Projectors

Projectors

Update TOP 10 Pocket Projectors 2011


What is the difference between low-cost digital projectors and expensive ones?


I mean in terms of picture quality, reliability etc. I want to get a projector to watch DVDs at home but I don't wanna get a useless one or else an expensive one that gives me stuff I don't really need. Thanks.

What's the difference between a budget and luxury car? Both will take you where you want to go.

Many things go into a digital projector. Like cars the differences can be subtle.

Better projectors will use better components -- better optics, better video processors, better LCD or DLP panels/chips, etc. There will be better thought out design resulting in superior cooling, quieter fans, higher contrast ratio, less light leakage, more user friendly menu structure, etc. A third difference is in extra features, like zoom lens range, horizontal and/or vertical offset adjustment, connectivity options.

But -- as with cars -- more expensive doesn't necessarily give better dependability or performance.

The cost of projectors -- particularly 1080p models -- has decreased greatly in the last couple of years (See the link for a comment on this). A 1080p projector can be purchased for under $2000, even less than some 720p projectors.

There are compromises on the lower priced models within a resolution class ... not quite as good sharpness, not quite the same contrast ratio, a bit less capable video processing, etc. ... but most still represent great value for the money.

If I were buying today I'd be looking at 1080p projectors simply because projectors are the only HDTV capable device where 1080p is ALWAYS a benefit (See Link 2 for why). And the price differential between a 720p and 1080p model has dropped to $1000 or less. If 1080p is still too rich for you, the 720p category has some great choices too (I have a 720p model and am not rushing to replace it any time soon).

That said, there are differences between the projectors in each resolution class (the only fair way to differentiat). The most obvious is in the technical basis for the projector -- LCD, DLP, LCoS -- and in the degree of mounting flexibility (zoom lens range, offset capability).

Past that I highly recommend reading detailed reviews .. particulalry comparative reviews where differences between models are specifically identified ... at the two sites at the links below (3rd and 4th link)

Hope this helps.

ViewSonic PJD5122 SVGA DLP Projector -120Hz/3D Ready, 2500 Lumens, 3000:1 DCR
ViewSonic PJD5122 SVGA DLP Projector -120Hz/3D Ready, 2500 Lumens, 3000:1 DCR
List Price: $649.00
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Description

The PJD5122 delivers 2500 lumens with an 800 x 600 SVGA native resolution. It offers a variety of features including manual zoom/focus and auto vertical keystone correction as well as multiple computer and video inputs, yet it is very easy to set up and use. There are 8 default picture modes including Daylight, Cinema, ViewMatch, Blackboard, Whiteboard and Greenboard. The ECO mode function reduces the fan noise output for less distraction during important presentations and even extends the lamp life up to 6,000 hours. The PJD5122 offers both security bar and Kensington lock port for increased theft deterrence.

Features

  • 5.1 lb projector weight, 800 x 600 SVGA resolution
  • 2500 Lumens and 3000:1 CR, 0.55" Digital Micromirror Device
  • Manual focus and zoom (1.1X), Multiple inputs (Inc. RGB Out)
  • Digital keystone correction, 5 Watt Integrated Speaker
  • Lamp life: 4000/6000 hrs (N/Eco)
3M Pocket Projector (3M MPro160)
3M Pocket Projector (3M MPro160)
Sale Price: $359.00
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Description

The new 3M Pocket Projector MP160 is an ideal tool for people who don't need on-board memory or additional connectivity. Combining 30 lumens of brightness, full color gamut and SVGA resolution with 2 hour battery life, the MP160 merges an attractive feature-set with an affordable price. With its bright crisp images and robust built-in sound you can use it for business presentations, family gatherings, school lessons - anything you would use a projector for. It connects to virtually any gadget - computer, cell phone, iPod/iPhone or PDA to share files, photos, and movies virtually anywhere.

