Curved projector screens are not as common as their flat counterparts. This is not because they do not work just as well.
Flat projector screens are more common because they are more affordable. Curved projector screens are expensive and better suited for commercial viewing. They’re common in cinemas and advanced home movie theaters.
If you have a large flat projector screen, you may have noticed the pincushion effect. This is darkness and distortion that appears at the edges of wide images.
The pincushion effect is prominent in flat screens with 2.35:1 aspect ratios. This is why you may need a curved projector screen instead.
The curve of the screen brings the edges closer to the projector’s lens. This strengthens focus and allows an even spread of light. Curved screens keep your peripheral vision more involved. This gives you a more immersive viewing experience.
Do you want to buy a curved projector screen? This article will detail the specifications to look out for. It will also suggest some of the best curved projection screens available for purchase.
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Quick Navigation
5 Qualities to Look Out for in a Curved Projector Screen
A number of specifications come with different curved projector screens. The screen you purchase depends on the specifications you want.
Here’s a list of qualities to consider before buying your curved projector screen.
1. Projector compatibility
This is important. Not all projectors can be used with a curved screen. You have to buy a curved screen that is compatible with your projector.
Curved screens usually have a 2.35:1 or 16:9 aspect ratio. This makes them wider than normal projector screens.
You have to use a projector that can project a wide display with sufficient clarity. Many budget projectors do not fit this requirement. Short-throw projectors hardly go above the 16:9 aspect ratio.
2. Size of the curved screen
The size is important for many reasons. First, larger curved screens cost relatively more than smaller ones.
The large ones also have stricter compatibility requirements. Budget projectors just won’t cut it.
The larger the screen, the harder it is to install or transport.
The size of the curved screen you decide to get should depend on your budget. It can also depend on the purpose for purchasing one.
Large screens are better suited for movie cinemas. There, they can conveniently take up more space. They can also accommodate a larger audience.
3. Aspect ratio
Curved projector screens typically come in aspect ratios of 2.35:1 or 16:9. Now, these are both effective. They give immersive viewing experiences.
However, there is a difference in quality and viewing experience between curved and flat screens. This difference is more pronounced in a 2.35:1 curved screen.
The pincushion effect occurs in flat screens with a 2.35:1 cinemascope aspect ratio. The distance from the lens to the edges is long.
Light travels from the lens to the edges. The distance makes the light spread around the edges.
This causes the distortion of images.
This pincushion effect is corrected on curved screens of the same aspect ratio. They accommodate a larger image while increasing your area of peripheral vision and sense of immersion.
4. The screen material
This means the type of material used to make the projector screen. Materials that support 4K Ultra HD images are better.
Some materials (i.e. the CineWhite common in Lunette Projector Series) have a 1.1 gain diffusion. This feature makes sure the image is bright, no matter where you’re seated.
Some other materials are designed to allow sound transparency. This means sound can pass through the screens with ease. This erases the moiré effect which is common in screens with less sound transparency.
Sound transparent screens are very convenient. Speakers can be installed behind the projector screen and out of view.
Materials with black backing trap light and stop it from penetrating through. This makes them well-suited for lit-up spaces. They give better image contrast and quality.
5. Cost of the screen
Curved projector screens are typically more expensive than flat ones. However, their prices range from 3 figures to 5 figures.
The more expensive ones offer better features. If you want one for commercial movie theaters, go for them.
For a home theater set-up, go for the curved projector screens within your budget.
5 Best Curved Projector Screens
We have compiled a list of 5 best curved projector screens. They were selected based on cost, quality, ease of installation, and other qualities.
1. Elite Screens Lunette Series (103-inch)
- 103-inch Diagonal, 2.35:1 Aspect Ratio. View Size: 40.5" H x 95.2" W. Overall Size: 47.4" H x 101.9"...
- Moiré-Free screen material: AcousticPro 1080P3, 1.0 Gain. Angular weaved, acoustically transparent...
- Features a submursive curved design, framed in a black velvet 3.5" aluminum frame. Adjustable fix...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
The Lunette series is a curved projector screen from Elite Screens. It is the most affordable for a great viewing experience.
This screen is used to project large images. This is due to its curved nature that eliminates the pincushion effect.
It can be used with any type of projector. However, short-throw projectors are not recommended. This is because they are used strictly with flat screens.
The curved screen presents an enlarged view. It also gets rid of the blurred edges that come with exceptionally large screens.
This screen is fitted with Elite Screens’ AcousticPro 1080P3 material. It is sound transparent and it has an angular weave. The material supports 4K and Ultra HD imagery.
This Elite Screens Lunette screen measures 103″ diagonally. It has a display resolution of 1920 × 1080. It has a viewing angle of 180° and a 2.35:1 aspect ratio.
What we like:
- You can make use of rear speakers due to the sound transparency of AcousticPro 1080P3 material.
- The screen allows sound transparency but is tight enough to prevent light penetration.
- It has detachable black backing. This eliminates light penetration & enhances color neutrality.
- The screen comes with sliding wall mounts for adjustable horizontal positioning.
- The tight screen weaving gives clearer and brighter pictures.
What we don’t like:
- It is not very portable. This screen weighs about 28 lbs.
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
2. Grandview Curved Fixed Frame Projector Screen
![Grandview Curved Fixed Frame Projector Screen (123' Diagonal - Widescreen[16:10])](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31qUxCg-FDL.jpg)
- 123 inch Diagonal (65Hx104W)
- Curved Frame
- Format: Widescreen [16:10]
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
This curved fixed-frame projector screen by Grandview is made for exceptional viewing experience. Its features are intended to fit the curve of the natural human eye.
This curved screen is the least budget-friendly on the list. However, it is a good screen for outdoor projection and cinemas.
This curved projector screen has an aluminum structure. It is made to get rid of the possible problems posed by projector distance from the screen.
The Grandview Curved Projector Screen is made with PS Series White Fabric. The fabric has a 4-sided tension design for removing wrinkles. It has steel bars and fixing lugs which can stretch and tighten the screen fabric.
This screen has an aspect ratio of 16:10. It has a diagonal length of 123″. The curved design of this projector screen is said to give more accurate and realistic pictures in HD.
What we like:
- It has a tension design that gets rid of wrinkles during projection.
- The tension can be adjusted to any desired level in order to keep the surface even.
- It has a remarkably large screen
- Its curvature enhances contrast and gives better image quality.
What we don’t like:
- There is no mention of warranty from the manufacturer
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
3. Elite Screens Lunette 2 Series (100-inch)
- 100-inch Diagonal, 16:9 Aspect Ratio. View Size: 49.0" H x 87.0" W. Overall Size: 56.1" H x 94.3" W...
- Screen Material: CineWhite, 1.1 Gain. 4K Ultra HD and Active 3D Projection Ready. Features 160...
- Features a submursive curved design surrounded in a black velvet 3.5" aluminum frame. Adjustable fix...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
The Lunette 2 Series from Elite Screens is a curved projector screen. Its new design is famed for easy installation.
Installing this projector screen takes less time than most others. It has rubber edge borders and sliding wall mounts.
The screen has a 3.5″ aluminum frame finished in black velvet. The black velvet finish is beautiful. It also absorbs light overshoot from the projector, giving you a neat viewing experience.
The screen comes with CineWhite fabric for front projection. It works well with projectors that have high contrast ratios. It has a 1.1 gain Full Lambertian Diffuser. It also supports 3D and 4K Ultra HD projections.
The screen has a tab fix plate. This keeps the screen perfectly taught and gets rid of wrinkles or creases.
This projector screen has a viewing angle of 180° and an aspect ratio of 16:9. It boasts 100″ of diagonal length.
What we like:
- The back is in black which prevents light penetration and keeps the image bright.
- It has sliding wall mounts which provide adjustable horizontal centering.
- The screen material can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
- It is resistant to mildew.
- This screen comes with a 2-Year warranty from the manufacturers.
What we don’t like:
- It weighs about 30.2 lbs. and is the least portable on this list.
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
4. Vutec Masking Curved Multi-Aspect Wall Projector Screen
- Vutec Vision 153" XCFT Curved Multi-Aspect Fixed Masking Projector Screen Wall Mounted Wall Black...
- Crease Free: Vutec precision mask to screen surface tolerances. Permanently tensioned, easy-to-use...
- Screen Materials: 5 High Performance Screen Surfaces Available. See below for details. The Curved...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
This curved projector screen belongs to the V Vutec brand. The screen is great for game rooms, home theatres, and family rooms.
The Vutec projector screen offers a real and immersive experience to viewers. The curvature ensures Ultra HD high and vivid contrast.
The curved design of this projector screen improves peripheral vision. It creates an illusion of depth that pulls the viewer deeper into the picture.
It has the multilayered Silverstar screen surface which is highly reflective. The material projects outstanding color in HD, 2D and 3D.
The screen is permanently tensioned. It comes with a precision mask which allows for changing between multiple aspect ratio options.
With a diagonal length of 189″, it is the largest screen on the list. It has a viewing angle of 180°. The aspect ratio is 2.35:1, but can be set to 16:9 or 4:3 with masking.
What we like:
- The masking has a very quiet motor and moves easily.
- It comes with three aspect ratio options.
- The manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty and lifetime product support.
- The Vutec curved projector screen comes assembled and ready to install.
What we don’t like:
- Its size reduces portability.
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
5. Silver Ticket Curved Frame Projector Screen (STC-125-G)
- (Recommended) Watch the online videos on manufacturers website and video websites
- A curved frame that will immerse you in your home theater experience
- 3 1/4" heavy duty beveled aluminum frame wrapped in light-absorbing black velvet material for a...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
The STC-125-G gives the viewer an exciting experience. Its curved design creates a life-like illusion of depth.
This screen demands an extra anamorphic lens to work with many projectors. It should not be used without one. The curved frame gives viewers a more crisp image than flat screens can provide.
The screen is made with real material for projection screens. This material is grey, stretchy, and made of high-quality vinyl. It has a 1.0 gain for watching movies.
It has a wrapped aluminum frame which absorbs extra projector light. The frame is trimmed with black velvet fabric to absorb extra light.
This screen is assembled very easily. It has the Silver Ticket Tension Rod System which saves time. It keeps the material perfectly square and taut around the frame.
The 37 lbs. curved projector is one of the least portable on the list. It is coupled with a 160° view angle that blends picture quality perfectly. The projector comes in a 2.35:1 format.
What we like about it:
- The screen is large enough to give a cinema experience in home theaters.
- The light-grey of the material gives great picture contrast in lit-up rooms.
- The rod system is made of strong extruded aluminum that gets rid of any shadows on the picture.
- The rod system is conveniently hidden behind the screen.
What we don’t like:
- It cannot be used without purchasing an additional anamorphic lens.
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Conclusion
Curved projector screens are a great choice for just about any kind of projection. The curved design improves peripheral vision. It creates an illusion of depth that pulls the viewer deeper into the picture.
I say if you can afford them, go for them!
Elite Screens have some of the best curved screens for projection. They offer quality at affordable prices. Their products also come with varied specifications so that you can choose one that suits you best.
Our recommended curved projector screen is the Elite Screens Lunette Series (103-inch). It is great for a home theater set-up because of its size. This projector screen is also very budget-friendly and offers great features.
Vance is a dad, former software engineer, and tech lover. Knowing how a computer works becomes handy when he builds Pointer Clicker. His quest is to make tech more accessible for non-techie users. When not working with his team, you can find him caring for his son and gaming.