The scent of fresh-cut grass and outdoor grilling. The chatter of birds giving way to early evening crickets. The first twinkling stars in a clear night sky. These are just a few of the things that make Bend’s summers so special. And, with the right outdoor projector and screen for your outdoor theater, you’ll be able to add outdoor movie nights to the top of that list.
What Makes the Perfect Outdoor Movie Night?
There’s something about a big screen and good company that transforms the simple act of watching a movie into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’ve got a permanent outdoor theater, an entertainment center on the deck, or a portable setup for on-the-go viewings, there are a few things to consider.
Think About the Ambient Lighting
Indoors, you can close the shades, turn down the lights, and immerse yourself in a home theater experience. But outdoors, things are never entirely dark. You might be competing with house lights, streetlights, and even the stars if it’s a clear enough night. As such, you’ll want an outdoor projector and screen that can offset this interference.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Projector
When it comes to a crisp viewing experience, getting the right projector is crucial. And there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging in size, style, and price. Whether you’re shopping one-size-fits-all projectors or 4K laser projectors, you’ll want to determine the right lumen range and resolution. Don’t worry, the team at Stereo Planet can help!
Best Lumen Range for Outdoor Viewing
Lumens are the measurement of brightness that a projector puts out. When it comes to projectors, there are three primary light sources: LED, laser, and lamp. Typically, lamp projectors run at least 2,000 lumens. Laser projectors easily provide more than 35,00 lumens, and can run higher with optional equipment.
For most outdoor home theaters, you’ll want at least 2,000 lumens. Keep in mind that the bigger your screen gets, the more lumens you’ll need for a quality picture. ProjectorScreen.com posits that “with a relatively small screen that measures 9×5 feet, you’ll be fine sticking to projectors that pack between 1,500 and 2,300 lumens. However, if you’re dealing with a jumbo 40×22 foot screen option instead, you’ll need between 5,500 and 12,000 lumens to deliver a quality, theater-grade viewing experience.”
How to Choose Your Resolution
Today’s projectors can pack a powerful punch when it comes to resolution. With HD or 4K/UHD capabilities, many can meet or exceed the image quality of an indoor screen. Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, tends to be more than enough to power most backyard entertainment. On a tight budget? You can always talk to the experts at Stereo Planet for recommendations tailored to your space, needs, and price point.
Don’t Forget the Screen
Outdoor theater screens come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From DIY solutions to custom screens, we’ve seen it all. Just remember: you’ll want a screen that’s durable, easy to clean, and can stand up to the elements.
Looking for the flexibility of outdoor movie night when and where you want it? Screen Innovations—a brand we carry—offers a great line of battery-powered outdoor screens. These are easy to set up when you need them, and you can store them away when they’re not in use.
Make Every Night Movie Night with an Outdoor Projector and Screen
Not sure how to get the most out of your outdoor space? The team at Stereo Planet can help. For the last four decades, we’ve provided custom solutions to our Bend-area clients. Contact us today to see how you can elevate your outdoor movie night experience!
