When searching for a Best outdoor projector, many criteria come into play: The contrast, the sensor, the resolution or the brightness, which is related to the number of lumens present. But what is it exactly and how many lumens do I need for a projector?
What is Lumens
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The lumen is a scientific unit of measure (such as grams, meters, etc.), which allows knowing the luminous flux. This is the number of lux for 1 m². One can write 100 lumens or 100 lm, but the symbol is little known, it is very little used.
The lumens are featured on the description of devices such as mini projectors and packaging of light bulbs.
Also, Read Projector Buying Guide
More clearly this gives an indication of the diffused brightness. And if for a lamp it allows knowing if the bulb will illuminate strongly or not, for a projector, it allows knowing how far the images will be visible.
The more lumens, the brighter, the more visible, the better!
How Many Lumens Do I Need For a Projector
All manufacturers specify the number of lumens on their device. These represent the value that makes it possible to measure the brightness of the projector.
In normal conditions, the device is supposed to work optimally in a dark environment. But depending on the brightness of the projector, it will be possible to project an image or a film in a bright room, and it depends on the number of lumens present.
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From 1000 To More Than 3000 Lumens
Expressed in ANSI lumens, this brightness differs according to the type of projector. The value of 1000 lumens, which corresponds to 1000 lux for 1 m², is the minimum necessary, but many devices have at least 1600 lumens, and a number have 2000 or even more than 3000 lumens for the most efficient. The higher the number of lumens, the more the projector can project in a bright environment.
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The Number of Lumens You Need | Comparison Table
This table will also relief you in determining what lumen-rating projector you should buy:
| Screen Size (Foot) | Min Lumens required | Perfect Lumens required |
|---|---|---|
| 9x5 | 1,500 | 2,300 |
| 12x7 | 2,300 | 3,000 |
| 16x9 | 3,000 | 4,500 |
| 20x11 | 4,500 | 7,500 |
| 25x14.5 | 5,000 | 10,000 |
| 40x22.5 | 5,500 | 12,000 |
Also Read: Best Projector Under $1000 (Indoor & Outdoor) | Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Choosing The Right Projector According To The Lumens
Choosing the right projector for brightness will depend on the use that will be made of it. In addition to the criterion of contrast which is important, that of the lumens is to be taken into account in a suitable way.
If the device is used to broadcast movies indoors in the evening, in a very dark environment, it is not essential to look for very high levels of lumens: an entry-level model (100 lumens) will do the job.
If you are looking for budget projects then read our great guide on 10 Best Projector Under $500 | Buyer’s Guide & Products Overview
In the case of professional use during the day, or even outdoors, it will be important to opt for models of 2000 or 2500 lumens to ensure optimal operation.
What Lumens to be chosen in case of Pico Projector
If all projections take place in near-darkness, then it is possible to limit to 100 lumens.
If you hope to darken to the maximum without always knowing the projection locations, do not take less than 500 lumens.
And if you need a light source (to take notes) or you can not control the brightness, then you need a device with at least 800 or 1000 lumens.
Also Read: Best Outdoor Projector Screen Products Overview | Buyer’s Guide
Conclusion
Impossible to cut down on the quality of lumens!
Of course, if the resolution is too low and you project diagrams, no one will be able to read you. And if the display is only one meter diagonal while you have people sitting in 10 rows, those in the bottom will not see anything.
But lumens are essential for us to see something. Think back to your childhood: is it possible to shadow the wall with a bad torch?
No! Here, it’s the same thing, we’ll only see a bright spot and shadows if you save money on that.
so this was all about the number of lumens you required for a projector.
I hope you like it.
