9 Best Laser Projectors Reviews and Guide
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Laser Projector?
There are many varieties of laser projectors on the market, but which one should you buy? In this article, we will discuss 10 of the best Laser projectors. We will do in-depth reviews on all the projectors and give you recommendations at the end of the article in the conclusion.
Quick Summary
- BEST OVERALL: GT 1090HDR Short Throw Laser Projector by Optoma
- BEST BUDGET: EpiqVision Ultra Show Throw Smart Laser Projector by Epson
- BEST SOUND QUALITY: 120 Inch the Premier Ultra Short Throw 4K Smart Laser Projector by SAMSUNG
- BEST PORTABILITY: Epiqvision Mini E12 Streaming Laser Projector by Epson
- BEST FOR LARGE ROOMS CinemaX P2 White Smart 4K UHD Laser Projector by Optoma
- BEST FOR SMALL ROOMS: EF-100 Smart Streaming Laser Projector by EPSON
- BEST FOR OFFICES: HF85LA 120-inch Full HD Laser Smart Home Projector
- BEST FOR HOME: Nova Short Throw Laser Projector by WEMAX
- BEST FOR CLASSROOMS: HZ39HDR Laser Home Theater Projector by Optoma
Top Rated Laser Projectors
1. Epiqvision Mini E12 Streaming Laser Projector by Epson
This projector is more refined than its predecessor, Epson EF-100, and comes with a 1080P resolution. The projector also has 1000 lumens of brightness and is smaller than other projectors on the market. However, the projector is for streaming and doesn’t support 3D content.
The Epiqvision Mini E12 Laser projector comes with integrated Android TV, a dongle bundle, supports 4K input for downconverting and gives HDR support for both HLG and HDR10. This laser projector also has stereo speakers and excellent color accuracy.
Design
This laser projector has a simple, compact, clean design and will easily fit in any decor. This laser projector is also equipped with Microlaser array technology, which enhances the black density and significantly increases the brightness level. The advanced 3LCD display projects 100% of RGB colors and increases the color accuracy.
Brightness
This projector offers 6 picture modes; the dynamic is the brightest but shows a bit of green color bias. However, this is expected because it is the brightest mode of the projector. The bias is also far less obvious in this Epiqvision projector than in other projectors. The other picture modes are:
- Vivid
- Natural
- Cinema
- Bright Cinema
The Bright cinema picture mode edges out other laser projectors regarding color accuracy and image quality issues, especially contrast and shadow detail. For HDR10 users, the results of 4K UHD HDR versions of 1080P movies have been mixed. Some users state that there were midtones in rendered scenes.
Quality
This projector offers an impressive and wide array of features, which are not matched by other comparable laser projectors. While the Epiqvision Mini E11 offers the same resolution and brightness, it doesn’t have integrated streaming, a feature that the E12 offers.
This projector can easily display content on an 80-inch screen, has smart home features, and is integrated with Android TV.
Pros
- Good Laser-Phosphor light source
- Supports 4K UHD HDR and input
- Offers integrated streaming
- Built-in Android TV
- 1080P native resolution
Cons
- No support for 3D content
- Brightness is moderate at best
2. EpiqVision Ultra Show Throw Smart Laser Projector by Epson
Usually, high-end UST (Ultra-show-Throw) projectors can project content over 100-inch screens but are expensive. However, this UST smart laser projector by Epson ticks several important boxes, such as onboard streaming, advanced optics, and integrated sound, and comes in a single compact package.
Usually, when people come across are budget-friendly or affordable Laser projector, they doubt the projector’s ability to display content properly. However, that is not the case with the EpiqVision UST laser projector, as it can deliver a good performance for a long time.
Design
While the build of this laser projector might not indicate to you that it is a sturdy projector, the reality is that it has a durable build. The projector is available in white (LS300W) and black (LS300B); it has a grey marl grille and chunky curves. The projector has a plastic body and is relatively cheaper than other Laser projectors.
