With so many different projector options available on the market, it is easy to get confused when deciding on which one to buy, especially with projectors ranging in price, from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Luckily, you do not always have to spend that much to get high-quality projector images, and you can opt for a used projector.
But then the next question is which is better, an old higher-end projector or a new low-end projector? What features do you need to look at? Should you even buy a used projector? Are refurbished projectors worth it?
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Should you buy a used projector?
In instances where factors such as projector-type, warranty status, and bulb life aren’t as important to you, buying a used projector can be a good idea.
In situations where you are looking for a projector for a single use event a used projector could be a good option as well. If you elect to go with a used projector see if you can get an in-person demonstration to give you a chance to see if it works as advertised.
Are refurbished projectors worth it?
The short answer is yes. The manufacturer usually resells refurbished projectors at lower prices after undergoing readjustments. Since most buyers may want brand new models, the refurbishment forces the projector’s price to reduce significantly, making it more affordable with the same expected service delivery. Look for refurbished projectors that come with some sort of warranty if possible.
Features in old higher-end projectors Vs. new low-end projectors
Old higher-end projectors have their warranty either partly or wholly exhausted during the period that they have already been in use. This may leave you exposed to losses should any damage occur. On the other hand, new low-end projectors have an edge in that they are still brand new, and therefore, their warranty is fully intact. This helps boost your confidence that should the projector experience any malfunction during this warranty period, the manufacturer is bound to replace it.
Old, high-end projectors offer modern features and technology that can enhance the quality of both sound and images to deliver higher performance experiences than new low-end projectors.
High-end projectors are brighter, which makes them usable in any room, whether dark or light. With a new low-end projector, you may find yourself struggling to view the images displayed on your screen, especially in rooms that allow in a lot of light.
Most old higher-end projectors can handle larger screens projecting bigger images as compared to new low-end projectors.
Some of the low-end projectors in the market are more affordable because they provide limited connectivity options. Some are equipped with only USB and VGA ports to connect to a computer or TV. Most high-end projectors offer multiple connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI inputs. For more flexibility, the high-end projectors are also compatible with various video and audio formats.
What is the lifespan of a projector?
The lifespan of a projector is based on how long its bulb or lamp can last before it needs to be replaced. Most projectors have a life expectancy of about 2,000 hours lamp life. However, some can last considerably longer, up to 20,000 hours of lamp life. The lifespan of your projector can always be extended by proper and regular maintenance over time.
Factors affecting projector lifespan
Several factors can influence your projectors’ lifespan, whether old higher-end or new low-end projector. These include:
Type of the projector
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There are three main types of projectors, namely the light-emitting diode (LED), the liquid crystal display (LCD), and the digital light processing projector (DLP). Each of these projectors has a different life expectancy.
Higher-end LED projectors have a life expectancy of over 20,000 hours. This is 4-6 times the traditional lamps in the other conventional projectors.
LCD projectors are less expensive and carry a life expectancy of 2,000-4,000 hours.
The DLP projectors have roughly 2,000 to 5,000 hours of lamp life.
The power and usage cycle
A power surge can easily shorten the lifespan of your projector. An uninterruptible power supply installed in projectors can help with adequately cooling down your device if there is a power failure.
Frequently switching on and off of the projector can shorten the lifespan of your device. Long periods of usage may also lead to overheating, especially in small projectors.
Ventilation and cleaning
Since projector lamps operate at high temperatures, proper ventilation is needed to help achieve a longer lamp life. Therefore, it is vital to ensure a free flow of air and enough space around your projector.
Do not allow dust to accumulate and clog the air filters and fans of your projector, as it will lead to overheating your device and shorten its lifespan. Ensure to clean it regularly but carefully.
Cool downtime
It would help if you allowed your projector to cool off at least 10 minutes after it is powered down. During such times, avoid moving the device around because the lamp is still hot and susceptible to damage.
Handling
Proper handling avoids any damage to your projector that can shorten its lifespan. When setting up your projector, ensure to place it in a stable location and not near the table’s edges. Neatly placed cables avoid possible accidents that may be caused by you tripping over the wires.
Avoid moving the projector once it has been switched on to avoid breaking it. A projector that has been permanently mounted on the ceiling or a wall is relatively safer from experiencing any damage.
Economy mode
Some projector models come with a feature called “economy mode,” which allows your projector to decrease brightness. Decreased brightness means your projector faces a lower risk of overheating, ensuring a longer-lasting lamp.
Temperature extremes
Temperatures that are extremely hot or cold affect the lifespan of your projector. Do not leave it in a hot car during the summer or in the open during winter.
Conclusion
Whether you are buying an old higher-end projector or a new low-end projector, take your time to browse all of the options before deciding.
Although there is a huge selection available in the market and a variety of factors to consider before making the final pick, the projectors’ purpose should be your guiding principle.
Regardless of your choice , ensure that the projector is bright enough with a good resolution and contrast ratio to enhance image quality.
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.