Projector Image Resolution
Resolution and aspect ratio are key factors in using a projector. Here we round up the standard image resolutions most commonly used.
Last time we talked about the different types of projectors. Today we turn to the resolution and aspect ratio of the image a projector projects — a factor that is extremely important to how it is used. The image displayed therefore varies according to the resolution quality of each individual projector. Below we have gathered the projector resolutions most commonly used.
SVGA
SVGA stands for Super Video Graphics Array, the entry-level resolution that every general-purpose projector must have. This standard resolution offers relatively low quality compared with the other standard resolutions available today. SVGA resolution is 800 x 600 pixels with a 4:3 aspect ratio, suitable for general use such as displaying data, charts and video clips that do not require high resolution.
WXGA
WXGA stands for Wide Extended Graphics Array, a resolution adjusted for a wider display at 1280 x 800 pixels with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Today it is considered a standard resolution used by many projector models, because the image quality of the WXGA standard is nearly three times that of the SVGA standard.
FHD/1080p
FHD stands for Full HD, also known as 1080p resolution. The FHD standard resolution is 1920 x 1080 with a 16:9 aspect ratio. FHD resolution can also be used in many ways, such as presenting work through AutoCAD or for home entertainment.
WUXGA
WUXGA stands for Widescreen Ultra Extended Graphics Array, a resolution that supports today's notebooks and high-end computers. The WUXGA standard resolution is 1920 x 1200 pixels with a 16:10 aspect ratio. This resolution is well suited to large venues that require high brightness and sharpness.
UHD/4K
UHD stands for Ultra High Definition, or 4K — the highest resolution available today. It is usually a good choice for home entertainment systems such as home theaters, because it delivers high image quality and supports Blu-ray better than the Full HD standard. The 4K standard resolution is 3840 x 2160 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio. In addition, 4K resolution is also used in large cinemas, because it has four times as many pixels as the Full HD standard, giving cinema audiences an experience close to what they see on the theater screen.
And although a projector's resolution is important, there are other factors in choosing one that matter just as much. We will talk about those other selection factors next time.