High-end portable projectors manage to squeeze a true HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) resolution into the compact frame. On average, a resolution of 854 x 480 pixels is good enough to enjoy the projected screen for business or general computing use. Normal projectors have resolutions going all the way up to 4K (4,096 x 2,160 pixels), but portable projectors tend to be more limited. Higher resolutions are better for multimedia formats like movies and games.
The number of pixels, also known as the projector's resolution, influences how crisp and detailed the image is. Much like a computer monitor or TV, projectors have a certain number of pixels they use to create images and videos. As a result, portable projectors aren't as good for multimedia or home theater use as larger models. This can be a problem in darker environments or with longer distances between the projector and the projection surface. The main drawback is limited brightness compared to traditional lamp and laser projectors. LED lights also have a longer lifespan before burning out and better color production.ĭespite the portability benefits, LED lights do have some limitations. This makes them perfect for portable use where the projector doesn't have to cast the image very far. Instead, portable projectors use LED lights that are smaller and more energy efficient. Given the compact design of portable projectors, most lamps and lasers are too big to fit.
These light sources tend to be more powerful and bright for the larger image size. Larger projectors meant for home theater or business use have powerful bulbs, called lamps, or lasers capable of projecting the image over a larger distance. FeaturesĪ projector requires a central light source to cast an image or video onto a surface. If the screen width and throw distance are the same, for example, the throw ratio is 1:1. This number compares the throw distance with the ideal image width. One way to research and compare products is by looking at throw ratio. Most portable projectors can be placed on a table or desk to project a rectangular image of around 24 x 44 inches on a wall a few feet away. The shorter the distance, the more flexibility you'll have with the placement of the projector. This minimum distance determines how much space you will need in order to use the portable projector with the best image quality possible.Ī short throw distance between two and eight feet is common for portable and compact projectors. The throw distance is the amount of space required between the projector and the projection surface to see an image clearly. Portable projectors lack the brightness of larger models since they use energy-efficient LED lamps that have up to 1,500 lumens versus the 2,500+ lumens of larger projectors. For example, a higher brightness level would be necessary to see a projected image in a brighter room. Surrounding light can affect the visibility of an image. In general, you can expect to have an image between one or two feet.Īn image's brightness impacts how clear and visible it is in different environments. But since most portable projectors can't zoom in and out, there is less adjustability when it comes to the image size. With a traditional projector, you can adjust this size with a lens. The projector's image size is a measurement of how large the image will appear when it's in focus. When choosing a portable projector, consider the image size and brightness to get a sense of the quality you can expect. While image quality depends on the surrounding environment since it's projected onto a wall or other vertical surface, it is mainly influenced by the technology within the projector itself. Key considerationsĪ projector is only as good as the images it produces. Don’t have much experience with home theater projectors or other types of projectors? Owning a portable projector is a great way to learn the basics of screen projection.