Our Top PicksД¬hristmas light projectors can be a hefty lighting purchase.

Some models come with several automatic timer settings, which lets users turn the projector on once and forget about it. They typically run on an 8-hour-on/16-hour-off or 6-hour-on/18-hour-off cycle. Timers make sure the projector only runs when it will be visible, namely when itвЂ™s dark. A remote allows for light display adjustments and control from the front porch or even inside the house, depending on the range of the remote control. Models that come with a remote and timer save time and money in the long run.

Tromping out into cold weather to turn on a projector isnвЂ™t exactly holiday fun. Most models have more than one installation option. Other designs may have a base that rests on a table or a built-in tripod. Of course, the electrical cord needs to be plugged in, but installation usually only takes a few minutes. Some projectors have a ground stake to secure it in place, which is pretty easy installation. However, projectors used in more extreme winters may require an IP67 rating.

Outdoor Christmas projector lights should have a rating of at least IP65 to withstand rainy weather. If thereвЂ™s an X in the rating, it means that the manufacturer did not test the item particle penetration but did test it for water resistance. It ranges from 0 to 9, with 9 being submersible and 0 being no protection.ДЄn IP rating of IPX7 isnвЂ™t unusual. The second number indicates moisture penetration. The first number indicates the particle-proof level of the projector, with a 0 offering no protection and a 6 being airtight. An IP rating indicates the waterproof level of the device. Durability and WaterproofingДЄn outdoor projector must withstand wind, rain, and snow unless you live in a mild climate. If the projector is placed beyond this range, the displayed image loses clarity. Anywhere between 20 and 40 feet is normal, though some may only have a 10- to 12-foot projection range. Projection range indicates the farthest distance the projector can be from the target (usually the house) and still create a clear image or light display. They may include Halloween, Thanksgiving, and birthday projections, too. Many of those extra patterns go well beyond Christmas. Some projectors have a single pattern like twinkle lights or snowflakes, while others have up to 20. Here are the considerations that will make a difference in performance, display quality, and whether or not the neighbors will be jealous of your Christmas display. ThereвЂ™s also waterproofing, installation, and control to think about. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Christmas Light ProjectorsД¬hristmas projector lights, patterns, and display size are only a few of the considerations that factor into a projector decision.

BEST FOR TREES: Poeland Outdoor Garden Laser Lights.

BEST INDOOR: SPOOBOOLA Party Light DJ Disco Lights.

BEST SNOWFLAKE: YMING Christmas Snowflake Projector.

BEST FOR SMALL HOMES: COOWOO Christmas Laser Lights.

BEST FOR BIG HOMES: XVDZS Christmas Laser Lights.

BEST FOR KIDS: Yocuby Santa Claus Christmas Light.

BEST CHRISTMAS DESIGNS: LedMAll Motion Pattern Christmas Lights.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: SunBox Live Christmas Holiday Lights Projector.

BEST OVERALL: LedMAll Motion Outdoor Laser Christmas Lights.

Take a look at some of the best projectors on the market, along with a shopping guide and tips to find the right one. It comes down to determining the number of square feet required to display the light show and what kind of display would look best with the rest of the outdoor holiday decor. These devices may seem tech-y for Christmas lights, but they provide a festive display that takes a fraction of the time to set up.Д¬hristmas light projectors display everything from snowflakes and snowmen to laser light shows with a kaleidoscope of colors. Save yourself time and effort by using one of the best Christmas light projectors. However, the hours it takes to string those lights only to find that one of them is out (taking out the rest of the lights with it) just isnвЂ™t worth it. It doesnвЂ™t quite feel like Christmas until the lights twinkle on every house.