Try something new this summer and experience an outdoor cinema with friends and family. Whether you are looking to project movies or just watch the game on the big screen either in the garden or camping, we have you covered with every screen and projector option to suit every budget.
Use a projector for multiple applications other than just for outdoors such as creating a home cinema entertainment system on the big screen, gaming, zoom, work and more. Read more to find out tips and tricks on maximising your outdoor cinema experience.
See recommendations below for ultra portable projectors, bright lamp based projectors and screens. Also, check out the video below for more information on how to project outdoors and how different levels of shade from outdoors to indoors and the projector's ansi lumens (brightness) can make a huge difference to your image quality.
Also, see Outdoor Projectors & Screens, Summer of Sport: Screens or Summer of Sport: Projectors for a wide range of projectors and screens ideal for outdoor projection.
Watch VIDEO below for best outdoor & projector screen ideas
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Tips & Tricks for Projecting Outdoors Projecting outside during the day can be tricky as the sunlight can fade images just like on a TV, however, there are plenty of solutions to help maximise the viewing experience. Here are just some below:
- Using a gazebo / canopy is a great way to block off direct sunlight and stop the projected image fading
- Use an Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) screen with a high gain to increase the brightness (some ALR screens are only suitable with UST projectors, please check that your projector is compatible with the screen).
- Use a portable projector in a tent and enjoy a memorable camping trip.
- Alternatively, project in the shade where the sun isn’t facing
Here is an example of a 3,200 Ansi Lumen projector being used indoors and outdoors with minimal shade. The outdoor projected image can be improved by increasing the shade e.g. using side shades or a gazebo.
Other safety tips for projecting outdoors:
- - Projecting outdoors can be cold, especially at night, be sure to bring blankets, covers or electric heaters to keep you comfortable and warm whilst you enjoy the movie.
- - Always remember to keep the projectors away from any water, turn off sprinklers and move drinks away from the projector.
- - Don't forget an extension lead to plug in your devices outside, preferably waterproof to avoid any damages.
- - Remember to bring the equipment indoors at night and keep in a safe place.
- - Keep cables out of the way, save any accidents and secure them down.
Creating Your Outdoor Cinema
When creating an outdoor cinema choosing the right projector and screen for your setup is critical.
We have selected a range of options from high powered lamp projectors, portable LED projectors to a range of outdoor screens to suit every budget. These will work in shaded areas during the day, at dusk or at night, providing glorious images up to 120" that will transport you into the movie or the game.
High Brightness Lamp / Laser Based Projectors
See full range of outdoor projectors here: https://personalprojector.co.uk/collections/summer-of-sport-1
These projectors are ideal for projecting outdoors with their high brightness. There is a trade off between lamp projectors and portable projectors.
Portable projectors offer portability, wireless connectivity, LED light source, android and built in battery whereas lamp based projectors generally speaking only offer high brightness, without all these other features, and are mains powered so an extension cable may be needed.
Bear in mind when reviewing lumens on Amazon or Ebay lumens are often quoted at 6 to 20 times the real ansi lumen figure so be sure to compare like with like. For example, some of the 4000 - 5000 ansi lumen models below would equate to 100,000 lumens using the marketing lumens method of comparison!
| Key Features | Pico Genie PG10K | Acer H6830BD | AWOL LTV 3500 (UST) |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Brightness (Ansi Lumens) | 10000 | 4000 | 3000 |
| Resolution | WUXGA (1920 x 1200) | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Native Aspect Ratio | 16:10 | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Speakers | 10 Watt | 10 Watt | 36 Watt |
| Audio In / Out | 3.5mm In / Out | 3.5mm In / Out HDMI Audio Return |
1* S/PDIF |
| Operating System | No | No | Yes |
| Waterproof | No | No | No |
| Battery Life | Mains Only | Mains Only | Mains Only |
| Weight (kg) | 9.98 | 2.92 | 9.5 |
| Dimensions ( H x W x D – cm) | 48 x 18 x 42 | 32.2 x 22.5 x 9.38 | 60 x 35.3 x 14.5 |
Portable: All-In-One Projectors
See full range of outdoor projectors here: https://personalprojector.co.uk/collections/summer-of-sport-1
Most portable projectors are not as bright as lamp-based projectors but have more features such as built-in battery, android operating system, wireless connectivity and more. However, there will be plenty of projectors on Amazon claiming to be much brighter than they actually are by 6 to 20 times the true figure!
