Outdoor projectors are becoming more and more popular among homeowners who want to create a cinema-like experience in their backyard. These devices can be a great way to enjoy movies, television, and other media in the comfort of your own space. But with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which projector is right for you. In this article, we'll explore the key factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor projector, such as brightness, resolution, connectivity, and portability.

Brightness is an essential factor when choosing an outdoor projector. Lumens measure the projected image brightness. When shopping for an outdoor projector, it's recommended to opt for a device with at least 3,500 lumens for a good performance. While projectors with 6,000 lumens can be used in schools, corporate events, or larger gatherings, they are overkill for backyard movies. So, stick to something with a minimum of 3,500 lumens, and you'll be good to go.

When it comes to projection technology, you'll often come across three types: LCD, LED, and DLP projection. DLP projectors use millions of micro-mirrors to offer highly detailed images projected onto your screen, resulting in sharper movies with less pixelation when compared to LCD models. Modern LCD projectors now use updated technology to offer brighter images than they used to, though still not as crisp as DLP. Outdoor movie projectors advertised as LCD won't offer as clear a picture as DLP but will be significantly cheaper due to no moving parts or components. As for LED projections, they tend to have a longer lifespan and are considered to be more reliable than LCDs.

Another essential factor to consider when choosing an outdoor projector is the throw ratio and contrast ratio. The throw ratio is the distance from the projector to the screen divided by the width. For example, if you have a 6-foot-wide screen and your throw ratio is 2.0, you should place the projector 12 feet away from the screen. The formula for this is ratio x width = distance. As for contrast ratio, it refers to the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of an image. A higher contrast ratio is better for producing clear, vivid images.

Connectivity is another crucial factor to consider when choosing an outdoor projector. Most outdoor projector come with HDMI ports, but it's worth double-checking to ensure that the device is compatible with your other devices. Some projectors may also have Wi-Fi capabilities, which can be handy for streaming content directly from the internet. It's also worth considering the types of inputs and outputs that the projector has, such as USB ports, audio jacks, and SD card slots.

Finally, portability is a significant factor to consider when choosing an Outdoor projectors. Since you'll be using the device outside, you'll want something that is easy to move around and set up. Consider the weight of the projector and whether it comes with a carrying case. Some projectors are also designed to be weather-resistant, which can be handy if you live in an area with unpredictable weather.