At the base of the fabric, grille is a 20W 2.1 Yamaha speaker, which is serviceable, and you can even connect it to an external sound setup. On the rear of this laser projector is a pair of HDMI ports; one sports ARC and optical audio output.
There is also a USB 2.0 port; however, despite being WIFI-enabled, the laser projector doesn’t have an Ethernet port. While Netflix is absent from the projector, it has built-in Android 10 software, enabling you to access dozens of cool applications.
On the right-hand side of this laser projector are push buttons, volume, Bluetooth, screen blanking controls, and a recessed lever, allowing you to adjust the projector’s focus.
Quality
While this laser projector displays HD content, it can even support 4K content (4K@30Hz with HDR 10 or 4K@60Hz with SDR) and even HLG. The projector accepts Dolby Digital signals but only treats them as standard HDR.
The picture menu has many calibration features, such as Bright Cinema, Dynamic, Cinema, Vivid colors, and Natural color modes, which can be used to refine the images further. Every source input in the projector, including the streaming, has its image settings.
Brightness
This projector delivers stunning picture quality and offers a bright, immersive viewing experience. This projector can easily display 4K content and full HD HDR images, and you can even use it to watch movies, sports, or play games. The laser array technology of this EPSON projector increases the projector’s brightness level and black density.
Pros
- Good brightness
- High image quality
- It comes with onboard streaming
Cons
- Fan is noisy
- It doesn’t display detailed images
- Missing some essential streaming applications
3. GT 1090HDR Short Throw Laser Projector by Optoma
This is a reasonably priced laser projector from Optoma, especially for individuals with a confined viewing space. This projector can easily display images and videos on a 120-inch screen, and you must place it approximately 4 feet away from the screen. The projector has a laser light source, enabling the device to emit sharp and crisp images.
The short throw, high contrast ratio, and extreme brightness make the Optoma GT 1090HDR a versatile laser projector that is perfect for gaming and viewing movies outdoors or indoors.
Design
This projector has a pair of HDMI input ports and one HDMI 2.2 and 1.4 port. The projector also supports HDCP. There are also an additional 2 USB ports, an Ethernet adapter (Rj-45), legacy PC interfaces (RS232 and VGA), in and out 3.5 mm audio jacks, and RCA composite inputs.
The four corner correction and keystone settings will enable you to adjust the pictures easily. This laser projector is dust resistant, ensuring the dust stays away from the internal contents of the projector. The dust resistance will also enhance the projector’s lifespan.
Quality
The GT 1090HDR is similar to GT 1080HDR because it can easily handle HDR and HDR10 input and can project images of 1080P resolution. However, the whites are bright, and blacks are deep, so if you are accustomed to watching Full HD or 4K TV, you will enjoy the viewing experience.
That being said, if you are a viewer that critically analyzes a projector, it would be better to invest in a true 4K laser projector rather than the GT 1090HDR. This projector has a 4-segment color wheel, which displays more than 1 billion colors on the screen, with the resulting consistency and picture quality at par with high-end laser projector brands.
Brightness
The Optoma GT 1090HDR laser projector is equipped with a DuraCore phosphor laser, which has a rating of 4200 ANSI lumens, making it one of the brightest projectors in the market. The contrast ratio of this laser projector is a whopping 300000:1, enabling the projector to display vibrant and detailed images in outdoor and indoor settings and ambient light or dark rooms.
Pros
- Low lag is perfect for gaming consoles
- High-quality brightness (4200 ANSI Lumens)
- Easy to setup
Cons
- Only 4K input, no 4K projection
- The lens doesn’t shift
- It can run hot while operating
4. CinemaX P2 White Smart 4K UHD Laser Projector by Optoma
This laser projector is a direct competitor of the BenQ V7050i and is perfect for casual viewing. While this projector, like the BenQ V7050i, is prone to showing rainbow artifacts, it can display good color accuracy. The rainbow artifacts are typically found in laser projectors and are rarely annoying.
For people who want to have a good viewing experience, the Optoma Cinema X P2 White laser projector is a good option. The projector can display a wide array of content, including 4K UHD content.
