If you're looking to create a home theater experience without dedicating an entire room to a traditional projector setup, you're probably considering an ultra short throw (UST) laser projector. Today, we'll compare two popular options: the value-focused Formovie C3 ($1,899) and the premium LG CineBeam HU915QB ($6,499).
Before diving into specifics, let's understand what makes UST projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors can create large images from just inches away. They use advanced optics and laser light sources to project upward at an extreme angle, making them perfect for living rooms and spaces where a ceiling-mounted projector isn't practical.
Both the Formovie C3 and LG HU915QB use DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology, which creates images using millions of microscopic mirrors. Combined with laser light sources, they offer several advantages over traditional lamp-based projectors:
The LG HU915QB's 3,000 ANSI lumens make it a powerhouse for rooms with ambient light. From my experience testing projectors, this level of brightness means you can watch during the day with some light control, though you'll still want to minimize direct sunlight.
The Formovie C3's brightness isn't officially specified, but based on testing similar models, it likely outputs around 2,200-2,500 lumens. This means it's best suited for controlled lighting environments or evening viewing.
Both projectors support 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), but they handle it differently:
In practice, both deliver sharp images, but the LG has an edge in motion handling and HDR performance thanks to its superior contrast ratio (2,000,000:1 versus 3,000:1). This means darker blacks and more detail in shadowy scenes - particularly noticeable in movies like "The Batman" or "Dune."
The LG offers professional calibration features, including support for CalMAN AutoCal software. This might not matter for casual viewers, but home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to dial in perfect color accuracy.
The Formovie C3 provides good out-of-box color performance but fewer advanced calibration options. For most viewers, this won't be a dealbreaker, especially considering the price difference.
The LG's 0.19:1 throw ratio means it needs about 2.3 inches of distance for every 10 inches of screen width. The Formovie's 0.23:1 ratio requires about 2.8 inches per 10 inches of width. In practical terms:
For a 100-inch screen:
The LG runs WebOS, the same system used in their smart TVs. This means built-in apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video work seamlessly. The interface is polished and user-friendly.
The Formovie C3 uses FengOS, which is primarily designed for the Chinese market. You'll likely want to connect a streaming device like an Apple TV, Roku, or Fire TV Stick. Both projectors offer multiple HDMI 2.1 ports and support for various audio outputs.
The Formovie C3 delivers roughly 80% of the LG's performance at less than one-third the price. For most users, this represents an excellent value proposition. The extra $4,600 for the LG HU915QB brings:
Both projectors support HDMI 2.1 and modern gaming features, though neither is optimal for competitive gaming due to input lag. They should remain capable performers for years to come, with their laser light sources rated for 20,000+ hours of use.
Both projectors represent different approaches to the UST market. The Formovie C3 delivers impressive performance at a competitive price point, making it an excellent choice for most users. The LG HU915QB justifies its premium price with superior performance and features, but the improvements may only be worth it for dedicated home theater enthusiasts or those with specific needs like bright room viewing.
Remember that room setup, screen quality, and lighting control often impact image quality more than the difference between projectors. Consider investing in a good ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen and proper light control before spending extra on premium projector features.
| Formovie C3 | LG CineBeam HU915QB |
|---|---|
| Price - Primary factor in value equation | |
| $1,899 (excellent value) | $6,499 (premium pricing) |
| Brightness - Critical for ambient light performance | |
| ~2,500 ANSI lumens (estimate, good for dark rooms) | 3,000 ANSI lumens (handles moderate ambient light) |
| Contrast Ratio - Determines black levels and HDR impact | |
| 3,000:1 (good for SDR content) | 2,000,000:1 dynamic (superior HDR performance) |
| Throw Ratio - Determines how close to wall needed | |
| 0.23:1 (7.1" from wall for 100") | 0.19:1 (5.8" from wall for 100") |
| Smart Platform - Affects need for external devices | |
| FengOS (requires streaming device) | WebOS (fully featured, no extras needed) |
| Audio System - Important if not using external speakers | |
| 30W dual speakers (adequate for casual use) | 40W 2.2 channel (better bass response) |
| Gaming Input Lag - Critical for gaming experience | |
| ~40ms (casual gaming ok) | 67ms (not recommended for gaming) |
| Color Coverage - Impacts color accuracy and vibrancy | |
| Good (specific % not provided) | 100% DCI-P3 (professional grade) |
| Calibration Options - Important for enthusiasts | |
| Basic adjustments only | Professional CalMAN support (full calibration) |
| Lamp Life - Long term ownership cost | |
| 25,000 hours | 20,000 hours |
The Formovie C3 at $1,899 offers better value for most users, delivering excellent picture quality at one-third the price of the LG HU915QB. Unless you specifically need the LG's higher brightness or advanced calibration features, the C3 is the smarter buy.
For a 100-inch screen, the LG HU915QB needs 5.8 inches from the wall, while the Formovie C3 needs 7.1 inches. Both are excellent ultra-short throw projectors suitable for tight spaces.
The LG HU915QB performs better in bright rooms with its 3,000 ANSI lumens. The Formovie C3 works best in controlled lighting conditions or evening viewing.
Yes for the Formovie C3 as it uses Chinese-focused FengOS. The LG HU915QB includes WebOS with full streaming app support, eliminating the need for external devices.
Both deliver excellent 4K picture quality, but the LG HU915QB has superior contrast and HDR performance. However, the Formovie C3 still provides impressive movie-watching experience at a lower price point.
Neither projector is ideal for competitive gaming. The Formovie C3 has lower input lag (~40ms) making it better for casual gaming than the LG HU915QB (67ms).
Yes, both the Formovie C3 and LG HU915QB work best with ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens specifically designed for ultra-short throw projectors.
The Formovie C3 offers 25,000 hours of laser life, while the LG HU915QB provides 20,000 hours. Both should last many years under normal use.
The LG HU915QB features a more powerful 40W 2.2 channel system compared to the Formovie C3's 30W dual speakers, though most home theater enthusiasts will want external speakers.
Yes, both can serve as TV replacements. The LG HU915QB is better suited due to higher brightness and built-in smart features, while the Formovie C3 needs controlled lighting and external streaming.
The LG HU915QB handles motion better and has higher brightness for daytime sports viewing. The Formovie C3 works well for evening sports viewing in controlled lighting.
The LG HU915QB supports professional CalMAN calibration if desired, while the Formovie C3 provides good out-of-box performance with basic adjustments. Most users won't need professional calibration.
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: youtube.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - rtings.com - formovie.com - projectorsg.com - projector.com.bd - formovie.in - avsforum.com - projector.my - aytexcel.com - nothingprojector.com - projectorreviews.com - bestbuy.com - techradar.com - hometheaterforum.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - vividstorm.eu - lg.com - billsmith.com - queencityonline.com - projectorscreen.com
