Get an Optoma HD20 or HD180 projector for $549.99

Sorry this is so late, folks. I was the victim of flaky hotel Wi-Fi this morning. Anyway, this is an update of a deal I posted almost two years ago. It's been that long since I"ve seen a better one on a projector!

And projectors rock. For my money, nothing beats wall-size movies, TV shows, Xbox games, photo slideshows, and so on. I've also been known to haul a projector outside for a little backyard theater action.

Of course, a 1080p model is all but essential. Alas, most models still sell for $1,000 or more -- sometimes way more. But today only, and while supplies last, Sellout.Woot has the refurbished Optoma HD20 and HD180 projectors for $549.99 (plus $5 for shipping). That's $100 less than the last time I wrote about them.

The two models are virtually identical, though the HD20 has a slightly higher contrast ratio: 4,000:1 to the HD180's 3,500:1. Both offer 1,700 ANSI lumens of brightness, and both can project on screens as large as 300 inches (that's 25 feet to you and me).

With two available HDMI inputs, you can connect, say, your cable box and your Blu-ray player. If you need additional inputs, you can always toss in an inexpensive HDMI switch.

I haven't found many reviews of the HD180, but over at Amazon (where it sells new for $725), nearly 300 buyers rated the HD20 four or five stars. Given its higher contrast ratio, I'd definitely choose that one if it's still available -- but there's definitely nothing wrong with the HD180.

Both models are refurbished, meaning you get a 90-day warranty on the projector and just 30 days on the bulb. Cause for concern? Perhaps. Replacing the latter can be expensive, as with any projector; this outfit sells HD20 bulbs for $119, the best price I've found anywhere. That said, you should be able to get at least a couple years from the supplied bulb, if my projector experience is any indication.

Obviously $550 is a hefty chunk of change, but I think these projectors are a steal at this price. If you've never experienced the joy that is wall-size HD, here's your chance.

Bonus deal: Game time! If you've just played BioShock: Infinite and want to revisit its spiritual predecessors, GameFly has BioShock and BioShock 2 (PC) for just $3.99 when you apply coupon code GFDAPR20 at checkout. That is one of the best deals I've ever seen on two of the best games I've ever played.

Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.

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