In this article, you will learn about Best Projectors for Projection Mapping
You’re undoubtedly curious about the best projectors for projection mapping. How can I get started with projection mapping?
In general, you can use 3d video mapping in projectors. However, it is dependent on the brightness of the room as well as the amount of money in your wallet. Projection mapping entails utilizing a projector to produce projections onto 3D objects rather than just 2D screens.
You can see where the projections come to life with 3D mapping. It’s used for a variety of things, including product debuts and events that require a lot of room, such as weddings.
Buying a projector is one of the finest ways to make fantastic project mapping because any projector can be used for mapping. For our research, we’ve included a description of a few of the best-rated video projectors. Read the entire post if you want to buy the best projectors for projection mapping.
If you’re a newbie, a short-throw projector is a way to go. The reason for this is that a typical project is set roughly two feet away from the display’s projection surface. A short-throw projector, on the other hand, allows you to place the projector closer to the display surface.
| Model | Lumens | Price |
| Epson Home Cinema | 3100 | Check Price |
| Mini 3D Projector | 4000 | Check Price |
| BenQ MH535FDH 1080P | 3300 | Check Price |
| ViewSonic PG800HD Projector | 5000 | Check Price |
| Christie Digital 3DLP | – | Check Price |
| BenQ HT8050 4K projector | 2200 | Check Price |
| ViewSonic 1080p Projector | 3500 | Check Price |
| BenQ HT3550 4K Projector | 2000 | Check Price |
| Viewsonic PA503W 1080P | 3800 | Check Price |
| BenQ MW612 WXGA Projector | 4000 | Check Price |
Best Projectors for Projection Mapping – Buying Guide
If you’re looking for the best video projectors for projection mapping on a budget, here are a few things to think about. These considerations will greatly assist you in obtaining the equipment that best suits your wants and budget.
Price
Every person’s budget for purchasing a projector for projection mapping is varied. It’s important to remember, though, that the best budget and amount for projection mapping are in the middle. The most expensive range isn’t necessarily the greatest option, and low-cost projectors aren’t always bright enough for projection mapping. To meet all of the major and minor needs, a mid-range projector is recommended. The budget is the deciding factor between led and dlp projectors, with dlp projectors being more costly than led projectors.
Ratio of Contrast
The contrast ratio is the brightness difference between the projection’s dark and light areas. It’s important to remember that a high contrast ratio provides for richer, more bright colours. Space, on the other hand, must be dark. The effect of the contrast ratio cannot be seen if the projection surface is not black. The higher the readability or image output, the brighter the projector.
Lifespan
One of the most important considerations when selecting the best projector for projection mapping is its lifespan. The reason for this is that we don’t do projection mapping at home. These forecasts are commonly utilised. However, it appears that the light of every projector’s bulb dims after a given amount of time.
Commercial and heavy everyday use necessitates replacement. It is necessary to purchase a projector with the longest lifespan for this reason. Bulb life of 50,000 hours, on the other hand, roughly translates to half the brightness once the lamp has been used for this amount of time. The better the lamp life, however, the longer the lamp may run.
Brightness
Without a doubt, projecting a large amount of light causes the projection to fade and become faint. To solve these problems, you’ll need to invest in a bright projector with a lot of lumens. The lumens provide a good and exceptional projection. However, brightness is sometimes expressed in lumens, with one lumen equaling the light produced by a lit candle.
Resolutions
It’s exciting to learn that the greatest mapping projector has a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, which should result in a clear output image. Projectors with a higher resolution always produce a clearer image with greater projection quality. It is recommended that you use an HD projector or one with a resolution of at least 800 x 600 pixels.
Distance between throws
It’s the distance between your projector and the screen that you’ll need for the best image quality. High-quality 3D mapping requires short-distance projectors and high-end mapping software. Furthermore, when using it professionally to make projection mapping, knowing the screen size and distance from which it should be projected ahead comes in handy.
How Did We Select the Best Mapping Projection Projectors?
Because we intended to cater to a wide range of budgets, we included a variety of projectors in this list, ranging from high-end to entry-level. One thing they all have in common is their capacity to adapt to video mapping.
Certain checks must be completed to create an excellent projection mapping projector. It should have the optimal blend of everything for premium projection technology, from resolution and brightness to throw ratio.
When it comes to mapping, you’ll need a projector that can display at least a 300-inch image without sacrificing quality. Because mapping is frequently done for a broad audience, a dull projected image is not an option.