Design
This laser projector weighs up to 24.3 pounds and is available in two colors: black and white, and like most 4K UST laser projectors, it comes equipped with a laser-phosphor light. This light has a lifespan of 30,000 hours in the ECO mode and can run for 20,000 hours when the projector runs at full power.
This laser projector is fitted with a 1920 x 1080P pixel chip that, with the help of TI’s Fast-Switch pixel shift, displays 3840 x 2160 pixels. The recommended image size range for this projector is 85 to 120 inches.
Quality
This laser projector offers a contrast of 2000000:1 and is compatible with 4K HDR 10 and Ultra HD. The six-color wheel will enable you to experience enhanced brightness and richer colors. This projector will bring a cinema-like experience to your living room or bedroom and can maintain high picture quality throughout its life.
Brightness
This projector offers 5 predefined color modes for 1080P SDR content and also comes with a User mode, which has menu settings that will allow you to perform or tweak a full calibration. You can also choose the cinema mode, which delivers good picture quality and contrast. The cinema mode is also the darkest picture mode and shows great detail in a dark room.
Pros
- Laser-phosphor light source
- Good color management system
- 4K resolution
Cons
- Prone to rainbow artifacts
- It comes with only 3 HDMI ports that can support 4K
5. EF-100 Smart Streaming Laser Projector by EPSON
This is an impressive laser projector and comes in white and black colors. This EPSON EF-100 smart laser projector has a brightness rating of 2000 lumens, which is much better than most home laser projectors. The manufacturer calls this projector ‘Mini laser streaming projector,’ and the focus is on the streaming capabilities of the projector.
Design
The Epson HDMI Android TV dongle enables this projector to turn into Android TV. To set this device up, you need to connect the Android TV dongle to an HDMI cable at the back of the laser projector. You will also need to form a USB cable connection with the dongle and the projector by plugging in the cable in the USB-A port.
You will find the HDMI port at the end of the cable, which means the Android dongle can rest in a recessed area that is made to hold it. If you replace the back cover of the projector, it will hide the dongle and cables and enable the projector to fit any décor.
Quality
This high-quality laser projector comes with a high-quality audio-integrated sound system. Unlike other laser projectors in the market, the EPSON EF-100 comes with present tone settings and a stereo output connection of 3.5 mm. The projector can also display content on a wide array of screens and even a wall and works in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Brightness
Whether you want a projector compatible with a dongle or don’t care about the dongle, you should still consider buying this Epson projector. If you need 720P resolution, then this projector is perfect for you. However, if you want to display 1080P content, then it would be better to invest in a different laser projector.
Pros
- Laser light source
- Good brightness can work in ambient light
- 3-chip LCD engine removes rainbow artifacts
- Delivers equal white and color brightness
Cons
- It has only one HDMI port
- No HDR or 3D Support
- Low resolution compared to other laser projectors
Nova Short Throw Laser Projector by WEMAX
6. 120 Inch the Premier Ultra Short Throw 4K Smart Laser Projector by SAMSUNG
People who like to have their home cinema setup at home know the value of a true big TV screen. However, these individuals are also aware of the price of large TV screens. As soon as the screen size goes above 80 inches, the price increases substantially, which is why most people hardly go above 75 inches.
However, why invest in a TV screen when you can buy this quality Ultra Short Throw 4K Smart laser projector from SAMSUNG? While projectors aren’t exactly a perfect replacement for large TV screens, nor do they fit in living rooms, this projector is different.
This SAMSUNG projector is designed to deliver the best large-screen experience possible and comes with an affordable price tag.
Design
The design plays a usually big role in the appeal of this projector. The ultra-short-throw design emits pictures through a slot that is good enough to replace a TV screen. This enables you to place the projector against the screen or a wall so it can easily project all types of content. The crisp white finishing of the projector makes it perfect for a living room setting.
The connections of this laser projector are eye-catching, it carries 3 HDMI ports, and most laser projectors typically carry only 2 ports. Secondly, the projector comes with a Freeview HD tuner, which means you can receive and watch TV broadcasts easily. Lastly, the projectors have built-in WIFI, which can stream video through sources such as streaming applications.
