Best Motorized Projector Screens
As technology continues to advance, electric projector screens have become an increasingly popular option for home theaters and business conference rooms alike.
A motorized projector screen, also known as a drop down, automatic, or retractable projector screen, allows for convenient and easy use with the simple push of a button.
These screens offer a sleek and modern design, providing a seamless viewing experience without the hassle of manually pulling down or retracting the screen.
In this article, we will delve into the benefits of motorized projector screens and why they have become a top choice for those seeking an effortless and high-quality display solution.
How to Choose the Best Motorized Projector Screen?
Are you looking for a high-quality projection surface that does not have to be rolled in and out by hand? Then one of the best motorized projector screens is the right choice for you. It comfortably moves with a push of a button.
In order for the image quality to match the performance of your projector, the background must be right. Only a good projector screen guarantees that the image will look like 4K.
If you also want to run 3D movies on the screen, you need the appropriate projection surface. Projector screens usually make the image appear brighter and even more contrast. No matter how well a room wall is painted, it will never reflect such clear images as a screen.
Take a look at our top picks and choose a screen diagonal that fits the size of your living room wall. For the perfect picture it is worth paying attention to the so-called amplification (or gain) factor, which should be around 1.0.
Akia Motorized Electric Projector Screen
We have tested and selected for you 5 best motorized projector screens, mostly with versatile functionality.They will bring your home theater experience to another level, especially when you have a limited space in your living room.
Electric projector screens are also great for conference centers and classrooms to perform business presentations (combined with mini projectors). There are options for any budget, but choosing the right one can be tricky.
5 Best Motorized Projector Screens - Overview and Rating
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Author's Choice
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Akia Screens 125 inch Motorized Electric Projector Screen
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PEOPLE'S CHOICE
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Elite Screens Spectrum Tab-Tension
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Premium Choice
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Elite Screens Evanesce Plus
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Best Budget
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Akia Screens Electric Motorized Projector Screen
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BEST FOR UST PROJECTORS
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Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension screen
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Electric Projector Screen: Detailed Overview
Looking for the best automatic projector screens? Check out our top 5 picks! Now we provide a brief overview of each model, including its key features and benefits.
Whether you need a motorized screen with wireless remote control or advanced features like ambient light rejection, we've got you covered. Let's get started!
| Projector Screen Model | Material | Size | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akia Motorized Projector Screen | Matte White | 125 inches | 16:9 |
| Elite Screens Spectrum | MaxWhite FG | 110 inches | 16:9 |
| Elite Screens Evanesce Plus | MaxWhite FG | 150 inches | 16:9 |
| Akia Screens Electric Motorized Projector Screen | Matte White | 104 inches | 4:3 |
| Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension screen | ALR PET Crystal | 100 inches | 16:9 |
Akia Screens 125 inch Motorized Electric Projector Screen
Author’s Choice
Akia Screens' 125-inch motorized projection screen is a great choice for home theaters, conference rooms and classrooms. It has a 180° viewing angle and a 1.1x gain, which guarantees the best possible image projection thanks to its black metal case and MaxWhite 2 material.
The projector's screen has an all-black backing to ensure bright and clear light passes through it and is easy to clean. The screen supports 8K/4K UHD and Active 3D, and can also be used with standard UHD/HD projectors.
It also features a long-range RF remote control and a 12V wireless trigger to automatically lower/raise the screen when the projector is turned on/off. With the Akia Screens 125-inch motorized projector screen, you can enjoy a vivid and immersive cinematic experience.
Pros:
- Large screen size of 125 inches provides an immersive viewing experience
- 180° viewing angle with 1.1 gain
- 8K/K UHD and Active 3D ready
- Fully black backed, Easy to clean surface
- Long distance radio frequency remote, and wireless 12V trigger
Cons:
- Large screen size may not fit in smaller rooms or spaces
- Requires a power source, so may not be suitable for outdoor use or areas without electrical outlets
Summary: The Akia Screens 125-inch motorized projector screen is a great choice for home theaters, conference rooms and classrooms. It features a 180° viewing angle and 1.1x material, as well as a black metal case for durability and easy cleaning. The projector also supports 8K/4K UHD and Active 3D, has a long-range RF remote control and a 12V wireless trigger to automatically lower/raise the screen when the projector is turned on/off.
