Let’s be real — traditional projector screens are great for showing off your latest presentations or binge-watching the next big blockbuster, but what if you could turn that same screen into a giant dry-erase board? Yes, folks, we’re talking about projector screens you can write on. It’s like having your cake and eating it too — projection and writing on one sleek, smart surface. No more scrambling for flip charts or crowding around tiny whiteboards while your projector throws its cinematic glow on the big screen.
What Exactly Is a Projector Screen You Can Write On?
Imagine your whiteboard and projection screen had a baby who gobbled up the best of both worlds. That’s what these specialized screens are: versatile dry-erase surfaces optimized for high-quality projection. They let you project crisp images, slides, or videos and then whip out a marker and annotate right over the image.
Ideal for classrooms, conference rooms, offices, or any spot that thrives on collaboration and interaction.
These surfaces range from fixed-frame screens to glass whiteboards to innovative wallpaper. What they all share is a non-porous surface compatible with dry-erase markers, with coatings designed to reduce glare and ghosting—for that crystal-clear picture and a clean wipe every time.
Popular Types of Writable Projector Screens
1. Fixed Frame Projection Whiteboards
The 100″ Da-Lite IDEA Screen is the rockstar here — a magnetic 16:10 surface big enough (84.75″ W x 53″ H) for widescreen projection and dry erase. It sports a thin-frame bezel to keep the look sharp and is touchscreen-friendly. This screen is built like a tank (69 lbs!) and comes with mounting gear to lock it in place.
2. Glass Whiteboard & Projector Screen Combos
The elegant Clarus View offers a patented tech magic trick — a glass dry-erase board that doubles as a projector screen. It’s sleek, ultra-clear, and works whether the lights are blazing or dimmed. Plus, the glass surface wipes clean without leaving stains or ghosting, making it a favorite in high-end conference spaces and design studios.
3. Matte Projection Whiteboards
If you hate glare and hot spots ruining your display, the EVERWhite ULTÍmatte series brings a low-glare matte surface that’s perfect for dry-erase and projection. Sizes range from 5×6 ft to 5×12 ft, and most models are magnetic with lifetime stain resistance. It’s like having a classroom that feels fresh day after day.
4. Whiteboard Projector Wallpaper
For those who want to get creative with space, Smarter Surfaces’ Projector Whiteboard Wallpaper lets you paint your wall with writable, projectable goodness. Installation is as simple as wallpapering, with low sheen and eco-friendly materials. The 1.1 gain value means it supports vibrant projection with no annoying hotspots, and it comes with a decade-long warranty.
5. Other Specialized Screens
Brands like ProjectorScreenStore.com, ProjectorScreen.com, and Elite Screens offer a wide range of products from wall-mounted to adhesive to interactive screens. Whether you want front projection, rear projection, or magnetic surfaces, they’ve got you covered.
What Features Make a Writable Projector Screen Worth It?
Projection Performance
Projection quality is king. You want a surface that minimizes glare and hotspots, which means opting for matte or low-glare coatings with a gain around 1.0 to 1.1. This ensures sharp, bright images whether you’re displaying standard presentations, interactive content, or even 3D and 4K visuals. The ULTÍmatte screens are a prime example, offering wide viewing angles (about 120 degrees) and impressive image consistency.
Writable Surface Quality
The best writable projector screens boast tough, non-porous surfaces that erase cleanly. Nobody wants to deal with ghosting or stained boards ruining that professional appearance. Including magnetic properties adds another layer of convenience for pinning notes or showcasing documents.
Installation & Durability
From easy peel-and-stick wallpaper style to robust framed screens, installation options abound. Consider your space’s usage and flexibility needs. Fixed screens are great for dedicated rooms, while whiteboard wallpaper can turn any wall into a writable canvas in under 24 hours. Durability is key — look for surfaces with long-term warranties and resistance to staining or scratches.
Applications That Shine Bright With Writable Projector Screens
If you’re in education, training sessions suddenly get a turbo boost. You can project lesson plans, videos, or interactive apps — then annotate or brainstorm right on the same surface. No tech juggling, just smooth interactions that keep everyone involved.
In offices, these screens upgrade your meeting game. Whiteboard + projector = cost savings (no need to buy two products!), space efficiency, and the sleek look of modern collaboration tools. Plus, clients and coworkers get that “wow” factor when you effortlessly switch between visuals and note-taking.
Creative studios and design firms love the flexibility of glass whiteboard combinations where sketches and briefs meet digital imagery seamlessly.
The Ideal Environment and Setup Tips
- Ensure a flat and smooth wall or mount to avoid image distortion.
- Match your projector’s resolution and throw distance to the screen size, usually listed in product specs.
- Control ambient lighting to minimize washout; matte screens help but lighting still matters.
- Keep dry-erase markers handy and choose colors that contrast well against projected images.
A Quick Look at Costs and Where to Buy
Prices vary depending on size, material, and brand. Fixed, high-end models like the Da-Lite IDEA screen run higher, but you’re paying for premium features like magnetic borders and touchscreen compatibility. Writable projection wallpaper can be more budget-friendly and flexible but consider installation and wall preps.
Major retailers and manufacturers to check out include Epson, Clarus, and Smarter Surfaces, plus specialized stores like ProjectorScreenStore.
Looking for the best projector to pair your new screen? Feel free to explore our guide on how to set up and play projector to get started on the right foot.
Final Thoughts: Is a Writable Projector Screen Your Next Best Buy?
Combining projection and writeability in one surface makes these screens downright transformative. Whether you’re a teacher, office warrior, or creative guru, writable projector screens can declutter your tech haul, spark engagement, and boost productivity.
They’ve come a long way from the awkward flip chart days. Now, with options from magnetic fixed screens to glass boards to innovative whiteboard wallpaper, you can tailor your setup exactly to your space and needs.
So, next time you think about upgrading your presentation game, why not choose a surface that’s ready for action—and interaction.