How to Choose the Best Outdoor Theater Projector
Transform your backyard into a drive-in theater with the best outdoor movie projector. This top-rated model packs a punch with RoamPower technology, a battery that doubles as a power bank, and image correction technologies like autofocus and keystone correction.
You’ll also need a screen, and you should consider whether you want built-in streaming features or a variety of connectivity options.
Brightness
A projector’s brightness is the measure of its ability to illuminate a screen and produce sharp and vibrant visuals. It also determines how well the image holds up in daylight, or even in a bright environment. The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers recommends that cinematic content should be displayed at a luminosity between 12 and 22 foot-lamberts. To achieve this, look for a projector with a high lumen rating.
It is also important to consider how bright the projector will be when used in daylight, and what type of screen you will use. In general, higher-gain screens provide better image quality and contrast in daylight. In addition, you should choose a darker area and avoid any ambient light that might interfere with the projection. For example, if you plan to set up your projector outdoors in the daytime, try to set it up in a shaded location away from street lights or decorative lights on your home.
A good outdoor theater projector should offer a wide range of connectivity options. This includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI inputs, as well as a USB port for playing saved movies. It should also have a fan to keep moviegoers cool and comfortable, and a remote control that supports multiple modes. Some projectors also come outdoor theater projector with mounting hardware or stands that allow you to adjust the position of the device.
Picture quality
When it comes to outdoor movie projection, you want a model that delivers a vibrant, saturated image and immersive sound. Light pollution and noise can detract from a movie’s visual appeal, and you need your projector to be exceptionally bright to overcome this.
For the best picture quality, opt for a portable projector that can run off a battery. It will also require a dark viewing space where you can fully experience its bright, high-resolution, Full HD image with 154% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The Nebula Capsule II is an excellent choice. ZDNET’s Sabrina Ortiz says, “This compact projector packs a punch when it comes to bright, colorful, and immersive images.”
Screen size is another factor. You’ll want a projector that supports the screen size you choose, ideally one that works with your backyard’s layout and the distance between seating and the projected image. You should also consider the projector’s aspect ratio and throw ratio.
Look for a model that supports the streaming services you want to use, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime. For better connectivity, opt for a projector with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth that can connect to your smartphone as a hotspot for streaming content. If you plan on using a Blu-ray player or streaming stick, be sure to purchase a model that can support these inputs as well.
Sound
When you’re entertaining friends or family outdoors, you want a cinematic experience with rich sound. Many outdoor projectors have tinny built-in speakers that can’t deliver the dramatic impact of your favorite movies. To overcome this problem, invest in a high-quality external speaker to add a cinematic feel to your viewing experience.
If you’re looking for a portable projector with a hefty amount of brightness and smart features, check out the Anker Nebula Capsule II. This projector features a state-of-the-art DLP technology that delivers an impressively clear 720p, 200 ANSI lumen image. Its premium Scan-Speak transducers also produce pulse-rattling audio that will immerse your audience in the film.
Another option is the Anker Nebula Mars 3. This ultra-short-throw projector offers a bright, clear image that’s perfect for big groups and outdoor spaces like patios and pool decks. Its advanced technology provides 25,000 hours of life and boasts a wide color gamut. It also has an inbuilt streaming stick and battery power that allow for maximum portability and versatility.
The XGIMI Halo is a smart 1080P projector with a portable, rechargeable battery that makes it easy to take projection wherever you go. It can project a 100-inch screen anywhere, and it connects to Bluetooth, USB, Chromecast, Wi-Fi, HDMI, and more. The built-in Android TV gives you access to countless apps and services.
Connectivity
If you’re planning on watching movies outdoors, you will want to ensure that the projector has a wide range of connectivity options. Ideally, you want a projector that supports HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi so that you can connect a variety of devices to watch movies or play games. A projector that also supports Bluetooth is a bonus because you can use it with a portable speaker or soundbar for better audio quality.
Another important feature to look for in a projector is its lamp life. The longer the lamp life, the less frequently you will need to replace it. This is especially important for outdoor use, where you will be using the projector in a variety of weather conditions.
You will also need to consider the type of screen you will be using. For best results, choose a flat surface that is free from glare and light pollution. It is also Home Theater Projectors recommended that you time your screenings to begin at dusk or after, to avoid direct sunlight from illuminating the screen.
Make sure to have plenty of seating for your guests and consider adding extra lighting like string lights or lanterns. You can even decorate your viewing area with a popcorn stand or other themed props to enhance the movie-watching experience. Lastly, it’s a good idea to have a few extra accessorieslike mounts or stands, so that you can adjust the height and angle of the projection.