Quality
The rear needs to be positioned against the wall and comes with a powerful speaker system. The speaker slot is big enough for SAMSUNG to put a 4.2 channel sound system fed by 40W of amplification. The projector also has a built-in Android TV software, which you can control with a remote controller.
In addition to the Android TV, the projector is also equipped with Google Assistant. This projector is compatible with several streaming apps such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, etc.
Brightness
The advanced 3LCD feature displays 100 % RGB colors for every picture frame. This feature enables the laser projector to enhance its color accuracy and maintain a high level of brightness. This projector has no color brightness or rainbow issues, and it can display content on a large 150-inch screen.
Pros
- Colorful and bright pictures
- Good smart system
- High-quality sound
Cons
- Setup is complicating
- Has rainbow effect
7. Nova Short Throw Laser Projector by WEMAX
This laser projector falls in the entry-level category but can project 4K content because it is a 4K resolution UHD laser projector. This device comes with integrated Android TV and delivers high-quality pictures. While the projector has no issues displaying Live TV or projecting streams, it stumbles a bit when showing content from DVDs.
Design
This WEMAX projector comes with a laser-phosphor light source and is equipped with a 1920 x 1080P DLP chip that projects 3840 x 2160 pixels through a TI fast chip. The life of the phosphor light source is expected to be long, over 25,000 hours in viewing mode.
The Nova Short Throw laser projector is both compact and lighter than its main competitors, and its dimensions are: 2.6 x 18.6 x 12.1 inches, weigh only 3.6 pounds, and is easy to set up. The projector offers HDMI connections for multiple devices and an Ethernet socket.
Quality
Not only is this projector good at projecting quality content, it also comes with enhanced sound, as it boasts powerful Dolby Digital 30W DTS High-Definition speakers. The maximum screen size for this projector is 150-inches, and it comes with eight-point keystone correction settings, which adjust and improve the pictures’ quality.
Brightness
Super-resolution is an understatement for this projector because it has 2100 brightness lumens and can display 4K UHD content. This projector is equipped with TI DLP and ALPD 3.0, an industry-leading and patented technology. This tech allows the projector to use the light efficiently and provide deep vibrance and a wider color gamut, which enhances the video resolution.
Pros
- UST lens
- Supports HDR10
- 3840 x 2160 (4K resolution)
- It uses fast-switch pixel shifting
Cons
- It doesn’t offer 3D support
- Limited image tweaking options
- Can have quality issues with 4K and 1080 discs
8. HF85LA 120-inch Full HD Laser Smart Home Projector
This is an updated version of the 2017 LG laser projector. This new laser projector by LG features enhanced visual processing abilities and smart new touches to give you a much better movie-watching experience. If you are setting up your home theater projector for the first time or looking for a laser projector upgrade, you can opt for the HF85la Laser Smart Home projector by LG.
While this projector is by no means perfect or the best laser projector on the market, there are many things about it that you will love.
Design
This LG HF85LA laser projector is equipped with wireless screen sharing and can easily connect to Android or IOS smartphone devices and project videos and images. The native 1080P HD resolution will bring the images to life, and the LG smartTV feature will give you access to a wide array of applications.
This projector is perfect for those with a confined space, and you can place it on a flat surface. However, this projector is not suitable for ceiling or angle mounting. Once you have chosen a spot for the projector, put it down and go to the entertainment center. Lastly, since this projector is Bluetooth-enabled, you can connect speakers or soundbars.
Quality
This projector has a lifespan of over 20,000 hours, and the powerful laser technology will enable the projector to provide a quality displays for a long period. This plug-and-play laser projector comes with a remote controller that will help you with navigation. While you can integrate the projector with a device wirelessly, an HDMI connection is also available.
