If you’re contemplating adding a projector to your entertainment setup, you’re in for a world of cinematic bliss. Projectors have come a long way, offering an impressive viewing experience that can rival your local movie theater—and you don’t have to deal with sticky floors, dirty seats or wrangling the family all in the same row. But before you start shopping, there are some key things to think about.

Consider Your Space

The first step in your projector journey is to assess your space. Are you planning to set up a home theater in a dedicated room, or do you need a portable option for outdoor movie nights? Knowing your space will help you determine the type of projector that fits your needs.

If you have a dedicated room with controlled lighting, you can go for a larger, fixed projector that offers the best picture quality. On the other hand, if you want versatility and the ability to move your projector around, a portable option with a built-in battery might be ideal.

Brightness (AKA Lumens) Is Important

One of the major factors to consider when buying a projector is its brightness, measured in lumens. The brighter the projector, the better it can handle ambient light. If you’re planning to use it in a well-lit room, go for a projector with higher lumens for a vibrant image.

For a dedicated home theater with controlled lighting, a projector with 1,500-2,500 lumens should be fine. However, if your space isn’t entirely light-controlled, consider a projector with 3,000 lumens or more to ensure a clear and vivid image even in brighter environments.

Resolution Is Also Important

Projectors come in various resolutions, from HD to 4K. Higher resolution means sharper and more detailed images. If you’re a stickler for image quality, investing in a projector with 1080p or 4K resolution is worth it.

A 1080p projector is a fine choice for most home setups, providing crisp visuals for movies and gaming. However, if you’re a cinephile or want the absolute best picture quality, a 4K projector will deliver breathtaking clarity and detail.

HDMI All the Way

When it comes to connecting your devices, HDMI is your best friend. Make sure that your projector has multiple HDMI ports to accommodate your Blu-ray player, gaming console, and streaming device without constant cable swapping. Having multiple HDMI ports allows you to keep all your devices connected simultaneously, eliminating the hassle of constantly unplugging and replugging cables.

Wireless Freedom

Consider projectors with wireless connectivity options. They allow you to cast content from your smartphone or laptop effortlessly, making it a breeze to share photos, videos, and presentations. Wireless projectors also offer the advantage of a clutter-free setup. You can mirror your device’s screen wirelessly, eliminating the need for additional cables and adapters. This is particularly handy for business presentations or sharing content with friends and family.

Prolonged Life

Projector lamps have a limited lifespan, so it’s important to research their longevity. A longer lamp life means less frequent replacements and more extended hours of entertainment. Modern projectors often feature eco-friendly modes that extend lamp life. Additionally, some projectors use LED or laser light sources, which can last significantly longer than traditional lamps, sometimes up to 20,000 hours.

Maintenance Made Easy

You’ll definitely want a projector with user-friendly maintenance features. Easy-to-access filters and a straightforward lamp replacement process can save you time and hassle down the road. Maintenance is also an essential aspect of projector ownership. Look for projectors with accessible filter compartments that can be cleaned or replaced without much effort—or too high of cost. Additionally, projectors with a lamp replacement process that doesn’t require professional assistance can save you money in the long run.

Don’t forget about the sound!

While projectors can deliver stunning visuals, built-in speakers often fall short. It might be an additional investment, but external speakers or a soundbar can really level up your cinematic experience. If you’re setting up a dedicated home theater, a surround sound system can immerse you in the audio of your favorite movies and games. For smaller spaces, a good soundbar can significantly enhance your projector’s audio output.