I feel like I have to start this search for the best ALR projector screens with a disclaimer so that you know what you’re getting into.
My recommendations will feature quite a few models from Elite Screens but I’ll also make room for a few other brands. It’s quite a famous manufacturer and we’ll be in very good hands when it comes to quality and top performances.
On the other hand, the screens from Elite Screens, whether they’re ALR/CLR or not, are not only famous for their top-notch quality but also for their expensive prices.
Well, in my personal opinion, the ones from Elite Screens should be considered affordable. But they might seem expensive to people who are not exactly used to the market of ALR projector screens.
If we were to talk about really expensive options for the best ALR projector screens, then I would recommend checking out the Da-Lite Parallax 28848V, which cost around $5,500. Compared to that, Elite Screens suddenly becomes a highly affordable brand.
What I’m trying to point out is that you can’t really expect ALR screens to cost anywhere under $500.
If your budget is around $300 and you’re willing to forego the ALR thing, then you can absolutely buy an amazing, top-tier projecting screen. One of my favorites is the Silver Ticket STR Series. I reviewed it in my post on the best 4K projector screens if you’re interested to know more about it.
For now, let’s go back to talking about ALR/CLR options because that’s what we’re here to do.
Table of Contents
Best ALR Projector Screens
As I’ve already acknowledged, my focus in this article will be the models from Elite Screens because they offer some of the best in this area of ambient light rejecting screens or ceiling light rejecting screens.
There are two main series that I will focus on reviewing. And these two series illustrate one of the things I really appreciated about Elite Screens.
They have models both for standard throw projectors and for ultra-short throw projectors. I like that because not everyone will own an ultra-short throw, even if they have become more popular in recent years but standard throw models remain, well, the standard in this world.
The one for normal throw projectors is the Elite Screens Aeon CineGrey 3D Series.
For those with short throw and ultra-short throw projectors, you might find what you’re looking for in the Elite Screens Aeon CLR 2 Series and the Aeon CLR 3 Series.
We also have the Elite Screens Light-On CLR 2 Series for those who want a portable screen with light rejecting material. But it’s only for ultra-short and short-throw projectors.
Epson is also present in our search for the best ALR projector screens. This brand doesn’t only stick to appearing in my recommendations for the best projectors with horizontal lens shift or the best projectors for bedrooms. It also makes an appearance here with the Epson SilverFlex Ultra 120-Inch Ambient Light Rejecting Super Mega Screen. That’s a mouthful and the price is even more of a mouthful.
1. Elite Screens Aeon CineGrey 3D Series: Best ALR Projector Screen for Standard Throw
I think that the Elite Screens Aeon CineGrey 3D Series is one of the best options if you’re projecting from a standard long throw device.
There are not many ambient light rejecting models that are designed for long throw so I appreciate the CineGrey 3D Series from this manufacturer.
Standard throw projectors
It will work with ceiling mounted projectors or with projectors that are placed on a tripod stand or wherever you keep it so that’s nice.
However, that also implies that the Elite Screens Aeon CineGrey 3D Series is not compatible with ultra/short throw projectors.
One thing you might quickly notice is that in the world of ambient light rejecting screens, most of them are actually designed for short throw or ultra short throw projectors.
Well, Elite Screens makes sure to cover those of us who have standard long throw projectors, which I totally appreciate.
The Da-Lite Parallax 28848V that I gave as an example for a truly expensive ALR screen also makes models for standard throw and ultra-short throw projectors. I like manufacturers who address all types of potential buyers because this is a varied market with a lot of different types of projectors.
Moreover, even if ALR screens are specifically recommended for ultra-short throw laser projectors because they shine light at extreme angles, I also think that it’s important to give those with standard long throw devices a possibility to enjoy content in ambient light at its highest quality with the best overall picture quality that we can get according to our budgets and expectations.
Anyway, I also wanted to underline that you have to pay attention to highly important details like these.
Features
It is ISF Certified for accurate color points, color temperature and dynamic range.
