What Are the Disadvantages of Using an Overhead Projector? | Bizfluent

What Are the Disadvantages of Using an Overhead Projector?

Written By
TS
Tim Searles
Oct 18, 2009
1 minute read

Overhead projectors are devices used to project images onto a screen. The size of the display is dependent on angle of projection and the distance between projector and screen. Overhead projectors are typically used in classrooms and conference rooms.

Resolution Problems

In order for a large classroom to see items clearly, the overhead projector needs to be at the perfect distance and angle. Panoramic views are very difficult to achieve and the inability to read slides can be distracting to observers.

Cost to Replace Bulbs

Overhead projector bulbs are expensive to replace. Average cost for a projector bulb at OfficeDepot.com is $300. To purchase from ProjectorZone.com, bulbs ranged from $150 to $400.

Transportation

Overhead projectors are large and bulky and usually require a cart to transport from venue to venue.

Displaying Material

Using an overhead projector, slides require constant writing and erasing, and book pages can be difficult to discern.

Outdated Technology

Overhead projectors are an outdated technology; it is much easier to create PowerPoint presentations and display them on a computer in full color using a regular projector.

Bizfluent Logo

Bizfluent equips entrepreneurs with the tools and tactics they need to build and grow their small businesses, from starting a first venture to refreshing an established one.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.