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

When it comes to creating a truly immersive home theater experience, Epson's EpiqVision Ultra LS650 and VAVA's Chroma represent two of the most compelling options in the growing ultra short throw (UST) projector market. As a tech enthusiast who's spent considerable time with both units, I'm excited to help you understand which might be right for your setup.

Understanding Ultra Short Throw Projectors

Before diving into our comparison, 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 no more mounting hardware on your ceiling or dealing with people walking through the projection beam.

These projectors use specialized lenses and advanced processing to create large, clear images from very close distances - typically 4-15 inches from your wall or screen. Both the LS650 at $2,799 and the Chroma at $3,499 excel at this, though they take different approaches to achieve their results.

Image Technology and Quality

The fundamental difference between these projectors lies in how they create their images. The Epson LS650, released in late 2023, uses a 3LCD system with pixel-shifting technology. Think of pixel-shifting as a clever way to simulate 4K resolution by rapidly moving 1080p pixels - it's like having a talented artist quickly paint twice as many details as their canvas should technically allow.

The VAVA Chroma takes a different approach with its triple laser system, providing true 4K resolution without any pixel shifting. Each primary color (red, green, and blue) gets its own laser, resulting in incredibly precise color reproduction. This technology is newer and more expensive, but it delivers exceptional results in the right environment.

Real-World Performance

In my testing, both projectors impressed me, but in different ways:

• The Epson's 3,600 lumens of brightness means it performs beautifully even with some ambient light. During afternoon sports viewing, it maintained vivid, clear images that many projectors would struggle with.
• The VAVA's color accuracy is stunning, especially in controlled lighting. When watching nature documentaries, the colors are so precise you can see subtle variations in ocean blues and forest greens that other projectors might miss.

Room Considerations and Setup

Your room setup should heavily influence your choice between these projectors. The LS650 is more forgiving in bright rooms, making it ideal for living rooms or multi-purpose spaces. Its 3LCD technology also means you'll never see the "rainbow effect" (where bright objects seem to split into colors) that can bother some viewers with other projector types.

The VAVA Chroma really shines in dedicated home theater environments where you can control the lighting. Its superior contrast and color accuracy become most apparent in these conditions.

Installation and Placement

Both projectors need:

• A stable surface about 15-20 inches below where you want your image
• Careful alignment with your screen or wall
• Adequate ventilation space
• Power outlet access
• Source devices (streaming box, game console, etc.)

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both projectors include Android TV capabilities, though implementation quality varies. The Epson's system feels more polished and responsive, while early VAVA users have reported occasional software hiccups. Both support major streaming services, but I recommend using external streaming devices like an Apple TV 4K or NVIDIA Shield for the best experience.

Connection Options

The Epson offers:

• 2 HDMI 2.0 ports (one with eARC)
• USB ports for media playback
• Digital audio output

The VAVA provides similar connectivity, though exact specifications can vary between production runs.

Value Proposition and Long-Term Ownership

When considering value, remember that both projectors use laser light sources rated for approximately 20,000 hours of use. That's about 10 years of watching 5 hours daily, with no bulbs to replace.

The LS650 offers better initial value with its lower price point and higher brightness. Its 3LCD technology is proven reliable, and Epson's support is generally excellent.

The Chroma justifies its higher price through superior image quality and color accuracy, making it a better choice for dedicated home theater enthusiasts who can control their viewing environment.

How to Decide

Consider these key factors when making your choice:

1. Room Environment
   • Bright room with windows? Choose the Epson
     • Dedicated theater room? Consider the VAVA

1. Primary Use Case
   • Sports and TV viewing: Epson's brightness advantage helps
     • Movie enthusiast: VAVA's superior color accuracy shines
     • Gaming: Both perform well, though the Epson's lower input lag gives it a slight edge

1. Budget Considerations
   • The $700 price difference could be better spent on a quality screen or audio system
     • Factor in potential installation costs (screen, wiring, etc.)

Final Thoughts

For most users, the Epson LS650 provides the best balance of performance and value. Its brightness advantage and reliable performance make it a fantastic choice for real-world living rooms where ambient light control isn't always possible.

However, if you're building a dedicated home theater and can control the lighting, the VAVA Chroma's superior color accuracy and true 4K resolution create an absolutely stunning image that justifies its higher price tag.

Remember that both projectors represent significant improvements over their predecessors, with better color accuracy, brightness, and smart features than models from just a few years ago. Whichever you choose, you'll be getting a capable piece of home theater technology that can deliver an impressive big-screen experience.

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

VAVA Chroma Triple Laser Projector Deals and Prices