The CineGrey 3D Series includes a 65% rejection ratio and a 90 degrees viewing angle with 1.2 gain.
It is a 4K Ultra HD, Active 3D, and HDR ready. It basically means that it’s great for Full HD projectors, 4K projectors, and 3D projectors.
That’s why I also recommended it as one of the best 4K projectors with ambient light rejecting technology.
What it has over standard screens is that the CineGrey 3D Series is capable of improving brightness, color, and contrast under ambient light conditions.
Plus, the Edge Free design makes it resemble a giant flat panel TV display. Only that I think that projectors with the right screen are so much cooler than TVs.
Also, the price well under $1,000 for the 120 inch size is not all that expensive when we think of the quality that this series offers for the people looking for ALR screens for their standard long throw devices.
Even the 150 inch one will have a price around $1,000 or a bit above it, which is quite decent.
Screen sizes
There are quite a lot of screen sizes to choose from.
And we get two screen ratios to choose from: 16:9 and 2.35:1.
For the 16:9 aspect ratio, the sizes to choose from are: 192, 00, 110, 120, 135, and 150 inches.
For the 2.35:1 aspect ratio we have more limited options: 125, 138, and 158 inches.
What is great to see is that, even if you want to make a really big home theater room, the Elite Screens Aeon CineGrey 3D Series provides us with plenty of options.
Wall mounted
Most screens will be wall mounted, especially those in this price range around $1,000 or under, depending on the size.
The package will include a permanently tensioned fixed frame screen. You can see here how it’s assembled.
2. Elite Screens Aeon CLR 3 Series: Best ALR Projector Screen for Ultra-Short Throw
All these series from Elite Screens with their names can get a bit confusing. That’s why you must check out which type of projector they’re designed for.
That’s what differentiates them mostly.
Only for ultra-short throw
Just keep in mind that the Aeon CLR 3 Series is only designed for table-top ultra-short throw projectors, which can be quite normal among ceiling light rejecting screens.
Features
We’ll be able to project from a short distance without shadowing the picture.
The micro-serriform optical structure filters out ceiling light for overall better picture quality even in ambient light that would wash out colors and contrast.
It is characterized by 75x contrast improvement over standard matte white screens in ambient light room environments.
It also provides a 170 degrees viewing angle (85 degrees left, right). That also means that even if you have a large gathering for movie nights or a large crowd for your business/education presentation, the viewers can spread out while maintaining brightness uniformity.
Features
Of course, the Aeon CLR 3 Series is 4K/8K Ultra HD, HDR Ready.
And the edge free design makes it resemble a TV setting that would be much more expensive.
Screen sizes
We get 3 screen sizes at 16:9 contrast ratio: 103, 115, and 123 inches. They’re good sizes.
The price for the biggest size, the 123 inch is under $1,500. I think the price is quite good. It’s not cheap but that’s to be expected when we’re looking for the best ALR projector screens.
Wall mounted
We have another wall mounted screen that comes with a lightweight aluminum split-frame design.
And the wraparound design maximizes viewing area and reduces overall footprint.
3. Elite Screens Aeon CLR 2 Series: Best ALR Projector Screen for Ultra or Short-Throw Projectors
While many ALR/CLR screens are designed specifically for UST projectors, the Elite Screens Aeon CLR 2 Series also includes the short throw ones on the list of compatibility. But it won’t work for standard long throw.
Ultra and short-throw projectors
As I’ve already mentioned, this is only designed for table-top ultra or short-throw projectors.
Thus, short-throw projectors are also included, not only the UST ones.
Features
It’s another edge free design for creating the impression of a giant flat panel TV at a lower cost.
Of course, it is designed to negate the washout effect caused by overhead or other off-axis light sources.
The rejection of the negative effects of ambient light leads to projecting true image brightness, color saturation and contrast for top-notch image quality that our device is capable of.
It’s also compatible with 4K/8K devices and 3D ready. Although, the chances of having an 8K projector in the following years are slim to none. At least 4K devices are a lot more popular and slightly more price accessible nowadays.
