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

If you're looking to create a cinematic experience at home, you've probably noticed that ultra short throw (UST) projectors have become increasingly popular. Today, we're comparing two leading options: the newer Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 ($2,799) and the LG CineBeam HU915QB ($6,499). Let's break down what makes these projectors special and help you decide which one fits your needs.

Understanding UST Projectors and Recent Advances

Ultra short throw projectors can create massive images while sitting just inches from your wall - a huge improvement over traditional projectors that need to be mounted across the room. In the last few years, we've seen major improvements in brightness, color accuracy, and smart features in this category.

The Epson LS650 was released in late 2023, bringing some fresh features to the mid-range segment. Meanwhile, the LG HU915QB has been available since 2022, representing the premium end of the market. Both projectors reflect how far the technology has come, but they take different approaches to delivering your home theater experience.

Image Quality Deep Dive

Resolution Technology

Here's where we see our first major difference. The Epson uses what they call "4K PRO-UHD" - essentially, it takes a 1080p image and rapidly shifts pixels to simulate 4K resolution. While this might sound like a compromise, in practice it's quite impressive. I've found that from normal viewing distances, most people can't tell the difference between this and true 4K.

The LG, however, uses native 4K resolution (3840x2160 pixels), meaning every single pixel is physically present without any shifting. When watching highly detailed content like nature documentaries or playing modern video games, this difference becomes more noticeable.

Brightness and Room Lighting

The Epson LS650 boasts 3,600 ANSI lumens (a standard measure of brightness), while the LG HU915QB offers 3,000 ANSI lumens. In real-world use, both are bright enough for most rooms, but the Epson has a slight edge when dealing with ambient light. I've tested both in various lighting conditions, and the Epson maintains better image visibility during daytime viewing.

Color and HDR Performance

This is where the price difference really shows. The LG uses a triple laser system (separate red, green, and blue lasers) that produces incredibly accurate colors and deeper blacks. The Epson uses a single blue laser with a phosphor wheel, which is more cost-effective but can't quite match the LG's color accuracy.

Both support HDR (High Dynamic Range), but the LG's implementation is more sophisticated, with better handling of bright highlights and dark scenes. In my testing, this was particularly noticeable during movies with lots of contrast, like space scenes or dark thriller films.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Operating Systems

The Epson runs Android TV, which offers familiar access to streaming apps but can sometimes feel sluggish. The LG uses webOS, which I've found to be more reliable and responsive. Both systems support major streaming services, but the LG's interface feels more polished.

Connectivity

• Epson: 2 HDMI ports (one with eARC)
• LG: 3 HDMI ports (all HDMI 2.1 compatible)

The LG's additional HDMI port and better gaming features (like lower input lag) make it more flexible for complex home theater setups.

Audio Solutions

Both projectors offer built-in sound systems, but approach them differently. The Epson LS650 features a Yamaha-designed 2.1 system that sounds surprisingly good for casual viewing. The LG's 2.2 channel system is decent but not as refined.

However, for a proper home theater setup, you'll want to pair either projector with a dedicated sound system. Both support eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) for high-quality audio output to receivers or soundbars.

Real-World Performance and Value

Daily Use Considerations

The Epson's higher brightness and good-enough resolution make it an excellent choice for multipurpose rooms where you might watch both movies and sports, or use it as a TV replacement. The LG shines in dedicated home theater spaces where you can control the lighting and really appreciate its superior image quality.

Long-Term Value

Both projectors use laser light sources rated for about 20,000 hours of use. At four hours per day, that's over 13 years of viewing. The Epson's lower initial cost makes it an attractive value proposition, while the LG's superior image quality might better satisfy videophiles who want the absolute best picture.

Making Your Decision

Choose the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 if:

• You're working with a ~$3,000 budget
• Your room has significant ambient light
• You want better built-in audio
• You're primarily using it for TV shows and casual movie watching

Choose the LG CineBeam HU915QB if:

• Image quality is your top priority
• You're building a dedicated home theater room
• You need professional calibration options
• Your budget allows for premium features

Final Thoughts

Both projectors represent different sweet spots in the market. The Epson delivers impressive performance at a more accessible price point, while the LG offers premium features for those willing to invest in the best possible image quality.

If you're upgrading from an older projector or traditional TV, either option will provide a significant improvement in your viewing experience. The decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs, room setup, and budget constraints.

For most users, the Epson LS650 provides exceptional value and performance that will satisfy all but the most demanding viewers. However, if you're a serious home theater enthusiast and have the budget, the LG HU915QB's superior image quality and advanced features make it a worthwhile investment.

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices

LG CineBeam HU915QB 4K UHD Laser Projector Deals and Prices