Today, you don't have to go to the cinema to see a good movie in a comfortable environment. It is enough to purchase a special device for your home and enjoy the built system. The best home theater projector is not easy to choose as there is a wide range of devices from different manufacturers on the market.
The first thing before buying is recommended to familiarize yourself with the home theater ratings that are relevant in 2020. All devices are divided into categories. When compiling, the opinion of experts, users, as well as the statements of the manufacturers themselves were taken into account.
Content
Selection criteria
To begin with, it is worth considering the criteria that are recommended to be followed when choosing the right projector for your home theater. First, you need to decide for what purpose this system is purchased, as well as its size and functionality. It is worth paying attention to the light source, optics and other important indicators.
The purpose of the projector
As a rule, all projectors can be divided into several groups according to their purpose. They can be used for work, entertainment, home theater, or business tools. In each case, it is worth considering individual parameters:
- Any budget device is suitable for study or work;
- Home theater must have a high level of brightness, contrast and color reproduction;
- Business projectors must have good mobility, be compatible with various devices from different manufacturers, and be easy to set up. Otherwise, it may be difficult to make presentations;
- If the device is purchased for entertainment venues, it is recommended to choose an option with good protection against external contamination. The model must support a long-term continuous operation.
Device functionality
Today, you can find many models with different options. The most popular ones are shown in the following list:
- 3D technology support;
- Wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and so on;
- Image inversion for ceiling mounting
- Ability to connect additional devices via USB and other interfaces;
- Image correction for different cardinal points;
- Number of outputs for connecting main and additional equipment;
- The presence of a special panel and the ability to program it for various functions.
It should be understood that the more features are implemented in the model, the higher its final price will be.
Appliance dimensions
It can be difficult to choose the best projector for all occasions. Today, there are various types of devices in question on the market, which differ in size and other parameters. Thus, certain models may be suitable for some needs and not useful for others.
Today, all the best home theater projectors in 2019 are divided into three main types:
- Stationary;
- Portable;
- Pocket.
In the first case, the unit is attached to a certain surface and is not transferred to another place.Portable devices are more mobile and can be carried within the same building. The latter are the most mobile, have additional batteries and can be used in any conditions. If desired, you can run such a device on the street.
Optical component
It is worth considering the optical system that is used in the projector. The most expensive models have the ability to independently adjust the image size using the remote control. In more budgetary options, this function is performed manually using the ring on the lens. It should be noted that in some projects this option is completely behind.
If we consider portable and pocket devices, then it is customary to use a short-throw lens in them. It is used for small spaces and creates a large image at a short distance. In the case of stationary projectors, the telephoto option is used.
The best models have the ability to change short and long lenses depending on the user's needs.
Light source
The final image that will be produced by the device depends on the type of light source. Today, there are models on the market using LEDs, lasers, halogen or other lamps. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Thus, if you use a halogen lamp, then the luminous flux will provide a bright and uniform picture. However, such units have a relatively short service life and require regular replacement. More practical in this regard are laser lamps that last much longer. However, their cost is also much higher. LED lamps can also be used, but they do not give such a strong light output as their counterparts.
The most common projector using laser lamps is the Star Rain model. It can be purchased from popular online stores. For example, AliExpress.
Best Home Cinema Projectors 2019
Which projector is better depends on the user's needs. In one case, a budget pocket option may be ideal, while in another, you will need to purchase an expensive stationary model. Therefore, it is recommended to build on individual conditions.
We propose to consider the 7 most popular models that are in high demand in the electronics market. Before purchasing, it is recommended to study the 2020 projector review and evaluate all its advantages with disadvantages. All reviews are sorted in ascending order by price category.
XGIMI Z3
The XGIMI Z3 model from Chinese manufacturers opens the list of the best home theater projectors in 2020. It is rightfully considered one of the most budgetary options for such a unit. Considering the price, the device is distinguished by attractive technical characteristics, which made it possible to achieve good quality in use.
It has a quad-core processor, 1 GB of RAM and 4 GB of internal memory. The brightness level is 400 lumens, and the noise level can reach 30 dB. These figures are factory set and are suitable for use in a dark room. Under other conditions, it is allowed to independently adjust the brightness using a special remote control.
