Basement theater almost done - need best electric projector screen recs!

Question

Finally finishing my basement theater after years of putting it off. Got the projector (Epson LS800), sound system, and comfy seating figured out, but stuck on which electric projector screen to get. Budget around $300-500 but can stretch if worth it. Room is completely light-controlled (no windows), about 15x18ft. Thinking 100-120" but not sure if that's too big? Ceiling height is 7.5ft. Some walls have exposed pipes/ducts so ceiling mount probably best. Never installed one before so worried about messing it up. Want something reliable that won't start sagging after a month. Any brand recommendations or installation tips? Thanks!

to-dreams · Answer

Motorized screens need maintenance. Consider fixed frame unless you absolutely need to hide it when not watching

piero · Answer

your ceiling height is the limiting factor here - measure twice! most 120" screens need 8ft+ for proper placement

sereettet · Answer

whatever you do, spend extra for tab-tension. non-tensioned screens develop waves over time that ruin image quality

F/G/ · Answer

picked up aoxun electric motorized&nbsp;for my office last month - surprisingly good for the price point. silent motor and even drop. handling 4k content without issues

Conti · Answer

Home theater installer here: always factor in $100+ for proper mounting hardware. The included screws couldn't hold up a paper towel let alone a 25lb screen. Seen too many movie nights end with a $400 crash test dummy experiment 💀

jaman · Answer

reminder that optimal viewing distance = screen diagonal &times; 1.5 (minimum) to 2.5 (maximum). plan your seating accordingly

mitZO · Answer

consider acoustic transparent if you've hidden speakers behind screen position. otherwise sound reflection becomes problematic

tOOlSMeN · Answer

120" is actually borderline too small for that room size. i'd go 135" minimum given your dimensions

Davidjonser · Answer

ceiling mounts near HVAC vents = bad news fr fr. trying to watch anything with text becomes like reading earthquake mode subtitles. whole setup be hittin the wobble 🥴

aventador · Answer

Get sample swatches of screen material before committing. Different materials perform wildly differently with same projector

Thrt,ekfy · Answer

hidden cost warning: electrical work to add proper outlet near mounting location can add $200+ to project if DIY not option

6q76oi · Answer

Running Akia Screens 125" Motorized in similar setup - perfect size for that room. Installation wasn't terrible solo but definitely easier with helper. Motor still quiet after 18 months

CccRccC · Answer

make sure remote frequency doesn't interfere with other devices. my screen and soundbar got married without permission - hit one button and chaos ensues. screen goes brrrrr every bass drop 🤣

lara1109 · Answer

Black borders essential for perceived contrast improvement. Avoid screens without substantial black masking

lol_1 · Answer

Check out that screen ratio article on GG. Saved me from making a huge mistake with my setup