Brightness
This laser projector offers 1080P native resolution and clear and sharp image quality. LG has vastly improved the optical engine of this projector and enhanced color accuracy. The contrast ratio has also increased, and the improved video processing capabilities use motion compensation and estimation to improve your viewing experience. The contrast ratio of this projector is 15000:1, and the brightness rating is 1500 ANSI lumens which will offer vivid and rich colors.
Pros
- Detail and sharp pictures
- It comes with built-in Bluetooth
- Equipped with Tru-motion technology
- Long lamp lifespan (20,000 hours)
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Low brightness
- Not compatible with wireless streaming and IOS devices
9. HZ39HDR Laser Home Theater Projector by Optoma
Many years ago, Laser home theater projectors came with hefty price tags; however, nowadays, you don’t have to waste thousands to get your hands on a quality laser projector because affordable projectors are easily available.
There is a lot to like about the Optoma HZ39HDR projector; it offers a contrast ratio of 300000:1, 4000 lumens of brightness, 1080P resolution, and a screen size of 27 to 300 inches. The dust resistance rating of this projector is high, so dust will not enter and disturb its internal contents.
Design
This user-friendly laser projector offers 1.3X zoom and focuses on the picture. The projector also offers a 30-degree keystone correction, a useful feature that you can use to adjust the projector’s focus. Since you can use it in any type of space.
This projector allows you to connect gaming consoles, 4k UHD HDR media players, and other sources. The projector is also compatible with APPLE TV 4k, Chromecast Ultra, and Fire Stick TV 4K.
Quality
The HZ39HDR Laser projector is equipped with HLG and HDR10 technologies, which give the picture deeper black and brighter white levels. This will enable you to project content in a living room, office, and bedroom and in indoor or outdoor settings. In addition, the DuraCore light can provide service for up to 30,000 hours.
Brightness
With the Optoma HZ39HDR, you will get standard HD resolution, which is not as sharp as 4K but is equal to the picture quality of TVs. The 300000:1 contrast ratio will ensure the dark parts of an image are just as sharp and detailed as bright whites and colors. This projector also offers 4000 lumens of brightness
Pros
- 30-degree vertical keystone correction
- 1.3 X zoom
- HLD and HDR10 color processing
- Support for 4K input
Cons
- Weak built-in speakers
- You can only pay for standard 1080P content
- Not good for confined spaces
What Is a Laser Projector?
A laser projector is a device that utilizes changing laser beams to create moving images for either professional or entertainment use. Laser projectors have a compartment that houses lasers, galvanometer scanners, mirrors, and other optical components. They can contain one light source for one color projection or up to three colors such as green, blue or red for full projection.
Laser projectors have brighter images with better colors and quality contrast. Compared to other projector types, Laser projectors have several advantages that a replacement lamp model does not have. For instance, it can project at full power and last for 10 years or more, with the lowest grade having up to 20,000 shelf life. This makes it an economical choice for professional use since it lasts much longer than replacement lamp projectors. The quality of images they project makes them the go-to project for those looking for a device that can help them project to a large audience.
How Do Laser Projectors Work?
A Laser projector works with a light source from a chip and is magnified by lenses to project an image on the screen. While a standard projector works with white light through a set of color filters to generate colorful images, a laser projector uses primary colors to produce less light.
Laser projectors replace the white light conventional projectors use with primarily color lasers and then diffuse the light. Once the light hits a chip, it is magnified and refocused by a set of lenses. The ideal lens system uses different colors like green, blue and red. However, very advanced models like RGB versions use blue light, the common version in the market.
The benefit of using a hybrid model is that it uses one color instead of three, and the light from this single color source is split into two beams. One beam converts into yellow or green light, producing three lights. The three light beams then combine inside a prism and lens before passing onto the LCoS, LCD, or DLP chip (Depending on which one your system has) and magnified for focus.
While many above-standard laser projectors work one way, some models work differently. They simply combine blue laser with red laser and then use a special phosphor to create green light from the color blue laser. In this case, less light is preserved, not wasted, and the only light produced is what is needed. The laser beams focus only in a single direction, so no light goes into transit and is lost.