A projector with a native resolution of 1080p, a brightness of 3000-lumens, and a contrast ratio of 10,000:1 is an excellent place to start. Rest assured that not only do all of the projectors on this list meet this basic criterion, but they also come with a slew of additional features that will be discussed further down.
Top 10 Best Projectors for Projection Mapping
1. Epson Home Cinema 1060 Full HD
Our editor’s choice is the Epson Home Cinema 1060, which is an excellent mapping projector. The projector has a brightness of 3,100 Lumens, making it suitable for projection both during the day and at night. One of the best features of this projector is that it can display 300-inch life-size images onto large walls. The projector is small and lightweight. The Epson Home Cinema 1060 may be used both indoors and outdoors.
It’s amazing to learn that the project is in charge of providing brilliant and colourful projections both during the day and at night. If you want something unique and brighter for video mapping, the Epson Home Cinema 1060 is the way to go. It’s one of the greatest 3D mapping projectors on the market.
Let’s see how the Epson 1060 stacks up against the new and improved Epson Home Cinema 880, which debuted at the same price point. Except for the brightness, contrast ratio, and maximum image size, their spec sheets are nearly identical.
The Epson 880 boasts a brighter 3,300L bulb, a 16,000:1 contrast ratio, and can project images up to 380 inches wide. However, these minor improvements aren’t worth the slightly higher price tag, especially because the Epson 1060 can do everything the Epson 1060 can.
Not to mention that the Epson 1060 has a lot of ports, whilst the 880 just has HDMI, USB-A, and USB-B ports. A little brighter and larger projection is a better value than this important adaptability and lower pricing.
Because of its high quality and 300-inch display size, the projector is ideal for video mapping. This model will undoubtedly satisfy you if you are looking for the greatest option for a huge wall projection within a reasonable budget.
Key Features
- Epson Home Cinema 1060 Widescreen Full HD 1080p
- There are two HDMI ports.
- Colour/white brightness of 3,100 Lumens
- 300-inch life-size graphics using 3-LCD technology
- A distance of roughly 19.0 feet is required for operation.
2. Mini Projector 4000 Lumens 3D Portable DLP
Even though it is a tiny projector and a smart multimedia projector, it has practically all of the advanced capabilities. This projector has a brightness of 4000 lumens. The lumens are ideal for use both throughout the day and at night. Furthermore, with a contrast ratio of 3000:1, HDR 10 ensures a detailed and clear image.
One of the most efficient projectors for video mapping is the tiny multimedia projector. Multimedia supports 3D TNB, 3D SBS, and Blu-Ray, which is remarkable. Users can effortlessly enjoy 3D experiences or gaming by watching it directly with 3D glasses using a 3D source. Additionally, the vertical lens shift can be used to adjust the screen as needed.
Because of the 3D glasses, one of the best uses of the Mini Projector Lumen 3D Portable DLP is for gaming. It’s fascinating to learn that built-in stereo speakers allow users to project stronger sounds. This tiny projector is equipped with a state-of-the-art fan cooling system. The users will be pleased to learn that the projector can operate for an extended amount of time without experiencing any heat damage.
Another amazing tiny projector that is similar in price to the WOWOTO M5 is the ONOAYO 5G WiFi. The main difference is that the ONOAYO has a brighter 9500L, a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, and a bulb life of 120,000 hours.
While the M5 is deficient in several areas, it does support HDR 10 and has a built-in battery. This is the only projector on the list that can do so, making it a game-changer in terms of portability and versatility.
If you require a portable projection mapping projector, the WOWOTO M5 is unequalled in this price range.
The Mini Projector 4000 Lumen 3D Portable DLP is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4G/5.0G). You may effortlessly surf the internet with this projector by using streaming and media programmes like YouTube. The projector also includes digital zoom and vertical/horizontal keystone for extra customization choices.
You might also be interested in Best Projector Under $1000.
Key Features
- Home Theater 3D experience with a 3000:1 contrast ratio on a 200-inch screen
- 4000 Lumens and 4K Video
- Rechargeable battery (10400mA) built-in
- Multifunctional and interchangeable
- A lifetime of 30000 hours was lived.
3. BenQ MH535FDH 1080P Projector
The BenQ MH535FHD has a stylish and elegant appearance. BenQ is regarded as one of the best projector manufacturers, allowing you to obtain clear and affordable projectors. The fact that this BenQ projector has 3600 lumens is remarkable. For projection mapping, these lumens are more than enough.
