The entry of 3D projectors into the market quickly opened the eyes of many to what we have been missing in terms of viewing experience. The projector technology may not have grown as other technologies which is why 3D projectors brought so much excitement to the viewing population. With top quality built-in speakers, HDMI ports, improved image quality, superior brightness, color accuracy, and several other impressive qualities, using a projector on the big screen is a lot more fun than ever.
To get the ultimate experience from a 3D projector, you will have to buy the very best ones on the market. It is not often easy to identify these models which is why we are here to help. The first thing to know is that there are actually two different types of 3D projectors, Active and Passive 3D projectors. We will discuss the major difference between these projectors and other information you need to buy the best projector for any specific need in the buying guide.
But first, here’s our list of the 10 best picks.
Top 10 Best 3D Projectors
1. Epson POWERLITE W16SK3000
This features two Powerlite W16SK 3D projectors, dual projector stacking mount, one pair of passive 3D glasses, 2 polarizing filters, 2 power cords, 1 USB cable, Remote control with 2 AA batteries, 3 projector feet, quick setup guide, User’s guide CD, and Tip sheet. It is basically a complete passive 3D projector system, and with a silver screen, you can immerse everyone in ultra-bright 3D imagery, using this. It offers a viable and affordable option to enjoy passive 3D projection once you have passive 3D glasses for everyone.
One of the major reason we consider this one of the best projectors out there is the fact that it can be set up easily. In addition to that, it offers versatile connectivity, giving you the options of HDMI, computer/VGA inputs, monitor output, audio input, audio output, USB and RS-232c. In addition to 3D, you can also use this stacked system to view 2D content in a big brilliant way.
2. Epson Home Cinema 2040
This is one of the projectors that will bring the big screen to your home without any compromise, thanks to the innovative 3LCD technology design that is immune to the rainbow disadvantage. You will get full HD 1080p entertainment up to 300 inch on virtually any wall or screen supported by advanced functionality. It has a brightness output of 2200 lumens which is unaffected by ambient light as well as dynamic contrast ratio up to 35,000:1 for rich details even in dark environment. It is considered one of the most valuable projectors on the market.
Some other things that make this projector attractive include frame interpolation, images enhancement, low noise output, short lag time and integrated speaker. It also has a compact size that makes it portable. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with any 3D glasses but you can easily buy as many as you want.
3. Sony VPL-VW295ES
Unarguably, this ranks among the very best 4K 3D projectors of all time. It is a high-end product from one of the industry heavyweights and delivers beyond expectations. It will bring lifelike 4K HDR resolution to any room, displaying full 8.8 million pixels across three SXRD imagers simultaneously for a total of over 26.5 million pixels. Combined with 1,500 Lumens for high brightness and High Dynamic Range, you will always get improved realism from this projector.
This Sony 3D projector has all the essential features you need for complete cinematic experience and more. It is also perfect for gaming since it supports input lag reduction. You get Advanced Reality Creation from the most advanced projector technology. In the box, you will get almost everything you need to set up the system including a CD-ROM Operating Instruction.
4. Sony VPLHW45ES
Another great product from Sony, this is definitely one of the very best projectors in the world. It has a Full HD Resolution of 1080p x 1920p that combines with 3500 lumens to deliver unbeatable immersive viewing experience. It employs Motionflow technology that eliminates any chances of flickering. It also has a built-in RF transmitter that can sync most 3D active glasses.
The Sony VPLHW45ES delivers excellent home theater and gaming experience majorly because of the advanced SXRD panel technology that combines with Sony’s Super Resolution processing technology for refined, subtle details, colors and texture. This is what Advance Reality Creation is all about. It also offers dual HDMI connectivity and 6000 lamp life.
5. BenQ TK800
This is a true 4K UHD projector that can ultimately transform your viewing experience. You are certain of getting stunningly lifelike video with this projector. With its simple and convenient design, the lightweight projector combines aesthetic beauty with intuitive functionality. It supports faux-4K and uses 0.47″ single-DMD-chip DLP technology to flash the image four times in fast succession to create an image with a resolution of 8.3 million pixels.
Another exceptional thing about the BenQ TK800 4K UHD home theater projector is its brightness. It is capable of delivering 3000 ANSI Lumens bright images that will make the right impact even in less ideal conditions. It also has excellent motion handling capabilities which makes gaming with the projector more fun. Other interesting key features include HDR10 Support, Vertical Keystone, Dual HDMI Ports, and 10,000 Hour Lamp Life.
6. BenQ HT2050
For the true cinematic colors that evoke the right feelings, this is one of the best 3D home theater projectors to buy. BenQ never disappoint so you can trust this amazing projector to bring the theater experience home in its complete form. With its remarkable full HD 1080p resolution and completely balanced color, you will get the right thrills from using this valuable projector.
The BenQ HT2050 features CinemaMaster’s Audio Enhancer which is basically a 10-watt stereo speaker housed in resonant sound chambers. This and several other features like zero latency and dynamic frequency selection will ensure that you enjoy full cinematic entertainment in your home. It is a quiet and energy efficiently projector that comes from one of the most reliable brands in the market.
7. Optoma HD141X
This is another advanced product that ranks among the best of the best 3D home theater projectors on the market. It is ideal for watching movies, TV shows, sports, and for gaming too. A well-designed projector that comes with a full definition 1080p resolution and digital connectivity, this will create razor sharp pictures and stunning videos while providing top-level reliability and longevity.
