Wireless Projector vs Wired Projector

Many consumers face the decision between purchasing a wireless projector vs a wired projector, but wireless projectors or WiFi projectors may not match your expectations. Rather than being a completely wire-free device, the projectors have a power cable that can wirelessly connect to devices to show their screen or other content. The best projectors within this category work similarly to AirPlay, GoogleCast, and SmartCast specifically designed for the projector itself. Another consideration is whether you want ​​a video projector for gaming vs. a home theater.

Wired vs Wireless Projectors

Both wireless and wired versions allow you to watch your desired content on the semi-big screen using a stationary or portable projector. However, the difference lies in the connectivity of the projectors themselves. Wired projectors rely on audio-visual connections, such as video graphics displays (VGAs,) HDMI, USB, components, and display ports. If you are planning to use your top Panasonic projector with a variety of devices, you will want multiple ports for whatever types of displays your devices use. The other option falls with wireless connectivity, but it only works for supported devices. Whatever your desired solution, you will have to decide between a fixed screen vs a pull-down for a projector.

Streaming Content to Wired and Wireless Projectors

Wireless projectors can connect to your smart devices, such as your laptop, computer, tablet, or phone. When you want to watch your favorite movies or use your favorite applications, it’s as simple as using screen sharing or casting to get the picture on the screen. Meanwhile, wired versions require you to purchase a connecting box or stick to play content on the screen. These devices are relatively easy to purchase but take up one of your available input spots for the projector and require a WiFi connection.

USB Content for Wired and Wireless Projectors

A USB device like a memory stick stores images to be projected onto a screen. The good news when it comes to wireless projection is most content that would be on a USB device comes from a computer. Although wireless projectors may not include a USB port, you can either run the content from the USB using your computer or eliminate the USB memory device completely by sharing your computer screen. Most newer laptops and computer models enable screen sharing.

HDMI for Projection

Most wired projectors feature at least one HDMI port, something that is almost necessary in today’s world. A video game console, cable box, Blu-Ray player, DVD player, and computer can all connect to a projector using an HDMI port. With a wireless projector, you may not be able to access all of this content without an additional way to connect. Because of this lack of connectivity, you should consider a projector that can connect wirelessly or using wires. You can also find a wireless HDMI adapter including a receiver and transmitter.

Other Connection Types

Devices that connect using either VGA and component ports may not be able to connect to newer wired projectors and cannot connect to wireless ones. To watch content from one of these devices, you probably need to find an adapter that is VGA to HDMI or component to HDMI depending on the desired source device. Similarly to wireless HDMI, you can find wireless VGA adapters that include a transmitter and receiver. Unfortunately, there aren’t any RCA component wireless adapters, so you will still need a wired connection or HDMI adapter for this content.

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