Review of the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR Projection Screen

The Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR Projection Screen is one of the most advanced ambient light rejecting (ALR) screens designed for today’s high-performance projectors. It delivers vibrant images, deep contrast, and exceptional color accuracy—even in bright rooms—making it a top choice for home theater enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Unlike traditional white screens that wash out under ambient light, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR uses Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) technology to preserve image integrity by filtering out overhead light sources. The result is a crisp, detailed projection with true blacks and vivid colors that rival OLED displays.

Its motorized tab-tension system ensures a perfectly flat viewing surface every time, while the sleek, portable design blends seamlessly into modern living spaces. Whether for movies, gaming, or business presentations, this screen transforms any environment into a high-end visual experience.

Best for Home Theater Enthusiasts, Gamers & Professionals

Why Choose the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR Projection Screen?

If you’re investing in the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR, you’re likely someone who values stunning image quality and premium functionality. To complement your setup, here are three top-tier products that pair perfectly with this screen:

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 4K PRO-UHD Laser Projector

The Epson LS800 delivers ultra-short-throw 4K visuals with exceptional brightness and detail, making it the perfect companion for the Kestrel CLR screen’s ALR technology. Ideal for home theaters and bright rooms alike.

LG CineBeam HU915QE 4K Laser UST Projector

This projector provides breathtaking color accuracy and deep contrast levels that maximize the Kestrel’s reflective precision. Its sleek, space-saving design matches the modern elegance of the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2.

BenQ V5000i 4K HDR UST Projector

BenQ’s V5000i offers cinematic-grade performance with HDR10 support, superb motion handling, and Android TV built-in—an excellent choice for gamers or movie lovers seeking an immersive viewing experience.

Design, Build Quality & Installation Experience

The Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR stands out not only for its advanced performance but also for its elegant, user-friendly design. Crafted with precision, it features a sleek aluminum housing that’s both durable and stylish, perfectly blending into modern home or office interiors. The casing protects the retractable screen when not in use, giving it a clean, clutter-free aesthetic.

Its motorized lift system allows the screen to rise smoothly and quietly at the touch of a button, offering effortless setup and retraction. The motor mechanism is whisper-quiet, a subtle yet premium detail appreciated by home theater users who prioritize seamless operation.

Installation is straightforward—no wall or ceiling mounting required. The freestanding floor design allows it to be placed virtually anywhere, from living rooms to conference spaces. It’s particularly beneficial for renters or anyone who wants a non-permanent setup.

The tab-tensioning system is another highlight. Dual tensioned edges maintain a perfectly flat surface across the entire screen area, preventing warping or curling—an issue common with lesser-quality retractable models.

Key design advantages include:

• Sleek modern casing with durable aluminum finish.
• Portable and freestanding design for flexible placement.
• Whisper-quiet motorized lift for smooth, automatic operation.
• Perfectly flat screen surface via dual tab-tensioning.

Overall, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR’s build and setup experience are designed for effortless performance, aesthetic appeal, and long-term reliabilit

Visual Performance & Image Quality

When it comes to visual performance, the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR sets a new standard for clarity, color, and contrast. Designed specifically for Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors, this screen features Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) material, engineered to block out overhead light and maintain high image fidelity even in bright environments.

Unlike traditional matte white screens that struggle under ambient light, the Kestrel CLR surface uses micro-structured optical filters to direct projected light toward the viewer while diffusing unwanted light from above. This ensures vivid, high-contrast images with true blacks and rich color saturation—qualities that mimic the cinematic feel of high-end TVs.

Paired with a bright laser projector such as the Epson LS800 or LG HU915QE, the Kestrel delivers stunning performance in rooms with moderate lighting, producing images that retain detail and depth. Even during daytime viewing, shadow details remain crisp without any visible glare or washout.

Color reproduction is another strong suit. The screen’s material supports wide color gamut performance, maintaining accurate tones across a range of brightness levels. This is especially beneficial for HDR content, where color precision and contrast balance are essential for realism.

Key performance highlights include:

• CLR® technology that enhances brightness and rejects ambient light.
• True black levels with deeper contrast ratios.
• Wide color reproduction ideal for HDR and 4K content.
• Sharp, distortion-free visuals even from extreme angles.

In essence, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR transforms projected images into vibrant, lifelike visuals that rival high-end flat panels—proving that a properly matched screen can elevate projector performance dramatically.

Ease of Use, Remote Control & Features

The Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR isn’t just about stunning visuals—it’s also designed with convenience and modern functionality in mind. From its automatic operation to multiple control options, every feature adds to a smooth and user-friendly experience.

The motorized screen mechanism is powered by a precision tubular motor, ensuring reliable, quiet, and smooth movement every time. At the press of a button, the screen gracefully rises or retracts into its sturdy aluminum casing. The whisper-quiet operation is a small but important luxury, especially in dedicated home theaters or shared spaces.

Users have multiple control options for flexibility:

• A wireless IR remote for everyday use.
• An RF remote that doesn’t require direct line of sight.
• 12V trigger compatibility, allowing the screen to automatically deploy or retract when the projector is powered on or off.

This automation ensures a seamless viewing experience—turn on your projector, and your screen rises automatically. It’s an elegant feature that saves time and enhances the sense of cinematic immersion.

