When setting up a home entertainment system, the central focus is always a display for viewing all your favourite content, including movies, TV shows, video games, slideshows, and more. But the main question is: do you want to go with a projector or a TV? With the constant advancements in screen technology, it’s easy to feel torn between the two. That’s especially so as we try to save money by enjoying more entertainment experiences in the home. Should you opt for the cinematic grandeur of a projector, or the convenience and reliability of a TV? If you’re wondering, “projector vs TV?,” you’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between projectors and TVs, comparing factors like image quality, viewing experience, room requirements, sound, and cost. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which option is best suited for your needs.
Projector vs. TV: key differences
Let’s dive into the key differences between a projector and a TV to help you make an informed choice for your home entertainment setup.
Image quality
Brightness and contrast: One of the major differences between projectors and TVs is how they handle brightness and contrast. Projectors are heavily influenced by ambient light. In rooms with bright lights, projectors tend to lose some of their sharpness and vibrancy. This means that if you’re planning to use a projector in a room that isn’t easily darkened, the image quality might not be as impressive. You can find ambient light rejecting screens, but they are much more expensive. The other solution is to use shades or blackout curtains.
On the other hand, TVs tend to maintain a consistent level of brightness and contrast in any lighting condition. Whether it’s daytime or nighttime, a good TV will deliver clear, bright, and vibrant images without being affected by external light sources. You’ll get an experience with an OLED TV that’s unmatched with a projector.
Resolution and clarity: Both projectors and TVs have made massive strides in resolution over the years. Today, you can find 4K and even 8K TVs and projectors. But there is a noticeable distinction in perceived sharpness. TVs, especially larger ones, often have better pixel density, meaning they can display more detail and clarity. Projectors, even with 4K capabilities, can sometimes seem less sharp due to the nature of projection technology and the size of the image being cast. They can’t yield results as good when it comes to HDR (high dynamic range) because projectors typically don’t have as high a contrast ratio as TVs.
Viewing experience
Screen size and immersion: When it comes to screen size, projectors have a clear advantage. You can easily create a massive screen experience, anywhere from 80 to over 150 inches, which gives you that movie-theatre-like feel at home. This makes projectors the preferred choice for those seeking a more immersive viewing experience. Though keep in mind that you will need the available space in the room. This includes not only the space for a large screen but also to mount the projector.
You need to keep proper viewing distance in mind as well. If the room isn’t large enough to accomodate a 100- or 150-inch screen, there’s no point in opting for a projector for the purposes of having an ultra-big screen. This is why projectors are preferred for larger homes or more open spaces, like basements.
TVs have caught up with larger sizes as well. While an 85-inch TV is impressive, it may still feel less immersive compared to the larger image you can get with a projector. You can get TVs that are even bigger. But they are much more expensive.
Room and lighting considerations
Layout and lighting: The success of your projector setup depends heavily on the layout and lighting of your room. Projectors, as noted, perform best in controlled environments with low or no ambient light. If you’re thinking of installing a projector in a living room with windows or an open layout, it might not deliver the best results without heavy light control.
In contrast, TVs are better suited for multi-purpose rooms with ambient light. You can watch TV during the day, even with sunlight streaming in, and still get a good viewing experience.
Space requirements: When it comes to space, projectors require more setup effort. You’ll need a dedicated screen, and depending on the throw distance (the distance between the projector and the screen), you may need a significant amount of space to get the size you want. You also need to mount or position the projector in the right spot.
TVs are simpler, especially if you’re mounting them on a wall or placing them on a stand. They take up less space in the room and are a one-and-done set-up with only a single piece connected to your various content source devices and soundbar or speakers.
Sound quality
Audio differences: TVs usually come with built-in speakers, though the quality can vary. Higher-end models offer more robust sound systems. But in general, TVs do not have the deep, immersive audio experience that a home theatre setup can provide. Many TV owners opt for external soundbars or speakers to enhance the audio experience.
Some projectors have built-in speakers but they typically require additional sound equipment as well. The speakers in most projectors are minimal, which means you’ll likely need a soundbar or external speakers to get the full audio experience. So, if you want top-notch sound, you’ll need to invest in additional gear for both projectors and TVs.
Cost
Initial investment: When comparing the costs of projectors and TVs, there’s a wide range depending on the size, features, and brand. Generally speaking, entry-level projectors are often more affordable than larger TVs. However, the cost of additional accessories, like a projector screen, mount, and sound system, can quickly add up.
