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Comparison of portable models, lumens output and recommended screen size. Complete 2026 guide.
What is a DCI projector?
A DCI projector is a professional video projector designed to meet the strict specifications of digital cinema. These specifications define resolution (2K or 4K), color space (DCI-P3), compression (JPEG 2000), and security (AES 128-bit encryption).
Unlike consumer home cinema projectors, DCI projectors are intended for professional use and offer significantly superior image quality.
Main brands
Barco
Barco is a global leader in professional projection solutions. The Belgian company offers several ranges suitable for open-air cinema:
- Barco F90-W13 — 13,000 lumens, laser phosphor, WUXGA event projector (non-DCI)
- Barco SP4K-25C — 24,000 lumens, for screens from 50 to 66 ft
- SP4K range — More powerful models for very large screens
Christie
Christie is renowned for its reliability and projector quality. The open-air cinema range includes:
- Christie CP2308 — 9,000 lumens DCI, xenon lamp, entry-level price
- Christie CP2309-RGB — 9,000 lumens, RGB laser, extended palette
- Christie Crimson WU25 — 25,000 lumens, laser, event projector (non-DCI)
Sony
Sony offered 4K cinema projectors but has not manufactured them since 2020:
- Sony SRX-R815P — 15,000 lumens, 4K laser, production discontinued
- Sony SRX-R810P — 7,500 lumens, for small venues
NEC
NEC offers DCI solutions adapted to various budgets:
- NEC NC3540LS — 35,000 lumens, for very large screens
- NEC NC2041L — 20,000 lumens, mid-range
- NEC NC1000C — 2K lamp projector, for screens up to 33 ft
Comparison table of main models
| Model | Brand | Power (lumens) | Technology | Portability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP2308 | Christie | 9,000 | Xenon lamp | Medium |
| SRX-R815P | Sony | 15,000 | Laser | Low |
| F90-W13 | Barco | 13,000 | Laser phosphor (non-DCI) | Medium |
| CP2309-RGB | Christie | 9,000 | RGB Laser | Medium |
| SP4K-25C | Barco | 24,000 | Laser | Low |
| Crimson WU25 | Christie | 25,000 | Laser (non-DCI) | Medium |
| NC3540LS | NEC | 35,000 | Laser | Low |
Projectors for open-air cinema, from lightest to heaviest
For outdoor events, portability is an essential criterion. Here are the most suitable models:
The lightest (for screens up to 20 ft)
- Barco F90-W13 — 99 lbs, quiet (non-DCI)
- Christie CP2308 — 119 lbs, single-phase power supply
Intermediate (for screens from 20 to 33 ft)
- Christie Crimson WU25 — 166 lbs, high brightness (non-DCI)
- Christie CP2309-RGB — RGB laser, excellent image quality
Heavy installations (for screens 33 ft and larger)
- Barco SP4K-25C — 232 lbs, requires a trailer for transport
- Sony SRX-R815P — approx. 508 lbs, fixed installation in booth
Recommended screen size according to power
| Power (lumens) | Recommended screen size | Typical usage |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 - 8,000 | 14 to 20 ft | Private events, small evenings |
| 10,000 - 15,000 | 20 to 33 ft | Family evenings, neighborhood cinema |
| 20,000 - 25,000 | 33 to 50 ft | Public events, festivals |
| 30,000 - 35,000 | 50 to 66 ft | Large gatherings, stadiums |
Practical info: For an inflatable screen of 20 to 27 ft outdoors, a projector of 10,000 to 15,000 lumens is an excellent compromise between portability and brightness. For screens of 33 ft and more, plan for at least 20,000 lumens and adequate electrical power.
Power supply and infrastructure
DCI projectors have specific electricity requirements:
- Compact projectors — Operate on standard outlet (230 V)
- High-power projectors — Require three-phase power supply
- Consumption — Between 500W and 3000W depending on the model
Conclusion
Choosing a DCI projector for open-air cinema depends on several factors: target screen size, frequency of use, budget, and logistical constraints. An entry-level model like the Christie CP2308 offers a good starting point for beginning in professional open-air cinema.
For a professional-quality inflatable screen, pair it with a projector suited to the desired screen size. Our Hallucine inflatable screens work with all types of projectors, featuring projection surfaces up to 73 ft wide.
Need advice on choosing your equipment? Contact us at /contactez-nous. 🎬✨