How Far Away Should You Place the Projector From the Screen?

Trying to figure out the best placement of your new projector from your screen can be frustrating. You want to get the clearest image possible, so getting it right is a ‘must’. Your screen size and projector type are the two factors you need to consider when crafting your home theatre setup, so let’s talk about how to make them work together.

What Distance Should You Put Between Your Projector and Screen?

Customizing your home theater involves careful planning. Every projector is different and uses a different screen size. With a short-throw projector, you can place your projector only a few feet away from the screen. However, if you have a more traditional ceiling-mounted screen, you will need more space between them.

Photo by Arcanum Architecture

Checking the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website should be your go-to method for figuring out how much distance is required. Some of them even have distance calculators on their websites that you can use.

How Far Away Should Your Projector Be From an 80-Inch Screen?

For an 80-inch screen, your projector should be about 8 feet (or somewhere between 97 and 106 inches) away from the screen.

Photo by Media Rooms Inc

How Far Away Should Your Projector Be From a 100-Inch Screen?

If you have a 100-inch screen, you should place your projector about 10.5 feet (or about 122 to 133 inches) away from it. This should create an optimal image on the screen.

How Far Away Should Your Projector Be From a 120-Inch Screen?

Now, if you have a 120-inch screen, you will need even more distance. A projector paired with this size of a screen should be placed roughly 12.5 feet (or 147 to 160 inches) apart.

Photo by David Charlez Designs

Where Should You Put Your Seating?

You’ll have to plan your seating area in accordance with your projector and screen. Consider your projector model, the room size, and the room’s lighting. As a general rule of thumb, think of placing your seating area about 9 feet (or 80 inches) away from a smaller screen. If you own a 200-inch screen, though, you will need about 22 feet between the screen and your seating area.

Photo by Lauren Shadid Architecture and Interiors

Your own personal preferences and unique viewing needs will certainly play into how you design your home theater. Remember to consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website first to see what kind of suggestions they have to offer. Then, you can go from there, designing your home theater until your heart is content.