5 Projector myths you should stop believing

Projectors have improved at a staggering rate over the last few years and some models are viable alternatives to TVs. The portable models are available for camping trips and impromptu movie nights, while home theater models deliver a cinematic experience in your living room.

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the latest projector features and still believe in outdated myths that might have been true years ago, but no longer apply. Here are five projector myths you should stop believing.

Projectors have a short lifespan

Not anymore

This myth is based on older lamp-based projectors and doesn't apply to the latest LED and laser models. Older lamp projectors ran a current through a filament-based bulb to generate the image. This bulb would usually last between 2,000 and 5,000 hours in normal mode and the brightness and image quality would usually start degrading before then.

Modern projectors use LEDs or lasers, which offer superior image quality and longevity compared to the older types. LED projectors usually have a lifespan of around 20,000 to 30,000 hours and don't require maintenance. Laser projectors are pricier than LED models and have a similar 20,000 to 30,000 lifespan. I usually buy cheap LED portable projectors for outdoor use and stick to laser projectors for my living room.

Projectors are difficult to set up

New models solve this issue

This is another myth based on older projectors. In the past, you'd need to get a projector mount that would need to fit into the wall or ceiling. It would require effort to get it fitted and be difficult to move. Sometimes you'll also need to manually set up the focus, keystone, and other settings when using your projector.

Thankfully, those days are gone, and many fantastic projectors are now available with built-in adjustable stands, so you don't need a separate mounting system. The stand offers height and swivel adjustment and finding the perfect positioning takes a few seconds. These projectors also include features, like auto focus, auto keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance and work without manual input.

Older projectors required medium to large rooms to project a focused image. That's no longer the case, and you can find many good short-throw projectors which don't require much space and work in the smallest rooms. I only buy projectors with built-in stands because I can move them from room to room and set them up in no time.

Projectors only work in the darkest rooms

It depends on the projector

This is somewhat true. It comes down to brightness and depends on the projector make and model. Projector technology is always advancing, but most low-to-mid-range models still have under 1,500 lumens of brightness, and will perform well in dark rooms and for nighttime viewing.

However, you can now find many mid-range to premium models offering above 1,500 lumens of brightness, making them viable for lighter viewing conditions. Projectors between 1,500 and 2,500 lumens of brightness will work in a room with moderate ambient lighting. The best projectors now offer above 3,000 lumens of brightness and can work for daytime viewing.

Projectors can't match a TV's picture quality

It's complicated

This is another one that comes down to the projector and lighting conditions. The latest TVs will beat most projectors for daytime viewing, with superior brightness, richer colors, and better contrast. Projectors somewhat make up for their visual shortfalls with giant display sizes that TVs can't match.

Things change as you climb higher up the ladder and high-end laser projectors can go toe-to-toe with TVs when it comes to image quality. These projectors are extremely bright and offer 4K resolution and fast refresh rates. I feel they deliver a better all-around experience in low-light conditions, while TVs are more consistent during the day or night.

Projectors need a screen to work

More of an optional accessory than a necessity

A dedicated projector screen is recommended, but it isn't necessary to enjoy your projector. It's worth getting one if you don't have adequate space on your wall for projecting the image or if it's covered with wallpaper or posters.

I run different projectors in my house and don't stress about getting a screen because I have flat white and cream walls with enough space for the image. I still enjoy excellent picture quality and don't feel like I'm missing out when watching movies or playing games.