Features

  • Brilliant full color, 30 lumen SGVA Image
  • Two integrated, three-quarter watt stereo speakers with audio out
  • Compatible with virtually any device with video output, including digital cameras, laptops, DVD and MP3 players and game consoles.
  • Projects up to 80" images
  • LED light source with 20,000 hour life means the unit is environmentally friendly and there is no need for a replacement bulb
3M Pocket Projector MPRO120--.33LBS
3M Pocket Projector MPRO120--.33LBS
List Price: $385.00
Sale Price: $147.88
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Description

The 3M™ MPro120 Pocket Projector is a next-generation handheld, battery-operated projector. Whether you’re making an impromptu business presentation or sharing photos with friends, the MPro120 allows you to project images and videos on almost any wall, almost anywhere. Images can be displayed on-the-fly from computers, netbooks or MP3 players, iPods, iPhone and digital cameras. Project image sizes from 8” to 50”. Built-in speakers provide sound. The energy-saving LED light lasts 20,000 hours and provides up to 12 lumens of brightness without ever needing to change a lamp. Features a robust battery life of two to four hours (enough to watch a full length film). The MPro120 is ready to use out of the box and comes with Computer and Video Cables, a protective bag, re-chargeable battery, a table-top tripod , a universal power supply, and a 1 year warranty. The optional adapter cable for Apple products (iPod, iPhone, iTouch) helps you easily connect to share pictures and videos with friends and family. Best of all, it fits in your pocket.

Features

  • The 3M MPro120 projects images from 8 to 50 inches
  • Two integrated, half-watt stereo speakers help transform the MPro120 into a self-contained presentation device
  • Projects eight to 50-inch still or moving image stored on a video capable pass-through device
  • Uses Liquid Crystal on Silicon(LCOS) technology for superb image quality and minimization of component size.
  • LED light source with 20,000 hour life means the unit is environmentally friendly and there is no need for a replacement bulb
Optoma HD20 High Definition 1080p DLP Home Theater Projector (Grey)
Optoma HD20 High Definition 1080p DLP Home Theater Projector (Grey)
List Price: $999.99
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Description

The Optoma HD20 brings a new level of flexibility to your High-Definition home theater/multi-media experience. With true 1080p resolution, the HD20 delivers excellent color saturation and subtle details for superior image quality. With its sleek design and weight of 6.4 lbs, the Optoma HD20 is perfect for sharing big-screen movies, sporting events and concerts or for taking your video gaming to the next level by connecting the HD20 to your favorite game console.

Features

  • True High Def 1080p Resolution
  • 1700 Lumens Brightness
  • 4000:1 Contrast Ratio
  • Up to 300-Inch Screen size
  • Two HDMI, VGA-In, Component Video, Composite Video and +12V Trigger
Vivitek D510 2600 Lumen SVGA HDMI 3-D Ready Portable DLP Projector (White)
Vivitek D510 2600 Lumen SVGA HDMI 3-D Ready Portable DLP Projector (White)
List Price: $699.00
Sale Price: $369.99
You save: $329.01 (47%)
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Description

The Vivitek D510 SVGA digital projector is ready for current and future media applications. With connectivity options including HDMI v1.3, the D510 is 3D-ready and features a brightness level of 2600 lumens and a 2300:1 contrast ratio. Add in DLP and BrilliantColor technologies, the Vivitek D510 is able to deliver sharp, vibrant pictures.

Features

  • SVGA resolution with amazing 2300:1 contrast ratio
  • Bright 2600 lumens for use in versatile lighting scenarios
  • DLP and BrilliantColor technologies for sharp and detailed image quality
  • Closed caption and 3D ready
  • Rapid on/off feature
FAVI RioHD-LED-2 Mini Projector
FAVI RioHD-LED-2 Mini Projector
List Price: $247.00
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Description

LED projector as featured by PC Magazine. The RioHD-LED-2 by FAVI Entertainment offers the perfect balance in performance and affordability for business professionals, educators, gamers and home theater enthusiasts alike.Its revolutionary LED2 technology provides 20,000 hours or 14 years of lamp life (average of 4 hours per day). while boasting 4 times the brightness of a standard pico projectors. The quick connect VGA and portable design make it ideal for laptop presentations. At less than 3 lbs it easily travels with you to work. Bring your projector home for a family movie night or host the entire neighborhood for a drive-in movie by connecting it to your vehicle's 19V power source. *Recommend a FAVI floor stand projection screen for outdoor use.

