Last updated on March 24th, 2021
Be it home or outdoor entertainment, projectors have been delighting us with top-notch video quality spread over a giant screen surface.
Then again in most of the cases, the projector screens are fixed to the living room wall which makes it difficult if you wish to enjoy a movie night under the stars.
This is where the best outdoor projectors screen come in to boost up your portability level while projecting stellar imagery once you are done with the basic installation process.
Your choice of selecting the ultimate outdoor projector screen depends on your purpose, i.e. whether you will be using the same for leisure, business or academics.
Today we will discuss the five best outdoor projector screen as well as the broad classification of the same which can assist you in taking your purchase call.
Read more related articles: Best Short Throw Projectors
| # | Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  |
Elite Screens Yard Master 2, 120-inch Outdoor Indoor Projector Screen 16:9, Fast Easy Snap On Set-up... | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |  |
Visual Apex Projector Screen 144HD Portable Indoor/Outdoor Movie Theater Fast-Folding Projector... | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |  |
Backyard Theater Kit | Recreation Series System | 9' Front and Rear Projection Screen with 1080p HD... | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |  |
EasyGo Products 14' Inflatable Mega Movie Screen - Canvas Projection Screen for Outdoor Parties -... | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2021-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
BROAD CLASSIFICATION OF PROJECTOR SCREENS
Size
This depends entirely on your available space as well as your projector’s imaging capabilities.
However, most of the modern devices can throw an image which is about 100 inches large.
Your requirement in such a case should depend on the measurements of your viewing area.
Fixed Vs. Portable
While classrooms, conference halls and home theater rooms work well with permanent screen installations, they also come with a hefty price tag.
In such cases, the fabric is fixed inside a frame for being installed on the ceiling or wall. Portable options, on the other hand, are lightweight and highly inexpensive.
You can use them in various rooms as well as your outdoor backyard. These projectors are usually accompanied with a carrying bag and required accessories for being set up.
Gain
This refers to the projector screen’s ability of reflecting the light thrown at the same.
Hence, a projector screen having 1.0 gain is able to create an image which is equally bright as that of the light emitted from the projector.
Brightness of the image shares a directly proportional relationship with the gain figure.
This can prove to be highly helpful in scenarios when the ambient light cannot be reduced. In such a case the increased brightness paves the path for a sharper projected image.
However, it is imperative to note here that a higher gain can lead to “hot spots” in low light conditions.
These are the extra bright areas which might crop up at the center of the screen. Hence, high gain might not always be favourable for your projector screen.
Aspect Ratio
Most of the modern-day projectors employ an aspect ratio of 16:9 which also stands out as the preferred HDTV format.
This is compatible with 720p, 1080p HD as well as 4K resolution graphics. Most movie screens support 2.35:1 format and thus you might see black bars on your screen while proceeding with a higher aspect ratio.
Alternatively, if you are thinking about using the same for PC based presentations, then you need to proceed with a widescreen PC 16:10 format.
The classic video format of 4:3 can serve you well if you toggle frequently between widescreen and old-school full screen viewing.
Lastly, square projector screens running on 1:1 format are ideal for conducting data presentations in the office apart from doubling up as overhead projectors.
BEST OUTDOOR PROJECTOR SCREEN – GUIDE AND REVIEWS 2021
1. Elite Screens Yard Master 2, 120-inch Outdoor Projector Screen
When it comes to outdoor projector screen, Elite Screens Yard 2 definitely stand out of its peers with its high-quality projection and easy portability which can cater to the requirement of all your family members.
Design
The lightweight aluminium frame assists the Yard Master 2 in being set up within just a matter of few minutes.
Its innovative single frame design can be set up by just one person by sliding all the pieces into place, folding out its legs and snapping out the screen.
Screen
Its CineWhite 1.1 gain and Wraithveil 2.2 gain front and rear matte white screens can serve as the ideal projector backdrop.
You can easily clean the screen surface using just soap and water.
The mildew resistant construction of the screen can also keep you buffered from discoloration in days to come as you make the most of 4K HD, Active 3D, & HDR projection with 160 degree viewing angle.
Features
All it takes is a matter of just few minutes to assemble this versatile projector without the requirement of any extra tools.
Installation becomes easier due to its corner pull-tabs and snap button attachments on the material.
You can effortlessly fold and unfold the single-piece frame of the projector post usage.
