The home theater landscape has evolved dramatically in recent years, with ultra short throw (UST) laser projectors becoming an increasingly popular alternative to massive TVs. In this article, we'll compare two notable options: the premium $9,495 Leica Cine 1 and the more affordable $3,499 Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800.
UST projectors sit just inches from your wall, using specialized optics to project a massive image from an extremely close distance. Unlike traditional projectors mounted on the ceiling or back of the room, these units integrate seamlessly into your living space - typically sitting on a credenza like a TV would.
The technology has matured significantly since early UST models appeared around 2019. Today's units offer improved brightness, better smart features, and more sophisticated image processing. Both the Leica Cine 1 and Epson LS800 represent the latest generation of this technology, though they target different segments of the market.
One of the most practical considerations for any projector is brightness, measured in lumens. The Epson delivers an impressive 4,000 lumens compared to the Leica's 3,000 lumens. This 33% advantage makes a noticeable difference in rooms with ambient light.
To put this in perspective, 3,000 lumens is sufficient for moderate ambient light, but 4,000 lumens allows for comfortable viewing even in well-lit rooms. The Epson's brightness advantage makes it more versatile for multi-purpose spaces where you can't always control lighting conditions.
While the Epson wins on brightness, the Leica shows its premium positioning in color reproduction. The Cine 1's triple RGB laser system produces each primary color with dedicated lasers, achieving 100% of the BT.2020 color space - the gold standard for digital cinema. This means colors appear more vivid and accurate, especially in scenes with subtle gradations.
The Epson uses a blue laser with phosphor wheel (a more common approach), combined with their proven 3LCD technology. While this produces excellent color for most content, it can't match the Leica's color volume or precision.
The Epson's 0.16:1 throw ratio allows it to produce a 120-inch image from just 6.8 inches away - the shortest throw distance currently available. The Leica requires about 14.3 inches for the same size image. This difference might seem small, but it can significantly impact furniture choices and room layout.
Both projectors offer automatic geometric correction to ensure a perfectly rectangular image, though the Epson's shorter throw distance makes it somewhat easier to achieve optimal alignment.
Modern UST projectors increasingly serve as gaming displays, and here the Epson shows its versatility. With a 16.7ms input lag and support for 1080p/120Hz signals, it's surprisingly capable for competitive gaming. The Leica, focused more on cinema performance, doesn't specify gaming-specific features.
Both projectors offer modern smart platforms - Google TV on the Leica and Android TV on the Epson. These provide access to major streaming services and voice control. However, the Leica Cine 1 edges ahead with HDMI 2.1 support, while the Epson LS800 uses HDMI 2.0.
The Leica also includes a built-in TV tuner, making it more of a true TV replacement. Both offer typical wireless connectivity including WiFi and Bluetooth.
Built-in audio has become increasingly important for UST projectors, as many users prefer not to add separate speakers. The Leica impresses with a 50W Dolby Atmos system that creates convincing spatial audio. The Epson's Yamaha-designed 20W 2.1 system is competent but can't match the Leica's audio performance.
The roughly $6,000 price difference between these projectors can't be ignored. The Leica delivers superior color accuracy, better audio, and more future-proof connectivity. However, the Epson offers higher brightness, better gaming performance, and more flexible placement - all at a significantly lower price point.
Both projectors use laser light sources rated for approximately 20,000 hours of use. The Leica's triple laser system might be more expensive to replace if needed, but both should provide many years of service under normal use.
The Epson LS800 represents an excellent value, offering class-leading brightness and placement flexibility at a competitive price point. For most users, it's the more practical choice.
The Leica Cine 1 justifies its premium price with superior color accuracy, better audio, and more future-proof connectivity. It's the choice for enthusiasts who demand the absolute best image quality and are willing to pay for it.
