What to consider when you buy a HD Projector?
There are many things to consider before a purchase is made. While the most basic consideration is on how the projector is being used and whether the purchase is value for money, many users are more concerned about the performance that can be promised by a HD projector.
Basically, a HD projector supports 720p onwards, and the higher resolution projects better quality images. The table below gives some indications to the resolutions:
| Resolution | Pixels (WxH) | Total display pixels |
| Standard TV | 525 x400 | 210,000 |
| 480p | 854 x 480 | 409,920 |
| Standard DVD | 720 x 576 | 414,720 |
| 720p | 1280 x 720 | 921,600 |
| 1080p | 1920 x 1080 | 2,073,600 |
Screen format for HD is either 16:9 for a HD aspect ratio, while 4:3 is the norm for standard tv. Any mismatch of this aspect ratio may result in picture cut with approximately 25% unused screen.
Sound does not always come with a projector, even if some do have integrated speakers. Users are advised to have separate audio setup for full home theater experience.
Size and shape of room
This is the first consideration for purchase of any projector, not just a HD projector or a home theater. There are concerns about whether the room space is sufficient for the projector to project a decent sized image onto the screen. Users should get the basic measurement and seek recommendation of models to accommodate the room, rather than asking the sales person for just “the best there is in technology”.
Room lighting and ambience
Another consideration is the ambience of the room for projection. Even though HD projectors are getting more sophisticated and less affected by light, users should consider this carefully. A bright room will need a higher lumen projector, while a darker room will suffice with anything from 800 lumens onwards.
Technology
There is always the consideration on whether to get an LCD, DLP or LCoS projector. While the DLP projector may seem like the ideal choice, an LCD projector have better color saturation, brightness and display much more detailed images. Meanwhile, LCoS provides much higher resolutions, yet it is more expensive and limited lamp life. Users will have to decide on which feature can be compromised based on usage.
Weight
The weight of a projector is also an issue. If a projector is to be mounted, users may opt for heavier ones averaging 8lbs, while those carrying it around may prefer something lighter, perhaps at 6lbs. 4lbs projectors are also available, but the price is also higher. It all depends on the mobility you want.
Zoom lens
It makes perfect sense if a projector comes with a zoom lens, at least there is slightly more flexibility when it comes to setting up and adjusting it in a small room.
Warranty
The purchase of a projector is not a cheap purchase, and users should enjoy consumer rights of a warranty. Projector lamps, especially, easily breaks at least once in the lifetime of a projector. It is important as this will be added to the cost in the long run.
Price
The ultimate is not just the price of the purchase, but also for the maintenance. Users should find out if the prices of parts are reasonable, and whether the parts can be easily available, especially for the lamps. This may be one of the last considerations in mind, given that users will need to pay a little higher for quality.
