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How to Buy a Backyard Movie Projector

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Backyard Movie Projector

Upgrade your outdoor space with a solid setup while keeping your monthly payments manageable.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $22.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A backyard projector and inflatable screen turn your lawn into a theater for years if you buy quality gear once. Don't waste money on cheap components that will break after one season of humidity and dust.

Wait for the end of summer when stores clear out inventory to make room for indoor gear. Look for the previous year's model, as outdoor tech rarely changes enough to justify paying the premium for the newest release.

The 18-month window is a deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance when those 18 months end, you will start paying interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Set your budget

    Aim for a $400 total spend to get a reliable projector and a screen that won't sag. This keeps your monthly payments low and manageable.

  2. 02

    Wait for the sale

    Hold off until late August or September. Retailers drop prices on outdoor entertainment gear to clear shelf space before winter hits.

  3. 03

    Use your card

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. By spreading that $400 over the 18-month window, you only pay $22.22 per month.

  4. 04

    Check the lumens

    Look for a projector with at least 2,000 lumens. This ensures the picture is actually visible once the sun goes down.

  5. 05

    Secure the screen

    Make sure your inflatable screen comes with heavy-duty stakes. A light breeze can turn a cheap screen into a giant sail if it isn't anchored properly.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I need a separate sound system?

Most projectors have built-in speakers, but they usually sound tinny. A basic Bluetooth speaker will make a big difference.

How do I keep the screen clean?

Wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Store it inside once it is fully dry to prevent mold.

Will a cheaper projector work?

Super cheap models often fail within a few months. Spending a bit more on a known brand usually saves you from having to buy a second one.

Can I use this during the day?

Not really. Even high-end projectors struggle against direct sunlight, so plan your movie nights for after sunset.