Choosing Between Premium Ultra Short Throw 4K Projectors: A Complete Guide

In the rapidly evolving world of home theater, ultra short throw (UST) projectors have become an exciting alternative to massive TVs. These advanced projectors can sit just inches from your wall while creating huge, bright images up to 130 inches across. Let's compare two leading options released in early 2024: the premium Samsung Premiere 9 ($5,999) and the value-focused NexiGo Aurora Pro ($2,449).

Understanding the Technology

Both projectors use triple laser technology, which means they have separate red, green, and blue lasers to create images. This is a significant upgrade from traditional lamp-based projectors or even single-laser systems. Triple laser technology delivers more vibrant colors, instant on/off capability, and typical lifespans of 20,000+ hours - that's about 10 years of heavy use without needing replacement parts.

The "ultra short throw" designation means these projectors can create massive images from very close to your wall. While traditional projectors might need 12-15 feet of distance for a 120-inch image, these units can do it from just 6-8 inches away. This convenience makes them practical alternatives to large TVs in living rooms.

Image Quality Deep Dive

The Samsung Premiere 9 leads in pure brightness with 3,450 lumens, about 30% brighter than the Aurora Pro. This difference matters significantly in rooms with ambient light - think afternoon viewing or rooms with large windows. Samsung's advanced processing also provides better out-of-box color accuracy, though both projectors can be professionally calibrated for optimal performance.

However, the Aurora Pro counters with superior native contrast (3000:1 vs approximately 2000:1 for the Samsung). Higher contrast means deeper blacks and more detail in dark scenes, which is especially noticeable when watching movies in a properly darkened room. The Aurora Pro also covers an impressive 107% of the BT.2020 color space, matching the Samsung's wide color capabilities.

Both support HDR (High Dynamic Range) content, but handle it differently:

• Premiere 9: HDR10+ with dynamic scene-by-scene optimization
• Aurora Pro: Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, with particularly strong dark scene performance

Gaming Performance

If you're a gamer, the differences here are substantial. The Aurora Pro offers superior gaming features:

• 4K resolution at 60Hz
• 1080p resolution at up to 240Hz
• Input lag as low as 9ms in game mode

The Premiere 9 provides good gaming performance but can't match these refresh rates. However, it includes Samsung's Gaming Hub, providing access to cloud gaming services without needing a console - a unique feature that might appeal to casual gamers.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Samsung's Tizen operating system in the Premiere 9 provides a polished, TV-like experience with built-in apps for Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and others. The interface is snappy and intuitive, identical to Samsung's high-end TVs.

The Aurora Pro's basic Android TV implementation feels less refined and requires side-loading or a streaming stick for many popular apps. However, it offers excellent wireless connectivity with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 support.

Both projectors feature:

• Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports
• eARC support for advanced audio setups
• USB ports for media playback
• Network connectivity for streaming

Audio Capabilities

Built-in audio has become increasingly important for UST projectors, as many users want a complete solution without additional speakers. The Aurora Pro provides more power with its 60W system (four 15W speakers), while the Premiere 9 offers a 40W 2.2.2 channel configuration.

In practice, both systems provide room-filling sound that's significantly better than typical TV speakers. The Premiere 9's upward-firing speakers create a more spacious sound field, while the Aurora Pro delivers stronger bass response. For serious home theater use, you'll still want external speakers, but both are perfectly capable for casual viewing.

Value Consideration

At $3,550 less, the Aurora Pro presents compelling value. This price difference could fund:

• A high-quality ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen ($1,000-1,500)
• Quality sound system ($1,000-2,000)
• Professional calibration ($300-500)

And still leave money in your pocket. However, the Premiere 9's premium price includes:

• Superior brightness for bright room viewing
• Better out-of-box performance
• More polished smart features
• Samsung's proven support and ecosystem

Installation and Setup

Both projectors require similar setup considerations:

• Precise placement for proper image alignment
• Stable, level surface
• Recommended use with ALR screens for optimal performance
• Adequate ventilation space

The Premiere 9's slightly shorter throw ratio means it can sit about an inch closer to the wall for the same image size - a minor difference that rarely impacts real-world installation.

How to Make Your Decision

Choose the Samsung Premiere 9 if:

• You'll frequently watch in bright rooms
• Built-in streaming apps are important
• You value premium brand support
• Budget allows for best-in-class features

Choose the NexiGo Aurora Pro if:

• Gaming performance is a priority
• You'll primarily watch in controlled lighting
• You're comfortable adding a streaming device
• Value is a key consideration

For most users, I recommend the Aurora Pro unless specific Premiere 9 features are must-haves. The performance-per-dollar advantage is significant, and the core image quality is comparable in most viewing situations. The extra money saved can be invested in a quality screen and audio system, often resulting in a better overall experience than the Premiere 9 alone.

However, if you're seeking the most polished, integrated experience and bright room performance is crucial, the Premiere 9 remains an excellent choice that justifies its premium price for the right user.

Remember, both projectors represent significant investments in your home entertainment system. Consider your specific viewing environment, usage patterns, and long-term needs when making your decision. Either choice can provide years of big-screen entertainment when properly set up and maintained.

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

NexiGo Aurora Pro 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector Deals and Prices