It is also anti-scratch and easy to clean.
Screen sizes
We only get two sizes in 16:9 ratio: 103 and 123 inches.
Wall mounted
It’s the same type, the kind we permanently fix on our wall and doesn’t look all that impressive when an image isn’t projected on it. But you’ll get used to it even if you have it installed in the living room or bedroom.
It comes with a lightweight aluminum split-frame design.
The wraparound design maximizes viewing area and it reduces overall footprint.
4. Epson SilverFlex Ultra 120-Inch Ambient Light Rejecting Super Mega Screen
If you’re scared of spending around $3,000 on one of the best ALR projector screens, then you can save yourself some precious time and skip reading this review for the Epson SilverFlex Ultra 120-Inch.
This brand also has another very cheap screen that I like quite a lot. It’s the Epson Duet 80-Inch Dual Aspect Ratio Projection Screen. It’s a portable projection screen for those of you who want to take your projector camping on a budget. Or maybe you want a very cheap model that you can use in your backyard without worrying too much about it.
Only for ultra-short throw
Epson mentions that it is ideal for use with the Epson EpiqVision ultra short throw laser projectors.
Of course, we can buy it to project from other UST that are made by other brands.
Features
Let’s talk about the price.
The Epson SilverFlex Ultra 120-Inch Ambient Light Rejecting Super Mega Screen might be an impressive screen but it’s a very expensive one. The price will be $3,000 or close to that, depending where you buy it from.
When we compare it to what Elite Screens sells, we would easily see that this Epson is quite expensive.
Epson mentions that it is engineered to display larger-than life ultra high definition images.
The material can absorb 90% of the ambient light, which is impressively high and very satisfactory.
The absorption of ambient light at such a high rate means that even in those conditions we can project bright, crisp pictures for movies, TV shows, gaming, sporting events, business meetings, educational content, content in places of worship, etc.
It also features up to 180 degrees viewing angles.
And it’s compatible with 4K and beyond resolutions.
Screen sizes
Just as its name implies, we only get the 120 inch size. However, it’s a decent size that would be big enough for most people.
Wall mounted
Indeed, the Epson SilverFlex Ultra 120-Inch Ambient Light Rejecting Super Mega Screen is wall mounted,
It comes with a fixed, sleek, thin bezel build. We can say that it looks good on a well even when we’re not using it. It won’t stand out.
We’re also promised easy installation of the lightweight aluminum frame, which is the case.
5. Elite Screens Light-On CLR 2 Series: Best Portable ALR Screen
What makes the Elite Screens Light-On CLR 2 Series stand out is the fact that it’s a portable screen.
While all the above models are wall mounted, this one can be taken everywhere you want.
And it means that we can use it outdoors even if it’s not completely dark outside thanks to the ambient light rejecting technology.
Ultra short throw and short throw
Even if it’s a portable screen, it’s only designed for UST and short throw projectors. That limits the number of people who would be interested in this kind of model.
Features
It features 170 degrees viewing angle with 0.8 gain.
And it rejects 90% of overhead light, while enhancing contrast 75x more than a standard matte white screen.
It is 4K/8K Ultra HD and Active 3D Ready.
The folding frame assembles in a matter of minutes. It has back-braced legs for stability and support. It’s a quite classic configuration.
It’s important that the entire screen fits in a carrying bag for easy transportation.
Screen sizes
We can buy in a 60 inch size, 16:9 aspect ratio for a price around $500. It’s quite expensive but that’s the price we pay for an ALR portable screen.
6. VIVIDSTORM S PRO Motorized Tension Floor Rising UST ALR Projector Screen
While their screens are not incredibly popular, maybe not as well known as Elite Screens, we can say that the models from VIVIDSTORM certainly deserve the recognition of being some of the best ALR projector screens.
More importantly, instead of being a wall mounted model, it’s a floor rising one. We can hide it into its base when we’re not using it, which can be nice.
