InFocus Work Big IN26 Projector: Summary, Pros, Cons

InFocus IN26
Image Quality
General Performance
Warranty
Summary, Pros, Cons

The IN26 makes for a very nice entry level XGA resolution projector, that performs very well for the price, and should be popular, particularly in K-12 schools and for businesses and government requiring XGA resolution on a tight budget.

This is the InFocus IN26 projector.This InFocus projector has three particular strengths: First, it is really well designed as a "plug and play" projector - easy to setup, and easy to use, with minimal need for adjustments, if any. The second area that impressed, is in image quality, with a very sharp image, and particularly good color accuracy for a low cost DLP projector. Lastly, with a Minimum advertised price of $999, and the expectation of further discounts from dealers, it is well priced, and very affordable.

There are a few downsides as well. It's definitely not one of the brightest projectors in it's price range. That said, it has plenty of brightness for the type of user it should attract. It should have no problem handling full florescent lights in classrooms or typical conference rooms. While it's measured brightness in lumens was significantly below InFocus'es claim of 1700 lumens, that is pretty typical of most projectors reviewed. It's remote is very basic, with the apparent design concept, that it's typical user is more likely to use the control panel on the projector (which has far more buttons than the remote), than the remote, for adjusting the projector. This is very atypical, with most projectors having lots of buttons on the remote, and a very basic control panel on the projector itself.

The projector also does not come with a carry case, and it has a shorter than average warranty - one year parts and labor, although affordable extended warranties are available.

Size and weight are typical for this class of projector, the lens is recessed to protect it, and it has the usual basic security features, including a Kensington lock, and password protection (as a theft deterrent).

InFocus Work Big IN26 Projector Pros and Cons:

Pros

  • Good color handling with very respectable bright reds and yellows
  • Very sharp image
  • Monitor output (computer out) for working with desktop computers
  • Compression technology for handling higher resolution
  • Excellent control of projector from it's control panel
  • Very easy to setup and use - a "plug and play" projector
  • If needed; very advanced user controls of color handling
  • Solid feel
  • Audio output for use with external speakers

Cons

  • Only a single computer input, no separate DVI (digital input) nor, separate component video input for highest quality video
  • Short warranty
  • Remote has limited functionality
  • Audio - very basic - small, low power speaker (typical for this class of projector)
  • No remote mousing/presentation control - found on some entry level projectors
  • Does not come with a shoulder carry case - InFocus offers several optional cases (most projectors in this class come with a case)
  • Very limited range on the zoom lens

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Typical

  • Physical size
  • Documentation
  • Video performance
  • Size/weight
  • Price/Performance

Final word on the IN26

Although the IN26 isn't quite as powerful as some of the comparably priced competition, it is a solid performer, one that occasional users, will really like because it is so easy to use. There's no such thing as an idiot-proof projector, but this InFocus does come close. It's not overly small, nor overly large, but big enough, in the classroom to be less likely to be stolen (a real issue for schools) than some smaller models such as the Optoma TX700 that is also part of our Six projector comparison.

Overall I enjoyed using the IN26, as I think most consumers will. It is highly functional, and straighforward to use, and I certainly can't fault the image quality!

If you have the craving for more lumens, more zoom range, more inputs or a longer warranty, there are other projectors in the same general price range or a bit more that might work better for you.

When it comes to the "bottom line," I seriously doubt that those that choose the "Work Big" IN26 will be anything less than pleased with their choice.

InFocus IN26
Image Quality
General Performance
Warranty
Summary, Pros, Cons