What to Look For in a 4k Smart Projector
A smart projector can give you a bigger image than your typical TV, and some models are surprisingly affordable. To find the best model for you, look for features like app store integration and voice commands.
Brightness is another important spec, and you should aim for at least 1,500 ANSI lumens in a dark room. A high contrast ratio is also crucial for sharp images.
Image Quality
Unlike traditional projectors that use bulbs or vacuum tubes, smart 4k projectors use LED light sources for their illumination. This allows the projectors to be smaller in size while maintaining the same image clarity of a dedicated home projector.
Compared to budget 1080p projectors that use upscaled technology, the best smart projectors have true 4K resolution. They offer a native 3840 x 2160 with 8.3 million pixels. They are also capable of delivering HDR video content.
The WEMAX Nova is a great example of this, featuring laser phosphor display technology that can produce an image up to 150 inches. Its color accuracy is also good, covering 100% of the Rec. 709 color spectrum. However, it does not have grayscale adjustments or gamma settings, so it cannot be calibrated.
Brightness
If you’re going to be using your projector during the day or in bright rooms, consider a higher lumen count. That way you can adjust the brightness to accommodate ambient light conditions without sacrificing image quality.
Unlike lamp-based models, which require frequent replacements, smart projectors with laser light sources can last up to 20,000 hours. This significantly reduces maintenance costs over the life of the device.
Sony’s GTZ380 uses a proprietary 0.74″ Native 4K SXRD panel to beam high-resolution images with impressive contrast and black levels. Its light stability and durability also improve over previous generations, while an additional red laser diode dramatically expands the color volume to deliver a rated 16,000:1 contrast ratio. The device also features a range of options to simplify accessing content wirelessly, including Miracast and the WebOS browser.
Contrast
A projector with a high contrast ratio can show images that are rich and vivid. It can also help make movies and TV shows look more realistic. This is because it can display dark and bright parts of an image at the same time.
A good projector can have a native contrast ratio of 10,000:1. It can also support 4k smart projector HDR. Some projectors can even support Dolby Vision content.
Depending on your screen size, a 4K projector can provide better detail than a traditional 1080p TV. However, if you sit close to the screen, you may notice some pixels. Therefore, you should consider the size of your room and how far you will be sitting from it. Also, check whether the projector can handle ambient lighting.
Noise Reduction
Unlike traditional projectors, which use vacuum tubes and filaments to display images, smart 4K projectors do not produce any noise. They are more environmentally friendly and have a longer lifespan than their traditional counterparts.
Smart 4K projectors have high pixels that create lifelike images with a wide range of colors. They also offer better contrast, making them ideal for large screens that viewers are comfortable sitting close to.
They feature Dynamic Black technology that adjusts contrast to suit input content. This enables users to see more details in dark scenes and highlights in bright ones. They can also support HDR, which displays a wider color gamut than standard SDR. This makes them ideal for watching movies and TV shows. In addition, they come with HDMI ARC ports that allow them to connect to an audio-visual receiver.
Wireless Connectivity
Smart projectors feature improved wireless connectivity compared to traditional models. They support more devices and 1200 ANSI super bright projector streaming services, and are able to display a higher resolution. They are also smaller and more compact, making them a good choice for home theater setups.
Look for a model that is compatible with your current streaming devices and gaming consoles. It should also support High Dynamic Range (HDR). This technology enhances color reproduction and contrast ratios, making it easier to see images in various lighting conditions.
Some smart projectors can be controlled by voice commands, allowing you to play movies, TV shows, and even music at the push of a button. This is a welcome addition for those who prefer a hands-free experience. Other features to look for include an integrated app store and support for multiple formats.
Screen Mirroring
Whether you’re presenting at work or kicking back for Movie Night, screen mirroring from your device to the projector makes sharing content easy. But when it doesn’t work, it can be frustrating.
Thankfully, there are ways to troubleshoot common screen mirroring problems and get the most out of this technology. By ensuring your devices and projector are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, updating the software or firmware on your source device, or optimizing the network settings, you can overcome these common issues.
AirPlay is an Apple technology that lets you wirelessly display your iPhone or iPad’s screen on a larger display. To enable it, ensure your device and the projector are on the same Wi-Fi network and open Control Center. Look for an option labeled “Cast” or “Screen Mirroring.”
Eye Protection
Eye protection is a key feature to look for in any 4k smart projector. While all projectors emit blue light, this isn’t as harmful as TVs because the blue light emitted by the projector bounces off of the screen before reaching your eyes. This reduces eye strain over long viewing periods.
Some models even come with blue light filtering technology to minimize your exposure. You can also wear blue light filtering glasses and take regular breaks to rest your eyes.
Other smart features to consider include a built-in ultrasonic sensor that shuts off the projector when it’s too close to a wall or screen. Some models also have a keystone correction feature that automatically corrects image distortion. You should also check out the number of ANSI lumens, as this will determine how bright the projector can be for your room.