I’m more of a fan of wall mounted screens because they’re easier to install and then I don’t have to worry about anything electronic not working as it should but I know that there are plenty of buyers who absolutely love the VIVIDSTORM S PRO Motorized Tension Floor Rising UST ALR Projector Screen and who mention that it’s simply the best.
Ultra short throw
As it’s quite usual, this VIVIDSTORM is designed for UST laser projectors.
Features
The UST ALR material uses a special optical serrated structure and a light suppression fitter.
Ambient light is blocked and absorbed and the projected light will be effectively reflected to viewers.
The 170 degrees viewing angles are nice. And the 97% ALR resistance is very high.
It supports 8K/4K resolution and is Active 3D ready.
Screen sizes
I like that we get a bunch of sizes to choose from: 72, 84, 92, 100, 110, and 120 inches.
All have a 16:9 aspect ratio.
The prices are quite affordable considering that this is a floor rising ALR screen, which are not that easy to find.
Floor rising
I love that floor rising screens basically don’t require much installation, which is not exactly the case with wall/ceiling retractable models.
We need to plug in the power cord to achieve the installation in 1 minute. That’s fantastic for those fearing that it might require some difficult installation.
There’s no need for screws.
And since it’s not fixed, we can carry the VIVIDSTORM S PRO Motorized Tension Floor Rising UST ALR Projector Screen from room to room wherever we want.
It also promises flatness like glass surface.
Overall, I’m totally impressed with the series that VIVIDSTORM offers. They’re simply fantastic and the prices are quite affordable.
7. Elite Screens Starling Tab-Tension CLR 3 Series
You’ll quickly understand what makes the Starling Tab-Tension CLR 3 Series stand out.
Just let me say that it can be a fantastic choice for people who are not big fans of always having a screen on a wall. So I would say that it might not be a very interesting choice for people with dedicated home theaters.
Ultra-short throw
Keep in mind that the Elite Screens Starling Tab-Tension CLR 3 Series specifically states that it’s only designed for use with ultra-short throw tabletop/bottom mounted projectors.
It is not compatible with short or standard throw projectors so don’t even think about it unless you own a UST.
Features
It is an electric retractable ultra-short throw front projection screen with ceiling light rejection technology.
The lenticular sawtooth micro-structure filters out ambient light. That gets us superior brightness and vivid images even in ambient light.
We are promised contrast rich images. It improves black levels in both bright and dark rooms. That’s what makes colors pop.
The wide diffusion uniformity allows for top image quality from any angle.
In order to ensure a flat and taut surface, it has a tab-tension design. No ripples and wrinkles.
A pair of wall brackets for a flush wall/ceiling installation is included. And a pair of eye-bolt screws.
The package also comes with a remote control package and a detachable manual keypad switch.
Screen sizes
We get two sizes to choose from: 101 inches and 121 inches.
Both 16:9 aspect ratio.
Retractable
The price around $2,500 is justified when you realize that this is a wall/ceiling retractable CLR screen. In my opinion, that definitely justifies the high price.
Thus, if you don’t want to always see a screen permanently installed on your wall, a wall/ceiling retractable model can be perfect. Or a floor rising one as the VIVIDSTORM S PRO Motorized Tension Floor Rising UST ALR Projector Screen that I recommended above.
Well, the one from VIVIDSTORM might be more affordable so keep that in mind.
What is the difference between ALR and CLR screens?
I would say that the differences between ALR and CLR are more of a matter of how they work. Well, of course that would be the case.
But what I’m trying to say is that we can classify both ALR and CLR in the ambient light rejecting ALR/CLR category.
Thus, both technologies have the same purpose, they just achieve it in slightly different ways.
They’re both light rejecting screens that are designed for both home and business use.
What truly matters is that whether you see ALR or CLR, then you should immediately think of screens that are made of materials that are light rejecting.
Or think of screens that can be used in ambient light, at any time of the day, that’s a more simplistic approach. That’s what these two materials and technologies are designed for.
