You might think ceiling mounting a gaming projector is extremely difficult, but it’s not. We’re here with detailed instructions that’ll help you get it done yourself, without having to call a professional for help. The projector we’ll be using is the BenQ X3000i, which is an advanced gaming projector that’s perfect for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

Of course, on the path to setting up your dream game room, there are a few things to take into consideration above all else. You need to figure out how big of a screen you can fit, and we suggest you go for as big as possible, because that’s the benefit of projectors – big screens. Then, based on the size and shape of your room, calculate the best position for the projector. Next is making sure that position is topped with a ceiling that can accept the BenQ universal ceiling mount. You can’t use false or dropped ceilings, as the surface needs to be solid and dense material to support the weight of the projector.

The next step is choosing your screen, unless you prefer to project onto a wall. We recommend a tab-tensioned light rejecting screen for serious gaming. Such a screen will ensure you get the best visuals in your big screen gaming.

OK, here’s everything you need to know, both for preparation and actual installation! 

It’s vital to take accurate measurements so that the projector and screen fit your room well. The most important measurements are:

There are many types of projector mounts, some specific to certain models, and others claiming to be universal. However, you need to make sure the mount you’re using can support the weight of your intended projector. Also, there are ceiling mounts and wall mounts, and those are not interchangeable. In this article we’re discussing ceiling mounting the X3000i. A wall mount kit for a lighter projector will not work, so it’s important to get this right.

Without boasting too much, we’ve designed the BenQ universal ceiling mount kit to be really, well, universal. It’ll work with a wide range of models and save you the guesswork if you want ceiling mounting. We’ve put the kit through extensive testing, as we do with all our products, and it’s verified reliable and safe. It is not intended for wall mounting, however. You can purchase the BenQ universal ceiling mount right here.

The user manual for the kit is also available online if you want to have more info on it. 

The design of a projector’s lens and overall optical capabilities determines the ideal throw distance, or projection distance. It also determines the offset height, or how much higher than the top of the screen the lens needs to be if at all.

Note that ceiling mount height (C1) plus height from projector’s underside to center of lens (C2) plus distance from ceiling to center of the lens or offset height (H) may equal ceiling to top of screen clearance.

Before installing the X3000i, take accurate measurements of your room. That includes height to ceiling, width, and length. Consider any object that may get in the way, like bookshelves, cabinets, AC units and so on. Be careful not to drill the ceiling mount into any existing utility cables or wires. Also consider whether the location of the screen has any constraints, and whether you should move any furniture to make room for the screen. Based on your intended room’s dimensions, you can proceed to choose the size of your screen. 

To decide on a screen size, accurately measure your room’s ceiling height. Then, consider the following factors, which may also be thought of as deductions from the total ceiling height in your room:

So, you get “B: Max screen height”, which translates into diagonal length, which is known also as max screen size (typically measured in inches)

Now you can choose the size of the screen proper, after learning the maximum size possible. Obviously, don’t buy a screen bigger than the maximum size possible in your intended room. 

Let’s move on to projector placement. Start to calculate the projection distance and ceiling position using these:

As an example, let’s think of an X3000i installed in a room with a 9-foot-tall ceiling.

Read more about viewing distance for 4K projector displays in our knowledge base:  The Best Seat-to-Screen Distance for Different Projector Screen Sizes

Here are the main steps needed to mount your brand new X3000i gaming projector to your ceiling with the BenQ universal ceiling mount.

Adjust tilt or rotation angle if needed, and you’re all done!

Remember, when turning on your projector for the first time, make sure to select “rear projection” in the setup wizard to begin enjoying big screen content.

Since the BenQ universal ceiling mount kit was designed for utmost flexibility and versatility, there’s a lot we can share about it. Here are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind. 

We’ve compiled a list of recommended screens from our trusted partners at Elite Screens that pair excellently with the X3000i in different ambient light conditions. 

For more info and insight, we think you should take time to check out these resources.

Learn more about screen types and tips for choosing the right screen: How to Choose Projector Screen Type, Size, Material, and More

Tune in to projector pros on YouTube: 

And find more info about our partners at Elite Screens.