentioned, laser projectors will have a higher upfront cost when compared to a lamp based model. This might make you raise an eyebrow or two, don't let it dampen your spirits, because there's a silver lining! The cost has come down recently. It's more affordable and accessible than ever before. Don’t forget - the long-term cost benefits and performance also can outweigh this disadvantage, and there are no costly replacement bulbs to buy.
- Limited brightness: This is mainly geared towards large installation style projection, over 7,000 lumens. If you need a powerhouse projector for a massive conference hall or auditorium, you’ll likely still need to look at lamp based models. If you’re the average user, we think laser is the obvious choice.
Is a Laser projector better than a TV?
When it comes to choosing between a laser projector and a TV, it really depends on your personal preferences and needs. TVs are the kings of binge-watching marathons. They provide a cozy and comfortable viewing experience, allowing you to dive into a world of Netflix, snacks, and questionable life choices. They also don’t require a separate screen or surface to project onto, making them a more convenient option for some people.
If you dare to dream for 90’’ (diagonal) and above, laser projector can easily compete with 120-130’’ diagonal TV. The price of a non-standard 100” TV costs over $60,000!
A laser projector offers a massive screen size without having to lug around a gigantic TV. You can project images onto irregular surfaces, like a curved wall or even your ceiling.
Don’t forget, they are portable as well! So you can take your movie night to the park, beach or even your neighbor's pool party.
How to choose the right Laser projector?
Below are some lists of factors to consider when choosing the laser projector. We've got the inside scoop on what to look for.
- Brightness: One of the key advantages of laser projectors is their brightness. The amount of brightness you need is determined by the room you project in. Projector brightness is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the more versatile the projector is for use in any room, any time of day. Consider the size of the room and the amount of ambient light when choosing the appropriate brightness.
- For home theater projectors where ambient light is kept to a minimum, you'll need a minimum of 1500 lumens.
- For classrooms, conference rooms or rooms with windows, a projector with a minimum of 2500 lumens is best.
- For large auditoriums or lecture halls, you'll need more lumens.
- Contrast ratio: This magical number refers to the difference between the brightest and darkest areas of an image. The higher the contrast ratio, the more your picture will pop and come to life. It's like adding a dash of salt and pepper to your bland mashed potatoes - the more you add, the more dynamic and flavorful it becomes.
- Resolution: Consider your intended use for the projector when deciding on a resolution. Most of the laser projectors available on the market now work in Full HD (1920x1080) resolution which is suitable for movies, background videos for concerts and more.
- Throw distance: The throw distance is all about how far your projector can chuck the image onto the screen. Make sure to check the throw ratio in the projector specs and choose wisely. Think about the room size and how big you want that screen to be. And remember, when it comes to throw distance, you'll come across fancy terms like "long throw," "short throw," and "ultra-short throw."
- Long Throw: This is a long-distance projection action! Picture this – a projector hanging out in the middle of a huge room, like the king of the ceiling, making images so big. Placed often from 6 feet & upwards, which is quite suitable for large theater rooms, exhibition halls, and conference rooms.
- Short-throw: Imagine a projector that’s besties with the wall or ceiling, getting cozy up close to where the image will be projected (about 3 to 8 feet away). It’s like reducing shadows and eye glare.
- Ultra-Short throw: This is very close to the screen (between 0 to 4 feet away), it’ like having a projector that’s practically in your face, projecting downward from the wall or ceiling, or even chilling on a table nearby. No more human-sized shadows stealing the show!
- Durability: Laser projectors are like the Chuck Norris of the projector world! Don’t forget to consider a warranty just in case.
- Color accuracy: Look for a projector that can produce a wide range of colors accurately and vividly. This is especially important if you'll be using the projector for color-sensitive applications like graphic design or video editing.
- Smart TV Functions of Laser Projectors: Look for those that support popular Smart TV platforms you might be interested in. With Wi-Fi support, you'll have the whole internet at your fingertips, from cat videos on YouTube to binge-watching your favorite Netflix series. And get this, some projectors are so advanced, you can control them with your smartphone. It's like having a magical remote control that lives in your pocket.
- Sound: These days, projectors are flexing their built-in speaker muscles! They've got speakers that can blast your eardrums with surround sound goodness. So when you're on the hunt for a projector, don't forget to check the speaker power and configuration.
The finest laser projectors are capable of 4K (3840x2160) laser projector with billions of colors and a vivid contrast. The higher the resolution, the more pixels you get, and the sharper the image becomes. This 4K is also suitable for larger events, professional presentations, gaming and home theater.
Not just resolution, there are projectors with HDR superpower. It's like giving your picture a luxurious spa treatment, making it so rich and vibrant it'll make your eyes do a happy dance.
Check out these Epson laser models for amazing 4K projector to power the new home theater build
Check out the Optoma Short throw and Ultra compact Short throw Laser projector! Offers immersive viewing experience for home theater and gaming.
Does a laser projector require a screen?
If you wish to take the shortcut and project your movie masterpiece onto a plain old wall(as mentioned before), it could work. But some walls that aren’t a pristine shade of white, their lovely texture will make your video look like it's been through a blender. Plus, that wall could leave you with a dimmer image than your hopes of finding true love on a reality show.
So, if you start with such wall, you might soon realize it's time to level up and get yourself a proper screen.
Even if you live in a teeny-tiny apartment that's three flights of stairs up, don't fret. You'll want a screen that can roll up or squeeze into a compact size, just like your hopes of ever finding an elevator in that building.
Check out these motorized screen for home theater
But wait, there's more! Some screens are specially designed to reject ambient light, making your projections shine even in a well-lit room. So, if you're planning epic gatherings or movie nights where the lights need to stay on, an ambient light-rejecting (ALR) screen can be your knight in shining armor.
Check out the Elite ALR Electric screen
In summary, while a screen might not be mandatory for a laser projector, it's like the magical icing on the cake. So, saddle up your unicorn, grab that projector screen, and let the enchanted visuals transport you to a realm of pure awesomeness!
What are Laser TVs?
Laser TVs are ultra short throw (UST) laser projectors with a built-in sound system. They often come with their own screen (but not always), a built-in ATSC tuner for receiving free over-the-air broadcasts, and a built-in smart TV operating system. Moreover, the screen bundled with Laser TV screens fight off ambient light with their special light-reflecting powers. If you plan on purchasing your own screen instead, make sure it’s designed for ultra-short-throw projectors or your image will be challenged.
Check out these Hisense Laser projector bundle! This magical package includes a mind-blowing 4K projector and a screen. Comes with different screen sizes as well.
Whether you're in need of a projector for a massive venue, marathon-like run time, fancy-pants conference rooms, brainy classrooms, or just want to turn your living room into a home theater extravaganza, a laser projector is the crème de la crème.
Need additional assistance? Our experts are available to answer any questions you might have and help you find the perfect laser projector for you. Just reach out and summon us at 1-888-248-0675 or chat with us online.