Projector Screens

About Projector Screens

Modern TVs and projectors offer vibrant, large displays and more entertainment than ever. While new technologies and laser projectors can throw an image almost anywhere, a high-quality projection screen is still the way to get the best of it. 

The projector screen reflects backlight and complements the projector's properties, making shapes and colours virtually pop off the screen. The higher its light-reflecting ability, the brighter and clearer the image will be. It's particularly important for using a movie screen outdoor or in well-lit rooms. At the same time, grey screens increase colour contrast and make a good choice for home theatre. 

Types of Projector Screens

projection screens can be fixed, pull-down, motorized, and portable.

• Fixed projector screens are attached to the wall and require no raising or lowering.
• Pull-down projector screens are manually retractable and can conveniently disappear after use.  
• Motorized or electric projector screens raise or lower by remote control.
• Portable projector screens come with tripod legs or a built-in stand for support.

Fixed Projector Screens

Fixed screens are a permanent fixture in the room. The absence of constant rolling up and down makes them more durable than other types, while many models also offer superior display quality. Fixed projector screens also come in a wide variety of materials. However, all those features come with a matching price tag. 

Manual (Pull-Down) Projector Screens

Pull-down projector screens offer versatile flexibility in a budget-friendly price range. These models feature a pulley at the bottom, used to manually pull the screen up and down. They can be installed on a wall or ceiling recessed-mounted. 

Manual projector screens are relatively light and maintenance-free. While the non-tensioned versions are more affordable, they also bear the risk of bending down and folding due to wear and tear that come with frequent use.

A floor rising projector screen can be easily pulled up. A spring roller rises with the screen to secure it in place when it reaches maximum height. Most models are available in a manual version, but some are available with a pneumatic option and remote control. 

Electric Projector Screens

Motorized screens are button-operated, typically by a remote controller. They are sleek in design and can be mounted into the wall, ceiling, or floor. Some models are available with wood trim that mask the screen when not in use. It's also possible to choose between tab-tensioned and non-tensioned screens.

A recessed ceiling screen is a stylish solution that mimics an actual theatre screen, while the mounted screen provides more flexibility of use. 

Tripod Projector Screens

A portable projector screen's popularity comes from its flexibility of use. There are several standard types; however, the tripod projector screen is by far the most sought-after. 

A tripod screen features a screen, and a three-legged projector screen stand. It's lightweight and can be easily folded down into a carry case. Tripods are affordable and durable, designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear. 

Screen Sizes

While 4K UHD and 8K UHD TVs offer a substantial screen size, a projector with a screen still makes the display much larger than most of them. It's important that the screen size fits the projector's aspect ratio, typically either 4:3, 16:9 or 2.4:1.

Projector screen sizes can extend over 8m in diagonal. It's recommended, before buying, to make sure the screen will fit the space where it will stand. 

Projector Screen Materials 

The projector screen material is a vital factor for quality image display, while the surfaces are distinguished by their reflective properties. Ideally, a projector screen will feature a textureless surface that ensures the best picture quality.

Typically, they are made of vinyl, rubber, spandex, high-grade plastic, or polyester fabric. It's also possible to find versions from canvas and fibreglass; however, vinyl and spandex deliver the best quality images.

The surface of the screen is coated with magnesium carbonate, titanium dioxide or barium sulphate. It allows light reflectiveness and can greatly enhance image visibility.

Most come in one of three key colours: white, grey and black, each with its advantages. 

White Screen

A white projection screen is ideal for a dark room, allowing watching from almost any angle. It's also affordable. 

Gray Screen

Gray projection screens reject ambient light up to a point, which makes them convenient to use in daylight. The improved contrasts are the reason for many manufacturers to call them "high-contrast" models. The bad side is the surface, which can make a smaller viewing cone.

Black Screen

Black projection screens are designed for strong ambient light rejection. A black surface provides the darkest darks and black levels, but at the same time, it can be less accurate in the white levels of the display.

Things to Consider When Buying Projector Screens

Some screens come with special features integrated to improve the projector's performance.

Ambient Light Rejecting or ALR surface reflects the light away to prevent ambient light from washing out a projected image. 

An acoustically transparent projection screen transmits the sound, allowing home audio speakers to be placed behind the screen. It enhances both the viewing and listening experience.

Rear projection means that the projector should be placed behind the screen.

An ultra-short throw projector screen is designed specifically to enhance the image from an equivalent projector or laser TV. 

If you need assistance to find the right projector screens for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.