Akia Screens 125 inch Motorized Electric Projector Screen
- Size Range: 104", 110" AND 125"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: RF
- Material: White; Gain: 1.1
Elite Screens Electric90X Electric Motorized Projector Screen
People’s Choice
Tab-tensioned screens provide a more uniform surface without noticeable waves and irregularities. Elite Screens Spectrum E90X Tab-Tension is made of MaxWhite material with 1.1 gain and 180° viewing angle. It is good for both 4K Ultra HD video and Active 3D content.
Black masking borders of the retractable screen help eliminate excess light, creating a more immersive viewing experience. The projection screen can be mounted on the wall or on the ceiling.
It comes with a 3-way wall switch and 12V trigger cable, an optional in-ceiling trim kit for concealed installation and radio frequency remote can be purchased separately.
Users highlight the quiet operation of the motor, although it is not fast - raising and lowering the screen takes more than 40 seconds.
Pros:
- Tab-tension system prevents wrinkles;
- Relatively affordable for this type of screen;
- Silent motor operation.
Cons:
- Power cord is too short;
- No RF Remote in the box.
Summary: The Elite Screens Spectrum Tab-Tension is a great option for those looking for a uniform surface without noticeable waves and irregularities. It's made of MaxWhite material with 1.1 gain and 180° viewing angle, suitable for 4K Ultra HD video and Active 3D content. The black masking borders and quiet motor operation make for a more immersive viewing experience. However, keep in mind that the power cord is short and the RF remote needs to be purchased separately.
Elite Screens Spectrum Tab-Tension
- Size Range: 100" and 125"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR (RF is optional)
- Material: MaxWhite; Gain: 1.1
Elite Screens IHome150HW2-E12 Automatic Projector Screen
Premium Choice
The Evanesce Plus Series (IHome150HW2-E12) is a premium retractable projection screen featuring diagonals ranging from 150". Elite Screens uses fiberglass reinforced MaxWhite FG material, providing the most flat screen without tab tension bars.
The textured surface with an exceptional 180 degree viewing angle gives a natural color reproduction and high image fidelity. It's 4K and Active 3D projection ready. The recessed design is perfect for non-dedicated media rooms.
Evanesce Plus can be controlled by complete infrared and radio frequency remote controls. The box also includes a 3-way position wall switch, while the in-wall up and down switch and wireless 5-12V trigger are sold separately.
The 150" and 180" versions of Elite Screens Evanesce Plus have an extra 12-inch black drop for high ceiling installation.
The powerful tubular motor runs very quietly. For safety reasons the company has made the screen material resistant to mildew and fire, and the aluminum housing is less susceptible to corrosion.
Pros:
- Large projection surface;
- Produces vivid colors with good contrast;
- Motor runs swiftly and quietly;
- All necessary accessories are included in the kit.
Cons:
- The installation may take much time.
Summary: The Evanesce Plus Series is a great option for those looking for a large, retractable projection screen with excellent color reproduction and high image fidelity. Its fiberglass reinforced MaxWhite FG material provides a flat screen without tab tension bars, while the recessed design is perfect for non-dedicated media rooms. The screen can be controlled by infrared and radio frequency remote controls, and a 3-way position wall switch is included in the box. However, keep in mind that installation may take some time.
Elite Screens Evanesce Plus
- Size Range: 150" to 200"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR and RF
- Material: MaxWhite FG; Gain: 1.1
Akia Screens 104 inch Retractable Projector Screen
Best Budget
Akia is a sub-brand of drop down Elite Screens and offers more affordable, but good quality projector screens. The smallest version with an aspect ratio of 4:3 is an excellent choice for business presentations.
If you need a large display for watching movies and shows, a 16:9 screen of Akia 8541616930 is the one to choose. It supports 4K and even 8K. The customers point out in their reviews that MaxWhite B material is rather thin, so you have to be gentle when cleaning it.
Akia Screens Electric Motorized Projector Screen comes with a handy Radio Frequency Remote. The accessory can also be used as a wireless 5-12 volt trigger to synchronize with your projector. The screen is shipped fully assembled and ready to install.
Pros:
- Decent value for money;
- Comes with a long distance RF remote;
- Perfect for presentations;
Cons:
- Thin screen material is not as durable as in more expensive models;
- You can expect some curl over time.
Summary: If you're looking for an affordable and good quality projector screen, Akia Screens Electric Motorized Projector Screen is a great option. It's perfect for presentations, and the 16:9 screen supports 4K and even 8K. However, the MaxWhite B material is thin and may curl over time, and it's not as durable as more expensive models. The screen comes with a handy RF remote that can also be used as a wireless 5-12 volt trigger to synchronize with your projector.
