How to Get the Most Out of an Outdoor Theater Projector
Take movie time outside with a portable projector. These devices are lightweight and have a battery-powered design, so they can be moved around for movie marathons without needing to be plugged into an outlet.
Determine what size screen you want, then look for a projector with the right throw ratio. Other factors that affect quality are resolution and brightness.
Image Quality
The image quality of an outdoor theater projector is a key factor in the overall experience. You’ll want a projector that has a high resolution and is capable of producing bright images. Ideally, the projector will also be able to minimize ambient light and provide vivid colors on a large screen.
When shopping for an outdoor projector, you’ll want to make sure it has enough brightness to cut through the natural light from the sun and any other light pollution in your backyard. This is usually measured in ANSI lumens, and the higher the number the more bright the projector will be.
You’ll also want to consider the throw ratio of your chosen projector. This determines how close you can get the image to your screen without it being squashed or muddy. A high throw outdoor theater projector ratio is important if you plan to use your projector with larger screens.
Some of the best outdoor projectors also function like smart TVs, allowing you to stream movies and other content directly from your smartphone or streaming device. Look for a model with connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB, Chromecast, Wi-Fi, and HDMI so you can connect any device you have. Some even have a built-in Android TV platform, which allows you to easily access a wide variety of apps and streaming services.
Screen Size
The screen size of an outdoor theater projector can be a significant factor in its performance. You want to make sure it’s big enough to provide a cinematic experience for the number of people you’ll be entertaining, but not so large that it becomes difficult to see. The best way to ensure the proper screen size is to use an online projector screen calculator. Then, note the distance from the screen to the seating area, and compare that to the available size options in your chosen outdoor theater projector.
Depending on your space and desired experience, you may also need to consider the throw ratio of the projector. This determines how far you can place the projector from the screen without losing image quality, says Harrison. This can be a crucial factor if you’re working with limited backyard space.
You’ll also need to consider how easy it will be to set up and take down your new outdoor movie screen. Some screens require a professional to install, which can be a major inconvenience. Others are designed for DIY use and feature collapsible or foldable frames, which save storage space. They usually include carrying bags for simple storage and transport, too. The Pyle Portable Outdoor Projector Screen is a great example of a portable screen that’s easy to use. It also folds compactly, allowing you to easily fit it into its carry bag.
Audio
When viewing movies outdoors, it’s important to have high-quality sound. The best outdoor theater projectors have enough power to deliver crisp, clear sound to everyone at the table (or reclining chair). Some have built-in speakers that will provide robust sound from all directions. Others come with an audio cable so you can connect to external speakers.
In addition, a good outdoor movie projector has enough brightness to cut through ambient light and make colors look vibrant on the screen. Brightness is measured in ANSI lumens, and higher numbers are better.
For the best picture and sound quality, you’ll need to have a good source of media, like a Blu-ray player or TV box with streaming apps. Jason used a Sony Blu-ray player for his backyard projector cinema, and it provided a sharp image with vivid colors.
Some models offer wireless connectivity options, so you can stream your favorite Home Theater Projectors content without running a long cord through the yard to a nearby power outlet. To do this, choose a model with either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities. Most also have multiple inputs for connecting to devices and an HDMI port for a wired connection. If you’re planning to use the projector at a remote location, like at a campground, look for a model that has rechargeable batteries or is battery-powered for complete portability.
Connectivity
A quality outdoor theater projector can bring your backyard movie nights to the next level. But, to get the most out of your experience, you’ll need a few extras to round out your setup. Ideally, you’ll want to pair your projector with a wireless speaker or soundbar for a better audio experience. Thankfully, many modern projectors offer Bluetooth connectivity that lets you connect to your smartphone, tablet, or media player. Some also have built-in smart platforms and streaming apps, though you’ll likely need to use a Wi-Fi connection in your outdoor space.
When choosing an outdoor movie projector, look for one with a long lamp life to ensure it will last for years of use. You’ll also want to make sure that it has the right inputs for your desired media sources, such as a traditional composite/rca or vga/dvi input for connecting a DVD player, or a USB or HDMI port for using a laptop or streaming device.
To get the best picture quality, you’ll need a projector with high brightness (measured in ANSI lumens) to cut through ambient light and keep colors looking vibrant on a large screen. If possible, time your screening to take advantage of natural light levels at dusk or after dark. And, don’t forget to position your screen away from direct sources of light (like streetlamps and house lights) to avoid glare and washout.