We recommend any projector that scores 70% or more overall and delivers a 4K video performance score of 70% or more. Models that deliver HD or SD video only may also be recommended if the tester finds they deliver good performance for the price.

This overall score is made up of 4K video quality (40%), HD video quality (15%), SD video quality (15%), ambient light score (10%), remote control score (10%) and ease of use score (10%).

Picture quality when watching high definition video. Not all models in the test support this video quality.

Picture quality when watching standard definition video. All models in the test support this video quality.

How easy it is to use the onboard controls and onscreen displays to perform several common tasks.

We make sure the remote is easy to use and read in low light.

If the projector has a speaker, we score the quality so you know what to expect, but it doesn't contribute to the overall score.

We use a power meter to measure the power used by the projector when in standby mode.

We use a power meter to measure the power the projector uses when in use.

Just as people whispering can ruin a night at the movies, so too can a noisy projector fan. The sound produced by the projector will vary depending on whether it's in high brightness or economical mode. We measured in standard mode.

This row shows which products are still available in shops ('Tested model') and which models have been discontinued. You might still be able to find discontinued models in second-hand stores or online. We check availability every time we test.

Based on projector use for two hours per day and 22 hours standby for a year. Cost for electricity is calculated at 30c/kWH.

Prices are recommended retail, as provided by the manufacturer. When this information is not available the price is taken from an average from major retailers. In either case you should be able to do better than the stated price by shopping around.

Some smaller projectors include a battery for extra portability.

ANSI (American National Standards Institute) lumens is a standardised method of measuring the light output from a projector.

The 'keystone' effect usually occurs when the image is projected to the screen at an angle. Some projectors allow this effect to be corrected somewhat.

We time how long the projector takes to become ready to show video from a cold start.

Sometimes speakers can be good enough to listen to some footage, however we recommend audio out to a good quality audio setup to get the most out of the experience. Models with a score of 0 don't have onboard speakers and the sound quality score does not contribute to the model's overall score.

RCA connection. This a very common connection, but the lowest quality input available.

Getting access to the IR sensor can be an issue if you want to operate your projector during a movie. For example, if the projector is placed in front of you and the IR port is at the front you'll have to move in front to use your projector remote. If the projector is ceiling-mounted at the back of the room and the IR port is at the rear of the projector you'll have a similar problem. Some models have ports at the front and rear.

Getting access to the IR sensor can be an issue if you want to operate your projector during a movie. For example, if the projector is placed in front of you and the IR port is at the front you'll have to move in front to use your projector remote. If the projector is ceiling-mounted at the back of the room and the IR port is at the rear of the projector you'll have a similar problem. Some models have ports at the front and rear.

The setting can be locked against unauthorised or accidental change.