How to balance cost, lifespan, and maintenance with the ideal projector for your space
It’s easy to take your projector for granted. It’s a faithful tool for office presentations and video conferences. But advancements in projector technology have come a long way even in just the last few years. They last longer, run cooler, and use less power. All while displaying a sharp and easy-to-read image in a variety of lighting conditions.
There are also more options to consider and questions to answer than ever before. For example, what are the benefits of a laser projector vs lamp? What’s the difference between an LED, an OLED, and a DLP projector? Let’s go through it step by step so you can decide what you want and how to get it.
Want to know more about finding the right projector for your needs? Check out our guide, How Do Projectors Work? Everything You Need to Know.
Lamp projectors: Classic design
Picture a typical classroom or office space circa 20 years ago. It likely has a lamp projector hung from its ceiling or propped up on a cart. These models use a halogen bulb to create light, which shines through a slide then up through a glass bed.
Lamp projectors have a classic appeal, but they have downsides that other types of projectors don’t. They could run hot and be vulnerable to dust. You may also need to replace bulbs, and their glass beds could be fragile. A laser projector is cooler, quieter, and easier to handle.
The laser projector vs lamp question also comes down to a matter of cost. The lamp projector might save you money up front, but it needs new parts and regular maintenance. In the long term, you will likely save money with a laser projector.
Did You Know?:The RICOH High-End Laser Projector Series was built to deliver performance for demanding spaces and presentations. Click here to learn more.
DLP projectors: Cinematic presentation
A DLP (Digital Light Processing) projector is a step up from the classic lamp model. Most of the digital movies shown in theaters use DLP projectors. These produce images with a color wheel and microscopic mirrors. A “one-chip” DLP uses a single light source, while a 3-chip DLP dedicates one light to each primary color.
DLP projectors originally ran off a single halogen bulb, but are now just as likely to use a laser or LED. To contrast a DLP vs laser projector, the DLP is primarily intended for auditoriums. For typical business applications, a DLP is more than you need — but it could be worth a look for your home theater.
LED projectors: Modern standards
An LED (Light-Emitting Diode) device shines light through an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel to create images. This combination of well-established technologies makes them relatively commonplace. LED projectors are effective, inexpensive, and practical.
OLED screens work differently. Each pixel in an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display produces its own light. This makes it thinner and more power-efficient with better image quality than an LED. The way OLED works means it can’t be used in projectors.
If you put a laser projector vs OLED, head to head, you get a clearer image from an OLED display. Yet projectors’ images are often easier on the eyes, since you don’t have to look right into a light source. For long-term use, a laser projector has an edge for business applications.
Laser projectors: State-of-the-art
When you compare a laser projector vs lamp, it’s a night-and-day difference. A laser projector uses three separate colored lasers. These provide a crisp picture at almost any range and don’t require bulbs or filters. They also don’t need much maintenance and can last for years.
The downside is simple. Laser projectors currently represent the cutting edge of the field. That makes them relatively expensive. High-end models also tend to be heavy. If you need to travel with a projector, your most convenient options will likely be LED.
Laser projector vs lamp vs LED: Going lens to lens
There’s a lot of variety in the projector space. To find your best fit, make a list of desired features and a plan for how you will use it. Here are some questions to consider as you weigh potential candidates:
- What do you intend to present with your new projector?
- What can your electrical supply support?
- Where are your presentations typically held?
- What will the lighting be like there?
Your final decision will likely come down to one of LED vs laser projector. LED projectors feature solid performance at an attractive price point. Many LED models are also light enough to be portable. Laser projectors last longer and have a better picture, but their higher cost may limit their application for some.
Did You Know?:You can learn more about key features of laser projectors in our introductory video. Click here to watch.
Our recommendation: RICOH Compact Laser Projector PJ WXL5860
The Compact Laser Projector WXL5860 is a great all-around performer. It has the flexibility, long lifespan, and crisp picture to handle a range of applications. It’s bright enough to work almost anywhere, including well-lit spaces. It’s also likely light enough at 10.1 pounds to carry with you. If you’d rather mount your projector on a table or ceiling, it even supports 360-degree installation.
The WXL5860’s longevity gives it the edge over other types of projectors. You won’t go wrong with a DLP or LED, but a laser model will give you years of solid performance. The WXL5860 can handle anything from video footage to your next PowerPoint presentation. Click here to learn more or shop the rest of the RICOH Projector line.
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