Specs for DLP projectors show a higher contrast ratio and lumens rating than many LCD projectors. Is a 400:1 contrast ratio really low-quality compared to a 2000:1 contrast?
Not really. The contrast ratio and lumen ratings given on many DLP™ projectors can be deceiving. The contrast ratio is the measure of a projector’s blackest black compared to its whitest white. It equals brightness over room light, and is measured in a highly controlled environment–a completely black room, with black walls and absolutely no light source other than the projector’s. This is unrealistic, because most people do not have a completely dedicated room, and as soon as you introduce any ambient light into the room, the contrast ratio is diminished. It’s only important to consider it in conjunction with brightness, when choosing the right projector for the room it will be used in, and not as a deciding factor exclusively.
