Projectors
What is autofocus on a projector?
Autofocus is the feature that makes a projector's image sharp without touching anything: a sensor measures the distance to the wall and a small motor moves the lens until the picture is in focus. It runs when you turn the projector on and, on many models, every time you move it.
How it works
The projector uses a distance sensor (sometimes a small camera) to work out how far away the surface is. With that figure, a motor adjusts the lens in a second or two. Without autofocus, you turn a ring by hand or adjust it with remote buttons.
It usually comes together with automatic keystone correction, which straightens the image when the projector is not square to the wall, and on some models with screen fitting and obstacle avoidance.
When it makes a difference
On a portable projector you carry between the bedroom, the living room and the patio, autofocus saves time every single time. On one fixed to the ceiling, you set it once and rarely use it again.
Focus can only be as good as the native resolution and the lens quality: autofocus brings the image to its sharpest point, but it does not turn a basic projector into a cinema one.
What to check before you buy
- If you will move the projector often, autofocus with automatic keystone correction is one of the most useful features.
- Check the native resolution: it defines how much detail there is to focus.
- Keep the front sensor free of dust and clear of objects so it measures correctly.
Products with Autofocus in our store
This is how it appears on their spec sheet. Open each one to see all its specifications.
Guides to help you choose
Frequently asked questions
Usually not: it focuses at power-on and when it detects you moved the device. If the picture looks blurry, there is almost always a button or menu option to refocus.