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 suggestions, also check my current list of LCD Video Projectors.
1. Sharp XV-Z17000 3D 1080p DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
The Sharp XV-Z17000 is a 3D Video Projector utilizing DLP technology. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and 1,600 lumen output capability, the XV-Z17000 projects a bright, natural looking image from both 3D and 2D source material. Also, the XV-Z17000, with its onboard IDT ReonVX-210 chip, provides very good video upscaling for standard resolution sources, such as DVD. The XV-Z17000 also has fast turn on and shut down times and runs quietly in normal viewing modes. The projector also comes with a built-in IR emitter and two pairs of active shutter glasses for 3D viewing. To find out if the Sharp XV-Z17000 is the right video projector for your home theater setup, check out my Review, Photo Profile, and a sampling of Video Performance Tests.
2. Optoma HD33 3D DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
Here is a video projector that is definitely worth consideration. The Optoma HD33 is a very affordable projector that has both 2D and 3D capability utilizing DLP technology combined with a 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 1,800 lumen output capability. The HD33 also has 2 HDMI inputs and comes with an easy-to-use plug-in RF 3D synch transmitter (each pair of 3D glasses requires a separate purchase). I found both the 2D and 3D image quality to be very good, with very little crosstalk or motion lag. In fact, even if 3D is not your thing, the HD33 does a great job with 2D also. For all the details, read my review, check out my photo profile, and take a look at some video performance test results.
3. Samsung SP-A800B 1080p DLP Video Projector
Photos (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
At an MSRP of $7,495, the Samsung SP-A800B Video Projector bucks the trend towards sub-$3,000 1080p video projectors, but is definitely worth the extra cash for those that are looking for high-end projector with precise color accuracy. Its Texas Instruments DLP DarkChip2, native 1080p resolution, and acceptable light output provide an excellent natural looking image.
Also, the SP-A800B comes equipped with two HDMI ver 1.3a inputs, and provides video upscaling for standard DVDs via its proprietary processor. The Samsung SP-A800B was developed in conjunction with Joe Kane Productions. For more details, check out my Review, along with my Supplementary Photo Gallery and Video Performance Test Results.
4. 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
5. Mitsubishi HC3800 1080p DLP Home Theater Projector
Photos (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to Aout.com
At a suggested price of $1,499, the Mitsubishi HC3800 DLP Projector is a great value. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and 1,300 lumen output capability, the projected image is detailed and bright, with very good color saturation and contrast for both high definition and upscaled DVD sources. On the other hand, I did detect some rainbow effect and some fan noise. However, taking all into consideration, the Mitsubishi HC3800 offers good performance and is easy to set up in most situations. For additional details and perspective on the Mitsubishi HC3800, check out my Review, Photo Gallery, and a sampling of Video Performance Tests.
6. Vivitek H1080 1080p DLP Video Projector
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
At a price of $999 the Vivitek H1080 DLP Projector is a great value. With its stylish design this projector is compatible with almost any decor. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and its 1,800 lumen output capability, the video quality is very good. Flesh tones and color saturation, once tweaked, produce a satisfying viewing experience. Other bonuses include two HDMI inputs, a built-in speaker for classroom and business use, and a very quick turn-on and cool down shut off time. I found the Vivitek H1080 to be a good performing and easy-to-use video projector. To find out if the Vivitek H1080 is right for you, check out my Review as well as a supplementary Photo Gallery and Video Performance Tests.
7. Optoma HD20 1080p DLP Video Projector
Photos (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
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. For a more detailed look, check out my Review, Photo Gallery and a series of Video Performance Tests.
8. Mitsubishi HC4000 1080p DLP Projector
At a suggested price of $1,299, the Mitsubishi HC4000 DLP Projector is a great value. The HC4000 has a 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution, 1,300 lumen output capability, and 4,000:1 contrast ratio (full on/full off), supported by 5,000 hour lamp life (low mode). The HC4000 also has HDMI, Composite, S-Video, and VGA inputs, as well as an RS232 connection for custom install control needs. In addition, with a top mounted access door, lamp replacement is very easy whether the projector is ceiling or table mounted. If you are looking for an easy-to-setup and use 1080p capable video projector, definitely consider the Mitsubishi HC4000.
9. Optoma HD66 720p DLP Projector
Optoma has a large stable of very good video projectors, but the HD66 is certainly unique. Although it is extremely compact (11.27 in x 3.98in x 7.6in and weighing in at about 5 lbs) don't let its small size and light weight fool you. Under the hood is a single chip DLP projector that puts out up to 2500 lumens (via 185 watt lamp), 4,000:1 contrast ratio (full on/full off), and has (1280x720) 720p native pixel resolution (1080p input source signals are scaled to 720p for screen display.
However, the most interesting thing about the HD66 is that is it 3D compatible when connected to a PC with a 3D capable video graphics card. DLP-Link active shutter glasses are are also required for 3D viewing. Selling for less than $800, this is a great video projector value, especially for fans of 3D computer games. For a more detailed look at the features and functions of the HD66, you can download the User Manual.
10. ViewSonic Pro8200 1080p DLP Projector
The Viewsonic Pro8200 1080p DLP Video Projector, priced at $999, offers a host of practical features that you would expect on high-priced units. Its DLP chip (combined with BrillianColor technology, 16x9 aspect ratio, native 1080p resolution, and 2000 lumens light output via a 230 watt lamp, provide excellent image quality. Also, the Pro8200 comes equipped with two HDMI ver 1.3a inputs, and provides video upscaling for standard DVDs via its built-in Pixelworks PW980 video processor. Also included is an RS232 port for custom install control integration. The Pro8200 even has both audio and microphone inputs, supported by a 10wpc x 2 built-in speaker system. The Viewsonic Pro8200 is an affordable video projector option for mainstream home theater system.