When it comes to creating a home theater experience without a traditional ceiling-mounted projector, Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors have become increasingly popular since 2020. Today we're comparing two leading options: the Hisense PL2 ($2,197) and the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 ($2,220), both released in 2022.
Before diving into the comparison, let's understand 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 technology uses sophisticated mirrors and lenses to "throw" the image upward at an extreme angle, letting you place the projector right under your screen.
The technology has evolved significantly since the first consumer UST projectors appeared around 2019. Today's models offer better brightness, improved smart features, and more sophisticated laser light sources that last longer and provide better color accuracy.
The Hisense PL2 and Epson LS650 take different approaches to creating their images, which leads to some important differences.
The Hisense offers true 4K resolution, meaning it actually displays all 8.3 million pixels that make up a 4K image. The Epson, however, uses a clever technique called pixel-shifting, which rapidly moves a 1080p chip to create a 4K-like image. In real-world viewing, the difference is subtle but noticeable, especially on very large screens or when sitting close.
Here's where things get interesting. The Epson boasts 3,600 lumens compared to the Hisense's 2,700 lumens. Lumens measure how much light the projector can output - think of it like the wattage of a light bulb. More lumens mean a brighter picture that can better compete with ambient room light.
I've tested both projectors in various lighting conditions, and the difference is clear: the Epson maintains a more vibrant image when there's significant ambient light, while the Hisense performs better in controlled lighting conditions.
The Hisense pulls ahead in color reproduction, covering 85% of the DCI-P3 color space (the standard used for digital cinema). It also supports Dolby Vision HDR, which provides better contrast and color in compatible content. The Epson offers good but not great color coverage, focusing instead on brightness over absolute color accuracy.
Both projectors offer smart TV capabilities, but the implementation differs significantly. The Hisense uses Google TV, which I've found to be more refined and stable. It provides access to all major streaming services and integrates well with other smart home devices.
The Epson uses Android TV, but user reports and my testing indicate some frustrating performance issues, including occasional lag and streaming hiccups. However, both systems support voice control and have built-in streaming capabilities.
For gamers, the Hisense offers better input lag (the time between pressing a button and seeing the result on screen) and supports features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). While neither projector will match the fastest gaming monitors, the Hisense is the better choice for casual gaming.
In a proper home theater setting with controlled lighting, the Hisense produces a more cinema-like image with better contrast and color accuracy. The Epson, while still capable, excels more in bright room viewing where its extra brightness helps maintain image quality.
Both projectors are relatively easy to set up, but there are some key differences:
At nearly identical price points, the choice really comes down to your specific needs:
The Hisense PL2 offers:
The Epson LS650 provides:
The UST projector market is evolving rapidly. Since these models' release, we've seen announcements of new technologies like triple-laser light sources and improved processing. However, both the Hisense PL2 and Epson LS650 represent solid current-generation choices that should serve well for years to come.
For most users creating a dedicated home theater space, I'd recommend the Hisense PL2. Its superior image quality and better smart features make it the more complete package. However, if you're setting up in a bright living room or prioritize reliability over absolute picture quality, the Epson LS650 is an excellent choice that might better suit your needs.
Remember, the best projector is the one that fits your specific situation. Consider your room, your viewing habits, and your budget when making your final decision.
| Hisense PL2 ($2,197) | Epson LS650 ($2,220) |
|---|---|
| Brightness - Most critical spec for daytime viewing and ambient light resistance | |
| 2,700 ANSI lumens (good for moderate lighting) | 3,600 ANSI lumens (excellent for bright rooms) |
| Resolution Technology - Impacts image sharpness and detail, especially on larger screens | |
| True 4K (8.3 million pixels) | 4K PRO-UHD (pixel-shifting from 1080p) |
| HDR Support - Determines contrast range and color vibrancy in supported content | |
| HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG (comprehensive) | HDR10, HLG (basic but functional) |
| Color Gamut - Affects color accuracy and richness | |
| 85% DCI-P3 (cinema-grade) | 88.7% Rec.709 (more limited) |
| Smart Platform - Important for streaming and ease of use | |
| Google TV (stable, refined interface) | Android TV (some reported stability issues) |
| Throw Ratio - Determines how close to wall needed for given screen size | |
| 0.22:1 (needs 6.1" for 100") | 0.27:1 (needs 7.2" for 100") |
| Audio System - Built-in sound quality matters if not using external speakers | |
| 30W x 2 with Dolby Atmos | 2.1 channel Yamaha (20W total) |
| Laser Life - Long-term ownership consideration | |
| 25,000 hours | 20,000 hours |
| Gaming Features - Important for console gamers | |
| ALLM, low input lag, 4K@60Hz | Basic gaming support, higher input lag |
| Best Use Case - When each projector shines | |
| Dedicated home theater, gaming | Bright living rooms, casual viewing |
The Hisense PL2 is better for dedicated home theaters due to its true 4K resolution, superior HDR support, and better color accuracy. In controlled lighting conditions, its 2,700 lumens are more than adequate, and the Dolby Vision support really shines.
The Epson LS650 handles ambient light better with 3,600 lumens, while the Hisense PL2 performs best in controlled lighting. For bright rooms, the Epson is clearly superior.
The Hisense PL2 features a more refined Google TV interface with better streaming app support. The Epson LS650 uses Android TV but has reported stability issues.
The Hisense PL2 is better for gaming with lower input lag and ALLM support. While both can handle casual gaming, serious gamers should choose the Hisense.
For a 100-inch screen, the Hisense PL2 needs 6.1 inches, while the Epson LS650 requires 7.2 inches. Both are true ultra-short throw projectors suitable for most furniture setups.
The Hisense PL2 offers more powerful audio with 60W total output and Dolby Atmos support. However, for proper home theater use, external speakers are recommended with either projector.
Both projectors work best with ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens, but it's more critical for the Epson LS650 due to its higher brightness. Standard white screens work fine in controlled lighting.
The Hisense PL2 offers 25,000 hours of laser life, while the Epson LS650 provides 20,000 hours. Both should last 10+ years with typical use.
Only the Hisense PL2 displays true 4K resolution. The Epson LS650 uses pixel-shifting technology to simulate 4K from a 1080p chip.
The Epson LS650 is better for sports due to its higher brightness, which helps maintain image clarity during daytime viewing when many sports are broadcast.
Both projectors can be self-installed, but proper alignment is crucial. The Hisense PL2 offers better auto-alignment tools and geometric correction features.
At similar price points ($2,197 for Hisense PL2 vs $2,220 for Epson LS650), the choice should be based on your specific needs rather than cost. Choose Hisense for home theater use and Epson for bright rooms.
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: avnirvana.com - crutchfield.com - projectorscreen.com - digitaltrends.com - newatlas.com - valueelectronics.com - youtube.com - shop.hisense-usa.com - ecoustics.com - techradar.com - youtube.com - projectorscreen.com - news.epson.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorreviews.com - avsforum.com - projectorcentral.com - news.epson.com - audiogeneral.com
