Projector or TV? Compare Big-Screen Options for Your Living Room

Deciding between a huge TV or a projector is one of the biggest choices in designing a home theater. Each option delivers a big picture, but certain features of each excel in different environments. Take an in-depth look at the features, pros and cons of TVs vs. projectors.

Key performance metrics

When comparing the two, look at these factors:

Size: Televisions typically range from 43 inches up to 98 inches. Projectors, by contrast, can cast images from 80 inches up to 300 inches or more. If you want a truly cinematic screen that covers an entire wall, a projector wins.

Brightness: Brightness is measured in nits for TVs and lumens for projectors. Premium LCD and QLED TVs reach 1,500–2,000 nits, which are bright enough for daylight viewing. Projectors output 2,000–4,000 lumens but require dim lights or an ambient light-rejecting (ALR) screen for peak performance.

Contrast and black levels: OLED TVs provide perfect blacks by switching off pixels completely. LED TVs have higher blacks but improve via local dimming. Most projectors rely on a lamp or laser shining through an LCD or DLP chip, with contrast ratios around 10,000:1. Laser projectors are closing the gap but still show lighter blacks than an OLED TV.

Resolution: Both TVs and projectors support 1080p and 4K, and some high-end TVs offer 8K resolution. Projectors often use pixel-shifting to achieve 4K, which is indistinguishable at normal viewing distances. Gaming at 4K may require a more powerful projector to avoid input lag.

Input lag and refresh rate: Gamers need response times under 20 milliseconds. Many modern TVs boast 9 ms or less and support 120 Hz refresh rates with VRR (variable refresh rate). Projectors typically have 20–50 ms input lag. High-end gaming projectors are narrowing the gap but still lag behind TVs.

Cost: Entry-level 55-inch 4K TVs start at $300, whereas a 100-inch OLED can cost up to $10,000. A quality 4K projector and screen can deliver a 120-inch image for about $2,000. Keep in mind that projectors require accessories like screens, mounts and dark room modifications.

Longevity: TV screens last 50,000-100,000 hours. Projector lamps last 3,000-6,000 hours; laser models last 20,000 hours. Replacement lamps cost $200-$400. TVs generally need less maintenance.

Pros and cons of each

TV pros:

• Provides bright images suitable for well-lit rooms

• Simple setup — just mount it and plug in

• Comes with built-in smart apps and speakers

• Low input lag for gaming

• No need for an external screen

TV cons:

• They’re expensive at very large sizes (over 85 inches)

• Fixed screen size; upgrading requires replacing the whole TV

• Large units may be difficult to deliver and mount

Projector pros:

• Huge screen sizes for immersive movie experiences

• Portable; can be stored when not in use

• Cost-effective per inch at sizes over 100 inches

• More flexible placement—choose screen size and aspect ratio

Projector cons:

• Lower brightness and contrast compared to TVs

• Requires a screen and controlled lighting

• A higher input lag means they’re less ideal for competitive gaming

• Bulbs or lasers eventually need replacement

Use case scenarios for the TV vs projector debate

Home theatre enthusiasts: If you have a dedicated media room with blackout shades and seating far from the screen, a projector wins. It provides a cinematic experience unmatched by TVs. Pair it with a high‑gain ALR screen for the best contrast.

Gamers: Competitive gamers should choose a TV with 120 Hz refresh rate, low input lag and support for HDR. Projectors may introduce delay, although some gaming projectors reduce lag to 16 ms.

Living rooms: Bright rooms and multi-use spaces benefit from QLED or OLED TVs. They produce punchy images in daylight and don’t require major room alterations.

Budget cinema: Families seeking large screens on a budget can choose a 4K projector and fixed frame screen for a fraction of the cost of a similarly sized TV. Use blackout curtains to improve image quality.

Small spaces: Ultra short throw (UST) projectors sit only inches from the wall and can project 100 inches in tight spaces. When off, they blend into your décor like a soundbar. They’re an alternative to large furniture pieces.

Setup tips for mounting a TV

1. Mount at eye level: The center of the TV should sit at eye height when seated. Use articulating mounts to tilt the screen downward if you need to place it higher.

2. Calibrate settings: Many TVs come with vivid modes that oversaturate colors. Use a calibration disc or built-in calibration settings to adjust brightness, contrast and color temperature for your environment.

3. Manage cables: Use in-wall power kits and cable raceways to hide wires for a clean look.

4. Add external sound: Even some high-end TVs have mediocre built-in speakers. Connect a soundbar or surround system if you want cinematic audio.

Read >> Is Dolby Atmos at Home Worth It?

Setup tips for projectors

1. Calculate throw distance: Each projector has a specific throw ratio (e.g., 1.2:1). Multiply the screen width by the throw ratio to determine how far back the projector must sit. UST projectors have throw ratios as low as 0.25:1.

2. Choose the right screen: Fixed frame screens offer the best flatness; ALR screens reject ambient light. A painted wall can work on a budget, but dedicated screens enhance contrast and color.

3. Control light: Use blackout curtains, shutters or drapes to darken the room. Even small amounts of light wash out a projector image.

4. Sound and ventilation: Projectors need space to vent heat. Place them away from viewers to reduce fan noise. Connect them to external speakers or a receiver for robust audio.

5. Maintenance: Clean the air filter regularly. Replace lamps according to manufacturer recommendations or upgrade to a laser model for longer life.

Emerging trends in big screens

• 8K televisions: Prices are dropping on 8K TVs, but content remains scarce. They offer future-proofing for early adopters.

• MicroLED: This technology delivers modular, bezel-free screens that combine the benefits of OLED and QLED. MicroLED is expensive but promises better longevity and brightness.

• Ultra short throw projectors: UST projectors are gaining popularity as an alternative to large TVs. They sit inches from the wall and require minimal installation.

• AI upscaling: Both TVs and projectors use AI to upscale lower-resolution content, improving clarity.

• Gaming projectors: Some newer projectors support 120 Hz refresh rates and reduced input lag, appealing to console gamers.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer 

TVs offer bright, crisp images and low input lag but become prohibitively expensive at bigger sizes. Projectors deliver cinema-scale images at a lower cost per inch, but they need controlled lighting and meticulous setup. Consider how you use your space, what you watch and your budget. When in doubt, visit a showroom to see displays in person or demo both options. 

If you go the TV route, visit our award-winning pull down TV mounts. We can help you create the perfect home theater experience to enjoy with family and friends for years to come.