When it comes to creating a theatrical experience at home, both the Hisense L9H TriChroma Laser TV ($5,499) and Hisense 98" UX Series Mini-LED TV ($8,000) offer compelling options. Let's break down these 2023 flagship models to help you decide which massive display is right for your space.
Ultra-short throw (UST) projectors like the L9H sit just inches from your wall, using specially designed lenses to create huge images from a close distance. Think of it like having a powerful flashlight that can fill your wall with a crystal-clear picture from your TV stand, rather than needing to mount a traditional projector on your ceiling.
The L9H uses three separate lasers (red, green, and blue) to create its image - a significant upgrade over older single-laser or dual-laser systems. This "TriChroma" technology helps it display more vibrant and accurate colors than previous generations could achieve.
The 98" UX represents the cutting edge of LED TV technology. Rather than using a few hundred LED backlights like older TVs, it packs in over 10,000 tiny LEDs arranged in precise zones. These can be individually dimmed or brightened, creating OLED-like contrast but with much higher brightness. Think of it as having thousands of tiny spotlights behind your screen that can precisely illuminate just the bright parts of a scene while keeping dark areas truly black.
Both displays handle bright rooms differently:
Your room layout matters significantly:
The projector needs about 20 inches of depth from your wall for the 100" image, plus space for any media components. The included ALR screen requires careful installation to ensure optimal performance. However, once set up, the whole system can be moved if needed.
The 98" TV is essentially a giant monitor - it can be wall-mounted (with proper support) or placed on a suitable stand. While simpler to install, its sheer size (about 86" wide) means you'll need substantial wall space and careful planning for placement.
Both systems excel here but in different ways:
The L9H covers 107% of the BT.2020 color space (the current highest standard for digital video), thanks to its triple laser system. This means it can display an incredibly wide range of colors - even some that typical TVs can't show.
The UX Series uses Quantum Dots (tiny particles that enhance color) combined with its Mini-LED system to deliver excellent color accuracy and contrast. Its 10,000+ dimming zones allow for incredibly precise control over bright and dark areas of the image.
Both support all major HDR formats (Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG), but handle them differently:
The UX Series TV has a clear advantage for gaming with:
The L9H projector is still capable for casual gaming with:
Projector laser systems eventually need replacement (rated for 25,000 hours - about 8-10 years of typical use). The TV has no consumable parts but uses more electricity during operation.
Choose the L9H Projector if:
Choose the 98" UX Series TV if:
Both systems represent the current pinnacle of their respective technologies. The L9H offers an incredible value for those wanting a true theater-like experience, while the UX Series provides uncompromising performance for those wanting the ultimate TV viewing experience regardless of room conditions.
For my home theater space, I prefer the projector setup - the sheer size and cinema-like experience is hard to beat, and I can control my room lighting. However, for a bright living room where I want maximum impact regardless of conditions, the TV would be my choice.
Remember, either option represents a significant investment in your home entertainment. Consider your specific needs, room conditions, and how you'll primarily use the display before making your final decision.
| Hisense L9H TriChroma Laser TV | Hisense 98" UX Series Mini-LED |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial investment comparison | |
| $5,499 (includes 100" ALR screen) | $8,000 (no additional components needed) |
| Display Technology - Affects image quality and longevity | |
| Triple Laser UST with ALR screen (25,000 hour laser life) | Mini-LED with Quantum Dots (100,000+ hour lifespan) |
| Peak Brightness - Critical for daytime viewing and HDR impact | |
| 3,000 ANSI lumens (good for moderate lighting) | 5,000+ nits (exceptional for bright rooms) |
| Contrast Control - Impacts picture depth and realism | |
| 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast (good for dark rooms) | 10,000+ dimming zones (superior in all lighting) |
| Gaming Performance - Important for responsive gameplay | |
| 60Hz with 34ms input lag (casual gaming only) | 144Hz with FreeSync, sub-15ms lag (excellent gaming) |
| Size Options - Affects viewing flexibility | |
| Fixed 100" or 120" options (requires screen installation) | Fixed 98" (simpler installation, no screen needed) |
| Room Requirements - Consider your space constraints | |
| 20" depth from wall, screen mounting needed | Wall mount or stand, no extra depth needed |
| Power Consumption - Impacts running costs | |
| 350W typical (more efficient) | 700W+ typical (higher energy costs) |
| Color Performance - Affects picture quality | |
| 107% BT.2020 (exceptional color range) | 100% DCI-P3 (excellent but slightly narrower range) |
| Audio System - May affect need for external speakers | |
| 40W Dolby Atmos (adequate for casual use) | 82W 4.1.2 system (better built-in solution) |
The Hisense L9H TriChroma Laser TV is generally better for dedicated home theaters due to its more cinema-like image, larger size options, and lower light output that won't cause eye strain in dark rooms. However, if ambient light control is an issue, the Hisense 98" UX Series might be preferable.
The Hisense 98" UX Series performs significantly better in bright rooms with its 5,000+ nit brightness and anti-glare screen. While the L9H includes an ALR screen, its 3,000 ANSI lumens can't match the TV's brightness in well-lit environments.
The L9H Laser TV costs $5,499 including its 100" screen, while the 98" UX Series is priced at $8,000. The projector offers better value per inch of screen size.
The 98" UX Series is significantly better for gaming with 144Hz refresh rate, HDMI 2.1, and FreeSync support. The L9H projector is limited to 60Hz with higher input lag.
The 98" UX Series has a superior 82W 4.1.2 channel system compared to the L9H's 40W system. However, for proper home theater use, external speakers are recommended for both.
The UX Series TV has no consumable parts and should last 100,000+ hours. The L9H projector laser is rated for 25,000 hours (about 8-10 years of typical use) before requiring replacement.
Both work in living rooms, but the 98" UX Series is better suited due to its superior bright-room performance and simpler setup. The L9H requires more careful room planning and light control.
The L9H Laser TV uses less power (350W vs 700W+) and runs cooler than the UX Series, making it more economical for daily use, though laser replacement cost should be considered in long-term ownership.
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: projectorreviews.com - shop.hisense-usa.com - projectorcentral.com - hometheaterhifi.com - shop.hisense-usa.com - projectorcentral.com - 2001audiovideo.com - projektoren-datenbank.com - content.syndigo.com - bestbuy.com - walmart.com - stealthoptional.com - youtube.com - soundandvision.com - youtube.com - hdtvtest.co.uk - avsforum.com - hisense-canada.com - fouanistore.com - displayspecifications.com