Additionally, Elite Screens includes a wall switch for manual operation, offering reliability in case the remotes are misplaced. The screen’s plug-and-play setup means no complicated wiring or calibration is needed; it’s ready to use right out of the box.

Other convenience-focused highlights include:

• Soft start/stop motor control to prevent jerky motion.
• Built-in safety mechanisms for long-term durability.
• Compact storage design, keeping the screen protected when not in use.

Altogether, these smart, intuitive features make the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR one of the most user-friendly ALR screens on the market today.

Performance in Different Lighting Environments

One of the strongest selling points of the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR is its remarkable adaptability to various lighting conditions. Unlike traditional projection screens that demand complete darkness for optimal performance, this model thrives even in ambient light environments, thanks to its innovative Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) material.

In bright rooms or spaces with overhead lighting, the Kestrel’s micro-layered optical surface rejects light from above while efficiently reflecting light from ultra-short throw (UST) projectors toward the audience. The result is a clear, vibrant image that remains unaffected by typical living room lighting—perfect for daytime viewing, gaming, or presentations.

During moderate lighting, the screen maintains deep blacks and strong contrast ratios. Colors remain rich and balanced, and there’s minimal loss of brightness, allowing you to enjoy movies or sports without dimming the lights completely. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-purpose spaces, such as living rooms or offices.

In fully dark home theater environments, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR truly shines. The combination of its tensioned flat surface and ALR material enhances perceived image sharpness and contrast, delivering a cinematic experience that rivals large OLED TVs.

Here’s how it performs across different settings:

• Bright Rooms: Maintains over 80% brightness with minimal reflection loss.
• Dim Rooms: Preserves excellent color balance and shadow detail.
• Dark Theaters: Delivers rich blacks and stunning depth perception.

This consistent performance across varying conditions makes the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR a versatile solution for both professional and entertainment applications—ensuring that ambient light no longer limits your visual experience.

Price, Value & Warranty

The Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR is positioned as a premium projection screen, and its price reflects the exceptional build quality, performance, and technology behind it. While it costs more than standard manual or non-ALR screens, the value it delivers easily justifies the investment for users who prioritize high image fidelity and ease of use.

Depending on size and configuration, prices typically range between $1,700 and $2,500 USD, making it a competitive option within the luxury ALR category. Considering its Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) material, motorized tab-tension design, and freestanding portability, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR offers outstanding value for both home theater enthusiasts and professional setups such as boardrooms or event venues.

What elevates its value even further is the minimal installation requirement. Unlike fixed-frame ALR screens, which demand wall mounting and permanent setup, the Kestrel’s plug-and-play design eliminates complex installations—saving users additional time and cost.

Elite Screens also backs this model with an industry-leading 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, covering parts and labor. In the U.S. and Canada, the company provides a 3-year ENR-G® warranty for educational, government, and religious institutions, showing confidence in their product’s longevity.

Key Value Highlights:

• Premium ALR performance suitable for UST projectors.
• Portable, freestanding design—ideal for renters or flexible spaces.
• Quiet motorized lift system and durable aluminum casing.
• Comprehensive warranty coverage and strong customer support.

In short, the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR delivers a rare combination of elegance, performance, and reliability, making it an exceptional long-term investment for serious viewers seeking cinematic projection quality at home.

Conclusion

The Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR Projection Screen redefines what’s possible in home and professional projection setups. With its Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) technology, tab-tensioned motorized system, and portable freestanding design, it offers a perfect blend of luxury, functionality, and performance.

Whether you’re watching 4K movies, gaming in daylight, or presenting in a well-lit room, this screen consistently delivers crisp contrast, vivid colors, and true-to-life clarity. It eliminates the traditional limitations of ambient light, making it one of the most versatile and user-friendly projection screens available today.

Related Reads:

• Top 10 Ultra Short Throw (UST) Projectors for 2025
• Best Projectors for Bright Rooms: 4K Picks that Outshine the Sun
• How to Set Up the Perfect Home Theater with a UST Projector

Frequently Asked Questions About the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR Projection Screen

1. What makes the Elite Screens Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR different from regular projection screens?
The key difference lies in its Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR®) technology. Unlike traditional white screens that reflect all light sources, the Kestrel CLR surface selectively reflects light from the projector while rejecting ambient and overhead light. This ensures superior image clarity and contrast, even in bright rooms.

2. Does this screen work with all types of projectors?
No. The Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR is specifically optimized for Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors. Standard or long-throw projectors won’t align properly with the screen’s optical structure, leading to dim or distorted images. For best performance, pair it with projectors like the Epson LS800, LG HU915QE, or BenQ V5000i.

3. Can I use it in a room with windows or bright lighting?
Yes. This is one of its main advantages. The CLR® material effectively combats glare and reflection from natural and artificial light, maintaining vivid, high-contrast visuals even in daylight.

4. Is installation complicated?
Not at all. The Kestrel is a freestanding, motorized screen, requiring no wall or ceiling mounting. It arrives fully assembled—simply place it on the floor, plug it in, and use the remote control to raise the screen.

5. How durable is the Kestrel Tab-Tension 2 CLR?
Built with an aluminum housing and reinforced tensioning system, this screen is made for long-term reliability. With proper care, it can last many years without sagging or loss of image quality. The included 2–3 year warranty ensures lasting peace of mind.