As we know, there are countless different projector brands out there, each being different to one another in their own unique ways. What isn’t often spoken about though, is about the difference between a lamp projector and laser projector, and when is the best time and place to use them. Below, I explain the differences, and what would be best for you.

 

What’s the difference?

Lamp Projectors -

Lamp projectors have been around for many years and have under-gone many innovations and changes during this time. These many innovations include the improvement of brightness and the increase of life span. The lifetime of a lamp projector is usually dependant on a few factors, but they usually last around 10,000 hours and are highly efficient. Lamps will need to be replaced over time, but usually not for the best part of 2/3 years.

“How do I know if a lamp projector is best for me?” – 

A lamp projector is usually best for when it is being used occasionally. For example, if you’re using your projector every few days in a school, every week in a museum or every month to watch some movies, a lamp projector is definitely the right option for you. The lamps will eventually burn out and you will need to replace it but using it every so often will ensure the lamp lasts a long life.

 

Laser Projectors –

Laser projectors work by shining blue laser diodes onto a spinning yellow phosphor wheel. I know… confusing! The yellow phosphor absorbs the blue light and the power it emits and radiates a bright yellow light. This light in question is then captured and split up using a colour wheel, which is how it produces images and videos with colour. This means, unlike the lamp projector, there is nothing inside a laser projector that will eventually stop working as it is completely powered by light and reflections. However, laser projectors do tend to be more expensive than lamp projectors, for this reason.

“How do I know if a laser projector is best for me?” – 

Usually, laser projectors can last up to 20,000 hours, maintenance-free, and can be used for up to 24 hours at a time, unlike the lamp projector as this will cause the lamp to run out faster. The laser projector is a powerful and expensive projector, and I would definitely recommend this for places like cinemas, or companies that often hold big events where they always require the projector to be in use.

 

So, what next?

From what you can read above, you can tell the main difference between the two projectors. The laser projector tends to last longer than the lamp projector, but it is also more expensive too. It’s up to the user whether you think the first initial cost is worth it for a laser, or whether you’d like to buy a new bulb every few years to split the costs.