Ultra short throw (UST) laser projectors represent an exciting evolution in home theater technology, offering massive screen sizes without the traditional headaches of projector placement. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two leading options - the Samsung Premiere 9 ($5,999) and VAVA Chroma ($2,999) - to help you make an informed decision.
These projectors use advanced optics to create large images from just inches away from your wall. Unlike traditional projectors that need significant room depth, UST projectors sit close to your projection surface, eliminating the complexity of ceiling mounts and long cable runs. The laser light sources in both units offer instant-on capability and extended lifespans of 20,000+ hours, meaning you won't need to replace expensive bulbs.
Both projectors deliver true 4K resolution (3840x2160 pixels), but their approaches differ. The Samsung Premiere 9 uses advanced pixel-shifting technology combined with their Quantum 4K processor, while the VAVA Chroma employs Texas Instruments' XPR technology. In real-world testing, the Samsung shows a slight edge in detail and motion handling, particularly with fast-moving content like sports or action movies.
The Samsung's 3,450 lumens significantly outperform the VAVA's 2,500 lumens. This difference matters most in rooms with ambient light - the Samsung maintains punchy, vibrant images even with some daylight, while the VAVA performs best in controlled lighting conditions. Both are plenty bright for nighttime viewing, but the Samsung's extra headroom provides more flexibility for casual daytime use.
Here's where the Samsung's premium positioning shows. Its triple laser system and HDR10+ support deliver more accurate colors out of the box and better handling of HDR content. The VAVA also uses triple laser technology but lacks HDR10+ certification. While both can be calibrated for excellent performance, the Samsung requires less tweaking to achieve optimal picture quality.
The Samsung's Tizen operating system provides a more polished, TV-like experience with access to major streaming apps and gaming features. Released in 2021, it's received regular updates improving functionality. The VAVA, launched in 2022, uses a modified Android system with the Aptoide store, which can feel limiting compared to full Android TV implementations.
For gamers, the Samsung includes:
The VAVA offers basic gaming support but lacks these advanced features.
Both projectors require careful placement for optimal image alignment. The Samsung's 0.189:1 throw ratio slightly edges out the VAVA's 0.233:1, meaning it can sit marginally closer to the wall for the same image size. Both support screen sizes from 100" to 130", though you'll want to consider your room's ambient light when choosing screen size.
This is where the VAVA Chroma shines. Its 60W Harman Kardon system delivers room-filling sound that could eliminate the need for a separate soundbar. The Samsung's 40W system is competent but less impressive. However, both units support eARC for connection to external audio systems, which serious home theater enthusiasts will likely prefer.
At half the price of the Samsung, the VAVA represents compelling value. Consider these factors:
The price difference could fund a quality external audio system or projection screen with the VAVA, potentially offering better overall performance than the Samsung alone.
After spending time with both projectors, the Samsung's superior processing and color accuracy are noticeable, especially with high-quality 4K HDR content. However, the VAVA's performance isn't far behind, and its audio quality is actually superior for built-in sound.
The Samsung Premiere 9 excels in:
The VAVA Chroma stands out for:
Your choice should depend on several key factors:
For most users, the VAVA provides the better value proposition unless specific Samsung features are needed. The performance gap isn't as wide as the price difference might suggest, making the VAVA an excellent choice for those building their first serious home theater setup.
The Samsung makes sense for users who:
Remember that both projectors represent a significant step up from traditional home theater projectors, offering convenience and performance that can rival or exceed large premium TVs at similar price points.
| Samsung Premiere 9 | VAVA Chroma |
|---|---|
| Pricing - Total investment required | |
| $5,999 | $2,999 |
| Brightness - Critical for daytime viewing and HDR impact | |
| 3,450 lumens (excellent bright room performance) | 2,500 lumens (best in controlled lighting) |
| Light Source - Affects color accuracy and longevity | |
| Triple laser RGB with 20,000 hour life | Triple laser RGB with 25,000 hour life |
| Smart Platform - Determines streaming and app experience | |
| Full Tizen OS with major streaming apps | Limited Android OS with Aptoide store |
| Audio System - Built-in sound quality and power | |
| 40W 2.2.2 channel system | 60W Harman Kardon speakers |
| HDR Support - Impacts color and contrast range | |
| HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | HDR10, HLG |
| Gaming Features - Affects responsiveness and compatibility | |
| Low latency, Auto Game Mode, Gaming Hub | Basic gaming support only |
| Throw Ratio - Determines placement distance needed | |
| 0.189:1 (slightly closer placement possible) | 0.233:1 (requires slightly more distance) |
| Screen Size Range - Installation flexibility | |
| 100" - 130" | 80" - 150" |
| Color Gamut - Range of displayable colors | |
| 147% DCI-P3 | 106% Rec.2020 |
| Contrast Ratio - Affects image depth and black levels | |
| 2,000,000:1 dynamic | 1,500,000:1 dynamic |
| Focus System - Affects image clarity and setup ease | |
| Powered auto-focus | Manual focus adjustment |
| Connectivity - Available inputs and outputs | |
| 3x HDMI 2.0 (1 eARC), USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5 | 3x HDMI 2.0, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5 |
The Samsung Premiere 9 performs better in bright rooms with its 3,450 lumens compared to the VAVA Chroma's 2,500 lumens. If you plan to watch during daytime, the Samsung is worth the extra cost.
The VAVA Chroma at $2,999 offers better value, delivering about 80% of the Samsung Premiere 9's performance at half the price ($5,999).
The VAVA Chroma has superior built-in audio with 60W Harman Kardon speakers, while the Samsung Premiere 9 has decent 40W speakers. For basic viewing, neither requires external speakers, but home theater enthusiasts will want a separate audio system.
The Samsung Premiere 9 is significantly better for gaming, offering lower input lag, Auto Game Mode, and Gaming Hub features. The VAVA Chroma only provides basic gaming support.
Both are ultra-short throw projectors, but the Samsung Premiere 9 can sit slightly closer with a 0.189:1 throw ratio versus the VAVA's 0.233:1. For a 100-inch image, they need approximately 4-8 inches from the wall.
The Samsung Premiere 9 has superior smart features with full Tizen OS and major streaming apps. The VAVA Chroma uses a limited Android OS with the Aptoide store, which offers fewer options.
Both use laser light sources with excellent longevity - the VAVA Chroma rated for 25,000 hours and the Samsung Premiere 9 for 20,000 hours. This equals about 10 years of typical use.
Yes, both projectors offer true 4K resolution (3840x2160), though the Samsung Premiere 9 generally shows better processing and sharper image quality.
The Samsung Premiere 9 offers better movie viewing with superior HDR processing and color accuracy, but the VAVA Chroma still provides excellent picture quality at a lower price point.
While both can project onto a white wall, an ALR (ambient light rejecting) screen is recommended for best performance, especially for the VAVA which has lower brightness.
The Samsung Premiere 9 is easier to set up with its auto-focus system and more refined interface. The VAVA Chroma requires manual focus adjustment and more initial calibration.
The Samsung Premiere 9 projects from 100" to 130", while the VAVA Chroma offers more flexibility with 80" to 150" range. Both perform best at 100-120 inches for typical home theater use.
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: avsforum.com - valueelectronics.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - youtube.com - news.samsung.com - samsung.com - soundandvision.com - samsung.com - sound-advice.online - trustedreviews.com - androidcentral.com - avsforum.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorreviews.com - vava.com - projectorscreenstore.com - youtube.com - projector.com.my - ust-projector.com
