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Projectors can be classified based on two factors: the projection technology used and where/how they will be used (a function of weight and portability).

On the basis of projection technology, projectors can be considered to be of three types, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) projectors, DLP (Digital Light Processing) Projectors and LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) projectors. The names may be a bit misleading as they are not an accurate reflection of the technology used, with the term "LCD projector" being used as a generic term to represent all types of projectors

Video projector types based on projection technology

According to Wikipedia, LCD projectors typically send light from a metal halide lamp through a prism that separates light to three poly silicone panels -- one each for the red, green, and blue components of the video signal. As polarized light passes through the panels (combination of polarizer, LCD panel and analyzer), individual pixels can be opened to allow light to pass or closed to block the light. The combination of open and closed pixels can produce a wide range of colors and shades in the projected image.

DLP projectors project images onto a screen by reflecting light against a large number of very small mirrors. Colour images are created in two ways by a DLP projection system, one used by single-chip DLP projectors and those used by three-chip projectors. This type of projection technology was developed by Texas Instruments.

Whether to go with a LCD or DLP projector will depend on the specific kind of display you are looking for. LCDs are suitable for showing detailed images while DLP projects are suitable if higher contrast is required. The better alternative can be dependent on resolution and size of the image.

One of the more recent entrants is the LCoS projection technology, which effectively combines the best of both LCD and DLP projection systems. Consequently, these projectors offer very good image and colour quality and are currently pricier than the other types of projectors though it is expected that prices of LCoS projectors will drop going forward.

Video projector types based on weight and portability

Weight and portability are extremely important criteria with projectors, just as they are with notebook computers, particularly when it comes to field sales and marketing professionals.

The ultralight projectors � or to use an equivalent boxing term, featherweights- typically come in the less-than-3 pounds to about 5 pounds in weight. At the same time, these projectors are often comparable in important features such as brightness/ resolution with heavier varieties. Other attributes being similar, smaller projectors are pricier. Buyers should also remember not to completely ignore the weight of the complete projection system which includes cables, projector case etc.

Then there are the conference room projectors which are also reasonably portable but not quite suited to carrying it along in person on frequent travel. While a bit heavier than the ultralight projectors, these multi-purpose projectors are typically brighter. One is more like to find additional features and accessories with these projectors.

Lastly, there are the heavy-duty, fixed projectors that can be as heavy as 100 pounds that are installed at a fixed location. These robust and versatile projectors are suitable for use in large auditoriums or halls as they are designed to handle different resolutions and image sizes. These are obviously among the most expensive types of projectors.