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

When you're looking to create a theater-like experience at home, Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors offer an exciting alternative to traditional TVs. Today, we're comparing two popular choices: the mid-range Hisense PL2 ($2,197.97) and premium LG CineBeam HU915QB ($6,499.99). I've spent time with both units and will help you understand which might be right for your setup.

What Makes UST Projectors Special?

Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors use clever optics to create huge images from just inches away. This means you can place them like a TV console, making them perfect for rooms where mounting a regular projector isn't practical. They've become increasingly popular since 2020, as more people invest in home entertainment.

Both these projectors can create massive 100-inch+ images while sitting just a few inches from your wall or screen. That's pretty remarkable when you think about it - you're getting a theater-sized display without reorganizing your entire room.

The Players: What You're Getting

The Hisense PL2, released in late 2023, represents the latest in mid-range UST technology. It uses a single blue laser with a phosphor wheel (a common approach that's proven reliable) to create its image. This helps keep costs down while still delivering excellent picture quality.

The LG HU915QB, which debuted in early 2022, takes a more premium approach with its triple laser system. Each primary color (red, green, and blue) gets its own laser, resulting in more precise color control and potentially better color accuracy. This technology is reflected in its higher price point.

Real-World Performance

Brightness and Ambient Light

Both projectors are bright enough for most rooms, but there are differences:

• Hisense PL2: 2,700 ANSI lumens
• LG HU915QB: 3,000 ANSI lumens

In practical terms, both work well in rooms with some ambient light, especially when paired with an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen. I've used both in my living room during daytime hours, and while the LG has a slight edge in brightness, the Hisense holds its own remarkably well considering the price difference.

Picture Quality

Here's where things get interesting. The LG's triple laser system provides more accurate colors out of the box and better contrast. However, the Hisense still delivers impressive performance:

• Color accuracy: The LG covers 94% of the DCI-P3 color space (the standard used for digital cinema), while the Hisense manages 85%. Unless you're doing professional-grade color work, this difference isn't as noticeable as the numbers might suggest.
• Contrast: Both projectors use advanced laser dimming for deep blacks, but the LG's system is more sophisticated, resulting in better performance in dark scenes.
• 4K resolution: Both deliver true 4K images, though they use different methods to achieve this. The end result looks equally sharp in real-world viewing.

Smart Features

The Hisense PL2 includes Google TV, which means built-in streaming apps and voice control. The LG takes a more basic approach, expecting you to connect your own streaming device. This might actually be preferable for home theater enthusiasts who already have their preferred setup.

Value Proposition

Here's where we need to talk about that price gap. The Hisense PL2 at $2,197.97 delivers roughly 80% of the LG's performance at one-third the price. That's impressive and makes it the better choice for most people.

The LG HU915QB at $6,499.99 justifies its premium price with:

• Better color accuracy
• Higher brightness
• More sophisticated contrast
• Professional calibration features
• Premium build quality

Making Your Decision

Consider these factors when choosing:

Budget

If you're working with a budget under $3,000, the Hisense PL2 is an easy choice. It offers exceptional value and performance that will satisfy most viewers.

Room Setup

• Dedicated Home Theater: The LG's superior contrast and color accuracy shine in controlled lighting.
• Multi-purpose Room: The Hisense's Google TV integration and good ambient light performance make it more versatile.

Usage Pattern

• Casual Viewing: The Hisense PL2 is more than capable for movies, sports, and gaming.
• Critical Viewing: If you're a videophile or doing professional work, the LG's superior color accuracy might be worth the premium.

Installation Considerations

Both projectors need similar setup care:

• Stable placement is crucial
• ALR screen recommended (expect to spend $500-1,500 additional)
• Proper ventilation required
• Professional installation might be worth considering

Looking to the Future

The UST projector market is evolving rapidly. When the LG was released in 2022, its triple laser system was revolutionary. The Hisense, released more recently, shows how quickly the technology is becoming more affordable. We're likely to see continued improvements in brightness and color accuracy, along with potentially lower prices in future models.

The Bottom Line

For most people, the Hisense PL2 represents the sweet spot of performance and value. Its combination of good picture quality, smart features, and reasonable price make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a massive screen experience without a dedicated theater room.

The LG HU915QB remains the choice for enthusiasts and professionals who demand the absolute best picture quality and are willing to pay for it. Its superior color accuracy and contrast make it the better choice for dedicated home theater installations where performance matters more than price.

Remember, whichever you choose, pair it with a good ALR screen and take time to set it up properly. These projectors represent some of the best home theater technology available today, and either one can provide years of impressive big-screen entertainment.

Hisense PL2 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector Deals and Prices

LG CineBeam HU915QB 4K UHD Laser Projector Deals and Prices