Direct view LED displays and projectors are great solutions for large venues. With so many options and features out there, however, it can be difficult to know which is best for you. With factors like price, picture quality, and maintenance, this short guide is here to help you decide.
Read on to learn how projectors and direct view LEDs can solve your large venue problems and be a positive investment for your venue no matter what you choose.
Setting up the perfect large venue display does not have to be complicated. Still, it is important to know which to choose between projectors or video wall displays.
Projectors are output devices that take images, moving or still, from computers or other devices and project them on a surface or screen. There are different types of projectors, like LED, laser, and data projectors. But this article will talk about laser projectors.
Video wall displays are a newer technology, but not by much. Common in large venues like shopping centers or stadiums, these large-scale displays are made of multi-monitor setups. Recently, direct view LED video walls allow for a single device consisting of a single screen of interconnected monitor panels for a bezel-free and easy-to-use display.
Maximum Display Size
Projectors are tiny devices with a lot of power. Some projectors are portable but still can display big images. And if you invest in multiple projectors, you can even create super long images with a technique called edge blending! That’s pretty crazy.Projectors offer greater flexibility and creativity in display design, allowing for virtually limitless sizes and projection distances.
While direct view LEDs were once more limited in size options, modern technology now offers customizable options, providing greater flexibility in terms of size and aspect ratio to suit specific venue needs. Direct view LEDs excel in providing a premium visual experience for a more polished and cohesive look, making them an excellent choice for venues that prioritize aesthetics and a high-end feel.
Winner: Projectors
Picture Quality
Projectors are great for size. But they can lack in picture quality. It is also important that if you are wanting to plan events where videos or pictures will be taken, the refresh rate will become a problem. This is often why photos or videos of computer monitors may have distortions in them.
Direct view LEDs have beautiful picture quality with high refresh rates. In fact, it’s unbeatable. LED screens, in comparison to LCD, give sharper and realistic colors. This means they are perfect for almost all cases. Userful.com explains the difference between LED and LCD video wall if you want to learn more.
In conclusion, if you need crystal-clear imaging and color accuracy, using video wall displays is the best solution and certainly worth the price.
Winner: Direct View LED
Installation and Maintenance
Projectors seem like a simple solution that you plug in and go, but there’s more to it. You must calibrate your projector, pick the best location, and maintain it. If you accidentally bump it, you may have to recalibrate.
Direct view LEDs seem scary, but they are one of the easiest to install. Since they are bezel-free multi-monitor displays, they are installed panel by panel with relative ease.
Overall, in terms of hidden costs, upkeep, and installation, there isn’t much that can beat the direct view led in terms of ease.
Winner: Direct View LED
Lighting and Environment
Projectors are not ideal for every environment. Their image quality can be altered by things out of your control. Projectors are best for indoor solutions where they can be calibrated and left alone. But they still will require some regular maintenance and readjustment.
Direct view LEDs are not altered by environments and lighting. In fact, they are made as solutions for these specific issues. With high brightness and resolution, they are perfect for indoor and outdoor. Once you have installed it, you are ready to go. And thanks to a ridiculously high refresh rate on LED panels, these displays are ideal for filming and photography without any flickering or discoloration.
This means if you want to leave, forget it, and be assured you are getting what you need, the direct view LED is the only way to go.
Winner: Direct View LED
But if you want to know more about the right projector for a space, you can also first learn about projector resolution and projector brightness.
Prestige and Impact
Projectors are not the most prestigious technologies out there. Many people now associate them with classrooms and disgruntled teachers trying unsuccessfully to calibrate them mid-lesson. While this amazing technology is cheap and accessible for many people, it may not give your large venue the oomph you are looking for.
Direct view LEDs give you the feeling of prestige. These screens produce massive yet beautiful images that are stunning. Any customer or client who walks into your venue will feel spoiled by the investment you made for them. Never be afraid to invest for the long term and research how to make the best of your purchases.
If you really want to wow those who come to your large venue, a direct view LED is the only way to do so.
Winner: Direct View LED
Cost Considerations
When choosing between a projector and a direct-view LED display, it’s important to consider both your budget and the specific needs of your venue. Projectors offer a versatile and budget-friendly solution, with average prices for laser projectors ranging from $2,000 to $3,000, and premium models going over $10,000. While there may be some ongoing costs for maintenance or replacements, projectors provide great value for large venues seeking flexibility and functionality.
On the other hand, direct-view LED displays are a more significant investment, typically ranging from $50,000 to $350,000, plus installation fees. However, this higher cost is often justified by their advanced technology, superior image quality, and seamless integration, making them ideal for venues that prioritize cutting-edge visuals and long-term durability.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on aligning your budget with your performance needs. If you’re working with budget constraints, a projector offers cost-effective flexibility, delivering quality and functionality at a lower price point. However, if top-tier performance and advanced features are your priority, a direct-view LED display provides exceptional visuals and long-term durability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Winner: Projectors
Projector vs. Direct View LED: Which is Better?
Overall, the direct view LED may be a better solution for your large venue. However, each situation is different. For example, the biggest factor to consider may be price, as projectors are a budget-friendly solution with good results. But keep in mind, all solutions should be long-term, not short-term.
If you still are unsure which is the winner for you and would like to compare specs directly, you can learn more about ViewSonic’s large venue laser projectors and direct view LEDs here. Or check out our article on choosing the right presentation display.
Final Thoughts
While both projectors and direct view LEDs offer excellent solutions for large venues, the “winner” ultimately depends on your specific needs. Projectors excel in terms of affordability and flexibility, especially for massive spaces requiring extensive coverage. However, direct view LEDs reign supreme in picture quality, ease of installation, and environmental resilience, making them ideal for situations demanding top-notch visuals and long-term use. Consider your budget, desired image quality, and venue environment to determine the perfect display solution for your large venue.
Ready to elevate your large venue display? explore ViewSonic’s wide range of LED large-format display solution.