Choosing Between Premium 4K Ultra Short Throw Projectors: A Detailed Comparison

Today we're comparing two leading ultra short throw (UST) projectors: the Samsung Premiere 9 ($5,999) and the BenQ V5000i ($3,499). UST projectors have become increasingly popular as alternatives to traditional TVs, offering massive screen sizes without the installation complexity of standard projectors.

Understanding UST Projector Technology

UST projectors sit just inches from your wall, using specialized optics to create large images from very close distances. This design eliminates the traditional projector placement challenges and reduces the chance of shadows from people walking by. Both projectors we're examining use triple laser technology, which provides superior color accuracy and brightness compared to traditional lamp-based or single-laser systems.

The Current Market Landscape

The Samsung Premiere 9 launched in late 2023, while the BenQ V5000i arrived in mid-2023. Both represent the latest generation of UST technology, with significant improvements in brightness, color accuracy, and smart features compared to their predecessors. The most notable advances are in HDR processing, gaming capabilities, and built-in sound systems.

Brightness and Room Flexibility

Brightness is crucial for UST projectors since they're often used in living rooms rather than dedicated theater spaces. The Samsung's 3,450 lumens significantly outperforms the BenQ's 2,500 lumens, making it more versatile for bright rooms. To put this in perspective, you'll want at least 2,000 lumens for moderate ambient light, and 3,000+ for rooms with significant natural light.

The Samsung's extra brightness also means it can maintain better contrast and color saturation in challenging lighting conditions. However, in a controlled lighting environment like a home theater, the brightness difference becomes less significant, and both projectors perform admirably.

Picture Quality Deep Dive

Color Performance

Both projectors use RGB triple laser systems, but implement them differently:

• Samsung's system achieves 100% of the BT.2020 color space
• BenQ covers 98% of DCI-P3 and 95% of BT.2020

In practical terms, both deliver exceptional color accuracy, but the Samsung has a slight edge in the absolute deepest colors, particularly in HDR content.

HDR Processing

HDR (High Dynamic Range) handling is increasingly important for home theater:

• Both support HDR10+ and HLG
• Samsung's dynamic tone mapping is more sophisticated
• BenQ offers more manual calibration options

The Samsung's superior brightness gives it an advantage in HDR performance, allowing for more impactful highlights while maintaining detail in darker scenes.

Gaming Capabilities

Modern UST projectors have become viable gaming displays, and both models offer strong gaming features:

BenQ V5000i:

• 4K/60Hz with 17.9ms input lag
• 1080p support up to 240Hz
• ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)

Samsung Premiere 9:

• 4K/60Hz gaming
• Game Hub for cloud gaming
• Auto Game Mode optimization

For serious gamers, the BenQ's lower input lag and higher refresh rate options make it the better choice, though casual gamers will be happy with either option.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The smart platform choice significantly impacts daily use:

Samsung's Tizen OS:

• Polished, TV-like interface
• Better integration with Samsung devices
• More limited app selection

BenQ's Android TV 11:

• Wider app compatibility
• Google Assistant integration
• More customization options

Both offer streaming app support, but Android TV provides more flexibility and sideloading options for tech-savvy users.

Audio Solutions

Built-in audio has become a key differentiator:

Samsung's 40W 2.2.2 Dolby Atmos system:

• True upfiring speakers
• Object tracking sound
• Better spatial separation

BenQ's 40W Trevolo system:

• Good stereo separation
• Less sophisticated processing
• Better than typical projector audio

While neither replaces a dedicated home theater audio system, the Samsung's implementation comes closer to a soundbar-like experience.

Value Analysis

At $2,500 less, the BenQ V5000i presents compelling value, offering:

• Comparable picture quality in controlled lighting
• Superior gaming features
• Android TV flexibility

The Samsung Premiere 9 justifies its premium with:

• 38% higher brightness
• Better HDR processing
• Superior built-in audio
• More polished interface

How to Decide

Choose the Samsung Premiere 9 if:

• Your room has significant ambient light
• Built-in audio quality is important
• You want the most refined user experience
• Budget isn't your primary concern

Choose the BenQ V5000i if:

• You have a controlled lighting environment
• Gaming is a priority
• You prefer Android TV
• Value is important
• You plan to use external audio

Final Thoughts

Both projectors represent excellent choices in the premium UST segment, but they target slightly different users. The Samsung excels as a TV replacement in bright living rooms, while the BenQ offers better value for dedicated home theater spaces and gaming setups. Consider your room conditions, primary use case, and budget when making your choice.

For most users, the BenQ's value proposition will be hard to ignore, especially if you're able to control your room lighting. However, if you need maximum brightness and want the most polished experience, the Samsung's premium features justify its higher price tag.

Remember that either projector will benefit significantly from a proper screen designed for UST projection, which helps reject ambient light and improve contrast. This is an additional cost to factor into your decision, typically ranging from $500-1500 depending on size and quality.

Samsung Premiere 9 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices

BenQ V5000i Ultra Short Throw 4K Laser Projector Deals and Prices