Ask the Expert: LCD projector brightness

Welcome to the latest installment of Ask the Expert, BuyerZone's monthly question and answer column. BuyerZone's editors are ready to answer any business purchasing questions that you have. We'll answer what we can directly and refer to outside experts when needed.

Send your questions to content@buyerzone.com and we'll use them in upcoming columns. We may not be able to answer every email, but we'll try to publish all worthwhile questions and answers here.

Here's a question BuyerZone's customer support team received this month:

What level of brightness should I look for when shopping for an LCD projector?

LCD projector brightness is a key component to the visibility of your projected image. You want to make sure that the projector you choose can produce enough light to display the images onto a screen across the room.

Brightness is measured in ANSI lumens and the level of brightness you'll need depends on how you'll use your projector, how dark the room will be, and the projector's distance from the screen. Here's a quick rule of thumb of LCD projector brightness and the best uses for each:

• Less than 1,000 lumens — Projecting black and white graphics and text in dark rooms. May not be bright enough for vibrant images.
• 1,000 to 2,000 lumens — On-the-road presentations in small conference rooms.
• 2,000 to 4,000 lumens — On-the-road presentations in larger conference rooms.
• 4,000 to 5,000 lumens — Fixed installation machines in large auditoriums.

Keep in mind, you can find projectors with brightness levels of 10,000 lumens and higher, but you'll pay considerably more. For more detailed information about purchasing an LCD projector, review our recently-updated LCD projectors buyer's guide.

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