Outdoor Movie Theater Projector Guide

Summertime is the perfect time to take it outside.

A classy backyard theater

You can make your outdoor movie theater as simple or high-tech as you like.

Unlike flat screen televisions, a projector can easily be moved outdoors for an evening of movies under the stars. Wow your neighbors and friends with larger-than-life films, sports and music, all from the comfort of your backyard. You can also bring your projector with you on camping or tailgating trips.

Keep reading to learn more about setting up your outdoor movie theater »

Buyer's Guide Table of Contents:


Best Projectors for Outdoor Movie Theaters[ top ]

There are currently no projectors designed exclusively for outdoor use. However, most of our home theater projectors, and even some of our business models, can easily be set up outside.

To get those gigantic, vivid images projectors are known for, we highly recommend using an HD model in your outdoor theater. Most of our home theater projectors are 720p or 1080p and will more than fit the bill. You can also look for a business model with a resolution of 1280 x 800 or higher.

Epson projector in a backyard theater

There are no projectors designed specifically for outdoor use, however, you can bring most home theater models outside. Just don't forget to bring them inside when you're done!

Non-HD projectors will also work well outdoors, but the image quality won't be quite as spectacular as their higher resolution brothers and sisters.

You'll also need a computer that can preferably output in HD, or an upconverting DVD or Blu-ray player for your outdoor theater. Many of today's home theater projectors feature a built-in DVD player or iPhone dock, making them a perfect all-in-one solution. Just don't forget the extension cord!

Use our sorting features to find the best projector for your outdoor theater » Or call 1-888-248-0675 to speak to a Projector Expert.

Quick Tip! No matter how often you use your outdoor theater, we do not recommend leaving your projector outside after use. Same goes for your screen.

Backyard Movie Theater Projector Specs:
  • Brightness : 1600 lumens or better
  • Resolution : HD (720p or 1080p)
  • Connectivity : HDMI or Component video
  • Projector Audio: Some HD projectors like the Epson MovieMate 85HD come with built-in speakers. If your projector doesn't, or if you need extra audio power, try Anchor powered speakers, which feature built-in amplifiers.
  • Video Source: Look for projectors that include a built-in DVD player or iPod dock, or bring your own outside.

Backyard Movie Theater Recommendations:

All of these are on sale during our Outdoor Theater Sale, through June 4. See all the outdoor theater deals »
Epson Epson PowerLite Presenter PowerLite Presenter Wide XGA (1280 x 800) 2500 lumens  $865.00  Details »
Panasonic Panasonic PT AE7000U HD 1080p PT AE7000U HD 1080p HD (1920 x 1080) 2000 lumens  $2,499.00  Details »

(48 Reviews)
Mitsubishi Mitsubishi HC7800D HC7800D HD (1920 x 1080) 1500 lumens  $2,999.00  Details »
Epson Epson Home Cinema 3010 Home Cinema 3010 HD (1920 x 1080) 2200 lumens  $1,599.00  Details »

(12 Reviews)

Can I Have a Backyard Movie Theater Without a Screen?[ top ]

Multiple screens used in a football outdoor theater

You can make your own screen, or set up a professional model for a more polished look.

You betcha! You can make your own screen using a sheet, the side of your house, the garage door, painter's tarp, you name it. Some of the best outdoor movie theaters we've seen were just a projector and a sheet hung between two trees.

That said, if you want to impress your friends and neighbors with a more polished look you can also buy cut-to-order screen fabric for a fun DIY project. We also sell inflatable screens that can be set up outdoors. These models include air blowers and stakes to keep them set up throughout the night.

Recommended Screens for Outdoor Theater Use:

Open Air Cinema Open Air Cinema Home Series Home Series
  $699.00  Details »

All-In-One Outdoor Movie Theater Projector Solutions[ top ]

Outdoor concert with projection

In addition to making your backyard the coolest on the block, projectors also add rich visual value to events like outdoor concerts.

It's summertime - let us do the homework for you. We've created all-in-one backyard movie theater packages that include everything you need for a night of cinema under the stars. Save money and time!

Prefer to pick out your own projector and accessories? Projector People can create an all-in-one package that will please even the pickiest of backyard theater aficionados. Call 1-888-248-0675

Don't forget...
  • A power strip
  • Extension cord
  • Inexpensive upconverting DVD player (if not included on your projector)
  • Entertaining movie
  • External speakers (if not included on your projector)
  • Food and beverages (beverages and food should be kept away from all electronics)

    • Recommended Outdoor Theater Projector Packages:

BenQ BenQ BenQ W1100 Backyard Theater Bundle BenQ W1100 Backyard Theater Bundle HD (1920 x 1080) 2000 lumens  Also Includes:
Anchor Audio Speaker
Da-Lite Screen
Sharp DVD Player - HD
Comprehensive Video Cable
$1,725.00  Details »
BenQ BenQ W7000 3D Home Theater Backyard Package W7000 3D Home Theater Backyard Package HD (1920 x 1080) 2000 lumens  Also Includes:
Open Air Cinema Screen
Comprehensive Video Cable
BenQ 3D Glasses
$3,099.00  Details »
Epson Epson Epson Home Cinema 3010 3D Backyard Bundle Epson Home Cinema 3010 3D Backyard Bundle HD (1920 x 1080) 2200 lumens  Also Includes:
Open Air Cinema Screen
Comprehensive Video Cable
$1,999.00  Details »
Epson Epson MovieMate 85HD Backyard Theater with Sound MovieMate 85HD Backyard Theater with Sound Wide XGA (1280 x 800) 2500 lumens  Also Includes:
Elite Screen
$1,055.00  Details »

Tips for the Best Outdoor Theater[ top ]

  • Invite your neighbors, or at least inform them that there will be life size images in your backyard and maybe some extra noise.
  • Do not charge admission without permission of the movie distributor. Though tempting, it is against the law. See your local regulations.
  • Backyard events will be best if started around dusk (just like at the drive-in).
  • Keep power cords out of the way as much as possible.
  • Beware of inclement weather.
  • Keep electronics away from pools, BBQs, your neighbor's dog and that annoying kid from the next block.
  • Turn off your sprinkler system before setting up.
  • Remember: your projector is not a coaster.
  • Consult your projector owner's manual for specifications on outdoor use.