Installing a projector on your ceiling has advantages over table mounting. By ceiling mounting, you eliminate the need for stands and shelves, while allowing flexible positioning for optimal image size and alignment.
However, not all projectors are designed for overhead installation. This guide will cover what to look for in ceiling mount projectors and recommend the top models in different categories.
Benefits of Ceiling Mounting The Projectors
Mounting a projector upside down from your ceiling provides key benefits:
- Flexible positioning – Place it anywhere without needing stands
- Space saving – Doesn’t occupy valuable floor/table space
- Cleaner look – No visible wires or equipment
- Adjustable image – Easily redirect the image as needed
- Safety – Out of walking paths and reach of kids/pets
For these reasons, ceiling mounting is an increasingly popular projector configuration.
What To Look For In Ceiling Mount Projectors
Not all projectors work well when ceiling-mounted. Here are the key features to evaluate:
- Vertical lens shift – Adjusts image placement up or down when inverted
- Input connectivity – Ceiling cables make bottom ports harder to access
- Projector control – Remote or app control essential from a distance
- Brightness – Higher lumens compensate for ceiling dust buildup
- Weight – Ensure it’s lightweight enough for your mount
- Throw ratio – Aim for a flexible ratio to adjust image size
- Keystone correction – Digitally corrects image geometry distortions
Also consider placement based on ceiling construction, wiring routes, and adjusting image position.
Top 8 Ceiling Mount Projectors
After extensive evaluation, these 8 projectors stand out for their performance, features, and flexibility when ceiling mounted:
1. BenQ TH685
1080p resolution
3,000 lumens
15,000:1 contrast ratio
1.3x zoom ratio
Vertical lens shift
Well-rounded model with great image quality from above at a reasonable price point.
2. Epson Home Cinema 2150
1080p resolution
2,600 lumens
70,000:1 contrast ratio
1.2x zoom ratio
Vertical + horizontal lens shift
Top convenience features like auto power on/off when detecting a signal.
3. Optoma UHD35
4K UHD resolution
3,600 lumens
1,200,000:1 contrast ratio
1.3x zoom ratio
Vertical lens shift
Impressive 4K image clarity from overhead installation.
4. ViewSonic PA502S
SVGA 800×600 resolution
3,600 lumens
22,000:1 contrast ratio
1.1x zoom ratio
Vertical lens shift
Budget-friendly SVGA unit still capable of large bright images mounted above.
5. Epson VS250
Image: 1080p
Brightness: 3,000 lumens
Throw Distance: 100” image from 5 feet
Weight: 6.5 pounds
- SVGA 800×600 resolution
- 3,200 lumens
- 15,000:1 contrast ratio
- 1.35x zoom ratio
- Vertical + horizontal lens shift
Versatile angles and cropping modes enhance ceiling use.
6. Optoma GT1080
1080p resolution
3,000 lumens
20,000:1 contrast ratio
1.1x zoom ratio
Vertical lens shift
Short throw lens allows close-proximity ceiling setups.
7. BenQ MS550
1080p resolution
3,300 lumens
15,000:1 contrast ratio
No lens shift
Center lens for flexible mounting
Streamlined DLP projector with minimal distortion when inverted.
8. LG HU70LA
4K UHD resolution
1,500 lumens
150,000:1 contrast ratio
No lens shift
Corner lens for overhead placement
Compact and versatile 4K unit engineered for ceiling use minus lens shift.
Ceiling Mount Setup Tips
When installing a ceiling projector, follow these tips:
- Leave ample clearance for ventilation
- Ensure mount is secured into a ceiling stud
- Position unit for optimal image size and alignment
- Adjust zoom and lens shift settings
- Provide accessible power source to projector
- Use HDMI extension cables to reach A/V equipment
- Install cable raceways to organize wiring
- Use IR extenders for remote signal reach
Proper ceiling projector placement takes planning but enables an immersive home theater from above!
Key Spec Comparison
| Model | Resolution | Brightness | Contrast Ratio | Lens Shift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BenQ TH685 | 1080p | 3,000 lumens | 15,000:1 | Vertical |
| Epson Home Cinema 2150 | 1080p | 2,600 lumens | 70,000:1 | Vertical & Horizontal |
| Optoma UHD35 | 4K UHD | 3,600 lumens | 1,200,000:1 | Vertical |
| ViewSonic PA502S | SVGA 800×600 | 3,600 lumens | 22,000:1 | Vertical |
| Epson VS250 | SVGA 800×600 | 3,200 lumens | 15,000:1 | Vertical & Horizontal |
| Optoma GT1080 | 1080p | 3,000 lumens | 20,000:1 | Vertical |
| BenQ MS550 | 1080p | 3,300 lumens | 15,000:1 | None |
| LG HU70LA | 4K UHD | 1,500 lumens | 150,000:1 | None |
Conclusion
A Ceiling mounting projector allows flexible, out-of-the-way positioning to optimize image size and alignment in your unique space. Models with lens shift capabilities, overhead-friendly designs, and bright images excel when installed upside down.
Carefully consider the layout, construction, wiring runs, and desired image location when choosing ceiling placement. Combine that with the right high-performing and adaptable projector, and you can enjoy big-screen immersion from above!