Additional support and stability is guaranteed by the accompanying rope, stakes and support rings.
What We Liked:
- Lightweight yet study projector screen.
- Can be folded up in a compact manner for being stored post usage.
- The projector comes packed in a soft padded carrying case which hikes up its portability meter.
- Can be setup within just 10 minutes.
- The unit doesn’t wobble even when the weather gets slightly windy.
- Supports giant screen viewing of 120 inches having an aspect ratio of 16:9 so that you can enjoy true to life photos and videos.
- Flat projection gets ensured by its snap button frame.
2. Visual Apex Projectoscreen144HD portable indoor or outdoor movie theater projection screen
Gone are the days when you had to confine yourself within the four walls of your living space for enjoying big screen environment.
You can now actually take it whenever you fancy coupled with rhetoric improvements in portability.
Design
The ProjectoScreen144HD has been designed in such a manner that it can be easily set up, taken down and even stored away in a hassle-free manner.
Screen
The screen set is accompanied with a storage bag, optional legs for assisting the screen in standing by itself and ropes for added stability.
The aspect ratio of 16:9 renders support to both widescreen and standard screen movies.
It also comes in a plethora of sizes ranging from 100-144” thus providing you with greater flexibility of selecting the one which serves your purpose best.
Visual Apex has also catered to the longevity parameter of their projector by making use of high quality UV protected material which can be washed easily whenever it gets dirty.
Features
The Visual Apex provides greater versatility with its anchor ropes and legs for being used either in the backyard or similar locations where hanging it might not seem like a feasible option.
However, the projector also comes with grommets which can cater to your requirements of hanging the same.
The projector is backed with a two-year warranty by its manufacturers to help you covered in the event of a manufacturing defect.
What We Liked:
- Snap-in legs and foldable frame makes the projector extremely easy to assemble.
- The screen material ranks high in the department of color uniformity and brightness level.
- All the pieces can be packed inside a convenient carrying case.
- Extra stability is imparted through guard wires.
- Screen fits tightly around the frame for preventing wrinkles which can actually ruin your ultimate view.
- Flame retardant and mildew resistant screen which can be cleaned off easily with a hose spray.
- Solid built in speakers with a faux surround sound system built in
- Tight throw distance for easy use in compact spaces
3. Backyard Theater Kit | Recreation Series System | 9′ Front and Rear Projection Screen with HD Savi 3000 Lumen Projector
In most cases, these screens are hung from the walls of church or school auditoriums. However, if you are on the lookout for a screen which can be moved swiftly from one place to another, then you need to refine your search and concentrate on the Camp Chef OS144.
Design
Its robust frame is crafted using heavy-duty material which can keep up with your entertainment requirements even when the weather gets windy.
Screen
It is now possible to enjoy the thrill of drive-in movie night from the comfort of your backyard with the Camp Chef OS144 screen.
You can also experience enriched colors and high-resolution imagery for being projected on this premium screen crafted using grey hued oxford nylon reflective material.
Although grey does seem like an odd choice, it definitely works better in outdoor movie projection.
This Full HD widescreen projector having an screen size ratio of 16:9 can support most of the modern-day movies as well as live streaming of sporting events.
Features
The unit can be setup within a matter of just few minutes by connecting the 1” gauge powder coated metal tubing frame and tightly clipping the screen.
Be it sporting events, business seminars or movie nights, this flat screen can serve all your requirements with similar level of efficiency.
This screen can operate without the requirement of any electric outlet.
What We Liked:
- Can be set up and taken down pretty easily.
- Lightweight and portable projector which comes packed in a carrying bag.
- Freestanding durable frame which can easily sustain light summer breeze.
- Four tie-down guy lines accompany the unit to impart extra stability during those highly windy days.
- You can easily block the ambient light with its accompanying back cover which can be folded down whenever rear projection is required.
- Great sound system on board
- Relatively short throw distance for anywhere usage
4. EasyGo Products 14′ Inflatable Mega Movie Screen
Watching your favorite movies while rolling on the lush green backyard grass is bound to bring back those delightful memories of childhood. And the EasyGo 14’ Inflatable Mega Movie Screen can serve as your ultimate buddy in this walk down the path of sheer nostalgia.
Design
Weighing at just 11 pounds, this lightweight inflatable movie screen can cater to your outdoor entertainment needs in the best possible manner.
