What screen size do I need for a good home theater experience?

Most home theater enthusiasts target 100-120 inches for a cinema-like experience. At 100\

Are projectors better than large TVs for home theater?

For dedicated home theater rooms with controlled lighting, yes — a 120\

What is 4K PRO-UHD vs True 4K?

True 4K uses a native 4K imaging chip (8.3 million pixels). 4K PRO-UHD (Epson) and 4K UHD Enhancement (other brands) use pixel-shifting — rapidly shifting a 1080p or 2K chip to simulate 4K. In practice, Epson's implementation looks excellent and most viewers cannot distinguish it from native 4K at typical viewing distances. Native 4K JVC and Sony projectors provide marginally better detail but cost 3-10x more.

How long do projector bulbs last?

Standard UHP lamp projectors typically last 3,000-5,000 hours in normal mode or 4,000-8,000 hours in eco mode. A replacement lamp costs $100-300. At 2 hours of viewing per day, a 4,000-hour lamp lasts 5-6 years. Laser light sources (Hisense, Samsung) last 20,000+ hours — essentially maintenance-free for 30+ years of typical use. Factor total cost of ownership when comparing lamp vs laser projectors.

Can I use a projector in a room that is not completely dark?

Yes, with the right projector. A 3,000+ lumen projector with blackout curtains handles typical ambient light well. For truly bright rooms (sunlit, no curtains), you need a 4,000+ lumen projector or an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen. Ultra-short throw projectors pair especially well with ALR screens since the light comes from below, allowing the screen to reject ceiling and window light while showing projector light.

Best Home Theater Projectors 2026