When compared to its predecessor, the BenQ MH530FHD, the MH535’s feature list is quite impressive. The 1080p resolution, 15,000:1 contrast ratio, and 300′′ projected image size are all the same.
However, the MH535 has a brighter 3,600L lamp, 10-Bit colour processing, and a 15,000-hour lamp life compared to the MH530’s 10,000-hour lamp life. The MH535 improves on its predecessor’s shortcomings by enhancing efficiency while maintaining a similar price point.
If you need a large-scale projector, the BenQ MH535FHD can provide you with plenty of contrast. This gadget is highly recommended since a wide contrast range is a priority in projection mapping. In addition, it is reasonable. The mapping projector’s contrasts also allow the dark sections of the display to stand out.
Key Features
- Full HD (1920 x 1080P) resolution
- projection size of 300 inches
3600 Lumens Brightness 15000:1 - Contrast HDMI, MHL, and USB Ports
4. ViewSonic PG800HD Projector
The ViewSonic PG800HD is the ideal projector for large venues. Given its position among the top short-throw projectors, it is ideal not just for projection mapping but also for home entertainment and gaming.
The ViewSonic PX800HD, on the other hand, is sturdy and large. It appears to be machinery. It, on the other hand, has a 1080p resolution and a brightness of 3500 lumens. The brightness is sufficient to obtain a clear image, which is necessary for excellent projection mapping. It’s fascinating to learn that the projector has a slew of other interesting features and punch.
A comparable priced short throw projector for projection mapping is the Optoma GT1090HDR. When we check the specifications, we can see that the PG800HD comes out on top.
The GT1090HDR has a lesser brightness of 4,200 Lumens, a shorter 3.3-inch throw reach, and no zoom lens.
The GT1090HDR has Lens Shift and a 20,000-hour lamp life, which is better than the PG800HD’s 2500-hour light life. However, owing to the ultra-bright 5000L bulb and great contrast ratio, the ViewSonic is a better projection mapping projector overall.
It’s important to remember that the ViewSonic PX800HD video projector is a fantastic short-throw projector for displaying a large image at a short distance. This device has everything you’ll need for these types of projects. In a nutshell, we can state that this device is ideal for obtaining a clear, bright, and faultless image.
Despite being the best short-throw projector, it is relatively affordable, making it a great buy.
Key Features
- Size of projection: 300 inches
- The brightness is 3500 lumens.
- 12,000:1 contrast ratio 1920 x 1080 full HD
- 1920 x 1080 full HD USB and HDMI port
5. Christie Digital Systems HD14K-M/ 3-DLP
This Christie Digital Systems projector is one of the best for projection mapping, which is fascinating to know. For both local and big-scale projection mapping, the gadget is rated the best. Keeping in mind that Christie Digital Systems is a market leader, the 3DLP line is also a market leader when it comes to professional projection mapping.
The video projector’s brightness is ideal, and it cuts through ambient light to perform effectively at night as well. In addition, the image resolution is clean, clear, and evenly distributed among all viewers in varied locations.
It’s also important to remember that Christie 3DLP projectors can be upgraded to 3D. These projectors also have a long warranty period. From a large choice of mapping projectors, the customer may easily select features and specs.
The best part is that you have a wide selection of options to choose from, each with its own set of characteristics, features, and pricing.
Key Features
- Brightness ranges from 5000 to 30,000 lumens.
- lamp-based and RGB laser options are available.
- Resolutions range from WXGA to 4K.
6. BenQ HT8050 4K projector
The BenQ HT8050 4k is another projector on our list of the best projectors for projection mapping today. The contrast ratio of this projector is its most noticeable feature. The contrast ratio is a whopping 50,000:1! With this contrast ratio, you can expect cinema-grade image quality and colours in the blacks and whites.
It boasts the best resolution available in a projector, thanks to its high contrast ratio. It has a 4k resolution, and the combination of resolution and contrast ratio makes it one of the best projection mapping projectors on the market.
When compared to a standard 1080p home theatre projector, there is a noticeable difference in quality.
The Sony VPL-VW325ES is a more expensive home theatre projector with a 4K resolution, Dynamic HDR Enhancer, and a larger projection size of 300 inches.
The HT8050, on the other hand, has a fantastic 50,000:1 contrast ratio, a lower 200′′ projection size, but a brighter 2,200L than the Sony’s 1,500L.
Both projectors have their advantages, but the HT8050 takes the top rank since it is brighter and has a higher contrast ratio. Deep blacks are hard to come by, and they’re very useful for projection mapping.