They’re both designed to reduce the negative effect of ambient light. Those negative effects are that it basically washes out colors. If we want bright, vivid images, blacks that are black, and an overall better picture quality, then we need these specifically designed materials that counterattack the effects of ambient light.
We could say that the CLR technology can result in even better contrast and color accuracy.
Both ALR and CLR can be designed for standard throw, short throw and ultra-short throw projectors. It’s important to make sure that the screen you’re checking out is designed for the types of projector you use.
And, besides the light rejecting thing, what makes them stand out from standard white screens is the significantly higher price. They’re a significant investment, with prices well above $500, $1,000, $2000, and a lot more.
What is ARL?
ALR stands for ambient light rejecting technology.
These ones bounce ambient light away from the viewer.
The material will reflect any light provided it doesn’t come from the front. They’re designed to reject all light from all sources except directly in front of them.
What is CLR?
CLR stands for ceiling light rejecting technology.
As the name suggests, the material is designed to first and foremost combat light from above, thus the ceiling designation. That can make them great for places where the ambient light is coming from the ceiling.
The technical difference between ALR and CLR is that the latter absorb light, maybe even up to 95% of it.
It’s also considered that CLR screens are optimized for ultra-short throw projectors or short throw.
On the other hand, ARL screens are considered to be working with any type of device, including standard long throw.
That’s an important designation to keep in mind. You must always check out the type of projectors the screen is designed for.
Should we buy an ALR screen?
Is there really anyone who would say that an ALR/CLR isn’t worth it? Well, there might be some people who might say that it’s not. I certainly don’t talk with all projector lovers from around the globe.
Vava also gave an answer to this important question.
They state that an ambient light rejecting screen is worth every penny if we want to transform an ordinary room into the perfect home theater.
However, the magic of ambient rejecting technologies is truly beneficial when we want to project in ambient light. When we’re looking for the best projectors for daylight.
If you’re not projecting in a fully black out room, then you’ll need to look for two crucial things: projectors with a high ANSI lumens volume (high brightness) and an ALR/CLR screen.
If we want to project outdoors and you’re not in the wilderness where the only light source is from the stars, then it might be a good idea to consider a portable ALR.
The same goes if your projector is not installed in a home theater room designed specifically to black out all light sources.
If you install it in the bedroom or in a living room, then you might highly benefit from light rejecting materials.
It’s the same if you want to enjoy content at any time of the day.
Or if you’re using a projector in classrooms or in a business setting for presentations or even in a place of worship.
There is a wide array of situations where we can say with conviction that an ALR screen is worth it, even if most of the time the prices are not exactly the cheapest.
The alternative
While I believe that an ALR screen is something we can’t do without if we want to enjoy content in ambient light in the best conditions, being the perfect addition if you’re looking for the best projector for daylight or the best projector for watching sports, I also think that not everyone is going to find the prices all that agreeable. That’s something I can totally understand.
In that case, if you find that you could lower your expectations a bit for a really cheap price, then I recommend the screen from Silver Ticket Products STR Series Grey Material.
I also used the Silver Ticket Products STR Series as an example for screens that can also help with projector light bleed thanks to their frame construction.
I wouldn’t say that it’s one of the best ALR projector screens in the true sense of the word and what the ambient light rejecting technology means but it’s the affordable alternative to all those expensive models that I reviewed above.
Best ALR projector screens FAQs
Let’s answer a couple of interesting questions related to the best ALR projector screens.
1. What are the disadvantages of ALR screens?
The expensive price. ALR screens are among the most expensive because they need to capable of the extraordinary thing of allowing us to display vivid colors in ambient light. Of course, this type of ambient light rejecting screen must be paired with a projector with a very high brightness volume.
2. Is an ALR screen worth it?
An ALR or CLR screen is the best option if we want to project in ambient light whether that’s in the comfort of our homes or for business and education purposes. ALR screens are among the most expensive but they’re the best solution if we want to project in ambient light or during the day. When we’re looking for the best ALR projector screens we must also keep in mind the type of projector we want a screen for, whether it’s long throw, short throw or ultra short throw.
