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How we rank products

Every ranking on this site is calculated, not hand-picked. Here is the whole method.

1. Specs come from the manufacturer

We enter only figures the manufacturer publishes and link the page we used under every product. If a figure isn't published we show "Not listed" instead of guessing.

2. Each spec is scaled from 0 to 1

Each criterion has a fixed reference range, from a "weakest reasonable" value to a "best in class" value (for example 1,000 to 4,000 ISO or ANSI lumens for brightness). A product's figure is placed on that range and clamped between 0 and 1, so scores stay meaningful as products are added. Yes/no features count as 1 or 0. The ranges are listed below.

3. Weights decide what matters most

Each category lists its criteria and weights on the page. The score is the weighted average, multiplied by 10:

score = 10 × Σ(weight × scaled value) ÷ Σ(weight)

4. How missing data is scored

If a spec isn't published (for example light-source life or speaker wattage), the product scores at the lowest value any product in that category actually published, so an unpublished figure never outranks a published one. The page marks each such cell with an asterisk. Yes/no features that aren't stated count as no. Nothing is ever scored at the category average. Brightness is scored only when the maker publishes an ISO 21118 or ANSI lumen figure; marketing "LED lumens" without that standard are shown as "Not listed".

5. Prices and ratings switch on automatically

When our retailer feeds supply a current price or customer rating for at least 60% of products in a category, two more criteria join the formula: Price / value (20%) and Customer rating (15%, discounted when there are few reviews). Until then we show "Check price" and never estimate a price.

6. What the score can't tell you

Specs don't capture image quality in a real room, color accuracy after calibration, fan noise in practice, or how well autofocus and keystone hold up. Brightness claims use different lab methods; we score only official ISO 21118 or ANSI figures and label the standard on each product. Contrast ratios mix native/static and dynamic numbers, so we quote the maker's wording in the details and do not score contrast. Resolution classes (1080p, 4K UHD including pixel-shift, and native 4K) and unit conversions are labelled computed. Light-source life is each maker's own claim, often to 50% brightness. Use the score to shortlist, then read the pros, cons and sources. When we add hands-on testing notes, we label them clearly.

7. Money never changes the order

We earn affiliate commissions from some retailers. Commission rates are not an input to the formula, and no brand can pay for placement. See our affiliate disclosure.

Criteria by category

Home Theater Projectors

Portable & Lifestyle Projectors

Ultra-Short-Throw Projectors