It is accompanied with a detachable screen, inflatable frame, ground stakes as well as tie-down strings which are connected to the D rings for imparting greater stability in windy weather conditions.
Screen
The 14-foot screen is crafted using waterproof polyester fabric which doesn’t reveal any signs of wear and tear even after being made subject to violent winds.
The 600-denier canvas can even be detached from the frame for cleaning.
Features
The EasyGo inflatable movie screen does not support rear projection but can definitely withstand windy weather when placed properly.
Thus, if you are on the lookout for a mid-sized screen option having plenty of viewing space, then you are bound to feel delighted with the EasyGo screen.
What We Liked:
- Can be set up conveniently in less than 2 minutes automatically with the noiseless fan.
- Comes accompanied with a step by step user manual which assists with fast installation.
- Detachable white display screen can be removed for cleaning.
- Ranks high in portability thus making it ideal for picnics, camping trips, outdoor wedding and birthday parties.
- Comes with a bag which assists in storage.
FAQs
How Many Lumens Do the Best Outdoor Projectors Have?
When you’re using a projector outdoors, you’ll have to deal with a lot of light interference. That interference comes from all the ambient lighting either from the sun in the day or the moon at night.
If you’d like to enjoy a crystal clear image quality on your outdoor projector screen, you’ll need to invest in a unit with at least 3,000 lumens.
Lumens is the measurement of light output. When it comes to projectors, especially those outdoors, you’ll always be better off with higher lumens.
What Is The Best Projector For Outdoor Use?
Several brands on the market are known for making the best projector for outdoor use. They include the likes of the BenQ, Epson, and Vankyo. Here are some projector models from these brands, which are some of the best you can find nowadays:
Benq TK850
Epson EB-s41
Vankyo Cinemango 100 Mini
How Do I Choose One of the Best Outdoor Projectors?
Just like with any kind of projector, you’ll want to base your choice in picture quality. However, shopping for an outdoor projector involves a few additional considerations.
For instance, you’ll want to choose a unit that has at least 3,000 lumens. The bulb must be bright enough to create a clear image on the screen, even with all the ambient lighting from the sun or the moon.
If your budget allows for it, be sure to choose a projector that’s built for the outdoors. That way, it’ll be able to keep itself cool even if the weather is hot outside.
Can All Projectors Be Used Outside?
Yes, technically you can use any unit you have outside. However, there are a few things to take into consideration.
Firstly, the brightness requirements for outdoor projection are not the same as inside. See, inside your home, it’s easier to project a clear image because you can darken the space.
So, the unit you have may not be bright enough to use outdoors. For a better experience, you’ll need to use your projector outside in a shaded space.
Besides, you’ll also want to make sure that the temperature outside isn’t too hot for the projector. Typically, projectors run pretty hotly. If you buy a unit that’s suited for the outdoors, it’ll have no problems keeping itself cool.
Conclusion
Electric projector screens can impart a professional look and feel to your presentations.
These elegantly designed screens can be operated via remote and are ideal for those who have a large semi-permanent area which can be ear-marked for its storage.
Manual projector screens feature a pulley at the screen bottom thus allowing the operator to pull the screen up and down manually.
Tripod projector screens are ideal for being used outdoors given its lightweight build.
They are also highly cost-efficient and can easily withstand the normal wear-tear which is caused by exposing the same to adverse weather conditions.
Fixed frame screens can definitely be termed as the most elite screen and are thus increasingly used for commercial purposes.
They serve as permanent fixture in a room and cannot be rolled up and down between uses.
Floor rising projector screens are even more lightweight in comparison to tripod screens and can be taken up or down pretty easily.
Most of them even don’t have a carrying case since the handle mounted to its base assists with easy accessibility.
Lastly, inflatable projector screens, are an extremely affordable option and can be adjusted for fitting a plethora of viewing angles.
Both the screen and base materials are specially crafted to withstand adverse weather conditions and allow magnificent projection at all times.
Read more about projector models and specifications.
Eva is Cartbig’s editor in chief and she has worked on everything Cartbig covers, from beyblades to lawn mowers. In her previous life, she held editorial positions in iEssent and BHP.
She loves reading, she has a daughter and a poorly behaved havanese dog.
She resides in Utah and she works remotely from a desk piled with post-it notes, science fiction books and all kinds of cameras. Even broken ones.
