With so many projector screens paints out there, it is trickier to find the one that makes the experience of viewing your favorite shows or movies fun and entertaining with high-quality picture. To help you improve your viewing experience, we dug up a list of the seven best projector screen paints. Out of seven Paint on Screen S1 Ultimate Contrast is our top choice. And if you want something that fits your budget, buy Digital Image High Definition.
Top Pick
7 Top Projector Screen Paint
1. Paint on Screen S1 Ultimate Contrast – Best For 4K Projection
It is one of the very few manufacturers having expertise in paints for projectors. It is no surprise why it has a high reputation. This paint has the capacity of creating fun watching environment even in high ambient lighting. The great thing is it supports up to 4K HD resolution. With a such projector, you can create theater experience at home. This paint has great use for a projector.
We used a high-quality projector to project a 4k video. The projection was really good. We liked the depth of the colors on the projection screen. Best result was seen when ambient light is zero but even with some dim lights screen projected clear and in-depth pictures. It can also work as the black projector screen paint if you mix it with proper shade.
- Gain is up to 2.4.
- Available in many types of paints like latex paint.
- It uses ambient light-reflecting properties.
- Suitable for Full HD viewing.
- Works with simple drywall.
- Expensive compared to most of other seven wall paints.
Bottom Line
The result we were able to achieve with this screen paint was really of high quality. But to remember projecting images is a combination of things like the quality of the projector, ambient light, and quality of the image or video.
2. Digital Image HD Home Theater -Best For Budget Conscious Users
The digital image is not as specialized in projector screen paint as Paint on Screen but has a good amount of experience in offering protection related products. And one of them is the High Definition Home Theater Screen Paint. With one gallon of this screen wall paint, you can easily create a 16’ screen size diagonally. The projection screen is easily washable so ig it gets dirty with time, just wash it with soap and water.
It is also one of the few projector paints that are VOC-free. Hence, when you are applying it, you won’t be worried about inhaling dangerous fumes. However, we still suggest using masks for safety. It must be applied on drywall with a roller. We tried using the sprayer, but we didn’t get the smooth screen surface that is required for good-quality projection.
- Very easy to apply and has a large coverage area per gallon.
- Volatile organic compounds are free.
- Ultra White screen
- Suitable for 720p, 1080p, and 4K when used with 4K projectors.
- No primer is required because it acts its primer.
- No ambient light-reflecting properties.
- High gain is only 1.5
- Does not work well with 3D.
Bottom Line
Digital Image Screen Paint is much cheaper compared to Paint on Screen Paint, but you will be compromising on the quality of the projection. However, you plan to use it for only up to 1080p videos and images; it is a good choice.
3. Digital Image Ultra HD Premium – Best For UHD Images & Videos
There is a premium version of the Digital Image HD Home Theater screen paint called Digital Image Ultra Premium Screen Paint. The previous version has its limitation when you project a video beyond 1080p. This version is more suitable for UHD images and video. If you own a 4k projector or UHD, this projector is a much better match.
As it supports 4K and UHD, we tested it with UHD quality video projected on it. First, we observed the video quality in ambient light. Though it doesn’t have light-reflecting properties, the clarity color was great. Without any light, it felt like we are watching an HD television. When you expand the image, the quality is well maintained but only if you use either 4K UHD video or image file.
- Works great with 4K or UHD video files.
- Good coverage area.
- Ultra White screen.
- The wall paint is made of acrylic latex.
- Easy to apply via sprayer or roller.
- Works on drywall.
- Expensive.
Bottom Line
The projector screen paint on our list is of this same brand which is expensive but if you want a paint that is similar to its quality but at a lower price, you can go for Digital Image Ultra HD Premium Screen Paint.
4. Pro Screen HD Projector – Best For 1080P Full HD Quality
The biggest enemy of the projector is the lighting. There are not many projector screens that can offer you quality colors when the light is on. However, if you want a projection screen paint that could give you maximum in-depth color within budget, you got to look at the Pro Screen HD Projector Screen Paint. It best for only full HD viewing and not 4K but not everyone watches the 4K videos on projectors.
You can use the paint for the projector screen on any drywall. Make sure it is smooth before you paint it using the screen paint. Also, mix well before you use it. We used both sprayer and roller; the finish was really good just as the paint looks nice and has a smooth finish.
- Very easy to paint.
- Results into great color quality.
- Good coverage area.
- Inexpensive compared to most of the screen paints.
- Best for Full HD viewing.
- Not suitable for 4K and UHD.
Bottom Line
If you plan to use the project screen to watch only the full HD videos, then why waste your money on premium paints, get something cheap like Pro Screen HD Projector Screen Paint.
5. Paint On Screen 3D4K – Best For Active 3D & 4K
We have already discussed how good the reputation of Paint On Screen is. They have many type of paint. If you are specifically looking for a projector screen paint that will help you fulfill your 3D and 4K ultra white paint entertainment needs, the this 3D4K is great paint for you. This paint is specifically designed to support 4K and active 3D. If we compare the screen gain of this color with others, it is much higher. We measured it around 2.4.
However, the real test we did for the pain is the 3D. We made sure we had the quality projector and high-quality video file so that we can judge the paint solely. The depth, color, and sharpness are right there. It was like seeing a 3-D movie in a theatre like IMAX. Well, not the sound of Imax, but only the video.
- It works great with 4K and 3D files.
- It is very easy to paint.
- Good coverage area.
- The finished color is light silver grey which is a great video projection.
- It has low volatile organic compounds.
