Classroom Projector Report: InFocus Projectors Commentary
In this year's Classroom Projector Report, we did not consider any InFocus projectors. However, we have still decided to look at two InFocus series, one of which consists of the IN2112, IN2114, and IN2116 projectors.
8/3/2012 - Art Feierman
InFocus Projectors - A Quick Look
| InFocus IN2112 | InFocus IN2114 | InFocus IN2116 |
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What they all have in common: DLP technology, 3200 lumens, 2100:1 contrast ratio, 7 lbs., maximum resolution of 1920x1200, Monitor Out (VGA), 5W stereo speakers, close captioning, 1.20:1 zoom ratio, 3000 hours lamp life in full power, 4000 hour lamp life in eco-mode, replacement lamp that costs $249, no filters, don't have to unmount to change the lamp, 5 year P/L warranty, 3D ready |
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InFocus IN2112
The InFocus IN2112 is the least expensive and most basic projector in this series of three. At an affordable $549, the IN2112 is SVGA resolution (800x600). This resolution is a little outdated (many projectors are now 1024x768 resolution like its sibling, the IN2114), but SVGA is still fairly popular in education projectors. It is not widescreen, unlike its most expensive sibling, the IN2116.
The IN2112 lacks a few features that its siblings have. The IN2112 does not have network notification (which informs you via the network if your projector needs maitenance). It also does not have network control capabilities, a USB input (bummer--those are nice for hassle-free presentations), or remote mousing.
In all other regards, the IN2112 is identical to its two siblings, the IN2114 and IN2116. All three are DLP projectors with 3200 lumens (nice brightness) and 2100:1 contrast ratio. They're all fairly portable at 7 lbs., making them easily transportable down classroom or office hallways, or even on a business trip. They also are all 3D capable. The IN2112, like the IN2112, has a zoom ratio of 1.20:1, which is pretty standard in terms of projector placement flexibility for a small portable projector.
None of these projectors come with wireless networking capabilities, nor do they have an HDMI input. They do have Monitor Out, plus a pair of 5W speakers (which could be enough to provide sound in a small or medium sized room to a small or medium sized audience. A
Let's look at maitenance and operation costs. The IN2112 and its siblings all have a 3000 hour lamp life in full power (and a 4000 hour lamp life in eco-mode). Once those hours are run down, the replacement lamp costs $249, which is a little hefty. However, these projectors don't have filters, and you don't have to unmount to change the lamp (which saves you some hassle). The IN2112 and its siblings all have an outstanding 5 year P/L warranty, which will keep you covered for many years.
The IN2112 is a nice choice if you're on a budget, are satisfied with SVGA resolution, and don't need the extra network control capabilities. But if you want the super convenient USB input and other cool features, read on about the siblings.
InFocus IN2114
The IN2114 is a step up from the IN2112. With an MSRP of $679, the IN2114 is like IN2112 in many ways. However, it is higher resolution (XGA 1024x768). It also has network notification and network control capabilities that the IN2112 lacks. Plus, it has the coveted USB input, which allows you to present straight from a USB drive without the hassle of cables and connecting to your laptop. The IN2114 has remote mousing capabilities as well, for optimal navigation from your remote.
InFocus IN2116
At the top of the family tree is the IN2116. The most expensive at $759 (MSRP), the IN2116 is a widescreen projector with a native resolution of 1280x800. It has the network notification, network control and remote mousing capabilities that the IN2114 has and the IN2112 lacks. It also has the USB input for hassle-free, cable-free presentations from your tiny USB drive.
If you've got a little more money to spend, this IN2116 is a great choice. It has the series' exceptional 5 year warranty, pair of 5W speakers and nice 3200-lumen brightness. But if you desire more connectivity, consider a projector with HDMI.