The Best Motorized Projector Screens
Home movie theaters can provide an entertainment package that's hard to beat with a conventional screen. And while the projector itself is important, a dependable motorized screen can also greatly enhance the overall viewing experience. These devices eliminate the need for bulky entertainment centers with ceiling and wall mounts. Whether you're experimenting with projectors for the first time or looking for a well-needed upgrade, our top screens will produce crisp images that consistently leave your audience in awe. In our search for the best motorized projector screens, we used four main questions to guide our search: Is it sturdy and built well? Does the screen help project images with brightness and clarity? Is it easy to install? Does the motor function work smoothly and quietly? Our favorite came from Elite Screens since it boasts a super simple setup and gorgeous images reproduction with accurate colors. But for those looking for an inexpensive portable option, we recommend Pyle's 72-inch projector screen. It offers the quality we'd expect from projectors twice the price and can be moved about easily. For more of our in-depth reviews, read on.
Elite Screens Spectrum Projector Screen
Vivid viewing
Users that want a vivid, unobstructed view of their media without the clutter of a bulky television set should look no further than the Spectrum projector screen. While most of a screen’s resolution depends on the projector and bulb, Elite Screens provides a huge upgrade in terms of convenience and accessibility. In particular, the deployed surface sits flush to the wall, enabling wider viewing angles that simply can’t be beaten by conventional monitors. In addition, the actual sheet supports both conventional and 3D media, and its fully blackened front enhances color depth for especially dark sequences.
Pros:
- This is an excellent option for home theaters. It comes with a wall switch and a remote controller, so you can operate it from the comfort of your seat.
- We love how easy and versatile the installation is since it’s compatible with both ceiling and wall mounting.
- The 125-inch diagonal size is massive in person, so everyone gets a good view of the screen.
Cons:
- The power cord could be longer, though you can always use an extension cord.
Aoxun Motorized Projector Screen
Mount without messes
If you’ve never anchored heavy accessories to your wall or ceiling, the process of installing a projector screen may seem daunting. Fortunately, Aoxun makes mounting a piece of cake thanks to their all-inclusive hardware. This slim yet sturdy device doesn’t require nearly as much reinforcement as a monitor mount and, as a result, sits comfortably with the included drywall anchors and carabiner clips. Aside from a simple setup, Aoxun prides itself on ease of use. The remote is super responsive, and the whisper-soft motor follows suit with speedy deployment.
Pros:
- There are two options for hanging it: using the two rings or the keyhole slots. If you opt for the former, you can easily move it around for those impromptu outdoor movie nights.
- We were impressed by the smooth operation, which doesn’t stutter and responds instantly to the remote. It’s also surprisingly quiet.
Cons:
- While lightweight, the aluminum casing is a bit fragile and can be dented as a result.
Elite Screens VMAX2 Projector Screen
Uncompromising clarity
The VMAX2 from Elite Screens is a huge step up for media lovers that take home theater setups seriously. Whether you’re working with older electronics or ultra-high-definition projectors, the VMAX2 will make images appear with greater detail and brightness. This is mainly due to their decision to use a textured surface that makes projections pop instead of smooth surfaces that can cause color blending. On top of that, Elite Screens touts a level of image stability that’s hard to beat, thanks to a stiff fiberglass backing that won’t lose tension over time.
Pros:
- We love the super sturdy construction, which includes fireproof materials and a hardy metal casing.
- The edgeless design helps improve the quality of the picture.
- If you’re looking for a jumbo-size screen, go with Elite Screens. Their size options go up to 150 inches, so you can truly enjoy a cinematic experience.
Cons:
- This premium build comes with a high price tag.
Pyle Portable Projector Screen
Mobile media management
If you want to enjoy the practicality of a projector but don’t have a lot of wall space, consider this portable screen from Pyle. Built for maneuverability, the 72-inch screen weighs less than ten pounds and can easily be set up with only one pair of hands. The white surface boasts a “1.3 screen gain,” which means images are bright and beautiful. It’s also compatible with 16:9 aspect ratios, the standard for high definition. Best of all, each motor is barely audible, screen cleaning is uncomplicated, and the purchase doesn’t skimp on mounting hardware or batteries.
Pros:
- We love how the screen is water-proof since it makes cleaning easy. You can just use a damp rag for a quick wipedown.
- Unlike most options, this one comes with an extra-long, 9-foot power cord.
- Most motorized projector screens cost a pretty penny, but this one comes at a bargain.
Cons:
- The package has a strong plastic smell that takes a while to dissipate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best material for a projector screen?
While a bedsheet can get the job done on a tight budget, projector-specific screens are built to give you a movie theater experience in the comfort of your own home. Most projector screens are made from vinyl material designed to eliminate wrinkles and stay taut night after night. Vinyl aside, microfiber blends allow sound from wall-mounted speakers to penetrate the screen without loss of fidelity.
How do I mount my projector screen?
Mounting a projector screen may seem like a difficult task, but in reality, the process is almost as easy as mounting a picture frame. Before you begin the installation, check your projector screen’s weight. If the device is too heavy to mount directly to drywall, use a stud finder to locate the wooden studs in your ceiling or wall. Studs are placed at standard intervals based on local building codes and provide a firm anchor for your device. After ensuring that your drilling locations are as close to the center of the stud as possible, drill pilot holes and secure your screen with fasteners.
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