Smartphone Projector Calculator

Compute setup geometry using thin-lens optics and desired screen size.

How to Use This Calculator

1

Enter your phone screen size

Use diagonal inches (spec sheet). Measure if unsure.

2

Choose desired screen size

Bigger screens require longer throw distance or longer focal length.

3

Enter lens focal length

Typical magnifying glass lenses are 50–100 mm. Shorter f gives shorter distances.

Formula

M = v/u,   1/f = 1/u + 1/v → v = f(1+M), u = f(1+M)/M

M is magnification (image/object diagonal). u is lens→phone, v is lens→screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the image be inverted?

Yes. You need to flip the phone’s image (or use a mirror pair) to correct orientation.

Does brightness depend on lens?

Brightness mainly depends on phone luminance and screen size; larger images look dimmer.