Akia Screens Electric Motorized Projector Screen
- Size Range: 104" to 150"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9, 4:3
- Tensioned: No; Remote: RF
- Material: MaxWhite B; Gain: 1.0
Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension screen
Best for Screen for UST Projectors
Best Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector are placed directly under the screen and a special surface coating is required to project the image at such a wide angle.
Vividstorm VBMSLUST100H automatic screen has a horizontal linear structure which blocks up to 97% of the ambient light. The result is a lush image even in a well lit room (it is mostly effective against overhead lights).
The gray material significantly increases contrast, so that dark scenes in movies and games look great. The Tab-tension system maintains a flat surface to match the most demanding viewing needs. The viewing angle is 170 degrees.
The screen comes with all necessary mounts, infrared and radio frequency remote controls, a wall switch and a wireless 12V projector trigger.
The manufacturer particularly emphasizes that this ALR material is not suitable for standard throw, short throw and long focus throw projectors.
Pros:
- Vivid colours and deep blacks when used with UST projector;
- Rejects ambient light from above the screen;
- Can be controlled in four different ways.
Cons:
- Lateral light is blocked worse.
Summary: The Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension automatic screen is a great option for those using Ultra Short Throw laser projectors. It has a horizontal linear structure that blocks up to 97% of ambient light, making it effective against overhead lights. The gray material increases contrast for dark scenes in movies and games, and the Tab-tension system maintains a flat surface. The screen has a viewing angle of 170 degrees and can be controlled in four different ways. However, keep in mind that lateral light is blocked less effectively.
Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension screen
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Best Motorized Projector Screen - Buyer’s Guide
Even a cheap retractable projection screen will perform better than a plain white wall, but for a better viewing experience you should pay attention to the following key features.
Features to Consider Before Buying a Motorized Projector Screen
Gain is a measurement of how much light is reflected off the surface of the projector screen relative to a set standard. A 1.0 gain screen reflects the light evenly in all directions. Screens with higher gain focus the light towards the center for a brighter image, but at the same time the viewing angles are reduced and so-called hot spots (areas that are brighter than the rest of the image) may appear. With modern high power projectors a gain of 1.0-1.1 is quite sufficient for most situations.
Viewing Angle. Projector screens with a gain rating of 1.0 have a 180 degree viewing angle to satisfy large audiences. With a more narrow viewing angle the audience should be close to the center of the screen.
Screen color. The white screen will give you the most vivid image and rich colors, but blacks may look more like gray. Gray and silver projection displays have been designed for more contrasting images. In well-illuminated rooms dark shades of gray materials appear to work best, but you will also need a brighter projector to achieve desired brightness.
Material of the projector screen may be of different types. Type D (diffuse) and type S (specular). Type D screens project the light evenly in all directions. Type S screens reflect the light more strongly, so that a bright image is created even outdoors or in bright rooms. Type R screens are used at events and exhibitions. They have a translucent structure and are suitable for spacious rooms.
Setup. Some Motorized Projector Screens are made for wall mounting, others support in-ceiling installation. Choose what fits your interior best. Some models are advertised as portable, but if you really need the ability to move it around, a retractable pull-out-style manual projector screen may be a better fit. If you need a portable screen for a meeting or business presentations, our selection of Best Mini Projector for Business Presentations in 2023 may appear to be handy for you.
What Screen Size is the Best?
Unlike TV sets, the rule "the bigger the better" does not work here. If the screen is too big, the picture will be too dim and washed out.
All you need is to check the projector's specs for the image size range. The optimal viewing distance is 1 to 1.5 times the screen diagonal.
Calculate the optimal screen size with a simple formula:
The distance between the first row of seats and the screen should be approximately 1.5 times the screen width. The maximum distance should ideally be 6 times the width of the screen.
Retractable Projector Screens: Conclusion
In conclusion, motorized projector screens have revolutionized the way we experience movies, presentations, and other visual media. With their sleek design and automatic functionality, these screens have become a popular choice for both home theaters and business settings.
The convenience and ease of use provided by these screens, with the simple push of a button, have made them a go-to option for those seeking a high-quality display solution without the hassle of manual setup.
Whether you are a movie enthusiast or a professional presenter, a motorized projector screen, also known as a drop down, automatic, retractable or electric projector screen, is an investment worth considering for your viewing pleasure.
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