Looking for backyard movie theater ideas? Here’s how to create one

Theaters enhance the movie-watching experience with larger-than-life visuals and booming sound. Many build home theaters so they don’t have to leave their houses for an immersive viewing experience. When the weather is nice, you can simulate a drive-in theater and watch movies on the big screen. There are a few special considerations when building an outdoor home theater system. This includes buying the right products for your backyard movie night.

In this article: Anker Nebula Mars II Outdoor Projector, TMY Mini Upgraded Bluetooth Projector with Screen and NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

Choosing a projector

The projector is the centerpiece of your outdoor theater system, so choosing one that fits your needs is essential. Consider how you’ll get your content. If you want a projector with built-in streaming services or plan to use a streaming stick, you must ensure you get a solid Wi-Fi signal outside. If you don’t, you may need to buy a Wi-Fi extender. Additionally, it’s important to note that, while most portable projectors can be used outside, you don’t want to let them get wet.

An outdoor home movie theater tends to have more room than its indoor counterpart, but you don’t want to go overboard on screen size unless it’s in your budget. Many projectors claim to project video that measures 100 inches or more from corner to corner. However, you’ll want to pay close attention to their “recommended” screen size, which better indicates their capabilities. For example, if a 4K projector says it can project a 100-inch screen, but the recommended screen size is only 50 inches, you’ll likely only get 4K quality if the size is set to 50 inches or less.

Choosing a projector screen

Projector screens also play a role in image quality. High-quality outdoor projector screens are thick enough to prevent the projection from bleeding through the back of the screen. If you’re projecting in high-definition, you’ll want a screen with a smooth texture, which prevents the image from deforming. Additionally, it’s a good idea to choose a durable-but-lightweight screen that’s easy to move from your house to your yard.

Getting theater-quality sound outside

Many indoor speakers use your room’s walls and acoustics to enhance their sound. Although these speakers outperform a projector’s internal speakers when used outside, you may want something designed for outdoor use.

Outdoor speakers are generally designed to project audio to a larger area. These speakers have internal subwoofers rather than the standalone woofers you’ll see with indoor speakers. Outdoor speaker design also differs; they’re usually larger and more durable.

Seating

Comfortable outdoor seating is an excellent way to enhance your viewing experience. Low-budget options include picnic blankets, bean bag chairs and air mattresses, although you’ll have to pack them up and take them inside when your movie is done.

Deck chairs and sun loungers often have comfortable cushions and are built to withstand the elements, meaning you can leave them outside.

Power

The trickiest part is figuring out how to power your projector and speakers. Those with outdoor wall outlets can simply plug their devices in with an extension cord. The extension cord’s length will play a role in its power capacity, with each foot of the cord decreasing the amount of power it can deliver. You’ll also want to consider the extension cord’s amperage, which determines how many amps it can handle.

You can run a long cord into your home if you don’t have an outdoor outlet. Alternatively, you can use a portable power station or buy a battery-powered projector.

Decor and essentials

• String lights: Outdoor lighting can create an inviting environment for your guests and make it easier to see where they’re going. Still, projectors perform best in dark environments, so you’ll want to use relatively-dim lights.
• Popcorn maker: An outdoor popcorn maker is an excellent way to create an authentic theater experience.
• Drink cooler: If you don’t want guests wandering in and out of your house, consider investing in a large drink cooler and plenty of ice.
• Insect repellent: Pesky bugs can ruin your outdoor movie. Consider having a can of insect repellant for you and your guests.
• Trash can or recycling bin: Bring a large trash can or recycling bin outside, so your guests can dispose of their cans, bottles and scraps.

Best outdoor home theater products

Best outdoor projectors

Anker Nebula Mars II Outdoor Projector

A more affordable option is this Anker projector, featuring a compact design and high-quality internal speakers. It’s compatible with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It has HD resolution and refocuses automatically, giving you a crisp image without toggling its settings. There’s also a handle for enhanced portability.

TMY Mini Upgraded Bluetooth Projector with Screen

This is the best outdoor projector to buy if you’re on a budget. This mini projector has HD resolution, with color-calibrating and adjusting technology for more intricate color details. It’s Bluetooth-compatible and comes with an 80-inch projector screen. While there are built-in speakers, they’re not spectacular — you’ll likely want to use external ones. 

Best outdoor projector screen

Elite Screens Yard Master 2

This is the best outdoor projector screen we found since it’s optimized for 4K projectors, affordable and easy to assemble. It has a durable frame but doesn’t stand up to strong winds. It’s available in nine sizes, from 58 to 135 inches.

Best Wi-Fi extenders

NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

This mesh Wi-Fi system covers up to 5,000 square feet, and the tri-band technology ensures it doesn’t slow down when multiple devices are connected. The fast AX4200-Gigabit speed paired with Wi-Fi 6 technology offers uninterrupted streaming. The two-piece set includes a Wi-Fi router and extender. 

TP-Link AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Extender

This is the best Wi-Fi extender to buy if money is tight. At AX1800-Gigabit speed, it’s not as fast as the mesh system. But it’ll boost the Wi-Fi 6 signal by 1,500 square feet and can accommodate multiple devices.

Best outdoor seating

Oppelo Seven-Piece Sectional Seating Group

This comfortable outdoor sectional seats up to five people. It has a durable metal frame wrapped in weather-resistant wicker, which gives it a stylish coastal look. It comes with a pair of ottomans and a table. The modular design lets you rearrange and add pieces to the setup. It’s available in five colors, including slate, ash and navy.

Big Joe Milano Outdoor Beanbag Chair

This tough yet comfy bean bag chair is built to withstand the elements. It’s got a durable, marine-grade vinyl cover that’s quick-drying in case the weather turns. The fluffy bean filling makes it oh-so-comfortable to lounge in. Beyond your backyard movie night, you can take it camping, tailgating and on other outdoor adventures. It weighs less than 6 pounds and has a top handle, so it’s quite portable. 

Best outdoor speakers

Bose 251 Wall-Mounted Outdoor Speakers

These Bose outdoor speakers will take your outdoor movie theater system to the next level. They deliver the high sound quality that Bose is known for. A multichambered bass enclosure produces extra-powerful sound. These wall-mounted speakers are built to withstand the elements with a water-resistant casing. 

JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

If you’re looking for a more portable outdoor Bluetooth speaker, the JBL Flip 5 is an affordable way to upgrade your theater’s audio quality. With a compact and waterproof design, this wireless speaker is a great choice for beach trips, pool parties and the like. It runs for 12 hours on a single charge and can be paired with multiple speakers to boost sound.

Worth checking out

• This Hamilton Beach popcorn maker has a large capacity that’s great for parties — it pops 24 cups of popcorn per batch.
• Get that authentic movie theater feeling with these classic paper popcorn bags.
• This Igloo cooler has a spacious 60-quart capacity and wheels for enhanced portability.
• This Greenworks extension cord is suitable for medium-duty inputs and can be used indoors or outside.
• The Oniva Outdoor Blanket Tote is large and easy to transport, thanks to its fold-up design and handle.
• A set of solar string lights is an excellent way to add ambiance to your outdoor space without using extra plug outlets.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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