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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, I'll talk about the best motorized projector screens in April 2024, their advantages and disadvantages, and why they've become the best choice for anyone looking for an easy and high-quality display solution.
Pressed for time? Check out my top two picks for the best motorized projector screens.
Table of contents:
- Best Motorized Projector Screen - Buyer’s Guide
- Best Motorized Projector Screens - TOP 5
- Best SSDs for Server: Comparison
- Homegear 106" HD Electric Motorized Projector Screen
- Akia 104 inch Motorized Projector Screen
- Elite Screens Spectrum 110" Electric Motorized Projector Screen
- Elite Screens Evanesce 106" Motorized Projector Screen
- VIVIDSTORM Motorized Projection Screen
- FAQ about Best Motorized Projector Screen
- Retractable Projector Screens: Conclusion
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, my selection of best mini projectors for presentations may appear to be handy for you.
Best Motorized Projector Screens - TOP 5
I have tested and selected for you 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, conference centers and classrooms to perform business presentations.
- Size Range: 106"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Remote: Yes
- Viewing Angle: 160 degrees
- Size Range: 104" to 150"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9, 4:3
- Tensioned: No; Remote: RF
- Material: MaxWhite B; Gain: 1.0
- Size Range: 90" - 125"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR (RF is optional)
- Material: MaxWhite; Gain: 1.1
- Size Range: 150" to 200"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR and RF
- Material: MaxWhite FG; Gain: 1.1
- Size Range: 92" to 120"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR and RF
- Material: Ambient Light Rejecting; Gain: 0.6
Electric Projector Screen: Comparison
Looking for the best automatic projector screens? Check out my top 5 picks! Now I 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, I can help. Let's get started!
| Projector Screen Model | Screen Surface | Size | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homegear Electric Motorized Projector Screen | Matte white | 106 inches | 16:9 |
| Akia Motorized Projector Screen | Matte White | 104 inches | 4:3 |
| Elite Screens Spectrum | MaxWhite FG | 110 inches | 16:9 |
| Elite Screens Evanesce Plus | MaxWhite FG | 150 inches | 16:9 |
| Vividstorm PRO Slimline Tension screen | ALR PET Crystal | 100 inches | 16:9 |
Homegear 106" HD Electric Motorized Projector Screen
Editor's Choice
Elevate your home entertainment experience with the Homegear Electric Motorized Projector Screen. With 3D and HD compatibility, this professional setup is sure to amaze your friends and family, providing a full-screen experience that you can enjoy for years to come.
The Homegear screen boasts an engineered three-layer construction, comprising a black PVC back, a terylene fabric middle layer, and a matte white PVC top layer. This design, along with the exposed black frame, results in richer and sharper picture quality, significantly enhancing your viewing experience.
Convenience is a key feature of this screen, as it comes with a remote control, allowing you to effortlessly retract or extend the screen from the comfort of your couch. The screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio and a 106” diagonal size (52" x 92.5"), providing a large viewing area for an immersive experience. The case size is 103" x Dia 3", and the product weighs 20lbs, making it easy to install and manage.
Pros:
- 3D and HD Compatibility
- High-Quality Construction
- Large Screen Size
- Easy to Use
- Aesthetic Design
- Suitable Aspect Ratio
Cons:
- May not support ultra-high resolutions like 4K
- While not overly complex, installation may require some effort and proper space planning
Summary: The Homegear Electric Motorized Projector Screen is an excellent choice for anyone looking to transform their home lounge into a professional cinema setup, offering superior picture quality and convenient features for an enjoyable viewing experience.
- Size Range: 106"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Remote: Yes
- Viewing Angle: 160 degrees
Akia Screens AK-MOTORIZE104V1 Motorized Electric Projector Screen
Best Overall
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 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: My analysis of this product revealed that 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.
- Size Range: 104" to 150"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9, 4:3
- Tensioned: No; Remote: RF
- Material: MaxWhite B; Gain: 1.0
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: My findings show that 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.
- 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.
- Size Range: 150" to 200"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR and RF
- Material: MaxWhite FG; Gain: 1.1
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.
- Size Range: 92" to 120"; Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tensioned: Yes; Remote: IR and RF
- Material: Ambient Light Rejecting; Gain: 0.6
FAQ about Best Motorized Projector Screen
Here are some common questions that many people ask when they are considering buying the best motorized projector screen
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 my 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.
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.
How Do I Clean My Motorized Projector Screen?
Most motorized projector screens can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the screen material.
Can I Use a 3D Projector with a Motorized Projector Screen?
Yes, most motorized projector screens are compatible with 3D projectors. Make sure to select a screen with the proper gain and surface to maximize the 3D effect.
Retractable Projector Screens: Conclusion
Motorized projection screens have revolutionized the way we experience movies, presentations, and other visual media. Thanks to their sleek design and automatic functionality, these screens have become a popular choice for home theaters and business venues alike.
I have selected the highest quality and most popular models for you, such as the Homegear Electric Motorized Projector Screen, Akia Screens Motorized Projector Screen or Elite Screens Spectrum. Which should make it easier for you to search and after reading the buyer's assistant to close all questions about how to choose the right motorized projector screen.
The convenience and ease of use of these screens have made them an ideal option for anyone looking for a high-quality display solution without the hassle of manual setup. Whether you're a movie buff or a professional presenter, a motorized projector screen, also known as a retractable, automatic, slide-out or electric projector screen, is an investment worth considering for your viewing pleasure.
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.