It is fairly costly because it is a high-quality best budget 4k projector. However, if you do some study, you will discover that this projector has very reasonable pricing for the features it offers.
Key Features
- High-definition resolution of 4k.
- With a resolution of 50,000:1, this is a very high-resolution camera.
- Zoom ratio of 5:1.
- There’s a lot of distinction in the clarity.
7. ViewSonic 1080p Projector
A ViewSonic projector is another honourable mention in today’s buying guide. This is the PX700HD projector, which is a very powerful projector.
It’s a very bright projector for projection mapping, with a maximum brightness of 3500 Lumens, strong enough to see in a darkly lit environment. Even if you have the option to exclude all light from entering your room, this projector will still be able to display a clean, non-faded image.
It contains a SuperEco technology that saves a significant amount of energy and electricity while also extending the lamp’s life to 15000 hours. This implies that this projector will last you a long time, making it an excellent long-term investment.
It has a full HD 1080p real resolution and is quite exact, allowing you to execute accurate projection mapping.
When comparing the PX700HD to competitors like the Optoma HD146X, you’ll notice that the spec list is surprisingly comparable. The greatest difference is the greater contrast ratio of 25,000:1 against 12,000:1 on the PX700HD.
Otherwise, the PX700HD is spec-for-spec identical to the HD146x and includes a full port selection. The HD146x only has HDMI and USB-A ports, which aren’t adequate for customers that need to do projection mapping.
See also: The Best Projectors Under $500
Key Features
- Lamp life is a whopping 15,000 hours.
- There is very little input lag.
- Energy and power-saving technologies from SuperEco.
- Full HD image quality with excellent colour accuracy.
- The brightness is 3500 Lumens.
8. BenQ HT3550 Projector
BenQ has already made several excellent projectors. Another excellent projector for projection mapping is the HT3550. It boasts a 4K resolution that produces excellent picture quality while projection mapping.
It is suitable for both novices and specialists in the subject. BenQ released their factory-calibrated colour spectrum using DCI-p3 colour space with this one. It performs far better than Rec. 709 and produces excellent results.
The contrast ratio is excellent, and when combined with the resolution, the images are amazing and professional. It also features a special lens that regulates the quantity of light that gets in and out. This assures the highest level of detail, sharpness, and quality. The smooth, elegant style is pleasing to the eye.’
The BenQ HT3550 also includes DLP technology, which is widely utilised in movie theatres across the world. You’ll benefit from the crisp and clear image quality, which will aid you in your professional endeavours.
The BenQ TK700STi is a similarly priced short-throw projector that matches the HT3550’s specifications. The key advantage of the TK700STi is its brighter 3,000L brightness and maximum projected image size of 300′′.
The HT3550, on the other hand, has a far greater contrast ratio of 30,000:1 than the TK700STi’s mediocre 10,000:1.
This is a significant distinction that fills a specific need in projection mapping, particularly when working with a large number of contrasting hues. Colour accuracy qualities may be more important to you than a larger projected size or superior brightness, depending on your needs.
It also produces HDR10 content with auto colour mapping and tone mapping. When compared to previous models, it can be used in both dark and light environments and still provide brighter images. This increases the device’s productivity and simplifies the mapping procedure.
Key Features
- It has a six-segment RGB colour wheel that produces excellent results.
- The 4K resolution produces images that are clean and clear.
- It uses DLP technology to provide a full theatre experience.
- It also has auto colour and tone mapping capabilities.
- Gives a contrast ratio of 30,000:1.
9. ViewSonic PA503W Projector
The ViewSonic PA503W is another amazing option for the best projector for projection mapping. You can use it for commercial, personal, and educational purposes thanks to the excellent, professional features and specifications.
It features a 3600-lumen brightness, ensuring that you get the best graphics possible. This brightness comes in handy for projection mapping. From a distance of fifteen feet ten inches, you may achieve a gigantic 120-inch projection.
Because this is a plain and uncomplicated device, you can set it up quickly. With a bulb life of 15000 hours, you can use it without worry for the next few years.
It includes a wide range of input options, including HDMI, VGA, and many others. HDMI compatibility allows you to connect your projector to a variety of devices, including laptops, PCs, Macs, and other computers. This improves the projector’s connectivity.
It also has two 2-watt speakers built-in. As a result, the speaker quality is average, and you may need to add your speaker.
The ViewSonic PA503X, another variant of the ViewSonic PA series, is available for the same price. Because of its resolution, the PA503W makes our list.
The PA503W has an HD resolution of 1280 x 800, while the PA503X has a resolution of 1024 x 768.
