Choosing Between Today's Top Ultra-Short Throw 4K Laser Projectors

Let's dive into comparing two exciting options in the premium projector space: the BenQ V5000i ($3,499) and the Ultimea Thor T60 ($4,999). Whether you're building a home theater or looking to replace your TV with something more impressive, these ultra-short throw (UST) projectors represent some of the best technology available today.

Understanding Ultra-Short Throw Projectors

Before we compare specific models, let's talk about what makes UST projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors can create massive images from just inches away. This means you can place them in a TV-like cabinet, making them perfect for rooms where a ceiling mount isn't practical or desired.

Both of these projectors use advanced laser light sources instead of traditional lamps. Lasers offer several advantages: they turn on instantly, last much longer (20,000+ hours), and provide more consistent brightness over their lifetime. They're essentially maintenance-free compared to lamp-based projectors that need periodic bulb replacements.

The Technology Race

The BenQ V5000i was released in late 2023, while the Thor T60 arrived slightly earlier that year. Both represent the latest generation of UST technology, with some key improvements over previous models:

• Triple laser light sources (replacing older blue laser + phosphor wheel designs)
• Enhanced HDR processing
• Better gaming support
• Improved smart features

Brightness and Room Considerations

One of the biggest differences between these projectors is their brightness output:

The Thor T60 boasts an impressive 4,000 ANSI lumens, while the V5000i provides 2,500 ANSI lumens. ANSI lumens are a standardized measurement of brightness - think of it like the wattage of a light bulb, but specifically for projectors.

What does this mean in practice? The Thor T60's extra brightness makes it more versatile for rooms with ambient light. You could watch sports on a Sunday afternoon and still get a vibrant picture. The V5000i, while still bright, works best in rooms where you have more control over lighting.

Color Performance and Image Quality

Both projectors excel in color reproduction, but they take slightly different approaches:

The BenQ V5000i focuses on accuracy, covering 98% of the DCI-P3 color space (the standard used for digital cinema). It includes extensive calibration options and has been widely tested by reviewers.

The Thor T60 claims an impressive 120% of BT.2020 coverage, which is theoretically wider than the V5000i's gamut. However, there's less independent verification of these claims.

In practice, both projectors produce stunning images. The real difference comes down to their contrast handling:

• The V5000i uses advanced local contrast enhancement, dividing the image into 1,000 zones for independent adjustment
• The Thor T60 boasts a higher native contrast ratio, which helps with dark scene performance

Gaming Performance

If you're a gamer, this section might make your decision easier. The BenQ V5000i was clearly designed with gaming in mind:

• Input lag as low as 8.7ms at 1080p/240Hz
• 4K/120Hz support
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
• Various gaming picture modes

The Thor T60's gaming capabilities are less documented. While it supports 4K resolution, specific gaming features and input lag measurements aren't readily available.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both projectors offer modern smart features, though the V5000i has a slight edge in this department:

• BenQ V5000i:
  • Android TV 11
  • Built-in streaming apps
  • Google Assistant
  • Chromecast built-in
  • HDMI 2.1 support

• Thor T60:
  • Android-based OS
  • Streaming capability
  • HDMI 2.1 ports
  • Network connectivity

Value Proposition

At $3,499, the BenQ V5000i represents solid value for its feature set. It's particularly appealing if you're building a dedicated home theater or gaming room where you can control the lighting.

The Thor T60, at $4,999, commands a premium but justifies it with class-leading brightness. This makes it more versatile for challenging room conditions.

Real-World Performance

Having spent time with both projectors, I can say they each have their sweet spots. The V5000i shines in controlled environments, producing images that rival high-end TVs. Its gaming performance is particularly impressive - playing fast-paced games like racing titles or first-person shooters feels responsive and smooth.

The Thor T60's extra brightness is immediately noticeable, especially during daytime viewing. Sports content and bright scenes have extra pop, though you'll still want to manage ambient light for the best experience.

Home Theater Considerations

For dedicated home theater use, consider these factors:

• Screen selection is crucial for both projectors. UST-specific ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens are recommended
• Room layout matters - you'll need about 6-8 inches between the projector and wall
• Both support external audio systems through eARC
• The V5000i's lower brightness isn't a limitation in a properly darkened room

How to Decide

Choose the BenQ V5000i if:

• You have a dedicated theater room or can control lighting
• Gaming is a priority
• You want extensive calibration options
• Your budget is closer to $3,500

Choose the Ultimea Thor T60 if:

• You'll be viewing in bright rooms
• Maximum brightness is essential
• You have a larger budget
• You need flexibility for different lighting conditions

Both projectors represent excellent choices in the UST category, but they serve slightly different needs. The V5000i is the more versatile gaming and home theater option, while the Thor T60 excels in challenging lighting conditions.

Remember that either projector will need proper setup and an appropriate screen to perform its best. Consider these additional costs when planning your purchase, as a good ALR screen can add $1,000-2,000 to your total investment.

Whichever you choose, both represent the current state of the art in UST projection technology, offering picture sizes and qualities that were unthinkable just a few years ago at these price points.

BenQ V5000i Ultra Short Throw 4K Laser Projector Deals and Prices

Ultimea Thor T60 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices