While purchasing a Projector, we look at the Lumens, Projecting Resolution, and Throw Type. Yes, these are the most important factors to look at. But there is another important factor that we usually ignore. That is the Projector Contrast Ratio.
So, in this article, we will explain whether the Contrast Ratio matters when buying a Projector or not.
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Contrast:
First, let’s understand what Contrast is in general. We used to adjust the Brightness and Contrast on the Television. The more the Contrast is, the better the picture output looks.
Because It enhances Blacks and Whites to make the picture look more realistic. When you increase the Contrast, it makes the Blacks more black and Whites more White. Every color on the screen gets brighter.
But, what is Contrast ratio, and how does it affects picture quality in Projectors? Let’s talk about it.
What is Projector Contrast Ratio?
The Contrast Ratio is the Ratio between the Darks and Brights in the Image.
The Contrast Ratio in Projectors starts from 1000:1
These days, Projectors also have a Contrast Ratio of 1,000,000:1
The more the Contrast Ratio is, the better the image quality is.
Difference Between Brightness (Lumens) and Contrast:
When you increase the Brightness you will see a brighter picture. The Whites, Blacks, and all colors become bright. So, the Blacks turn into Grey, and Dark Colors become Light when you increase the brightness. Lumens is the unit of Brightness.
On the other hand, Contrast enhances the colors. It means Contrast makes blacks more blacks and whites more whites. Similarly, the Dark colors become darker, and the Light colors become more bright.
What is a Good Contrast Ratio for a Projector?
Generally, having a Contrast Ratio of more than 2000:1 is good enough. However, for a brighter room, you might need a Projector with a higher Contrast Ratio along with Higher Lumens.
Contrast Ratio for Outdoor Projector?
For Outdoors, having more than a 3000:1 Contrast Ratio is good enough.
Projector with High Contrast Ratio?
In 2022, when everyone wants to see high values in Product Specifications, several projectors were introduced with a High Contrast Ratio. One of the Projectors is Epson Home Cinema 5050UB which has a Contrast Ratio of 1,000,000:1
So, Does the Projector Contrast Ratio matter while buying a Projector?
Mostly Yes. When you are using the Projector in dark, you will see a lot of difference between High Contrast Ratio and Low Contrast Ratio. The Picture with a higher Contrast Ratio shows better colors. So, you can choose the Projector with the necessary Projector Contrast Ratio depending on your requirements.