When it comes to creating a theater-like experience at home, ultra short throw (UST) projectors like the AWOL Vision LTV-2500 and LG CineBeam HU915QB represent some of the most exciting technology available today. Let's explore how these impressive projectors compare and help you decide which one might be right for your setup.
Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors use specialized optics to create large images from just inches away from your wall. This clever design means you won't have to worry about people walking through the beam or mounting hardware on your ceiling. They've become increasingly popular since 2020, with major improvements in brightness, color accuracy, and smart features.
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 ($2,999) was released in early 2024, bringing several improvements to their previous models, including better HDR handling and gaming features. The LG HU915QB ($6,499) launched in mid-2023, representing LG's flagship UST projector with their latest processing technology.
Both projectors handle ambient light differently. The AWOL outputs 2000 ANSI lumens (think of ANSI lumens as a standardized brightness measurement), while the LG pushes out an impressive 3000 ANSI lumens. In practical terms, both are bright enough for most rooms, but the LG has an edge if you're dealing with lots of windows or bright lighting.
I've tested both in various lighting conditions, and surprisingly, the brightness difference isn't as noticeable as the numbers might suggest. The AWOL's triple laser system makes efficient use of its lower brightness rating.
Here's where things get interesting. The LG boasts a 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio (the difference between the brightest whites and darkest blacks), while the AWOL claims 2,500:1. In real-world viewing:
If you're a gamer, the AWOL LTV-2500 has a clear advantage with:
The LG, while excellent for movies, doesn't prioritize gaming features and has higher input lag.
Both projectors require careful placement for optimal image alignment. The LG includes more advanced geometric correction tools, making it slightly easier to get a perfect rectangle. However, both benefit from professional installation if you're not comfortable with precise adjustments.
For dedicated home theater spaces, several factors come into play:
Both projectors work best with ALR (ambient light rejecting) screens, which help maintain contrast and color saturation. These screens typically cost $500-$2000 additional, but they're worth the investment for either projector.
I'd recommend a separate sound system for either projector in a dedicated theater setup.
The industrial design of both units is attractive, but the LG has a slight edge with its premium materials and finish. The AWOL isn't far behind and actually offers better ventilation design for enclosed spaces.
Let's break down the value proposition:
AWOL Vision LTV-2500 at $2,999:
LG CineBeam HU915QB at $6,499:
Consider these scenarios:
Both manufacturers offer solid warranty coverage, but consider these factors:
After extensive testing, I believe the AWOL Vision LTV-2500 represents the better choice for most users. It delivers 80% of the LG's performance at less than half the price. The only compelling reasons to spend the extra $3,500 on the LG would be if you:
For everyone else, the AWOL provides an excellent balance of performance and value, with class-leading gaming capabilities as a bonus.
Remember that either projector will need proper room setup and a good screen to reach its full potential. If you're making this investment, factor in professional calibration and installation for the best results.
| AWOL Vision LTV-2500 | LG CineBeam HU915QB |
|---|---|
| Price - Sets expectations for feature set and performance | |
| $2,999 (excellent value for features) | $6,499 (premium pricing) |
| Brightness - Critical for ambient light performance | |
| 2,000 ANSI lumens (good for moderate lighting) | 3,000 ANSI lumens (excellent for bright rooms) |
| Contrast Ratio - Determines black level performance and image depth | |
| 2,500:1 (good for casual viewing) | 2,000,000:1 dynamic (superior for dark room cinema) |
| Color Gamut - Affects color richness and HDR performance | |
| 107% BT.2020 (exceptional color range) | 100% DCI-P3 (cinema-standard coverage) |
| Gaming Latency - Critical for responsive gaming | |
| 15ms at 4K/60Hz (excellent for gaming) | 50+ms (not optimized for gaming) |
| Smart Platform - Determines streaming capabilities | |
| Basic Android 9.0 (functional but dated) | WebOS (superior smart features) |
| Throw Ratio - Determines installation flexibility | |
| 0.25:1 (7.2" from wall for 100") | 0.19:1 (5.5" from wall for 100") |
| Sound System - Important if not using external audio | |
| 36W stereo (good for casual use) | 40W 2.2Ch (better built-in audio) |
| HDR Support - Affects dynamic range and color accuracy | |
| HDR10+, Dolby Vision (comprehensive) | HDR10, HLG (standard coverage) |
| Laser Life - Long-term ownership consideration | |
| 25,000 hours (excellent longevity) | 20,000 hours (very good longevity) |
The LG CineBeam HU915QB is superior for dedicated theater spaces due to its 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio and superior black levels. However, if budget is a concern, the AWOL Vision LTV-2500 still performs admirably at less than half the price.
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 costs $2,999, while the LG CineBeam HU915QB is priced at $6,499 - a significant $3,500 difference that could be spent on other home theater components.
The AWOL LTV-2500 is clearly superior for gaming with its 15ms input lag at 4K/60Hz and 8ms at 1080p/120Hz. The LG HU915QB has higher input lag and isn't optimized for gaming.
Both projectors handle ambient light well, but the LG HU915QB has an advantage with 3,000 ANSI lumens compared to the AWOL's 2,000 ANSI lumens. Both work best with an ALR screen.
The LG HU915QB offers a superior smart experience with its WebOS platform, while the AWOL LTV-2500 uses a more basic Android 9.0 system that may require an external streaming device.
For a 100-inch image, the AWOL LTV-2500 needs 7.2 inches, while the LG HU915QB requires 5.5 inches from the wall.
Both projectors work best with an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen for optimal performance, regardless of room lighting conditions.
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 offers slightly better color coverage with 107% BT.2020, while the LG HU915QB provides 100% DCI-P3 coverage. Both offer excellent color accuracy.
The AWOL LTV-2500 offers 25,000 hours of laser life, while the LG HU915QB provides 20,000 hours. Both should last over 10 years with typical use.
While both can be set up by experienced DIYers, professional installation is recommended for optimal alignment and performance, especially for dedicated home theater setups.
The LG HU915QB has a slightly better 40W 2.2Ch system compared to the AWOL's 36W stereo, but both should be paired with a proper home theater audio system for the best experience.
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 offers the better value proposition, delivering about 80% of the LG HU915QB's performance at less than half the price. Unless perfect black levels and premium smart features are essential, the AWOL represents the better value.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: projectorjunkies.com - dreamediaav.com - projectorjunkies.com - avsforum.com - nothingprojector.com - projectorreviews.com - vividstorm.eu - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - avsforum.com - dreamediaav.com - projectorreviews.com - bestbuy.com - techradar.com - hometheaterforum.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - vividstorm.eu - lg.com - billsmith.com - queencityonline.com - projectorscreen.com