Features

  • Supports 1080p/1080i/720p resolutions
  • Weighs less than 3 lbs; fits nicely in laptop case
  • Over 5 times as bright as standard LED projectors; LED lamp lasts an incredible 20,000 hours or 14 years (@ 4 hours a day)
  • Connections: 1 x HDMI, 1 x VGA, 1 x Composite A/V, 1 x Component, 1 x S-Video, 1 x headphone/stereo jack
  • Accessories Included: 1 x VGA Cable, 1 x Remote Control, 1 x Composite A/V Cable, 1 x 19V Power Adapter & 1 x User Guide;
Torpedo Entertainment Digital Movie Game Projector - AL100 / AL-100
Torpedo Entertainment Digital Movie Game Projector - AL100 / AL-100
List Price: $299.00
Sale Price: $109.99
You save: $189.01 (63%)
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Description

The Torpedo Digital Projector projects a huge image right on your wall or ceilingIt works with your DVD player gaming console digital camera MP3 player computer TV or cable/satellite boxDelivering a diagonal projection size of over 6 the Torpedo is perfect for getting the most out of your video games movies and other media

Features

  • This Torpedo Game and Entertainment Projector has more than a six-foot diagonal projection
  • Can project movies and video games on the wall or the ceiling
  • Works with DVD players, Wii, X-Box, Nintendo, Playstation, Digital Cameras, iPod, Computers, TV, Cable or Satellite Box and many more
  • This high quality torpedo game and entertainment projector enables you to view photos, watch movies, see video games and more
  • Requires a 35 watt bulb (included), which is easy and inexpensive to replace
InFocus IN102 Portable DLP Projector, 3D ready, SVGA, 2500 Lumens
InFocus IN102 Portable DLP Projector, 3D ready, SVGA, 2500 Lumens
List Price: $399.00
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Description

The InFocus IN102 DLP projector is a new portable segment model that has 2500 lumens with a 1500:1 contrast ratio and a native resolution of 800x600 (SVGA). DLP technology means a lower total cost of ownership and with 2 VGA, S Video, and Composite video inputs it will project a beautiful image from almost any compatible device at 1.85 feet. This unit is perfect for conference rooms, classrooms, and can be transported easily between rooms. The target end users include public sector entities, SMB, and corporate users.

Features

  • Accessories - XS1 Wireless Remote, Lamp for the IN102 (SP-LAMP-060), Power Cord, Soft Carry Case, VGA Computer Cable
  • Bright images in ambient daylight with 2500 lumens
  • Beautiful colors and image quality with DLP technology and InFocus BrilliantColor enhancement
  • Digital zoom magnifies any portion of the projected image to show greater detail
  • SVGA (800 x 600) native resolution
Vivitek D825MS 2600 Lumen SVGA DLP Projector
Vivitek D825MS 2600 Lumen SVGA DLP Projector
List Price: $499.99
Sale Price: $349.99
You save: $150.00 (30%)
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Description

The Vivitek D825MS SVGA 800x600 projector is the perfect solution if you want a true multi-purpose projector for use in the office, school and home. The 2,600 lumen image brightness coupled with Texas Instruments DLP technology, VividWheel color wheel technology for outstanding color quality and 2200:1 contrast ratio create a truly impressive image. The D825MS has VGA, composite video RCA, S-Video, mini Jack and RS-232 inputs for a variety of projection sources. Weighing in at a mere 5.7 lbs, this projector can be easily transported from one meeting to another, or school to home. The D825MS is easy on your wallet, with an economical 4,000 lamp life, you won't have the extra burden of frequently replacing the lamp. Projector ships with a CD user manual, VGA-to-VGA Cable, AC Power cord, Remote control with battery, carrying case and warranty card.

