📣 Backyard Projector Screens vs. Indoor Screens: What’s the Difference?

Key Takeaways

• Outdoor screens are tough for being exposed to the elements, and portability.
• Indoor screens function well in controlled and dark spaces.
• A portable projector screen works best for campers and movers.
• An outdoor projector screen is an inexpensive way to provide enjoyment without spending a lot.
• Elite Screens offers portable projector screen products for both indoor and outdoor use.

Having a backyard projector screen or an indoor screen allows you to create your own movie theater. But how are they different from each other? Let’s dive in!

Did you know? According to Statista, total revenue in the Entertainment market is projected to reach US$8.20bn in 2022. This indicates a growing market as families decide to invest in home entertainment, both inside and outside their homes. Establishing the perfect screen can help distinguish between a blur of a movie night (if you are lucky) and an awe-inspiring cinematic experience.

In this guide, we will compare the outdoor projector screen options to the indoor ones. We will also take a look at the various projector screen types, real-life use cases, and practical tips for setting up. So, read to the end!

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Why They’re Not the Same

Both indoor and outdoor projector screens are designed to do one thing: provide images that are sharp and crisp. However, their environments demand different designs.

• If you are indoors, you have complete control of light, temperature, and conditions.
• But outdoors, the screen must be able to deal with wind, humidity, and ambient light.
• A backyard movie screen is typically portable and designed to be set up and taken down quickly and easily.

To put it more simply, your living room and your backyard are two separate spaces. They need different screens in order to set up a projector.

Features of Outdoor & Backyard Projector Screens

When selecting an affordable outdoor projector screen, specific characteristics become more important compared to when selecting an indoor model.

Weather Resistant

A backyard projector screen needs to be able to handle wind, rain, and UV rays. Indoor models do not need to handle wind, rain, and humidity.

Portability

A portable projector screen is lightweight and foldable. As outdoor events are temporary, portability is more important than ever.

Brightness and Gain

Outdoor models often have a higher gain on screen. This helps the projectors battle ambient light, street lamps, or moonlight.

Heavy Duty Frames

An outdoor projector screen will usually use heavy-duty stands, tripods, or inflatable frames. An indoor screen will usually use wall or ceiling mounts.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Projector Screens: A Side-by-Side Look

Here’s a quick comparison table to make the choice easier:

Feature	Indoor Screen	Outdoor/Backyard Screen
Environment	Controlled lighting, no weather exposure	Bright light, wind, and outdoor weather conditions
Material	Standard soft fabric	Thick, weather-resistant material
Portability	Usually fixed	Portable, foldable, inflatable
Setup	Wall/ceiling mounts	Frames, tripods, stands, and inflatables
Brightness Requirement	Lower, works well in dark rooms	Higher, fights against ambient light
Durability	Long-lasting indoors but fragile outdoors	Designed to handle outdoor use

Where Indoor Screens Shine

Indoor screens are ideal for:

• Dedicated home theaters with dark walls and soundproofing.
• Living rooms where families come together once a week to watch movies.
• Offices or classrooms for using technology for clear presentations

They are best used when you can control the lighting and climate.

Where Outdoor Screens Excel

Outdoor screens allow entertainment to happen under the stars. They are ideal for: 

• Backyard gatherings with family and friends
• Camping trips with a portable projector screen that turns the night into something special
• Driveway sports nights for watching the big game together
• Community events or school fundraisers

An affordable projector screen is perfect for anyone who loves outdoor memories.

Popular Types of Backyard and Outdoor Screens

Not all screens are the same. The most commercially available categories include:

Fixed Frame Outdoor Screens

They are the most cinema-like experience of all, but need fixed installation most of the time.

Portable Projector Screen

A projector screen can fold up easily and is suitable for anyone who moves a lot or enjoys camping.

Inflatable Backyard Screens

Similar to the portable projector screen, these are an affordable outdoor projector screen option; they are relatively fast to set up, and work best for larger events.

Retractable Outdoor Screens

Retractable outdoor screens are easier to store than portable projector screens, but they can have similar portability features in a sleek design.

Top Picks

If you want quality, here are some of the finest projector screens:

• Elite Yard Master 2 – A foldable outdoor projector screen with a heavy-duty frame that can withstand Mother Nature. 
• Elite Yard Master Lite – A lightweight projector screen that is a cinch to set up and to pack away.  
• Elite Yard Master Electric Tension – A motorized projector screen that retracts with the touch of a button.  
• Elite Yard Master Sport – A budget-friendly, simple projector screen option for casual backyard fun or camping nights. 

These products are the best when it comes to quality, convenience, and durability. This is why homeowners enjoy using them.

Tips for Choosing the Right Screen

As you purchase, please consider these important factors:

• Space availability – Measure your backyard or room.
• Weather conditions – If you live in windy areas, use a firm stand.
• Ease of installation – An outdoor projector screen should really not take hours to set up.
• Storage – A portable or retractable screen is easier to store indoors.
• Brightness levels – Use a high-gain screen if you are planning to watch outdoors before sunset.

Real-Life Use Cases

• Family Movie Night: A backyard movie screen is perfect for an evening filled with snacks, blankets, and laughter.
• Sports Nights: An outdoor screen brings the neighborhood together to cheer on their favorite sports teams.
• Camping Trips: Your favorite campsite becomes a mini theater with a projector screen.
• Holiday Celebrations: Screen a concert or karaoke outdoors, or even your own family slideshow.

Elevate Your Entertainment Experience!

When considering an upgrade to your display, consider your needs. An indoor screen will perform optimally in controlled environments. In outdoor settings, a backyard projector screen allows you to experience something special under the stars, even with a lower-quality projector. Luckily, there are brands, like Elite Screens, that take both categories of screening seriously. You can check out our website to find the screens that fit your lifestyle.

FAQs

1. Should I leave my outdoor projector screen outside?

There’s no need to. Even weather-resistant screens will last longer if they’re taken down and stored appropriately indoors.

2. How bright does a projector need to be for a backyard movie screen?

 At least 3000 lumens will give you a clear image outdoors (especially in low light) on the screen or wall.

3. Is there a particular outdoor projector? 

No, but the brighter the projector, the more effective it will be outside. 

4. Are inflatable screens better than portable frame screens?

Inflatable screens are great for larger events where convenience is key; however, portable frame screens will hold up better for repeated use.

5. How can I clean an outdoor projector screen? 

Use soft cloths and mild soap and water. Don’t use any harsh chemicals; the screen fabric will break down and discolor.