How We Tested
Our team tested 18 home projectors in a dedicated home theater space. We measured brightness, contrast ratio, and color accuracy using professional calibration equipment. We evaluated picture quality with 4K HDR content, tested input lag for gaming, and assessed smart features and ease of setup. We also tested each projector at various screen sizes from 100 to 150 inches.
Epson Home Cinema 5050UB
The Epson Home Cinema 5050UB is our top pick for dedicated home theaters. The 4K PRO-UHD technology produces incredibly sharp images, and the exceptional contrast ratio (up to 1,000,000:1) delivers deep, inky blacks that rival OLED TVs. HDR10 and HLG support ensure modern content looks stunning. The extensive lens shift (60% vertical, 24% horizontal) makes installation flexible even in challenging rooms.
- Exceptional contrast and black levels
- Excellent 4K HDR picture quality
- Flexible installation with lens shift
- 2,600 lumens for great brightness
- Premium price point
- Large size for mounting
LG CineBeam HU915QE
The LG CineBeam HU915QE is the best ultra short throw projector available. Place it just inches from the wall to create a massive 120-inch image. The triple laser technology produces vibrant colors with excellent HDR performance. WebOS smart platform gives you access to Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming apps built right in. It's expensive, but eliminates ceiling mounting hassles.
- Ultra short throw placement
- Stunning triple laser colors
- Built-in WebOS smart platform
- Very expensive
- Requires ALR screen for best results
BenQ TK700STi
The BenQ TK700STi is built for gamers. The 16ms input lag at 4K/60Hz and 4.16ms at 1080p/240Hz ensure responsive gameplay. The short throw lens creates a 100-inch image from just 6.5 feet away, perfect for smaller gaming rooms. Android TV built-in means you can stream content without additional devices. HDR-PRO technology enhances both games and movies.
- Excellent low input lag for gaming
- Short throw for smaller rooms
- Android TV built-in
- Contrast not as good as lamp projectors
- Fan can be audible
Epson Home Cinema 2350
The Epson Home Cinema 2350 proves you don't need to spend a fortune for great picture quality. The 1080p resolution is plenty sharp for most viewers, and the 2,800 lumens brightness works even in rooms with some ambient light. Android TV provides streaming access, and the wireless HDMI transmitter (sold separately) enables clean cable-free setups. The 20-year lamp life keeps operating costs low.
- Excellent value under $1,000
- Bright for ambient light
- Long lamp life reduces costs
- 1080p resolution, not 4K
- Limited lens shift
Frequently Asked Questions
Projectors offer much larger screen sizes (100-150 inches) at lower costs than equivalent-sized TVs. However, TVs are brighter for daytime viewing and don't require a dark room. Projectors excel for dedicated home theaters and movie nights.
For a dark dedicated home theater, 1500-2000 lumens is sufficient. Living rooms with some ambient light need 2500-3000 lumens. Bright rooms or outdoor use require 3000+ lumens. More lumens means better visibility in lit environments.
A screen significantly improves image quality, providing a smooth, reflective surface optimized for projection. White walls work in a pinch but may have texture or color issues. For the best experience, invest in a proper projection screen.
Traditional lamp projectors last 3,000-5,000 hours in normal mode. Laser projectors last 20,000-30,000 hours with no bulb replacements needed. LED projectors fall in between at 20,000+ hours. Replacement bulbs typically cost $100-300.