The video projector has long been used as a presentation tool in business and commercial entertainment, as well as in some very high-end home theater systems. However, video projectors are becoming more available and affordable for the average consumer. For a sampling of DLP video projectors, check out some of my current suggestions. For more video projector sugggestions, also check my current list of LCD Video Projectors.
1. NEC NP4001 720p DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
At an MSRP of $5,999 (not including the lens), the NEC NP4001 DLP Video Projector is not for the bargain hunter, but is a great value for the high-end home theater enthusiast. With a native pixel resolution of 1280x768 (720p), and dual lamp output of 3,600 to 4,500 lumens, this projector provides excellent image brightness and resolution, especially in large room settings. Also, features include powered focus and zoom, as well as powered horizontal and vertical lens shift. For more details, check out my my Short and Full Reviews. In addition, after reading my review, also check out even more details and close-up look at my NEC NP4001 Photo Gallery. Photos (c) Robert Silva, Licensed to About.com
2. Optoma HD806 1080P DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
At a price of $2,599, the Optoma HD806 DLP Projector is a good value. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and it 2,000 lumen output capability, the images projected are bright. Contrast, black level, and color consistency, although not the best I have seen, are still very good, and would certainly be acceptable for most viewers. If you have a large room, the HD806 can project a bright image, even with minor ambient light present. Another bonus is that the HD806 has both HDMI and DVI inputs. The Optoma HD806 is a good performing and easy-to-use video projector. To find out if it is right for you, check out my Short and Full Reviews, as well as a Photo Gallery and results from a series of Video Performance Tests .
3. Vivitek D326WX Compact DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
At an MSRP of $1,199, the Vivitek D326WX DLP Projector is a great value. With its extremely compact design this projector can be placed just about anywhere, and with its included carrying case, you can take it with you to the office or grandma's house. With its native 1280x800 native pixel resolution (approx - 720p) and impressive 2,600 lumen output capability, the video quality is very good. Flesh tones and overall color saturation produce a very natural looking image. Another bonus is that the D326WX has a very quick turn-on and cool down shut off time. For more details, check out my Short and Full Reviews, as well as a Photo Gallery and results from a series of Video Performance Tests.
4. Optoma HD20 1080p DLP Video Projector
Optoma has a large stable of very good video projectors, but the HD20 is one of their best values yet. Under the hood, the HD20 houses a DLP-based projection system with full 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution that delivers up to 1,700 lumens, 4,000:1 contrast ratio (500:1 ANSI), has a maximum 4,000 hour lamp life (3,000 in bright mode), and has two HDMI inputs. The HD20 is also NTSC, PAL, SECAM, and PC/MAC compatible. The HD20 also has a practical Super-Wide setting that optimizes viewing for 2:35 aspect ratio films without a special lens. A backlit remote control is also included which is easy to use in a darkened room. At a $999 suggested price, this projector is a great value. For a more detailed look download the User Manual5. Mitsubishi HC1600 720p DLP Projector
Video projectors are becoming much more affordable these, and the Mitsubishi HC1600 is a great example of a projector that combines decent performance with low price. Features of the HC1600 include a 16x9 DLP chip with 1280x720 native pixel resolution, 2,500:1 contrast ratio at 1,700 lumens, and a bulb life of up to 3,000 hours in low mode. In addition, inputs include HDMI and Component video. The HC1600 will accept both PAL and NTSC input signals, as well as resolutions up to 1080i (Note: All incoming video signals are scaled to 720p for screen display). If you are looking for a good, but very affordable, entry-level video projector that is easy to install and use, check out the Mitsubishi HC1600.6. Optoma HD65 Compact DLP Video Projector
Optoma has a large stable of very good video projectors, but the HD65 is certainly unique. Although it is extremely compact (10.2in x 2.9in x 7.4in and weighing in at about 4 lbs) don't let its small size and light weight fool you. Under the hood is a single chip DLP projector that puts out 1,600 lumens (via 180 watt lamp), 4,000:1 contrast ratio (full on/full off), and has 720p native pixel resolution. In addition, the HD65 has a very practical Super-Wide setting optimizes viewing for 2.35 aspect ratio films without the need for a special add-on lens. Selling for less than $800, this is a great video projector value. For a more detailed look at the features and functions of the HD65, you can download the User Manual.7. InFocus IN76 DLP Video Projector
Infocus has been making video projectors for some time, and their experience shows in its IN76. The IN76 combines the DarkChip2 DLP Chip from Texas Instruments with Pixel Works video processing to deliver an exceptional projected image. With a native pixel resolution of 1280x720, the IN76 can display HD sources in their best light. In addition, the IN76 features a contrast ratio of 3,000:1, a 1,000 lumens rating, and bulb life of up to 3,000 hours. The price of the IN76 is about $2,000. A good price for a good projector.8. Optoma HD80 1080p DLP Video Projector
The Optoma HD80 provides true 1920x1080 (1080p) native resolution capability via DLP technology, at a very reasonable price. The HD80 has a 16x9 aspect ratio in combination with a 3,000 hour light source, which generates 1,300 lumens of brightness. The HD80 also has an impressive 10,000:1 contrast ratio, as well as all necessary analog and HD video inputs, including both DVI and HDMI. Whether you are buying your first video projector, or replacing an older projector, don't settle for the bargain basement, low resolution units - jump up to full 1080p without breaking the bank with the Optoma HD80.9. Optoma HD72 DLP Video Projector
The HD72 provides true 720p HD performace via its Texas Instruments Dark Chip2. The HD72 has 1280x768 native pixel resolution and 16x9 aspect ratio, in combination with a 3,000 hour light source that generates 1,300 lumens of brightness. The HD72 also has an impressive 5000:1 contrast ratio, as well as all necessary analog and HD video inputs, including both DVI and HDMI. If you are looking for a moderately priced projector (less than $2,500) that doesn't cut corners, check out the Optoma H72.Discussion - Video Projectors For Home Theater
If you are considering the purchase of a video projector or own one currently, post your questions or experiences right here...
