How do I calculate projector throw distance?

Projector throw distance = throw ratio × screen width. For a 100-inch (87-inch wide) screen: short-throw projectors (0.4-0.8 throw ratio) need 2.9-5.8 feet; standard-throw (1.2-2.0) need 8.7-14.5 feet; long-throw (2.0+) need 14.5+ feet. Always check your specific projector's throw ratio in its spec sheet — it varies by model. Ultra-short-throw (UST) projectors sit 0-1 foot from the screen. For 4K image quality, a 1.0-gain screen with your calculated throw distance and at least 2,000-3,000 lumens in a dark room produces cinema-quality images. Use a throw distance calculator for your exact projector model.

What screen size should I get for my room?

Screen size recommendation by room dimension: the ideal screen size formula is screen width = viewing distance ÷ 1.5 for THX standard, or viewing distance ÷ 1.2 for immersive 'stadium' seating. A 12-foot viewing distance → 8-foot (96-inch) screen width → 120-inch diagonal (16:9). Most home theaters use 100-120 inch screens for 10-14 foot viewing distances. 4K projectors can support larger screens (up to 150+ inches) while maintaining image clarity at normal viewing distances. For dedicated dark rooms, 1.0-gain white screens; for rooms with ambient light, use ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens with higher gain (1.2-1.5).

How many lumens does a home theater projector need?

Lumens requirements by room type: completely dark, light-controlled room = 1,500-2,000 lumens adequate for 100-120 inch screen; room with some ambient light = 2,500-3,500 lumens; living room with windows = 3,500-5,000 lumens. True cinema-quality contrast requires a dedicated dark room — no projector overcomes significant ambient light as well as a TV does. For 4K HDR content, look for ANSI lumens (not 'peak' or 'maximum' which are measured differently and can be 2-5x higher than ANSI). Laser projectors maintain brightness over time; lamp projectors lose 50% brightness by 2,000-3,000 hours. Common home theater choices: 2,000-3,000 ANSI lumens for dark rooms; 3,500+ for multipurpose rooms.

TV vs Projector Calculator

Compare cost per inch and find the best display for your setup.

Projector wins for your setup

Better value per inch at 100"+ sizes

$45

TV Cost/Inch (85")

$25

Projector Cost/Inch

85"

Break-even Size

Projector

Recommendation

Analysis

For movies in a dim room at 100"+, projectors deliver significantly better value per inch while providing a true cinema experience.

TV Options

Projector Options

Going With a Projector? Calculate Placement

Find exactly where to mount your projector for your screen size

📐

Projector Throw Distance Calculator

The essential next step for projector setups. Calculate mounting distance based on screen size and find if you need standard, short throw, or UST projector.

💡

Projector Brightness Calculator

Calculate lumens needed for your screen size and room lighting conditions for SDR and HDR content.

📺

Screen Size Calculator

Calculate the ideal screen size for your seating distance using THX and SMPTE standards.

Learn More: Display Setup Guides

Choose the right display for your space

🎬

Home Theater Guide

Complete projector vs TV comparison for dedicated theaters, including brightness, contrast, and room considerations.

🎮

Gaming Room Guide

Gaming TV vs projector - input lag, refresh rates, and competitive gaming considerations.

🌙

Backyard Theater Guide

Outdoor display options - projector brightness requirements and portable screen solutions.

Our Top Projector Picks

Epson Home Cinema 2350

Best Value Projector

If the calculator says projector, this is the one to get. 4K PRO-UHD with Android TV built in means no streaming device needed. 2,800 lumens handles dark to moderate rooms.

4K PRO-UHD
2,800 lumens
Android TV
Lens shift

BenQ TK700STi

Best for Gaming

If gaming swayed the calculator toward TV, consider this projector with just 16ms input lag. True 4K with 3,000 lumens and short throw for tight spaces.

4K UHD
3,000 lumens
16ms input lag
Short throw

Optoma UHD50X

Best for Bright Rooms

If ambient light pushed the result toward TV, the UHD50X at 3,400 lumens bridges the gap. Bright enough for rooms where most projectors struggle.

True 4K UHD
3,400 lumens
240Hz
HDR10 & HLG