TVs, especially larger ones, tend to be more expensive upfront. But unlike projectors, there are no additional accessories required for a basic setup (except for maybe a mount or stand, though some TVs come with wall-mounting equipment). Keep in mind that higher-end models like 4K and OLED TVs can be quite pricey. And as noted, if you want the best sound possible, you’ll want to invest in a soundbar or speakers beyond the display as well.
Maintenance and replacement: Projectors require more maintenance over time. The most significant ongoing cost is the replacement of the projector lamp or bulb. T typically needs to be replaced every 2,000-5,000 hours of use, depending on the projector model. This cost can range from $100 to $500 or more.
On the other hand, TVs tend to have a longer lifespan without the need for major maintenance. However, repair costs (if your TV is damaged) or upgrading to a newer model will still be a consideration.
Pros and cons of projectors vs. TV
| Feature | Projector Pros | Projector Cons | TV Pros | TV Cons |
| Image | Large image, cinematic feel, immersive | Requires controlled lighting, lower sharpness | Consistent brightness, clear image | Expensive for larger sizes, not as immersive for very large screens |
| Setup | Flexible screen size, immersive | Complex setup, requires space and accessories | Simple installation, minimal setup | May visually dominate smaller rooms |
| Audio | Easily add external speakers | Built-in sound is usually subpar | Built-in speakers (varies by model) | Sound may not be as immersive for large setups |
| Cost | Lower initial cost (entry-level) | Maintenance (bulb replacement, extra gear) | No major additional costs (unless high-end) | Larger sizes can get pricey |
Which is best in which situation?
The right choice between projector and TV depends on your specific needs and space.
- Apartment or small living space: If you’re working with limited space, a TV is the way to go. It’s easy to install, doesn’t require much space, and works well in a variety of lighting conditions.
- Dedicated home theatre room: For a true cinematic experience, a projector is ideal. You can create a huge screen and enjoy movies like you’re in the theatre. But make sure the room can be darkened to get the best image quality.
- Family living room for daytime viewing: If your family watches TV during the day or has varied seating angles, a TV will be more practical. It can handle ambient light and doesn’t require special conditions.
- Outdoor movie nights or events: Projectors shine in this situation, especially for larger groups. You can create a massive screen on a wall or screen outdoors, perfect for an evening under the stars.
- Budget-conscious entertainment: A mid-range TV is the easiest and most straightforward option. However, an entry-level projector can offer a bigger screen for a similar cost, provided you can manage ambient light in your space.
- Versatility: There are portable projector options that make it easy to move the projector from room to room so you can watch in different areas. This includes outside for backyard movie nights. If you want to be able to watch in different rooms, a portable projector affords this luxury.
So, should you choose a TV or a projector?
Ultimately, the decision between “Projector vs TV” boils down to your specific needs. Consider your budget, available space, lighting conditions, and what you’ll primarily use your setup for (movies, gaming, sports, or daily TV). A projector is perfect for a cinematic experience in the right environment, while a TV is convenient and easy to set up in almost any room.
For the best selection of TVs and projectors, be sure to check out Best Buy Canada’s wide range of products. If you need more personalized advice, experts can help you choose the right model for your home entertainment setup.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to have a TV or projector?
It depends on your priorities. If you want convenience and consistent image quality in any lighting condition, a TV is the better option. If you’re after a more immersive, cinematic experience and have control over the room’s lighting, a projector is ideal.
What are the disadvantages of projectors?
The main drawbacks of projectors include the need for a darkened room, the complexity of setup, and ongoing maintenance costs for replacing lamps. Audio quality can also be lacking unless you invest in external sound equipment.
Can a projector replace a TV?
Yes, a projector can replace a TV in a dedicated home theatre setting. However, it may not be as practical for everyday use, especially in rooms with ambient light. If you watch TV frequently during the day, a TV might be the more reliable option.
Can you use any projector outdoors?
Ideally, you’ll need a portable projector if you want to use it outdoors. Not all of them are rated for outdoor use. But if you set it up in a covered area for a limited period of time (e.g. a movie night) during mild weather, you should be fine. Just make sure to bring it inside as soon as you’re done. You also need to be mindful of the source connection. If your home’s Wi-Fi reaches outside, some projectors have built-in smart platforms just like TVs so you can access all your streaming services. Others have USB ports or memory card slots so you can load content that way to playback offline. Others can connect to a phone, tablet, or laptop to “cast” content.
Are there TVs as big as projectors?
Yes! There are some TVs that are upwards of 100 inches in size. But you’ll pay a pretty penny for them and they aren’t as easy to move into your home. With a projector, a screen is much easier to bring through the door and set up. Some can even fold away or retract when not in use. This type of set-up, however, would require installation from a professional.
