I went with an Epson 1060 (which is a fairly budget option) and it's freaking awesome. I was afraid it would be dim in full sunlight, but it's not a problem at all. My screen is next to two windows and even in full daylight with the lights on it is super bright and visible even while in eco mode (which is dimmer than regular mode). Fully replaced my TV and at a much much lower price point than the biggest possible LCD. Also, replacement bulbs are ~$60 bucks and I have yet to replace one after ~2 years.
Added bonus is the option to install a powered retractable screen, which make the TV all but disappear from the room when not in use.
When the room is dark it's absolutely amazing, like being at the movies. When lights are on it is quite washed out. Still usable but not as enjoyable. Since the projector sits in my bedroom it's not much of an issue to always have the lights off but in a living room I can see that being a hassle.
Once you get the projector and screen (they do make a difference) I could have gotten several (cheaper) modern TV's but the experience of the projector is what I love. One thing as a new buyer I wish I knew was how much heat projectors can generate. My bedroom is fairly small and this thing can really heat the room up to sometimes an uncomfortable level after long viewing sessions.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pioneer-Elite-Kuro-PRO-150FD-60-108...
That thing used to be 7000+ CAD. Even more when they first came out. In between legs at school I sold them in Calgary.
I’ve had to replace the bulb once in about 4 years. Or rather the timer went off to warn me and I replaced it — bulb was still working though. New lamp was fairly cheap too IIRC, $40, maybe less?
And I can take it with me, or outside in my backyard for a movie night. I probably won’t ever go back to smart or dumb tvs
It is fun having a >100” screen with a laser projector. I haven’t seen any of the new ones in person, but plan to get one some day.
I'm looking to add a TV, large computer monitor, or similar to our living room for PC gaming, XBox gaming, and movies.
I assumed that a projector would be washed out whenever the room's lights were on. Which would be a hassle for people who wanted to be in the living room at the time but were doing other activities.