Step Four - Determining Screen Size

Your screen size needs to fit your setting. A small screen won't work in an auditorium, and a large screen will overwhelm a small boardroom or home theater. You should also keep in mind the performance of your projector, what is the range of sizes the projector can display? Other factors to consider include the room configuration and the size of your typical audience.

Screen size recommendations from Da-Lite:

• Screen height should be approximately equal to 1/6 the distance from the screen to the last row of seats, allowing text to be read and detail to be seen in the projected image. Ideally, the first row of seats should be approximately two screen heights away.
• The bottom of the screen should be a minimum of 4 feet above the audience floor, allowing those seated toward the rear of the audience to see the screen. This may require additional screen "drop" for ceiling hung screens.

Quick Tip: Projector People used to recommend that you buy the projector before purchasing a screen. However, with advances like lens shift and zoom lenses, as well as better throw distance calculators you can now (usually) make an informed decision at the time of purchase. For the most part, you will only need to know how large a screen that your space can accommodate, and how large you want to go. Our most common screen sizes for home theater are 92 and 106 inch diagonal in a 16:9 (HDTV) aspect ratio. Some very large rooms can comfortably fit a 120-inch screen, but that is less common. Getting your screen when you purchase your projector may also help reduce costs by taking advantage of package deals.

Business purchasers may still want to stick with 4:3 aspect ratio screens, and sizes will very dramatically by application. Call a Projector Expert if you want a little help in deciding which screen is right for your needs.

Still have questions? Call a Projector Expert now for the best advice and your best price!