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Panasonic PT-LB20u Portable LCD Projector: Summary, Pros, Cons

Overview
Image Quality
General Performance
Warranty
Summary, Pros, Cons

The Panasonic PT-LB20U is one of the new breed of 2000 lumen sub-5 pound LCD projectors. It not only has a competent feature set, and produces a bright image, but for months it has been the lowest priced LCD projector in its class, typically selling for for around $1300 or so, online, before what seems to be a permanent $200 mail in rebate. As a result, the Panasonic LB20u portable projector picks up a Image of the Panasonic PTLB20U portable LCD projector front view.Projector Reviews Hot Product Award - for price performance, in the sub-5 lb class of XGA projectors. I should point out, again, that the LB20NTU, the networking version, offers the same specifications plus networking, for a few hundred more. To learn about the wireless networking capabilities of the LB20NTU, click to link to the LB30NTU projector review. They share the same networking features. As a result, the Panasonic LB20U projector gets to share it's Hot Product Award with the even more versatile LB20NTU.

 

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Pros

  • Extremely compact LCD projector with 2000 lumens
  • Daylight View enhances image quality under extreme lighting conditions
  • Recessed lens for protection when moving the projector around
  • Wireless network (LB20NTU version) is fast, easy to use, and sets up in less than 2 minutes (taking your time)
  • Digital zoom (controlled from remote)
  • Menu selectable choice of 2 computer inputs, or 1 computer input and 1 computer output
  • Full HDTV support, component video sources can be input through the computer ports
  • Excellent Compression technology, and compatibility with higher resolution, and widescreen source signals
  • One button operation - auto everything - plug in, and it will automatically turn on and even find a source
  • Auto power down, prevents accidently leaving unit on. It can be set to power off if there is no signal for 15 - 60 minutes (user selectable)
  • Instant off - you can unplug the projector immediately after powering down (the fan continues to run)
  • Great warranty - 3 years with 3 years of free loaner (Zip-It)
  • Price performance - aggressively priced, whether you choose the LB20u projector or its networking sibling, the LB20NTU and its small size

Cons

  • Credit card remote lacks remote mousing, and has more limited range than full sized remotes
  • Projector lacks a rear remote sensor
  • If ceiling mounted, the projector needs to be unmounted to replace the lamp (typical of many small projectors)

Typical Capabilities

  • Remote control (for a "credit card" type remote)
  • Video performance (for a 2000 lumen LCD projector)
  • Zoom lens - 1.2:1 ratio is very typical for small projectors but a more range would have been a real plus

Bottom Line: Panasonic's LB20U and LB20NTU projectors are excellent, and affordable choices for the highly mobile presenter, yet, with their light weight, 2000 lumens and Daylight view, they are just as comfortable moving between rooms at your corporate offices. The feature set and benefits are downright impressive for such small and light projectors.

Overview
Image Quality
General Performance
Warranty
Summary, Pros, Cons