Ultra-short throw (UST) projectors have revolutionized home theater by offering massive screens without complex ceiling mounts or long throw distances. Let's compare two flagship models: the Samsung Premiere 9 ($5,999) and Leica Cine 1 ($8,995-$9,495).
Both projectors use laser light sources and digital light processing (DLP) chips to create images, but their approaches differ significantly. The Samsung, released in 2021, uses a single laser system, while Leica's 2023 model employs a more advanced triple RGB laser design that produces more accurate colors.
What does this mean in practice? Think of it like painting - Samsung uses one precise brush, while Leica uses three specialized ones. The result is that the Leica Cine 1 can reproduce colors more naturally, especially noticeable in skin tones and subtle shade variations.
The Samsung Premiere 9 outputs 2,800 ANSI lumens, while the Leica pushes slightly higher at 3,000 ANSI lumens. However, raw brightness isn't everything. The Samsung tends to maintain better contrast in moderately lit rooms, making it more versatile for casual viewing.
Here's where things get interesting. The Leica's triple laser system and premium Summicron lens (a legendary name in photography) deliver exceptional color accuracy out of the box. The Samsung can achieve similar results, but often requires professional calibration.
In real-world viewing:
Both projectors offer 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), but the Leica's superior optics result in better edge-to-edge sharpness. This is particularly noticeable with text and detailed scenes.
The Samsung Premiere 9 has a clear advantage for gamers with:
The Leica wasn't designed with gaming as a priority, though its superior optics still deliver beautiful gaming visuals if you're not playing competitively.
The Samsung interface feels more polished, but Google TV offers broader app compatibility and better search features. Both support major streaming services, but Google TV typically gets new apps faster.
Both projectors need careful placement to achieve optimal image quality. The Samsung requires 4.5 inches from the wall for a 100-inch image, while the Leica needs about 14 inches for its 120-inch image.
Pro tip: Consider professional installation for either unit. The precise alignment needed for UST projectors can be challenging for newcomers.
The Samsung Premiere 9 includes a robust 40W 2.2.2 channel system with:
The Leica's 50W system, while powerful on paper, doesn't match the Samsung's audio quality. Most buyers will want to pair either projector with a dedicated sound system for the best experience.
Choose the Samsung Premiere 9 if:
Choose the Leica Cine 1 if:
The UST projector market is evolving rapidly. Samsung is likely to release an updated model soon, while Leica's newer technology may maintain its edge longer. Consider timing your purchase accordingly.
After extensive testing, I've found that the Samsung's brightness and versatility make it more practical for most homes, while the Leica's superior image quality is most apparent in controlled lighting conditions. The Samsung's gaming capabilities and more affordable price make it the better all-rounder, but serious movie enthusiasts will appreciate the Leica's premium performance.
For most buyers, the Samsung Premiere 9 offers the better value, providing excellent performance across a wider range of use cases. However, if budget allows and image quality is paramount, the Leica Cine 1 delivers a noticeably superior picture that justifies its premium price for enthusiasts.
The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, room conditions, and budget. Both projectors represent the high end of what's possible with current UST technology, just with different priorities in their execution.
| Samsung Premiere 9 | Leica Cine 1 |
|---|---|
| Price - Total investment including recommended accessories | |
| $5,999 (good value for features) | $8,995-$9,495 (premium pricing) |
| Brightness - Critical for ambient light viewing | |
| 2,800 ANSI lumens (good for moderate lighting) | 3,000 ANSI lumens (slightly brighter) |
| Light Source - Impacts color accuracy and longevity | |
| Single laser system (20,000 hours) | Triple RGB laser (25,000 hours, better color) |
| Throw Distance - Space needed from wall for 100" screen | |
| 4.5 inches (more flexible placement) | 14.3 inches (requires more space) |
| Maximum Screen Size - Impacts immersion and flexibility | |
| 100-130 inches diagonal | Fixed 100" or 120" models |
| Built-in Audio - Important if not using external speakers | |
| 40W 2.2.2 channel with Atmos (very good) | 50W system (adequate but less refined) |
| Input Lag - Critical for gaming performance | |
| 53ms (acceptable for casual gaming) | >60ms (not optimized for gaming) |
| Smart Platform - Affects ease of use and app availability | |
| Tizen OS (polished but limited) | Google TV (more apps, better updates) |
| HDR Support - Impacts dynamic range and color | |
| HDR10+ (no Dolby Vision) | HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG (more formats) |
| Color Accuracy - Important for movie watching | |
| Good but may need calibration | Excellent out of box, premium Leica lens |
| Operating System Updates - Long-term support | |
| Regular updates since 2021 release | New in 2023, expected long support |
| Installation Complexity - Consider professional setup costs | |
| Moderate (sensitive alignment) | Complex (requires precise positioning) |
The Leica Cine 1 offers superior image quality and color accuracy, making it better for dedicated home theaters. However, the Samsung Premiere 9 provides better value and performs well in various lighting conditions.
The Samsung Premiere 9 costs $5,999, while the Leica Cine 1 ranges from $8,995 to $9,495, representing a $3,000+ price difference.
The Samsung Premiere 9 is better for gaming with its 53ms input lag and superior motion handling compared to the Leica Cine 1.
Both projectors work in moderate ambient light, with the Samsung Premiere 9 offering 2,800 lumens and the Leica Cine 1 providing 3,000 lumens.
The Leica Cine 1 uses Google TV with broader app support, while the Samsung Premiere 9 uses Tizen OS which is more polished but limited.
The Samsung Premiere 9 can project 100-130 inches, while the Leica Cine 1 comes in fixed 100" or 120" models.
The Samsung Premiere 9 has superior 40W 2.2.2 channel audio with Dolby Atmos, outperforming the Leica Cine 1's 50W system.
The Samsung Premiere 9 is generally easier to set up, requiring less space (4.5 inches from wall) compared to the Leica Cine 1 (14.3 inches).
The Leica Cine 1 offers 25,000 hours of laser life, slightly more than the Samsung Premiere 9's 20,000 hours.
The Leica Cine 1 delivers superior out-of-box color accuracy with its triple laser system, while the Samsung Premiere 9 may require calibration.
Yes, both the Samsung Premiere 9 and Leica Cine 1 support true 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution.
The Samsung Premiere 9 offers better overall value with strong performance across all features, while the Leica Cine 1 charges a premium for superior image quality.
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: soundandvision.com - sound-advice.online - samsung.com - techradar.com - valueelectronics.com - news.samsung.com - samsung.com - hometheaterreview.com - projectorscreen.com - samsung.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorreviews.com - leicacamerausa.com - projectorreviews.com - whathifi.com - leicacamerausa.com - bhphotovideo.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorscreen.com - crutchfield.com - leicarumors.com - projectorscreen.com
