Last update on 2024-10-02 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
Epson is a brand that you can always rely on if you want the best projectors for outdoor movies.
Whether you are hosting a movie night with a group of friends or family, or you want to impress and entertain your partner, Epson offers you a wide selection of projectors that you can choose for the ultimate backyard theater experience.
Here is a breakdown of what you should look for when buying an outdoor projector. We also sample some of the best Epson projectors for outdoor movies.
What to look for when buying an outdoor projector?
Selecting an outdoor projector does not have to be hard so long as you know what to look for during your shopping.
Here are a few factors that come into play when buying an outdoor projector.
- Brightness
The brightness of the projector is usually measured in lumens and it is of utmost importance since it will determine the visibility of your movies.
If you want to use your projector during the evenings, consider one with a brightness rating of between 2000 and 3500 lumens.
- Resolution
The resolution of your projector will determine the quality of the images produced. The best outdoor projectors have a resolution of 1920 x 1080, and the standard resolution that you can opt for is 1280 x 720 pixels.
Whatever your preferences, do not go for anything less than 1280 x 720 pixels.
- Contrast
The contrast of a projector is the ratio between light and darkness of the projected images. Not to be confused for brightness, the contrast ratio determines how sharp or vivid the images appear.
A contrast ratio of 2000:1 means that the lightest areas of the imagery are 2000 brighter compared to the darker areas.
- Throw Ratio
The throw ratio is the size of the projected images when a projector is placed from a specific distance from the screen. A projector with a high throw ratio means you can enjoy larger views from as far as 10 feet away or even more without experiencing screen overbleed.
- Portability
When shopping for an outdoor projector, consider one that is portable. After all, you will be carrying the projector from the house to your backyard or outdoor space when you want to watch a movie.
Preferably, your projector should come with a built-in battery so you don’t have to go through the hassle of connecting to a power outlet.
If you are an Apple user, check 3 Epson Projectors Compatible With Apple TV.
How many lumens do you need to project in daylight?
Projecting movies outdoors during the day can be a bit tricky. You have to contend with the sun and excess ambient light that can make your images blurry.
If you want to project during the day, you need a projector with a brightness rating of at least 2,500 lumens. You can use this type of projector in brightly lit spaces without much fuss.
Can you connect your phone to an Epson projector?
Yes, some Epson projectors allow you to connect your smartphone or tablet. However, your phone must be compatible with the projector.
After confirming compatibility, you can download the Epson iProjection app on your smartphone or tablet and scan the QR code provided.
Additional reading: Bluetooth Epson Projectors
How do I project a movie outside with a projector?
Projecting a movie outside with a projector is not hard. You only need to invest in the right projector to get started. As far as the projection screen is concerned, you can use a white bed sheet or a large piece of plain paper.
If your projector does not have built-in speakers, you will have to set up self-powered external speakers.
Here is a summary of how to project a movie outside with a projector:
- Invest in the right outdoor projector
- Select the appropriate space
- Build a screen
- Set up the projector
- Connect the speakers
- Play your movie
5 Best Epson projector for outdoor movies
Epson Home Cinema 5050UB
Last update on 2024-10-02 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
The Epson Home Cinema 5050UB is one of the best outdoor projectors for the money. It delivers sharp and clear 4K images even during the day, thanks to its 2,600 lumens brightness rating.
The projector has an HDR processor that guarantees a remarkable visual performance with outstanding color and image reproduction.
The Epson 5050UB also has a digital imaging processor that reproduces analog images to digital video.
With a maximum resolution of 4096 x 2160, you can always be sure of a fine video performance every time you want to watch a move in your backyard. The only concern is that the projector is large, making it somewhat bulky.
Pros
- Multiple processors for excellent picture quality
- Motorized lens function guarantees a remarkable visual performance
- Exceptional zoom capability
- Excellent resolution and frame interpolation
- Offers good value for money
Cons
- Somewhat large and bulky
Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K
Last update on 2024-10-02 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
Your movie nights will never be the same once you get a hold of the Epson Pro Cinema 4050 Projector. This home cinema is so versatile that you can use it either indoors or outdoors.
It features the widely acclaimed advanced pixel-shifting resolution enhancement that delivers imagery in 4K. It also has an HDR processor that guarantees exceptional visual performance every time.
The most appealing aspect about this projector is that it has a contrast ratio of 200,000:1. With such a high ratio, you can be sure that the projected images are rich in color and detail.
The advanced 3-chip architecture further delivers incredible color accuracy and brightness. The 15-element projection lens ensures no more hot spots when watching your favorite movies.
Pros
- Delivers images in 4K UHD
- 15-element glass projection lens prevents chromatic aberration
- 3-chip architecture for superior color accuracy and brightness
- 200,000:1 contrast ratio for rich color range
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- The price is on the higher end
Epson PowerLite Pro
Last update on 2024-10-02 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema is a projector designed for the outdoors. It has a brightness rating of 5200 lumens, meaning you can use the projector even during the day without worrying about picture quality.
Its resolution is a staggering 1080p, which allows you to display movies in Full HD across a widescreen.
The projector supports advanced video processing for remarkably sharp HD images. It also comes equipped with both horizontal and vertical lens shifts for pristine images every time.
And with its 3-chip architecture, you can always be sure of high white brightness and high color brightness.
The most interesting aspect about this machine is that you can monitor the status of the projector remotely from your smartphone.
The EasyMP app allows you to monitor projector status from the comfort of your seat.
Pros
- Supports full HD visual display
- Features 5200 lumens
- 3-chip architecture for superior color accuracy and brightness
- EasyMP app allows for remote monitoring of projector
- Comes with a 4-year warranty
Cons
- The setup process is somehow confusing for first-timers
Epson Home Cinema 3900
Last update on 2024-10-02 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
The Epson Home Cinema 3900 might be an indoor projector but you can also use it to watch movies outdoors.
It has a rating of 2700 lumens for both color brightness and white brightness, making it the ideal option for outdoor movies.
With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the Epson 3900 projects imagery in Full HD. It also has a contrast ratio of 120,000:1 that ensures your video display does not have any dark spots or hot spots.
What is more amazing about this projector is that it is very easy to set up and operate. Moreover, the 6X zoom capability ensures that you can install the projector in any room or open space without much fuss.
Pros
- Very easy to use and install
- Features 2700 lumens for impeccable image quality
- Supports full HD resolution
- Fairly priced thus offering good value for money
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
Cons
- Does not have onboard speakers
Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD
Last update on 2024-10-01 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
If you are on a tight budget and you are shopping for an outdoor projector that offers good value for money then consider the Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD projector.
This unit is budget-friendly and delivers an impressive visual performance like most of its premium rivals. It supports Full HD resolution and can project images up to 320 inches on any blank wall or screen.
Like most modern Epson projectors, this home cinema provides a stunning visual experience thanks to its 3-chip architecture. The 3LCD technology guarantees superior color accuracy and color brightness.
The best part is that the projector comes equipped with built-in speakers so you don’t have to purchase external speakers separately.
Pros
- Very easy to install and operate
- Supports full HD visual display
- Features 3400 lumens
- 3-chip architecture for superior color accuracy and brightness
- Comes equipped with built-in speakers
Cons
- The contrast ratio is only 16,000:1
Final Thoughts and Best Pick
Choosing the best Epson projector for outdoor movies can be overwhelming given the numerous options available.
But after careful research and comparison, Epson Pro Cinema 4050 Projector easily stands out as the top pick for the money.
You can use this home cinema indoors or outdoors depending on your preferences plus it comes with so many features worth checking out.