The Optoma HD141X projector can display true 3D content from any 3D source such as 3D Blu-ray players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest generation games consoles. It offers MHL connectivity that allows you to turn it to a smart display for tablets and smartphones. It is also embedded with two different HDMI ports. It comes with a 10 watt audio system to deliver the ultimate experience.
8. Optoma HD27 3200
Another wonderful projector from Optoma, this is one of the best in its price range. It is a budget-friendly 3D projector but comes packed with so much value. It offers full HD 1080p that guarantees sharper, more detailed projection. With 25,000:1 contrast ratio and keystone correction, users can choose the best effect easily. The brightness output is also impressive at 3200 ANSI lumens which is combined with brilliant, vibrant colors to render perfect cinematic viewing experience.
Another impressive thing you will enjoy about the Optoma HD27 projector is the extended lamp life of 8000 hours. The projector also comes with a powerful built-in 10W speaker that provides the right sound quality.
9. InFocus IN112XA
This is one of the most affordable projectors in this list: this doesn’t make it inferior to the others. It is highly regarded for its ability to beam perfect images. It is also a very versatile projector that offers great performance and connectivity. With SVGA (800×600) resolution and accurate, vivid color reproduction with BrilliantColor technology, you can expect good quality images from the projector. It also features high 26,000:1 contrast ratio and 3,800 Lumens that play key roles in its stunning image performance.
Coming from an industry-leading brand like Infocus, this is a very valuable option for individuals on a budget. It supports multiple forms of 3D including Blu-Ray, broadcasting, video games, and PC connectivity. With the appropriate 3D glasses, everyone in the room will have an awesome 3D experience.
10. ViewSonic PJD5255 3300
This is not one of the latest projectors on the market but remains one of the very best XGA projectors from ViewSonic, an industry leader. It works on 3300 Lumens which combines with the 22000:1 contrast ration and superior SuperColor technology to provide super-rich and vibrant images. The native WXGA 1280×800 resolution is supported by intuitive, user-friendly design and many important features to make this a high-performance projector.
The ViewSonic PJD5255 comes with a powerful amplifier, an enlarged speaker chamber, and optional cable management system. It is an energy efficient projector and offers 15,000 hours lamp life in eco mode. It is a versatile projector that can be used at home, in education, and small business environment. You also enjoy industry-leading warranty when you buy any ViewSonic projector.
Buyer’s Guide
What we have reviewed here are just ten of the best 3D projectors on the market. We carefully selected top products in different categories so that everyone can find something ideal. It is important, however, that we discuss some of the things you need to know when you are in the market for a 3D projector.
Types of 3D Projectors
As mentioned in the introductory part of this review, there are basically two types of 3D projectors: Active and Passive. It is important that we briefly discuss them here so you understand better about the type to buy.
Active 3D Projectors
This is the commonest type of 3D projectors and constitute the majority of home theater 3D projectors. They rely on quality 3D glasses and switch pictures back and forth between the left and the right eyes, giving both eyes the pleasure of HD resolution. Active 3D projectors are mostly cheaper than the passive options and are the major projectors you will see in private homes, educational institutions, and small business settings.
Passive 3D Projectors
With Passive 3D projectors, the mechanism of operation is a little different. Normally, two projectors are stacked and used to beam two images at the exact same time. They achieve this by projecting different polarization of lights. They are used with polarized glasses that aligns and adjust the image for the eyes. There is also need for silver screen that will preserve the polarization of lights it reflects. Passive 3D projectors are more expensive and can be hard to set up. Polarized glasses, on the other hand, are cheap. This is one of the reasons passive 3D projectors are ideal for commercial use.
Factors to Consider When Buying 3D Projector
There are certain factors that will determine the value you will get from buying a 3D projector. Here are some of the important ones you must consider before buying any 3D projector.
Purpose of Buying a Projector
You need to buy a 3D projector that will serve the purpose you are buying it for. Different projectors with different capabilities are used for different purposes. The projector that will serve excellently in a classroom setting may not be too good for gaming. Projector for home theater or presentation may have widescreen format as one of its best advantages but when you are looking for a projector for gaming, you should consider lower input lag ahead of other features. Consider what you are going to use the projector for and look for the model that will give you what you want.
Resolution
The resolution a projector offers determines the quality of the image you will get from it. For a great viewing experience, it is always recommended that you go for projectors with resolutions of about 1920x1080p with full HD capabilities. This will ensure that you get clear crisp, and well-defined images.
Brightness
The brightness level offered by a 3D projector is also important in determining how far you will enjoy using it. The right level of brightness will ensure that the output is always great whether the environment is bright or dark.
Sound Quality
The picture quality is definitely the most important thing in a projector but that doesn’t mean you should get a model with very poor audio quality. Some of the best 4K 3D projectors also come with powerful audio systems that blend well with the stunning video quality to make your experience more enjoyable.
Lamp Life and Warranty
The lamp life can also be referred to as the bulb life, which is basically the source of light. It is often a reflection of how long the projector will serve you. It is important to go for models that offer meaningful lamp life. Warranty is also important as it often indicate how long you can confidently use your projector. There are some other features you can consider in a projector such as connectivity, weight, and the accessories that comes with the product in the box. The ones we have discussed, however, are the most important ones.
Conclusion
If you are in the market for a 3D projector, you have enough information here to make a great decision. In addition to the factors discussed above, consider the manufacturer of the item you are going to buy. All the projectors featured here are from reliable industry heavyweights and represent the best on the market currently. These are projectors that have the right features and have received positive reviews from verified buyers and users. You can buy any of them with confidence after considering the important factors we discussed here.