A typical IMAX screen is 52 feet tall and 72 feet wide. The largest IMAX screen is 98 feet high. Dolby Cinema projects images 500 times higher in contrast ratio and four times more resolution than IMAX. However, IMAX uses 40% larger screens and a 26% taller aspect ratio compared to Dolby Cinema.
Home Theater Recommendations
In home theater, screen size equals 9 inches of diagonal per foot of viewing distance. For one row this equals a 108-inch diagonal screen. The ideal cinema room size is 20 by 15 feet with high ceilings, but 10 by 10 feet is also fine.
Technology Comparison
The only difference between IMAX laser and Dolby Cinema is screen size, audio and visual quality. IMAX laser has a considerably larger screen. However, Dolby Cinema provides sharper, higher-resolution and more stunning audio.
AMC exclusively offers Dolby Cinema. IMAX laser screens are 4 to 6 times larger in total area than Dolby Cinema. Screen size depends on personal preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which screen is bigger IMAX or Dolby?
IMAX screens are 40% larger and have a 26% taller aspect ratio compared to Dolby Cinema screens. Both use dual 4k laser projectors and an upgraded sound system for a more immersive experience.
IMAX has a considerably larger screen size but Dolby Cinema offers sharper, higher-resolution images and stunning audio quality. Screen size depends on personal preference when choosing between the two.
IMAX screens are significantly bigger than standard cinema screens including Dolby Cinema. There are over 1,500 IMAX theaters worldwide compared to just a few hundred Dolby Cinema locations primarily found in AMC theaters.
What ratio is Dolby screen?
Dolby Cinema projects images with four times more resolution and 500 times higher contrast ratio than IMAX. However, IMAX uses 40% larger screens and has a 26% taller aspect ratio than Dolby Cinema.
For home theater, the ideal screen size equals a 108-inch diagonal with one row of seating, based on allowing 9 inches of diagonal per foot of viewing distance. An ideal home cinema room size is 20 by 15 feet with high ceilings, but 10 by 10 feet also works fine.
Both formats use advanced technologies for an immersive experience. IMAX’s expanded screens and aspect ratio provide more movie visibility while Dolby Cinema’s visuals are vibrant and detailed. Films shot with IMAX cameras may be best viewed in IMAX but Dolby Cinema enhances any movie.