Portable projectors are a perfect all-in-one solution when projecting at night, in a tent / gazebo or in the shade. Most of the portable models have standard TRIPOD MOUNTS on the base of the projector so you can put them on a mini tripod eg on a table or on a large floor standing tripod. You can also simply mount them on any flat surface but the tripods help angle the projector onto the screen and are a well worth while accessory to invest in. £14 - £29
| Key Features |
Pico Genie Impact 2.0 Plus |
Pico Genie Impact 4.0 Plus |
Pico Genie M550 3.0 Plus |
BenQ GS50 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Brightness (ANSI Lumens) | 250 | 500 | 650 | 500 |
| Resolution | FWVGA (854x480) | qHD (960×540) with 4K Compatibility | WXGA (1280x800) | 1080p |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Speakers | 1.5W | 5W | 2.2W | 5W (x2) + 10W Woofer |
| Input Connections | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, AUX, USB-C (Charging), Touchpad | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, USB-C, MicroSD, AUX, Touchpad | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, AUX, AV, LAN, Touchpad | HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, AUX |
| Audio In / Out | AUX Out | AUX Out | AUX Out | AUX Out |
| Operating System | Android 7.1 | Android 9 | Android 9 | Android 9 |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 Hours | Up to 2 Hours | Up to 3 Hours | Up to 2.5 Hours |
| Weight (kg / lbs) | 0.174kg / 0.38 lbs | 0.63kg / 1.38 lbs | 0.685kg / 1.43 lbs | 2.3kg / 5.07 lbs |
| Dimensions (H x W x D – cm) | 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 | 16 x 9 x 5 | 20 x 12 x 5 | 19 x 16 x 15 |
| Waterproof | No | No | No | Yes |
| Price Inc Vat (subject to change) | £263 | £399 | £549 | £939 |
ChiQ M3000: Highest Spec Portable LED Projector On the Market With Smart TV
Also check out the CHiQ M3000, a compact, full HD powerhouse projector with 8K chipset. The CHiQ M3000 is one of the highest spec portable LED projectors on the market today, with cutting edge technology, the M3000 is perfect for home cinema, business, gaming or watching TV on a much bigger screen.
Outdoor / Indoor Screen Options:
Choose from a range of projector screens for use both indoors and outdoors. Options include fixed frame, portable, easy setup or even Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) to reduce sunlight. Note, none of these screens are waterproof and will need to be taken down at the first site of rain however they can be used indoors and outdoors. Here are some useful screens for outdoor use.
- Inflatable Screens (140"")
- Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) Screens (Fixed frame flat packed)
- Fixed Frame
- Wall / ceiling screens ideal to fix on a wall or shed
- Portable Screens (tripod, fast fold from 80"" to 140")
Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) Screens for use with UST Projectors With new ambient light rejection technology, create a more impressive and brighter image in daylight conditions. ALR material is designed to reflect the projected image, promoting the deep black levels and vibrant colours while absorbing the ambient light to prevent the image from fading.
Please note, some ALR screens only work with ultra short throw projectors although it is possible to have ALR for non UST models so it is important to take advice first.
Please contact us via email, live chat or by phone. There are two separate options for ambient light rejection screens to be used outdoors.
CHiQ 100” - 120" S-CK ALR Black Grid Projection Screen (UST)
With CHiQ's advanced material technology, the CHiQ rollable series offering a screen gain of 0.8 (UST version) and a huge gain of 2 (NON-UST version) while enhancing the image contrast making it perfect for brighter areas whether that be your garden, shed or lounge.
See more ALR/CLR screens here:
https://personalprojector.co.uk/collections/alr-clr-screens
The Celexon Inflatable 140" projection screen is the ideal screen for your outdoor cinema. This packs down to a manageable size and once fully set up delivers a monster 140" viewable screen size.
Setting up this portable inflatable screen is simple. Simply use the included pump to inflate the screen in seconds and attach the screen fabric which can be front (standard) or rear projection (optional) ! See the video below to see how fast this huge outdoor projector screen inflates.
Portable Screens
We have a wide choice of screen options for indoor and outdoor use that divide into fast fold screens with flight cases that go from 80" to 140", alternatively we have 80" lightweight tripod projector screens.
When using lightweight projector screens such as the 80" Tripod Screen, it is recommended using tent pegs, sandbags or rope tensioner to keep the screen safely in place.
Electric / Manual Pull Down Screens
These wall or ceiling mounted screens fix with ease to a shed, wall or fence panel. They are designed for indoor use so as with all screens its essential to make sure they can be quickly removed in case the weather changes.
See all MANUAL pull down screens here
See all ELECTRIC pull down screens here
Need help choosing the best projector or screen to meet your requirements? Please contact us via live chat, email or phone (01924 589 589).