XGIMI Z3 supports HD resolution and 5000 to 1 contrast ratio. 3D technology is supported. Standard LED lamps are used as the light source, which can last for 30,000 hours. However, it should be borne in mind that they are not of the highest quality in terms of the displayed image.
Based on the feedback and expert opinion, this is a great option for the money. It is inferior to many of the more expensive counterparts, but if cost is the underlying factor, then this is the best choice.
Pros:
- Lots of connectors for various interfaces;
- Long service life of LED lamps;
- Simple menu in an intuitive style;
- Wireless network support (Wi-Fi);
- The presence of a remote control;
- Stylish appearance.
Minuses:
- Low brightness due to LED lamps;
- Poor quality when rendering dark shades;
- Lack of backlight on the remote control.
The cost of this model varies from 25,900 to 26,500 rubles.
Vivitek Qumi Q5
The next in line is a more expensive and high-quality projector called Vivitek Qumi Q5. The device is small in size, but on its surface there are many different ports for different interfaces. You can connect HDMI, USB, 3.5 mm, AV here. And also a connector is implemented that acts as an adapter to VGA.
The maximum image resolution is 1200 x 800 pixels. This is not the best format, but for a home theater you can get by with this option. As in the previous case, LED lamps are used. The contrast is 3500 to 1. The average noise level is 36 dB.
The Vivitek Qumi Q5 has a built-in speaker that is capable of delivering sound up to 2W. Internal storage up to 4 GB can be used. Supports connection to wireless networks. In the kit, the user receives a cord for connecting an external power supply, a small HDMI cable, an AV adapter, a remote control, and a carrying bag. Thus, this model is portable.
The manufacturers of this projector claim that it is best suited for home watching movies, playing games and making simple presentations in the office or classroom. If necessary, you can purchase a separate battery that will allow you to turn on the device in any conditions. She holds a charge for one and a half hours. This is enough for, for example, watching a movie.
Pros:
- Simple control without complications;
- Long service life of LED lamps;
- Mobility due to light weight and size;
- Modern design style;
- Availability of an option for stand-alone use;
- High-quality contrast.
Minuses:
- Makes a lot of noise when working;
- Built-in speakers are too quiet;
- Almost impossible to use in the light;
- There is no manual scaling. To do this, you must move the projector yourself to a suitable location.
The cost of Vivitek Qumi Q5 varies from 38,000 to 47,300 rubles.
BenQ MX819ST
Next in line is a mobile projector from the well-known BenQ company. This model is already significantly more expensive than the previous options, but it has the best quality that you can get for the money. The brightness of the MX819ST reaches 3000 lumens, which no previous model can boast. It supports 3D image, and the contrast ratio is 13 thousand to one.
The built-in speakers can also be called high-quality and powerful when compared to the speakers in Vivitek. There are 2 sound devices installed here, each of which reaches 10 watts. Thus, if the projector is used in a small room, then this will be enough.
In terms of connectors, you can connect HDMI, USB, VGA, S-Video, tulips, 3.5mm, composite or component cables, and LAN. However, Wi-Fi is not supported here. Therefore, you will have to use a network cable to connect.
Additional features are worth noting. For example, if the device is inactive for 3 minutes or more, the lamp will automatically dim. Thus, its service life can increase several times.
If you start from the opinion of experts, then the cost of this device is somewhat overestimated and you can find better quality analogues for this money. However, all users who have already bought this device are completely satisfied with the product they received and do not criticize it.
Pros:
- Good brightness level;
- Built-in speakers with powerful sound;
- Many different interfaces;
- Support for 3D technology;
- The presence of an eco-option;
- Large diagonal spread, which allows the device to be used at different distances indoors.
Minuses:
- Makes a lot of noise when working;
- Low image resolution;
- Low lamp life.
Depending on the chosen electronics store, this model can be purchased for a cost of 38 to 55 thousand rubles.
Acer 7850
Next in line is Acer 7850 from a well-known company, which is especially popular on the market. Manufacturers claim that 4K is supported here. However, in reality it is defective. The maximum picture resolution reaches 2176 by 1528 pixels. In this case, the image is displayed twice. The first is superimposed on the second with an offset of half a point. Thus, there is a sense of 4K format. But this is not him.
