High lumen projector for pre-dusk viewing

[k!dn3yb3ans]

I am trying to set up an outdoor projector for my kids. I need to play movies in the backyard before it gets totally dark. This means I need a projector that can handle those pre-dusk hours. My yard has good shade, which helps the picture a little. I am looking for a 1080p 3LCD model. And I really need one with a very high lumen count, like 3000 to 4000, but I want to stay under $1K if possible and that is the hard part. So many brands advertise big numbers for lumens, but their real-world brightness is much lower. Can anyone recommend a specific backyard movie projector that actually delivers that strong light output?

 

[BoldCreations]

@k!dn3yb3ans a 3LCD with high actual lumens under $1k is Epson Home Cinema 880 or sometimes the 980 when it's on sale.
They are often rated around 3300-3600 lumens and since it's Epson's 3chip tech, those are usually color lumens, so the brightness is legit and holds up way better than the cheap brands. The 880 is often around $600-700. it would be great for predusk viewing!

 

[desmvnd]

Realistic bright 3LCD options under $1K top out around 2,500 to about 2,700 ANSI so you’ll still need good shade or dusk for outdoor pre dark viewing. A practical pick in budget is Epson home cinema series