Select the Right Projector Screen Surface

The way a screen surface refracts light is what differentiates one screen fabric from another. Manufacturers specify both gainand viewing angle to help you decide which surface is best for you. Take sometime to think about the following questions before making your final decision:

Does your viewing area have controlled lighting orambient light?

Does the room orrooms where you plan to use your screen have controlled lighting? Or is thereambient light from windows and office/household lighting? Your screen materialcan help minimize the effects of ambient light in rooms without controlledlighting. Screen materials can also help to increase theappearance of contrast or brightness of a projected image. See the descriptions on our surfaces page to learn more about surface characteristics.

What is the room configuration?

In rooms that are wider than they are deep, someaudience members may find themselves at an angle to the screen where"fall-off" occurs, making it more difficult for them to see theimage. In these situations, a screen surface with a larger viewing angle ispreferred. Longer rooms may require larger screens so that those in the back ofthe room can see details more clearly.

What type of images do you intend to display?

The content you display on your screen will also playa part in determining which screen is best for you. Gray screen material ispopular with home theater enthusiasts because the material adds the appearanceof contrast to a video image. White or matte white screens are more popularin business applications. In situations where accurate color is desired, suchas 35mm film display, a white or matte white surface will provide truercolor representation.

View Complete Viewing Surface Descriptions.

Back to Help Selecting The Right Screen.
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