The global projection screens market continues to thrive in 2026, with the latest Statista data showing the industry size has reached $1.05 billion, and the CAGR is expected to remain stable at 7.2% through 2027. From high-quality fixed frame projection screens favored by home theater enthusiasts to quick-install motorized projection screens in high demand for commercial scenarios, more and more brands are entering the track. However, many businesses are torn between OEM projection screen manufacturing and ODM custom projection screen development. Have you also experienced repeated communication frictions due to unclear differences between the two?
ZSM Screen, a leading China-based manufacturer of high-definition projection screens with over 15 years of experience, offers tailored OEM and ODM solutions for global clients. Our cooperative brands span Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, and years of experience have taught us that the core of a successful partnership lies in accurately matching business goals with production models. Let’s break down the key points in plain language.
What Exactly Is OEM for Projection Screens?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) essentially leverages the manufacturer’s existing mature projection screens designs—such as our popular portable floor-rising projection screens, fixed frame models, or motorized series—where you only need to add your brand logo, adjust packaging design, or modify user manuals. It’s like picking a ready-made outfit from a high-end store and accessorizing it to create your own style.
Who is this model most suitable for? The answer is startups or those in need of OEM projection screen solutions for small businesses that want to enter the market quickly without investing heavily in R&D. For example, one of our European clients launched their projection screens product line through ZSM’s OEM service: they selected the VX series quiet motorized projection screen, customized the shell color, and printed their brand logo—from sample confirmation to bulk delivery in just 45 days. With ZSM’s flexible minimum order quantity (as low as 50 units for most models) and a 2,000-acre production base, you can control inventory costs while quickly responding to market demand.
And ODM? It’s All About Customized Innovation
ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) is designed for brands pursuing differentiation. If you have a unique product concept, specific functional requirements—such as ultra-narrow bezel projection screens with built-in LED lights or weather-resistant custom outdoor projection screens—or even just a clear target audience, the manufacturer will take full responsibility for the entire process from design, prototyping to mold opening and production. It’s like hiring a personal tailor to create a one-of-a-kind piece that perfectly fits your measurements and style.
Mature brands with their own patents or sharp market insights often excel in the ODM model. We once collaborated with a North American audio-visual brand that wanted to create a high acoustic transparency curved projection screen for high-end home theaters. Our R&D team—composed of ISF, THX, and Tsinghua Acoustics certified engineers—turned this idea into reality in just 3 months, completing custom mold opening and fully complying with local safety standards. More importantly, we sign strict Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to fully protect your intellectual property, ensuring your unique design remains exclusively yours.
OEM vs. ODM Projection Screens: Core Comparison Table
| Factor | OEM Projection Screens | ODM Projection Screens |
|---|---|---|
| Development Cost | Low (no R&D or mold fees) | Higher (covers design and mold costs) |
| Time to Market | 30-60 days | 90-180 days |
| IP Rights | Belong to the manufacturer | Belong to the client |
| Minimum Order Quantity | Flexible (50-100 units) | Higher (100-300 units) |
| Product Differentiation | Limited (optimized based on existing designs) | High (fully customized development) |
| Application Scenarios | Rapid distribution, market testing | Creating bestsellers, seizing niche markets |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: After choosing OEM projection screens, can I modify the core parameters of the product?
A: In general, some parameters (such as screen material and size) can be fine-tuned, but the core structure and molds cannot be changed—after all, the core advantage of OEM is rapid production relying on existing mature designs. If significant adjustments are needed, the ODM model may be more suitable for your needs.
Q: Can the R&D cycle for ODM custom projection screens be shortened?
A: In most cases, 90 days is a reasonable cycle (including design, prototyping, and testing). If your needs align highly with our existing technical reserves, it can be compressed to 60 days at the fastest. However, it’s recommended to reserve sufficient time to ensure product quality and avoid risks associated with hasty market launch.
Q: Can ZSM provide global shipping services for both models?
A: Of course. Whether you choose OEM or ODM, we support shipping projection screens to more than 50 countries and regions worldwide, with 28 sales and service centers following up on logistics and after-sales issues throughout the process.
Real-World Success: How One Brand Used Both Models
A mid-sized European brand focusing on outdoor entertainment equipment is a successful example of flexibly using both models. They initially launched a basic line of fixed frame projection screens through OEM services—testing the market with minimal risk and quickly achieving profitability. After identifying a market gap for durable, anti-glare outdoor screens, they switched to ODM cooperation. Our team developed a custom outdoor projection screen with UV-resistant fabric and rust-proof aluminum frame, which later became their bestseller and captured 25% of the regional outdoor audio-visual market share within a year.
Core Cooperation Process with ZSM (Simplified Version)
- Needs Communication: Inform us of your budget, product positioning, and expectations (whether you want OEM projection screens for quick market launch or ODM custom projection screens for exclusivity)
- Program Confirmation: We provide product recommendations, quotes, and sample lead times, and sign a cooperation agreement
- Sample Testing: Send samples within 7-10 days, supporting 2 free minor adjustments
- Bulk Production: Standardized production at ISO-certified factories, synchronizing production progress throughout
- Quality Inspection: 12 quality control processes including 72-hour aging test for motorized screens and screen flatness inspection
- Global Shipping: Choose sea or air freight according to needs, providing customs clearance document support
Still undecided? Ask yourself: Do you need to quickly seize the market with mature products? Then OEM projection screens are the optimal choice. Do you want to create an irreplaceable exclusive product? ODM custom projection screens will help you stand out. Either way, the ZSM team can turn your projection screens vision into reality.
Not sure which solution fits your business goals best? Contact ZSM’s engineering team today for a free consultation and the latest product catalog—we’ll help you make the most suitable choice with no obligations attached.