If you are looking for the best projector, you need a smooth surface to optimize your image quality.
That said, you might be wondering about projection screens versus paint for your dedicated or makeshift home theater room.
Luckily, you can apply projector screen paint to your entire wall to cover multiple aspect ratios and help with ambient light. That said, is it as good as an actual projection screen?
Read on and we'll help you decide between reflective paint and a projection screen.
KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER:
- A projector screen is usually the best way to watch movies or TV in your dedicated media room.
- Projector paint is a fantastic option for maximizing your screen size at a lower price.
- With either option, make sure your viewing environment is free of as much ambient light as possible.
Comparison of dedicated projection screen and projection screen painting
The biggest differences between projector paint and an actual screen are installation and maintenance. Also, as with the comparison of glossy and matte projector screens, there are definite implications for the vivid colors and deep blacks of your projector.
INSIDER TIP
Choosing the right location for your painted screen is an essential aspect for its maximization. Make sure the wall you select receives as little direct light as possible.
For example, you can't use regular paint to compete with an expensive screen. You will need special paint and a perfectly smooth wall surface for a painted screen. Most experts recommend using an electric sander to get a flat surface before painting the accent wall.
In contrast, projection screens are specifically created to recreate the theatrical experience at home. In addition, you must hang them on the wall or use a freestanding base. Finally, you must regularly dust and maintain your dedicated screen to maximize the investment.
Image quality
Although painted screens are a great alternative to a traditional fabric screen, they won't have the same quality. Even though you can get a 100-inch screen with paint, the typical wall won't have the uniform surface needed to get the ultimate viewing experience. Plus, screen innovations allow for wider viewing angles and more accurate color than reflective paint.
Bright picture
In the right environment, a white screen will create a much brighter image than any screen paint. That said, if you use darker colors, like gray or black screen paint, you can get similar results to a cheaper screen.
Cheapest option
Your price range depends on the scope of the route you choose. If you choose the expensive option for a projection screen or paint, you will get solid results. That said, using a few coats of high-end projector paint usually costs less than buying a high-end projector screen.
WARNING
Always let the coats of paint dry before touching your projection wall. Fingerprints, dust or dirt will degrade your image if they settle in the paint before it dries.
TO SUM UP
- Walls can distort the projected image since they are not always perfectly flat
- The contrasts will be significantly low, so you will not be able to enjoy the quality of the original images or videos
- Difficult to manipulate a wall, especially at the level of the ratio which may require adjustment of the screen
- Painting is a great alternative to do without projection screens. Still, it's not the best solution when it comes to projecting, especially when you're looking for quality
These are all reasons that could encourage you to buy a good projection screen, for better quality.
FAQs
Can you use a white wall for a projector?
Although you can use a white wall for a projector, it's not ideal. For example, a plain white wall will not reflect the light needed for HD images or dark scenes.
What is the ideal color to paint a wall as a projection screen?
If you can afford it, black projector paint is the best option for a painted projector wall. That said, the gray paint will provide a dark enough surface for deep blacks and high contrast.
Are different surfaces important? What is the ideal space?
If you want a painted spotlight wall, you need to sand it down to get the smoothest surface possible. Bumps, dust and dirt will appear under the light of your projector, degrading your viewing experience.M