Both projectors demonstrate how far UST technology has come, offering compelling alternatives to traditional TVs for those seeking a massive, high-quality display.
| Leica Cine 1 120" ($9,495) | Epson LS800 ($3,499) |
|---|---|
| Brightness - Critical for ambient light performance | |
| 3,000 lumens (good for moderate lighting) | 4,000 lumens (excellent for bright rooms) |
| Projection Technology - Impacts color accuracy and longevity | |
| Triple RGB laser (superior color, higher cost) | Single blue laser with phosphor (good color, proven tech) |
| Throw Distance for 120" - Affects placement flexibility | |
| 14.3 inches (requires deeper furniture) | 6.8 inches (most flexible placement) |
| Color Coverage - Important for cinema quality | |
| 100% BT.2020 (cinema-grade color) | Not specified (typical 3LCD coverage ~95% DCI-P3) |
| Gaming Performance - Critical for interactive use | |
| No specified gaming features | 16.7ms input lag, 120Hz at 1080p support |
| Audio System - Impacts need for external speakers | |
| 50W Dolby Atmos (theater-quality sound) | 20W Yamaha 2.1 system (good but basic) |
| HDMI Connectivity - Affects future compatibility | |
| 3x HDMI (2x 2.1, 1x 2.0 with eARC) | 3x HDMI 2.0 (1x ARC) |
| Smart Platform - Streaming and control options | |
| Google TV with built-in tuner | Android TV (no tuner) |
| Laser Life - Long-term ownership consideration | |
| 25,000 hours (higher replacement cost) | 20,000 hours (more affordable replacement) |
| Contrast Ratio - Affects image depth and blacks | |
| 2,000,000:1 dynamic | 2,500,000:1 dynamic |
| Additional Features - Extra value considerations | |
| Leica Image Optimization, premium build | Built-in geometric correction, Epson Setting Assistant app |
The Epson LS800 is better for bright rooms with its 4,000 lumens compared to the Leica Cine 1's 3,000 lumens. This higher brightness makes the Epson more suitable for daytime viewing and rooms with ambient light.
The $9,495 Leica Cine 1 offers superior picture quality with its triple RGB laser system and 100% BT.2020 color coverage. The $3,499 Epson LS800 still provides excellent image quality but can't match the Leica's color accuracy.
The Epson LS800 is significantly better for gaming with its 16.7ms input lag and 120Hz support at 1080p. The Leica Cine 1 doesn't specify gaming features or input lag times.
For a 120-inch image, the Epson needs just 6.8 inches from the wall, while the Leica requires 14.3 inches. The Epson's shorter throw distance offers more flexible placement options.
The Leica Cine 1 features a superior 50W Dolby Atmos sound system, while the Epson LS800 includes a 20W Yamaha 2.1 system. The Leica provides notably better audio quality.
Both projectors offer extensive lifespans - the Leica rated for 25,000 hours and the Epson for 20,000 hours. At 4 hours daily use, both would last over 13 years.
Yes, both projectors include smart TV platforms - Google TV on the Leica Cine 1 and Android TV on the Epson LS800, providing access to major streaming services.
Both projectors work best with ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens designed for ultra short throw projectors, though they can project onto white walls with reduced performance.
The Epson LS800 offers better value with its $3,499 price tag, providing excellent performance for most users. The Leica Cine 1 at $9,495 targets premium users seeking the absolute best image quality.
Yes, both function as TV replacements with smart features and streaming. The Leica includes a TV tuner, while the Epson requires an external tuner for broadcast TV.
Both projectors support external audio systems through HDMI ARC, with the Leica offering eARC for higher-quality audio passthrough to home theater systems.
Both are laser projectors requiring minimal maintenance. No lamp replacement needed, though the projection area should be kept dust-free. The Leica Cine 1 may have higher service costs if repairs are needed compared to the Epson LS800.
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: whathifi.com - leicacamerausa.com - leicacamerausa.com - trustedreviews.com - valueelectronics.com - projectorcentral.com - leicastoresf.com - crutchfield.com - projectorreviews.com - crutchfield.com - projectorscreen.com - projectorscreen.com - techradar.com - danamic.org - projectorscreen.com - projectorcentral.com - epson.com - dreamediaav.com - dell.com - rtings.com - avsforum.com - audiogeneral.com - news.epson.com - projectorcentral.com