This implies that the PA503X can only project in a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is insufficient for entertainment or projection mapping. For projection mapping, you’ll need a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio and a minimum of HD resolution.
Super colour technology is also present in the ViewSonic PA503W. Sharp details and a professional finish are provided by this six-colour technology. The input latency is near nil, allowing for seamless, lag-free operation.
Key Features
- It has a brightness of 3600-lumens and produces excellent results.
- The bulb life of 15000 hours will last you for years.
- Super colour technology provides incredible colour fidelity.
- It accepts a variety of inputs.
- Input lag is eliminated, resulting in a seamless user experience.
10. BenQ MW612 Projector
BenQ MW612 is another great mapping projector that performs well even in bright settings. The graphics effects are superb because of the 4000-lumen brightness and 20,000:1 Contrast Ratio.
It produces razor-sharp results for all types of media, including pictures, movies, and documents. A 120-inch display panel may be seen from a distance of only thirteen feet. The HDMI compatibility expands the range of applications.
It’s simple to set up, so you won’t have to go through manuals after manuals to get it set up. Wireless dongles are also available for wireless connectivity.
It reduces eye strain and allows for longer periods of viewing. It works effectively in small spaces as well as bright, well-lit ones. This projector, unlike others, does not make projections fade and dull in bright rooms.
The BenQ MW632ST is a short-throw version of the MW612 for shorter distances. Although the majority of the specifications are identical, the MW632ST has a lower 3,200L brightness and a lower 13,000:1 contrast ratio.
The MW612 also has a larger throw distance of 10 inches, compared to the MW632ST’s 4.6 inches. If your projection mapping project is further out, the MW612 is a better alternative.
The two are otherwise extremely comparable, however, the MW612 earns a spot on this list due to its increased adaptability at a lower price.
It is not only designed for projection mapping but it may also be used for a variety of other purposes. The reasonable pricing is also enticing. You can acquire this for half the price of comparable high-end projectors while still getting all of the benefits.
This projector produces high-quality mapping projections with a stunning display that can be utilised for professional work. It is the greatest buy you can make.
Key Features
- It has a brilliant brightness of 400 lumens.
- It also performs well in bright rooms, with excellent graphics output.
- Images with a contrast ratio of 20000:1 are brilliant.
- The use of wireless projection is simple and convenient.
The Best Mapping Projector for Projection Final judgment
Projectors that can work in a variety of situations are required for projection mapping. They do, however, need to specialise in some areas to be the ideal fit for specific consumers.
For optimum mapping, the correct projection mapping projector should have a large display size, as well as a good contrast ratio and resolution. Look no farther than the Epson Home Cinema projector for a projector with a gigantic 300-inch display and arguably the best projector for house mapping.
To keep up, you’ll need a high-quality projector with premium features as well as projection mapping expertise. A high contrast ratio and a short-throw distance are just a couple of examples. The BenQ HT8050 4K projector, with its 50,000:1 contrast ratio, and the ViewSonic PA503W 1080P, with its superb colour accuracy and image clarity, are both excellent choices in this regard.
If you value convenience above everything else, the Mini Projector is a good option. It’s not only light and portable but it’s also packed with useful functions. With great colour contrast, resolution, and bulb life, this video projector is an all-arounder. This projector, despite its small size, can project images as large as 200 inches, making it a fantastic value.
Finally, if you want a truly professional display and money isn’t an issue, Christie Digital Systems HD14K-M/ 3-DLP is the way to go.
FAQs
What distinguishes projection mapping from standard projection?
Because of the projection surface, projection mapping differs from conventional projection. Regular or 2D mapping takes place on a smooth, flat surface, whereas projection mapping takes place on 3D objects such as buildings, cars, and other objects. Such excellent displays, of course, necessitate specialist projectors with high resolution, throw ratio, and contrast.
What software is used for best projectors for projection mapping?
Lightform, Millumin, Dataton, Watchout, MadMapper, Arkaos GrandVJ XT, Resolume, and HeavyM are the most commonly used projection mapping applications.
What colour should you project onto?
Given its capacity to reflect light, a white-coloured surface is better suited to projecting onto in the dark. When there is ambient light, however, grey screens should be used since they absorb all superfluous light, resulting in brighter and sharper image creation.
What can I do to improve the image quality of my projector?
Clean the lens, adjust the projector’s focus, use the right resolution, reduce the projected screen size, and always use the sweet spot of the lens to improve the image quality of your projector.
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