TVs vs projectors: How they are different

If you happen to be a movie buff, with very little time to visit the theatre regularly, what do you do then? You bring the theatre home of course. If you ask how, we have one word for you. TVs. 

Some however, may be looking to take their experience to the next level, and can consider investing in a projector instead. To help you make an informed decision between the two then, we thought we’d put together this little comparison between the two, to help you make an informed choice.

Differences between a TV and a projector

Let’s explore the differences between a TV and a projector.

1. Price

With advancement in technology, the prices of electronic devices, particularly TVs, are are getting lower by the day. There are multiple options in the market, available across a range of  price points, from different brands. 

Projectors on the other hand, remain a fairly large and expensive investment. 

2. Performance

As a TV is a direct showcasing of light, the image resolution of TVs is extremely high. 

A projector on the other hand, is just reflected light, which results in diminished resolution. Many high-end projectors, even today, have trouble playing HDR videos. So, when it comes to performance, TVs are a much better investment. 

3. Installation 

Whether you go for table-top or wall mounted TV, its installation is relatively simple. It doesn’t require any special equipment or space for that matter.

 A projector, on the other hand, is tough to set up, since it involves various components, including speakers, a screen, and of course, the projector itself. One must also remember that it requires to be connected to a device such as a laptop, to be able to project content in the first place. 

4. Portability

When it comes to portability, while TVs today are extremely light and have a sleek form factor, they’re still not portable. Why, is simply because of the lack of power outlets or spaces to set them up outdoors. 

Projectors however, as long as there is an outlet and a space to project present, can be carried and used anywhere, with ease. THeir compact form factor further adds to their convenience. 

5. Room setting

If you set up your TV in a room with lots of light, images still are crisp, bright and clear. 

However, projectors require darkened rooms, otherwise pictures are as good as invisible. 

6. Picture quality-Brightness  

TV and projectors both use LED technology. However, projectors need to be adjusted to get a clear image. Moreover, the bulbs on projectors need to be replaced over time to maintain image quality. A TV helps ensure much better image quality than a projector, for a significantly lower amount of money. 

7. Picture quality-contrast and lighting 

TVs offer greater colour contrast and deeper details as compared to a projector. A TV’s brightness and contrast can be adjusted.

ALSO READ: How to build the perfect home theatre setup for your space

However, a projector’s contrast cannot be adjusted and decreases, in brightly lit surroundings. On the other hand however, a projector also doesn’t stress your eyes the way a TV does. 

8. Size 

TVs ranging from 75-85 inches can be a good choice for a big home. But, if you are a movie lover and love the cinematic experience, go for a projector.

9. Sound quality 

The sound quality of the TV is excellent compared to projectors, with its in-built speakers.  

Most projectors, however, guarantee a sound quality only as good as the speakers they’re connected to. And good speakers, as we all know, are a significant investment. 

10. Smart features

 TVs and projector these days are on-par when it comes to smart features. Both possess the capability to connect to the internet, allow for gaming, as well as streaming from OTT platforms.

Home entertainment then, is possible with both TVs, and projectors. Considering their various features, and requirements, both of them have their own advantages and disadvantages However, which one to choose purely boils down to one’s personal preferences, requirements, and budget.