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Best Projector for Living Room
Are you eager to design the ideal movie watching experience in your living room? A projector can transform any space into a miniature theater, with access to huge screen entertainment from the cozy ambiance of home. But with so many options out there, it's hard to select the best one for your living area.
Luckily, this article will help - I'll tell you about top projectors on offer and provide an informative buyer's guide plus pros and cons so that making an informed decision is easier than ever before! Discover which best living room projector in November 2024 suits both you and your needs today!
If you're short on time and looking for the best living room projector, here's my top picks.
Table of contents:
- Best Projector for Living Room - Buyer’s Guide
- Best Projectors for Living Room - TOP 5
- Best Projector for Bright Living Room: Comparison
- Benq TH685i Projector
- XGIMI HORIZON Ultra Projector
- Epson EpiqVision LS300 Projector
- ViewSonic PX701HDH Projector
- BenQ TK700STi Projector
- FAQ about Living Room Projector
- Best Projector for Living Room: Conclusion
Best Projector for Living Room - Buyer’s Guide
In my experience, there are several factors to consider when choosing a projector for your living room:
Resolution
When choosing a projector for the living room, you should look for a projector with a resolution of at least 1080p. This resolution provides a clear and sharp image that can make movies and TV shows come to life in your living room. Some projectors also offer 4K resolution, which provides even more detail and clarity, but they are also more expensive.
A projector with a lower resolution, such as 720p, may still provide decent picture quality, but it won't be as sharp and clear as a 1080p or 4K projector. Additionally, if you plan on using your projector for gaming or other applications that require high-resolution visuals, a projector with a higher resolution is a must.
Brightness
When choosing a projector for the living room, you should look for a projector with a high brightness level. Brightness is measured in lumens, and a higher brightness level means a clearer and more vibrant image, especially in a well-lit living room. For the best living room projector experience, look for a projector with a brightness level of at least 2,200 lumens or higher. For Example, Benq TH685i with 3500 lumens or Epson EpiqVision LS300 with 3600 lumens.
If you have a particularly bright living room, or if you plan on using your projector during the daytime, consider a projector with even higher brightness levels of 3,000 lumens or more. It's important to note that a projector's brightness level may vary depending on the screen size, distance from the screen, and ambient light in the room.
Contrast Ratio
Contrast Ratio is the difference between the brightest and darkest parts of an image, and the higher the contrast ratio, the more detail and depth in the image. To choose the best projector for your living room, look for a projector with a contrast ratio of at least 10,000:1. Of course, the higher the contrast ratio, the better the image will be. For Example, Epson EpiqVision LS300 with 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio.
Keep in mind that contrast ratio is only one factor that determines image quality, and other factors such as brightness and color accuracy can also affect the overall image.
Throw Distance
The throw distance is the distance between the projector and the screen. Make sure to choose a projector with a throw distance that works for your living room space.
Best Projectors for Living Room - TOP 5
If you're looking for the best projector for your living room, you're in the right place. Here are my top picks:
- Brightness of 3500 ANSI lumens, 1080p with HDR and 4K compatibility
- Low input latency of 8.3 ms at 1080p/120Hz
- Game mode/game audio mode
- 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision
- High Brightness at 2300 ISO lumens
- Dual Light Technology, Android TV 11.0
- 2 x12W Harman/Kardon Speakers
- Display resolution: 4K and full HDR picture quality
- Brightness: 3600 lumens
- Screen size up to 120”, Screen distance 15.2 inch/ 38 cm
- Display resolution: 1080p (1920 x 1080 ) on a screen up to 300-inches
- 3500 lumens brightness
- Projector life 20,000 hours, 12,000:1 contrast ratio
- Resolution: 4K, 3000 ANSI lumens
- Low latency 16ms at 4K/60Hz with low input latency, game mode/game audio mode
- Connectivity: HDMI, compatible with consoles
Best Projector for Bright Living Room: Comparison
Here's a more in-depth look at each of my top projector picks:
| Device | Resolution | Lumens | Contrast Ratio | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benq TH685i | 1080p | 3500 | 10,000:1 | Gaming mode with low input lag |
| XGIMI HORIZON Ultra | 4K | 2200 | 100,000:1 | Dual light technology (LED and Laser) |
| Epson EpiqVision LS300 | 1080p | 3600 | 1,500,000:1 | Ultra-short throw, integrated Yamaha audio system |
| ViewSonic PX701HDH | 1080p | 3500 | 12,000:1 | SuperColor technology for vivid image reproduction |
| BenQ TK700STi | 4K | 3000 | 10,000:1 | 4K resolution with 16ms low input lag for gaming |
Benq TH685i Projector for Living Room Review
Editor's Choice
The Benq TH685i projector is the perfect solution for your living room. It offers 3,500 ANSI lumens of brightness, 1080p compatibility with HDR and 4K, and a 100-inch image from just 2.5 m away, so you can enjoy sublime 95% Rec. 709 colors with stunning detail, wherever you are.
With an impressive input lag of 8.3 ms at 1080p/120 Hz and advanced gaming/audio mode, you can adjust sound and picture quality for an unbeatable underwater gaming experience. What's more, it's Google-certified and features over 5,000 of the latest Android apps, plus AirPlay and Chromecast compatibility for easy streaming.
