Maximum Lumens
How bright can it get?
The highest brightness the projector can produce, even if colors look unnatural. We also give that setting an A–F color accuracy grade.
INDEPENDENT PROJECTOR CERTIFICATION
Every test documented.
Every result published.
Nothing erased.
Projector brightness claims can be confusing. We independently measure real-world performance so you can see exactly what you're getting.
All completed reports are published, whether or not the manufacturer advertises them.
UNDERSTANDING BRIGHTNESS
Not all lumens are created equal.
Manufacturers often advertise the brightest setting a projector can produce. But that setting might have unnatural colors. That's why we measure three different kinds of brightness.
Usable Lumens
How bright can it get while still looking reasonably good?
The brightest setting with acceptable color accuracy (grade C or better) and a white color temperature between 6000K and 10000K.
Accurate Lumens
How bright can it get with excellent color accuracy?
The brightest setting earning an A for color accuracy, with a white color temperature between 6300K and 7500K.
COLOR ACCURACY
What do the grades mean?
We compare the projector's colors to the colors they're supposed to be. The closer the match, the better the grade.
AExcellentΔE Below 3
BGoodΔE 3 to below 6
CUsableΔE 6 to below 12
DPoorΔE 12 to 20
FVery poorΔE Above 20
Grades are based on SDR ColorChecker measurements. Lower ΔE means colors more closely match their intended appearance.
GOING DEEPER
More than just brightness.
Contrast & iris performance
Our Theater reports show how deep the blacks are compared with the brightest whites, and how brightness and contrast change at different iris positions.
DLP color performance
Some settings make white brighter without making colors equally bright. Where applicable, we measure the effect on brightness, accuracy, and gamut ring coverage.
Retail unit verification
We identify whether a projector was supplied by its manufacturer or purchased independently from a retailer, and publish each report separately.
OUR COMMITMENT
Measurements you can trust.
Every brightness test uses nine illuminance measurement points following the ISO/IEC 21118 light-output methodology. We use professional instruments to measure brightness and color accuracy, and publish detailed reports so you can examine the evidence yourself.
Manufacturers pay for testing, not favorable results. They can choose whether to advertise a certification, but every completed report remains publicly accessible.