Manufacturers say this is the best home theater model in 2020. It has everything you need for this, and the brand name confirms the reliability of the product. The brightness of the lamp, as in other analogs, is 3000 lumens. The noise level during operation is quite low and reaches 29 dB.
The device has 2 speakers of 5 watts each. This may not be enough. However, if the model is purchased for home theater, then in any case you will have to buy additional speakers for surround sound. The projector weighs only 2 and a half kilograms. Thus, it is portable and can be transported with ease.
Pros:
- Works quietly and does not make noise;
- The presence of a convenient remote control;
- High definition, claimed as 4K;
- Long service life of the light source;
- Good brightness.
Cons:
- The brightness is not evenly distributed over the working surface;
- There are no wireless systems.
Today such a model can be purchased for 130-140 thousand rubles. It depends on the electronics store you choose.
Acer Predator Z850
The Acer Predator Z850 is a more expensive model from Acer, which is rightfully considered one of the best projectors in its price range. As a light source, special lasers with a brightness of up to 3000 lumens are used here. Thus, the user of this device can forget about the need for replacement for a long time.
There are two modes: standard and eco-friendly. In the first, the laser lamp will be able to work about 20 thousand hours, and in the second, this number rises to 30. The contrast is 10,000 to 1. The maximum image resolution is Full HD. A built-in speaker with a power of 10 V has been implemented. The noise level during operation can reach 33 dB, which is not very comfortable.
Particular attention was paid to interfaces. The user can use ports for VGA, HDMI, RCA, USB, mini jack, LAN and miniUSB. The device must be located 0.6 meters or more from the projection surface. The diagonal of the image can vary from 0.78 to 2.6 meters.
The manufacturers claim that the Acer Predator Z850 is perfect for video game lovers, as evidenced by its custom design. However, it should be borne in mind that this is the most suitable direction of use for such a device. Large-format films will not be reproduced with sufficient quality than in analogs.
Pros:
- High quality light source with a long service life;
- 3D technology;
- Even distribution of light over the entire work surface;
- High brightness indicator;
- An excellent choice for gamers.
Minuses:
- Not suitable for home theater with widescreen movies;
- Quite slow built-in media player;
- Lack of wireless systems.
In 2020, the cost of the Acer Predator Z850 model hovers around 100 thousand rubles.
Sony VPL-VW260 ES
Next in line is the most expensive projector from the Sony company of the same name. It is worth noting that although it is the most expensive in this rating, it is the cheapest option among all models with support for 4K resolution. If the price does not play an initial role when choosing a projector, then this is one of the best options that will serve its user for many years.
The maximum image resolution in the Sony VPL-VW260 ES is 4096 by 2160 pixels. It should be noted that special software is installed here, which automatically improves the picture at Full HD quality. The brightness level is not so high, so you will have to use the model in a dimmed room.
It supports HDR, which is automatically activated at the moment when needed.The permissible diagonal ranges from 1.5 to 7.6 meters. Focus adjustment is performed manually by the user. It is worth noting the low noise during operation, which reaches only 26 dB.
The number of connectors is poor. Only the most popular standards are used here, such as LAN, USB and HDMI. If necessary, you can purchase a special adapter for other devices separately. Like other models, it supports 3D, and comes with a backlit remote control.
Oddly enough, the Sony model is stationary. Its transportation requires effort, since the total weight of the structure is 14 kilograms. In the basic kit, the user will find several legs for mounting on a horizontal surface, and a mechanism is also implemented that allows you to install the projector on the ceiling.
A significant drawback of this model is its low brightness, which is inferior to more budget models. However, this is compensated by the fact that in all other aspects the user gets the best quality. Moreover, it is the cheapest 4K projector available today.
Pros:
- High contrast;
- Affordable price for 4K;
- Stylish backlit remote control;
- 3D technology;
- High-quality color rendering;
- Invisible noise during operation.
Minuses:
- Low brightness.
The model in question can be purchased for 350 thousand rubles.