Intuitive remote controls for Android TV and the projector, plus integrated Netflix streaming, make it the ultimate entertainment system for your living room. Discover the world of home cinema in all its glory with the Benq TH685i projector.
Pros:
- Brightness of 3500 ANSI lumens, 1080p with HDR and 4K compatibility
- Low input latency of 8.3 ms at 1080p/120Hz
- Game mode/game audio mode
- 10,000:1 contrast ratio
- Android TV certified by Google and Google Play Store
- Compatible with AirPlay and Chromecast, Netflix streaming
- Intuitive remote controls
Cons:
- Small, integrated 5 W speakers
Summary: As indicated by my tests the Benq TH685i projector is the ideal home cinema solution. It offers 3500 ANSI lumens brightness and 1080p resolution with HDR and 4K support for a 100-inch image at a distance of 2.5 m at 95% Rec. 709. With low input latency and advanced gaming mode/audio gaming mode, you'll enjoy an unrivalled system for immersive gaming and entertainment.
XGIMI HORIZON Ultra 4K Projector for Living Room Review
Best Overall
One of the standout features of the HORIZON Ultra is its distinction as the world’s first 4K long-throw projector equipped with Dolby Vision. This advanced technology enhances the viewing experience by delivering ultra-vivid colors, enhanced contrast, and rich details, transforming your living room into a near-cinematic environment. Dolby Vision ensures that films and TV shows are presented with unmatched clarity and color accuracy, making this projector an ideal choice for movie enthusiasts who crave a top-tier viewing experience.
The projector also utilizes dual light technology that combines LED and laser sources, significantly enhancing the lifespan of the projector while ensuring precise color accuracy and exceptional brightness. The broad color spectrum of the HORIZON Ultra enriches the viewing experience, making every scene, whether in an action-packed thriller or a colorful animation, feel incredibly immersive.
Brightness is another key advantage of the HORIZON Ultra, with its 2300 ISO lumens ensuring that images remain crisp and vibrant under various lighting conditions. Whether during a bright day or in a dimly lit room, the projector adjusts effortlessly, offering versatility and freedom from the constraints of ambient light.
Additionally, the Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) 3.0 technology is a major highlight. It not only adapts to different wall colors for optimal image quality on any surface but also enhances screen correction and offers lossless zoom capabilities. Moreover, the built-in eye protection feature makes extended viewing sessions more comfortable, reducing eye strain for a more enjoyable experience.
The inclusion of Android TV 11.0 turns the HORIZON Ultra into a comprehensive entertainment hub, providing direct access to a vast array of streaming services, apps, and games. The intuitive user interface and extensive content options ensure that there is something to satisfy every member of the family, making the HORIZON Ultra much more than just a projector—it's a gateway to endless entertainment possibilities.
Pros:
- 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision
- Dual Light Technology
- High Brightness at 2300 ISO lumens
- Intelligent Screen Adaption 3.0
- Android TV 11.0
Cons:
- With advanced features and calibration options, the setup process might be overwhelming for beginners
- The built-in speakers may not match the high standards of the visual output, potentially necessitating an external sound system for a complete home theater experience
Summary: According to my evaluations, the XGIMI HORIZON Ultra 4K Projector emerges as an exceptional option for enhancing your home theater setup. This projector combines 4K resolution with Dolby Vision, innovative dual light technology, impressive brightness, Intelligent Screen Adaptation (ISA) 3.0, and Android TV 11.0, crafting a versatile and formidable device. It represents a significant investment for those who prioritize superior image quality, adaptability, and a deeply engaging viewing experience. Whether you're watching movies, streaming TV shows, or gaming, the HORIZON Ultra is designed to transform your living area into a vibrant entertainment center.
Epson EpiqVision LS300 Living Room Projector Review
Premium Choice
The Epson EpiqVision LS300 ultra-short throw laser projector is made for you! Its flawless 4K resolution and Full HDR image quality will transport you into the world of entertainment, offering an unparalleled cinematic experience on screens up to 120 inches.
Yamaha's audiophile 2.1-channel speaker system is designed to deliver immersive and incredibly emotional sound that rivals the sound quality of high-end sound bars. Thanks to the integrated Android TV interface, you can easily access popular streaming programs. And the laser diode technology delivers 3600 lumens of brightness and significantly improved black density for enhanced image clarity.
This projector features a slim, lightweight design and superior dynamic contrast ratio of up to 1,500,000:1. The 3LCD technology with 3 chips produces a vivid image in the Rec.709 color space that is clearly visible even in bright environments, and the built-in Chromecast function allows you to easily stream your favorite content from any device.
Enjoy your favorite TV shows, sports games, movies, and more!
Pros:
- 4K resolution and full HDR picture quality with 3600 lumens brightness
- Screen size up to 120”, Screen distance 15.2 inch/ 38 cm
- 2.1 audiophile speaker system by Yamaha
- Built-in Android TV interface
- Bluetooth
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 1,500,000 : 1
Cons:
- Not a small weight 15.9 lbs/ 7.2 kg
Summary: My findings show that the Epson EpiqVision LS300 ultra-short throw laser projector is the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy an immersive viewing experience at home. It features 4K resolution and Full HDR image quality. Contrast ratio of up to 1,500,000:1 and 3600 lumens of color/white brightness.
