Projector Screen Size & Viewing Distance for Outdoor Movies
Choose projector-screen size using seating distance, projector output, throw distance, audience width and physical setup space.
The right outdoor screen size is a geometry decision before it is a shopping decision. Your projector, seating and yard all have to fit the same rectangle.
Start from the nearest seat
If the front row is very close to a huge screen, viewers may need to scan rather than comfortably take in the image. Move seating back or choose a smaller diagonal.
Check throw distance
Long-throw projectors require enough distance to create the chosen image size. UST projectors need precise close placement and a flat screen plane.
Account for frame width
The physical screen assembly is wider and taller than the advertised image diagonal. Reserve space for the frame, legs and anchoring system.
Bigger asks more of the projector
Doubling the image area without increasing projector output makes the image less bright. Large 150- and 200-inch screens are best planned as a complete system.
