The first step to choosing the right Projector Screen that best suits your particular needs or application, is to choose the type of screen you wish to use. From the mounting style to the method of the screens retraction, you'll want to take everything into consideration when choosing your screen type. The permanency of your screen type is also an important thing to look at. Are you wanting to add a permanent Wall or Ceiling mountable fixture to a conference room, classroom or home theater, or do you want something smaller and more Portable for occasional use?

Another simple way to narrow your choices, is by the type of functionality or retraction method you'd like your screen to have. You can choose from motorized Electric projector screens, which descend and retract with the push of a button. Manual pull-down projector screens extend and retract by a simple pull of the screens handle, much like a standard window shade. Fixed Frame projector screens are commonly used for solutions requiring a permanent wall-mounted solution, such as a deidicated home theater or auditorium.

Generally, if you would like a permanent installation, then the Electric, Fixed or Manual wall and ceiling mounted projection screens are your best choice. If you find that your needs require a more portable solution, then a Tripod, Floor Rising, Folding Frame or a Tabletop projector screen may be a better alternative. Ideal for on-the-go sales presentations, trade shows, or multi-classroom use.

Electric projector screens can be Wall Mounted, Ceiling Mounted, Floor Mounted, or Ceiling Recessed(for a concealed in-the-ceiling installation). Electric projector screens are operated by an electric motor that raises and lowers the screen via remote control or wall switch. Some Electric projector screens have a simple plug-and-play design, while others like a ceiling recessed screen, require significant installtion and most likely the assistance of an electrician.

Electric projector screens tend to be larger, making them more suitable for use in auditoriums, conference rooms, classrooms and home theaters. This is due to the motorized operation of the screen handling a greater screen weight than a manual roller option. The motorized operation of an electric screen provides the user with a sleek, modern and flexible projection solution that doesn't hinder the decor or usability of a room.

Electric projector screens are also available in a Tensioned or Non-Tensioned(standard) screen surfaces. Non-Tensioned is the standard screen surface, which hangs freely from the casing support structure. Non-Tensioned screen surfaces are slightly more prone to creases, waviness or imperfections. Tensioned screen surfaces, on the other hand, provide a flatter more uniform screen surface that is consistently stretched, resulting in less possibility of imperfections. This tensioning is usually created by a cable and tab system on electric screens that pullsTypically, tensioned screens are viewed as the highest performing screens, that maximize resolution and light reflectivity.

Manual projector screens are smaller and less expensive than Electric projector screens. Much like a standard window shade in operation, these models tend to be relatively easy to use and install. Instead of a switch or remote control, manual projector screens extend and retract manually, with the user simply pulling the screen down by hand, locking it in it's desired height. To retract the screen, pull down the handleto release the rolling mechanism to lift the screen back into the casing.

One particularly convenient feature of many manual projector screens is a "controlled screen return" or CSR. This feature stops the projector screen from retracting into its case too quickly, preventing potential damage to the screen surface or the roller mechanism. This extends the overall life of the projector screen. Additionally, Manual projector screens, like electrics, are also available in a Tensioned screen surface or with a Ceiling Recessed casing. Recessed manual projector screens typically come with a hand crank mechanism to lower the screen instead of a pull-down method, since the casing hides the screen in the ceiling.

*Note - Manual ceiling recessed screens typically come with a hand crank mechanism for lowering the screen, because the casing conceals itself.

Manual projector screens are generally an inexpensive solution, smaller in size than electrics and designed for simple installation. The reduced cost and size makes manual projector screens perfect for Classrooms, Conference Rooms, and simple Home Theaters where budgets may be more restrictive.

Since "Manual" simply refers to the mechanism, there are many different forms of manual projector screens to choose from. Certain manual projector screens like Tripods, Floor Rising and Tabletop screens are perfect for on-the-go presentations or trade shows, because they can easily fold up for convenient transportation. Portable projector screens like these are perfect for any circumstance where a permanent fixture is not ideal, whether there's a space constriction, multi-room usage needed or a simple style preference.

Fixed Frame screens are among the most popular modelson the market, most commonly used for Home Theaters, Auditoriums and in any situation where a permanent wall-mounted solution is required. Fixed Frame Projector screens typically need more assembly time than others, installed in a similar manner to picture frames by hanging the screen off an anchor or bracket on the wall. This means the screen mounts on the wall more easily and with less installation and electrical work.

While flat frames are more common, Curved Fixed Frame projector screens are growing in popularity, due to the recent push in curved Televisions. These curved frames add a flare of style and ambiance to any Home Theater. The curve itself, creates the effect of enveloping the audience with its corners, wrapping the viewer in a full panoramic experience. The Curved Frame design however, offers more than just aesthetic appeal, it also optimizes light reflectivity back towards the audience.

Fixed Frame screens are also all designed with a Tensioned screen fabric, which creates the ideal flat projection surface. The perfectly flat tensioned surface maximizes the resoultion capabilities and light reflectivity of your projector, optimizing performance and creating the best possible picture quality. Many projection screen brands now manufacture HD Screen Fabrics specifically for Fixed Frames that provide the ultimate resolution, brightness and an amazing overall picture.

If your screen is likely to be moved on a regular basis every few days, weeks or months, a Portable Screen is your best option. Portable projector screens are offered in a great range of sizes and styles. Portable screens, like Tripods usually use a pull-up screen on a free tripod stand. Historically popular in schools, because of mobility and relatively little expense, tripods are also widely used in business for traveling presentations. Floor Rising projector screens come in Electric and Manual operation. Electrically raised or manually pulled from a weighted base/case, floor rising screens make the perfect travel companion and can remain unobtrusive when not in use. A terrific alternative to a sometimes bulkier tripod screen the lightweight floor rising projector screen requires almost zero assembly. Floor rising screens are even available with carpeted cases, designed to help the case blend in with the decor of its location.