The Yamaha 2.1 speaker system delivers exceptional sound quality, and the built-in Android TV interface gives you access to popular streaming channels. With all of these features, the Epson EpiqVision LS300 ultra-short throw laser projector will provide you with an unrivaled viewing experience.
ViewSonic PX701HDH Living Room Projector Review
Best Budget
The ViewSonic PX701HDH Living Room Projector offers an immersive theater-like experience with Full HD 1920x1080p resolution projected on screens up to 300-inches in size. With 3500 lumens brightness and exclusive SuperColor technology, this projector produces beautiful images no matter the lighting conditions. Its 1.1x optical zoom and vertical lens shift allows for flexible setup, while its SuperEco+ mode extends projector life to 20,000 hours.
With a 12,000:1 contrast ratio and 16ms input latency ideal for action-packed gaming, the ViewSonic PX701HDH Living Room Projector promises an immersive cinematic experience. It is equipped with USB and HDMI ports for connecting to various devices. Enjoy the ultimate cinematic experience in your living room with the ViewSonic PX701HDH Living Room Projector.
Pros:
- Full HD (1920x1080p) on a screen up to 300-inches
- 3500 lumens brightness
- projector life 20,000 hours, 12,000:1 contrast ratio
- 16ms input latency ideal for intense action-packed gaming
- 10w Speaker
Cons:
- Smaller zoom (1.1x) than other projectors in its class
Summary: The ViewSonic PX701HDH living room projector is the perfect choice for an immersive viewing experience. With 3,500 lumens of brightness, a vertical lens shift that allows you to adjust the lens up and down for flexible setup, and a 12,000:1 contrast ratio, this projector will bring your favorite movies, TV shows, and games to life.
Also, with 16ms input delay, ideal for fast-paced gaming, and USB and HDMI ports for connecting various devices, this projector is the perfect choice for any home theater.
BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Living Room Projector Review
Best For Game
The BenQ TK700STi 4K gaming projector is a revolutionary leap forward in the way we play. With a short projection distance of 100 inches by 6.5 feet/1.9 m, it's ideal for gaming as it delivers lag-free images at 4K/60Hz resolution and sound optimized to your preferences in just 16ms! Compatible with major consoles. Game and audio mode settings allow for fine-tuning so that visuals and sound effects are always optimized!
With an impressive 3000 ANSI lumens and 96% Rec. 709 coverage, this incredible device delivers unparalleled color accuracy in any game you play!
With Google Certified Android TV and access to thousands of apps in the Google Play store, your entertainment options are endless! You don't even need any additional apps or remotes; Airplay and Chromecast make it easy to stream video. The BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector will take your gaming experience to a whole new level!
Pros:
- 3000 ANSI lumens, 4K resolution and low latency 16ms for smooth gaming
- Short-throw capabilities for projecting
- Compatible with major consoles, Low input lag 4K/60Hz
- Android TV
- Portable size and lightweight
Cons:
- Surround sound limitations
Summary: For the ultimate gaming experience, check out the BenQ TK700STi gaming projector. With a powerful 4K resolution that delivers crystal clear images and 3000 ANSI lumens of brightness, you can rest assured that there will be no shortage of images. Plus, with a low input latency of 16ms, it's able to capture your every movement for an unparalleled immersive experience! It's also compatible with major consoles and has access to endless entertainment options thanks to Android TV - what more could you ask for?
FAQ about Living Room Projector
Can I use a projector in a well-lit living room?
Yes, you can use a projector in a well-lit living room, but you need to choose a projector with high brightness to ensure a clear image. Look for a projector with a brightness of at least 2,200 lumens.
Where to place a projector in the living room?
The ideal projector location depends on the size and layout of your living room. Generally, the projector should be placed on a flat surface, such as a coffee table or projector stand, and pointed at a flat, white surface, such as a projector screen or white wall. Make sure that the surface is free of obstructions and that it is at the correct distance from the projector for optimal image size and focus. You can also place the projector on the ceiling so you don't have to move it from place to place every time you finish watching a movie or playing a game.
How far should the projector be from the screen?
The distance between the projector and the screen depends on the scaling capabilities of the projector and the size of the image you want to project. Be sure to check the projector's specifications and choose a distance that works for your living room space.
Does the projector require a separate sound system?
Some projectors come with a built-in speaker, but the sound quality may not be adequate for watching movies. But not all of them are loud enough to satisfy the loudest needs. For optimal sound quality, I recommend connecting your projector to an external audio system.
Best Projector for Living Room: Conclusion
So, choosing the best projector for your living room requires careful consideration of factors like resolution, contrast ratio, and brightness.
Among myr top picks, the Benq TH685i offers impressive brightness and XGIMI HORIZON Ultra with 4K resolution, it delivers a crisp and sharp image that can bring your movies, TV shows, and games to life!
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium living room projector, there's a projector on my list that will meet your needs.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