- Require a basic wall with a basic coating of primer.
- Expensive compared to other screen paints.
Bottom Line
We have to admit if you want a project screen paint for 3-D entertainment. Even without reading any review in detail, just close your eyes and go for this paint.
6. Smarter Surfaces – Best For Office Use
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Initially, it wasn’t on our list of testing but one our expert suggests we should get this to our lab. So we did and like what we tested. It is not a popular option, but the quality of the color is really good. And when you are looking for something around $100, it could be a great option.
We played all types of videos. Looking at the result, we can say it more basic projector which supports 1080p resolution at most. You can also view 4K and 3D, but it won’t be as good as other projectors paints we have mentioned here.
- Inexpensive projector paint.
- Smooth finish.
- White screen.
- Easy to apply to drywall.
- Works for Full HD videos.
- Not viewing experience when used in ambient lighting.
- Not suitable for 3D and 4K.
Bottom Line
It doesn’t work well with high-resolution videos but if you want something basic for your office or your small bedroom or garage. You can always use this kind low priced paint. This best paint for a low price.
What To Consider?
Depending on the purpose of the screen, and the location of the screen, you have to look at several factors before you purchase a projector screen paint. You may think it’s a screen paint how many types it could be but there are several types of paints, and in addition to it there is science behind reflecting the projected image that as a buyer you have to understand. With the help of this buying guide, you will be able to understand it well.
1. Type
Generally, there are two types of projector screen paints—acrylic and latex paint. Each has its benefits. Let’s look at each type.
Most premium screen paints use acrylic because they are not affected by external factors like temperature or moisture. Another thing about acrylic-based paints is it has a low amount of vinyl. Vinyl is just an additive to increase the coverage area of the projector paint. But adding vinyl harms the quality of the paint. This is a big reason why acrylic-based paints are considered to be premium quality paints. The S1 Ultimate Contrast best acrylic projector screen paint on our list.
Compared to acrylic, latex paint has a higher concentration of vinyl. It can also be considered as the subcategory of the acrylic paints. It is acrylic latex paint. The biggest advantage of acrylic latex paints is that they are much cheaper compared to pure acrylic paints because of the use of vinyl. But latex has limitations. It is not as temperature or moisture resistant as acrylic paints. Hence, they are not suitable exterior projectors.
2. Image or Video Resolution
If you own a projector that displays 4K videos or images, you want your projector screen to reflect those results. First, the quality of the paint should be good so that you have a smooth surface to reflect the pictures. It must also have ambient light-reflecting properties so that even in the presence of another light source you can watch the videos. As technologies keep improving every day, it is wise to use paint that supports these new technologies.
3. Screen Gain
Gain is a unit to measure the reflectivity of a surface. For a projector screen, higher the gain sharper, and clearer the image. Even if you don’t understand the science of it, just look for the projector screen’s gain value. Most of the best screen paints have a gain of more than 2. The S1 Ultimate Contrast has the gain of 2.4 which is the highest on our list.
4. Application
Most of the acrylic and acrylic latex is water-based paint for projector screens which are easier to apply. But to have the best reflecting projector screen, it is important to know how to apply the projector to paint it in the right way. Most the manufacturer’s options of expert installation support with their product. That means they will send an expert to paint the screen for you. Generally, if you are using good quality paint, two coats are a must. Apply one coat first, then wait for it dry and then apply another.
How We Conducted The Tests?
We began our test by selecting 11 screen paint for tests. We have to admit, we thought there would be too many paints to choose from, but the fact is there are not many high-quality paints for projector screens. With the help of sellers and experts, we were able to round up all the shortlisted projector screen paints in our lab.
Next, we established that parameters for testing projector screen paints include application, resolution, durability, and gain. Based on these parameters we designed our tests. For each test, we used the same video and image file for each unit so that we can compare the results. We also tested how the screen performs under lights and without lights. For durability, we had to rely on expert views and user reviews. We contacted several users who were already using the shortlisted projector screen paints and heard their views on the projector paint they have used for projection.
After we had all the test results, expert views, and user reviews, we asked us each team member to score all the 11 projector screen paints on three basic factors- Video Quality, application, and durability. After each member had scored the paints, we calculated the overall scores and sorted out the top six out of 11. Here is the scorecard of six projector screen paints:
| Product | Quality | Application | Durability | Overall | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paint on Screen S1 | 97.2 | 96.8 | 97.1 | 97.0 | Check Price |
| Digital Image High Definition | 97.1 | 96.4 | 97.2 | 96.9 | CheckPrice |
| Digital Image Ultra HD | 96.5 | 96.8 | 97.3 | 96.8 | CheckPrice |
| Pro Screen HD | 96.3 | 96.9 | 96.7 | 96.6 | CheckPrice |
| Paint On Screen 3D4K | 97.1 | 96.4 | 96.2 | 96.5 | CheckPrice |
| Smarter Surfaces | 96.2 | 96.1 | 95.8 | 96.0 | No products found. |
Final Thought
Creating a great viewing experience with projector screen paint is a combination of various things. A projector alone won’t give you the best quality pictures. A right projector screen paint has a big part to play. So always choose it more wisely. In this post, we have offered you every possible option. Now, you have to decide what are your requirements and which screen paints can fulfill it. And if you have any doubts just go through our buyer’s guide.
Paint On Screen Projection/Projector Screen Paint - Editor's Choice
Summary
The result we were able to achieve with this screen paint was really of high quality. But to remember projecting images is a combination of things like the quality of the projector, ambient light, and quality of the image or video.
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