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

When it comes to creating a huge screen experience at home, Ultra Short Throw (UST) laser projectors have revolutionized what's possible. Today we're comparing two impressive options: the $4,999 Ultimea Thor T60 and the $2,499 Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650. Both launched in late 2023, representing the latest advancements in home projection technology.

Understanding UST Projector Technology

Before diving into the comparison, let's understand what makes UST projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors sit just inches away from your wall. They use advanced lens systems to create massive images from very close distances - think giant TV-sized pictures from a projector sitting on your media cabinet.

The technology has come a long way in the last few years. Early UST projectors struggled with brightness and clarity, but modern laser light sources and improved optics have transformed their capabilities. Both the Thor T60 and LS650 represent the current state of the art.

Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The biggest technical difference between these projectors lies in how they create their images. The Thor T60 uses a triple laser DLP system, meaning it has separate red, green, and blue lasers. This provides true 4K resolution (that's 3840x2160 pixels) and exceptional color accuracy. Think of it like having three precisely aligned projectors in one, each handling a primary color.

The LS650 takes a different approach with Epson's 4K PRO-UHD technology. It starts with a 1080p image and uses pixel-shifting (rapidly moving the image slightly) to create the appearance of 4K. While not technically native 4K, the results can be impressive and most viewers would be hard-pressed to see the difference from normal viewing distances.

Brightness and Room Considerations

Both projectors are incredibly bright, but there's a meaningful difference. The Thor T60 outputs 4,000 ANSI lumens (ANSI lumens are a standardized brightness measurement), while the LS650 produces 3,600. In practical terms, both are bright enough to use with some ambient light, but the Thor T60 has a clear advantage in brighter rooms.

Having tested many projectors, I can say that either one will work well in a typical living room with some light control. However, if you're planning to use it in a room with large windows or lots of ambient light, the extra brightness of the Thor T60 makes a noticeable difference.

Value Proposition

The price difference between these projectors is significant - nearly double. The Thor T60 at $4,999 represents a premium option, while the LS650 at $2,499 hits a more accessible price point.

Is the Thor T60 worth twice the price? It depends on your priorities:

Thor T60 Advantages:

• True 4K resolution
• Higher brightness
• Better color accuracy
• Superior gaming performance (lower input lag)

LS650 Advantages:

• More affordable
• Excellent integrated audio
• Proven 3LCD technology
• No rainbow effect (a visual artifact sometimes seen with DLP projectors)

Real-World Performance

In practical use, both projectors excel at different things. The Thor T60 really shines with high-quality 4K content and gaming. Its lower input lag (around 20ms) makes it notably better for gaming than the LS650, which has higher lag times.

The LS650 particularly impresses with its built-in sound system, developed with Yamaha. While serious home theater enthusiasts will still want separate speakers, it's perfectly capable for casual viewing.

Installation and Setup

Both projectors are relatively easy to set up, but there are some differences:

Thor T60:

• Requires more precise placement due to limited adjustment options
• Heavier unit (26.4 lbs)
• Better lens quality means potentially sharper image

LS650:

• More forgiving placement
• Lighter (16.3 lbs)
• Includes helpful setup app

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both projectors include smart TV features, but implementation varies. The LS650 uses Android TV, which can be somewhat sluggish but offers good app compatibility. The Thor T60 also includes smart features, though many users might prefer to use an external streaming device for better performance.

How to Decide

Consider these key factors when choosing:

1. Budget
2. If $2,500 is your maximum, the LS650 is an excellent choice
3. If you can spend more and want the best image quality, the Thor T60 is worth considering

1. Room Environment
2. Bright room: Thor T60's extra brightness helps
3. Controlled lighting: Either will perform well

1. Primary Use
2. Movies/Gaming: Thor T60's superior resolution and lower lag time shine
3. General TV/Streaming: LS650 offers great value

1. Audio Needs
2. Built-in audio important: LS650's Yamaha system impresses
3. Planning separate audio: Either works well

Final Thoughts

Both projectors represent excellent options in the UST category, but they serve different needs. The Thor T60 is the technical winner in pure performance, offering true 4K resolution and superior brightness. However, the LS650 delivers impressive performance at half the price, making it an excellent value proposition.

For dedicated home theater use, I'd lean toward the Thor T60 if budget allows. The superior resolution and brightness make a noticeable difference in a properly setup room. However, for more casual viewing or mixed-use spaces, the LS650 offers tremendous value and still delivers an impressive big-screen experience.

Remember that either projector represents a significant step up from traditional TV viewing, offering massive screen sizes that would cost many times more with OLED or LED TVs. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget rather than any major shortcomings in either unit.

Ultimea Thor T60 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices