What is the best projector I can get for watching movies for $500 or less.?

Question

I have been researching projectors for a while now and was wondering if anyone has an opinion on the best home theater type projector you can get for $500 or less. I know I have to go with 480p but that is not a big deal for me as I really dont need hi-def.

Answer 1

It's hard to say which is best when its something so inexpensive, but the Epson and Optoma brands are popular for low cost projectors. The Mitsubishi SD105U is a DLP projector for about $599.

There are some XGA (which can scale to HD in 720p) that can be had for close to $500, but not quite that cheap.  Just make sure whatever projector you get is marketed as both business and home theater or you might be disappointed with the image because it is designed for presentations and not video.  I added a link to some options under $700 below.

Answer 2

Here's a link to some good 480p pj's for $500 or less.

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/...

Then go here to check the specs and do your comparison.

www.projectorcentral.com

Also, on a side not note Ray is wrong.  I have had several 480p projectors and although they aren't HD they still look pretty darn good.

Check out the In Focus IN72 and or the Epson S3 & S4.

weeder

Answer 3

No such animal.  The closest I can get you is the Epson PowerLite 77c which you can find online for a bit over $600

Anything less is going to get you a projector that may be fine for Powerpoint slides but will annoy the c**p out of you when watching a movie.