Why I Still Use a Projector Over a TV (And Probably Always Will)

You know that moment when the lights dim, the screen lights up and you feel completely pulled into the movie? That’s the kind of magic I chase and that’s exactly why I still use a projector instead of a TV in my home theater setups.

Sure, TVs today are amazing. They’re sharper, brighter and smarter than ever. But even in 2025, with all the latest OLEDs and Mini-LEDs on the market, I still find myself turning on the projector every single time it’s movie night. And here’s why.

1. Bigger Screen, Bigger Experience

Let’s start with the obvious one screen size.
TVs have grown, no doubt. But unless you’re ready to spend ₹5–10 lakhs on a 98-inch monster, you’re still not matching what a decent projector can do.

With my setup, I get a 120-inch screen easily and it feels like I’m at the movies. Whether it’s a Marvel blockbuster or a cricket final, that kind of scale just makes everything more exciting.

2. It Feels Like a Real Theater

A good projector doesn’t just show you the movie it sets the mood.

Projectors bounce light off the screen (instead of blasting it at your eyes), so the picture feels softer, more natural. When I’m watching a film in a dark room, the image from the projector just feels… right. TVs can’t quite replicate that theater like feeling.

It’s not just about screen size, it’s how that screen fills your field of view.

When you’re watching on a projector, you’re surrounded by the movie. It takes over your vision and keeps you focused. I’ve found myself noticing tiny details, cinematic textures and wide shots in a way I just don’t with a smaller screen.

3. Projectors Have Come a Long Way

Forget what you knew about old-school projectors. Today’s models are:

  • 4K with HDR
  • Ultra Bright (2500+ lumens)
  • Smart TV enabled (Netflix, Prime, YouTube, everything built-in)
  • And with Ultra Short Throw projectors, you can place them just inches from the wall!

And setup? It’s easier than ever. Mine is ceiling-mounted with a fixed screen but you can even use a plain wall if you want to keep it simple.

5. Way More Value for Money

Let’s be real TVs get expensive fast, especially when you go over 75 inches.

A good projector and screen combo can give you a 120-inch setup which starts from as low as ₹3 lakhs and the quality will blow you away. You’re paying a fraction of the cost per inch compared to a big-screen TV.

6. Looks Cleaner When It’s Off

One underrated benefit? When the projector’s off, the room looks clean.

No giant black rectangle on the wall, no clunky furniture needed to hold it. If you use a retractable screen, your media room can double as a living room, office, or bedroom without looking like a theater 24/7.

7. Perfect for a Dedicated Cinema Room

If you’ve got a spare room and want a full-blown home cinema, trust me go with a projector.

I’ve helped design hundreds of theater setups and of course with projectors either hidden with automation, or mounted because they simply deliver the best experience for dedicated movie lovers.

But What About TVs?

Look, I’m not saying TVs are bad.

If you watch mostly during the day, or want something super simple for daily use, a TV is great. But if you want a true cinematic vibe, with that “wow” feeling every time you press play a projector is the way to go.

It’s About the Experience

At the end of the day, I don’t use a projector just because it’s “cool” or “techy.” I use it because it gives me that goosebumps, lights-off, full-focus movie feeling that I can’t get from a TV.

So yes, TVs are getting smarter but the latest projectors aren’t much behind in the race. And so, I’d rather keep my projector and enjoy a bigger, better, more immersive experience every time I watch something I love.

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