Amazon.com Product Description The highly portable and high-performance Vivitek D825MS Projector offers several performance features that make it ideal for business, education, and other professional organizations. Thanks to BrilliantColor technology and a light output of 2600 lumens, the D825MX lets you project an SVGA image with beautiful image quality and accurate color reproduction as small as two feet and as large as 20.5 feet. DLP and BrilliantColor technology gives you a beautiful picture. The small D825MS can project an image up to 246 inches large. View larger. Connect S-Video, Composite Video, and RGB HD15 inputs to the D825MS. View larger. Compact Design and Features for Convenient Portability The D825MS is designed to meet the needs of mobile professionals who require a compact projector with high-performance features. It measures a compact 11 x 8 x 3.5 inches and weighs just 5.7 pounds, so you can easily tote the projector along to your latest business meeting. The projector also has a fast startup, so you don't need to wait for it to warm up, as well as a fast power down, so you can pick it up and move on to your next meeting when you're done. Its compact size also makes for easy transportation and storage. A built-in Kensington security lock provides protection against theft, and a remote control is included for added convenience. DLP and BrilliantColor Technology for a Bright, Crisp Picture Don't let the small size fool you; the D825MS is built to perform. Utilizing Texas Instruments' DLP technology with BrilliantColor, the Vivitek D825MS provides a bright image with eye-popping colors. It offers 2600 ANSI lumens with a 2200:1 contrast ratio, so you'll be able to see small details in any lighting condition. The efficient lamp has a life of up to 4000 hours in Eco-Mode. The D825MS also features an integrated RS-232C port for remote control of your projector from a personal computer, enabling you to integrate it with third-party control systems for easy system administration. You can view your presentation and keep engaged with your audiences by attaching your personal computer to the projectors’ monitor loop ports. Quiet, Filter-Free Design Lowers Cost of Ownership Unlike some projectors that have a loud and distracting fan, the D825MS operates at a quiet 30 dB in eco-mode and 32 dB in standard mode. The projector also features a filter-free design, so you won't have to worry about clogged filters and removing dirt and dust, lowering your total cost of ownership and reducing maintenance fees. DLP and BrilliantColor Technology for a Bright, Crisp Picture Utilizing Texas Instruments' DLP technology with BrilliantColor, the Vivitek D825MS provides a bright image with eye-popping colors. It offers 2600 ANSI lumens with a 2200:1 contrast ratio, so you'll be able to see small details in any lighting condition. The lamp runs efficiently and has a life of up to 4000 hours in Eco-Mode. Create an Instant Home Theater Experience With a resolution of 800 x 600, the projector displays presentations and videos in great detail. It has a native 4:3 format and a compatibility mode for 16:9 video formats. The projector is compatible with 720p, 1080i (through RGB), NTSC/NTSC 4.43, PAL B/G/H/I/M/N 60, and SECAM. The D825MS features S-Video, Composite Video, and RGB HD15 inputs. It's compatible with VGA, SVGA, XGA, and SXGA. Digital keystone correction lets you adjust the image for any environment. Vivitek D825MS is backed by a three-year warranty for parts and labor, a one-year lamp warranty, and a five-year warranty on the DLP chip. What's in the Box Projector, power cord, VGA cable, remote control with batteries included, user manual CD, and carrying case.

Features

  • Compact SVGA DLP projector provides outstanding brightness and image quality
  • 2600 ANSI lumens and a 2200:1 contrast ratio
  • Projects an image from 24.6 inches to 246 inches
  • Quiet design runs at just 30 dB
  • Backed by three-year warranty for parts and labor, one-year lamp warranty, and five-year warranty on DLP chip
Optoma PT100 PlayTime LED Gaming Projector
Optoma PT100 PlayTime LED Gaming Projector
List Price: $199.00
Sale Price: $179.99
You save: $19.01 (10%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Description

The easy to use PT100 provides portable big screen fun when connected to game consoles, computers, video players and even hand-held devices. Project a 60" widescreen image onto a wall, screen or ceiling from less than 10 feet away. Instantly turns on and off and runs at a cool temperature so it can be conveniently moved from room to room. The PT100's low power consumption is about 10% that of a 42-inch LCD television. Take it with you wherever you go and let the fun follow. The PT100 is lightweight and compact and is ideal for use with video game consoles such as Wii and PS3.

Features

  • 16:9 wide screen display (854x480 native resolution)
  • Works with most video game consoles including Wii and PS3 (adapter may be required), DVD players and set-top boxes
  • LED light source for excellent color and a long lifetime of over 20,000 hours
  • Built in speaker for gaming and movies
  • Versatile VGA and audio/video inputs mean you can connect the PT100 to: Game consoles (Cable and adapters may be required); Computers; DVD players; Cable and Satellite receivers; Digital still and video cameras; VCRs.
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