So less energy is used to produce the same picture. Besides the fact that less energy is wasted, it also means that the device will produce less heat too. Lasers last longer than traditional bulbs because they take far less time to warm up.
What Are the Benefits of Laser?
Buying a laser projector comes with several benefits, and you can expect nothing less than peak performance and clear images at all times. Here are some of the benefits of using this type of projector.
Costs Less To Maintain
You should first know that laser projectors cost less to maintain, making them the best type of projector for business applications. Lasers are more economical than projector bulbs, which are very expensive and can be impacted due to different factors. If you go for a lamp replacement projector, you will have to replace the bulbs at some point, which will cost you a lot of money. Moreover, you can’t tell how long the bulbs will last.
Besides the cost, consider the effort you will need to put in to replace the bulb in your ceiling. With laser projectors, you don’t have to bother about this. When you also consider that traditional bulbs need time to warm up before they can produce white light to project images, you will agree that going for a laser projector is a no-brainer. You don’t suffer any stress associated with traditional projectors, but you get more value for your investment.
Energy Efficient
Laser projectors are energy efficient. They don’t use bulbs to create images in a two-step process and don’t take time to transmit the light to the DLP or LCD panel for light manipulation. Laser projectors work directly to produce images leading to less energy waste. It doesn’t produce white light, some of which will be wasted during image display.
You should also know that traditional projector bulbs can get very hot after working for a very long time and require fans to cool the temperature. The excess energy produced and the fans consume more energy. However, laser projectors are power efficient as they use significantly less energy with very little waste to project brightness, contrast, and overall better images. This means you can enjoy using it for hours and not worry about spiking your energy bills.
Throw Distance
When we talk about the value of projectors, you can’t but talk about throw distance. But what does it means? Throw distance is the distance between the lens and the projector screen. The size of the images you see on the screen should determine where you place the projector in the room. If you intend to mount it on the screen, you should measure this distance properly; otherwise, the images you see will be too small if the distance is too much.
The good news is that laser projectors have an extremely short throw. That can work in almost any room size and can even be placed on a table close to the screen m some can even produce images of about 120-inch it, as little as 8 inches away from the screen. This makes them highly functional projectors for all interior applications.
Better Images
Laser projectors just have better overall image quality and are a far better upgrade compared to other types of old-school projectors. You get to enjoy high-quality visuals because they rely not on bulbs but on a laser. And we do know that lasers produce better images with a wide color gamut. So therefore, if you want to enjoy clear images, buying a laser version is a no-brainer.
The blacks that produce are rich, and so are other vibrant colors. The contrast is also much better because they produce their colors directly, unlike traditional bulb-based projectors that filter colors from white light, which can affect contrast quality. In a nutshell, lasers produce light directly and have brighter and richer contrast and images.
Lifespan
Another benefit of laser projectors is the lifespan they possess. While the average lifespan of a traditional projector is 2000 hours, a laser projector has about 20000 hours. This significant difference makes it a worthy investment if you are looking for something that will last a very long time. Although they are more expensive, the good news is that you get value for your money.
Imagine using the same device and enjoying the same quality projection for years and not having to worry about replacing any component like a bulb? That’s indeed a device worth buying and keeping.
How to Choose a Laser Projector?
Laser projectors are undoubtedly very good, so if you had to choose between one and a traditional replacement lamp projector, you would go for the former. But what if you had to pick from a list of different laser projectors? How do you know which one to go for?
Please read our guide to know how to pick a very good projector for business or private use.
Projector Type
The first question you should ask is which one I should buy? Scanning online stores will find different types of laser projectors ranging from portable to desktop versions. Both versions are very good but designed for different environments and applications. Some are meant for larger rooms, while others are meant for smaller rooms. Let’s review both.
Portable Projector
A portable projector is meant for ceilings or walls and is often bigger and heavier, but they produce extremely bright pictures. Portable projectors can be moved easily from one spot to another or from one room to the next. A portable projector is the better option if the space is compact or small, like a classroom or a meeting room. They are easy to maintain, and most have up to 5000 Lumens for better contrast and brightness.
Desktop Projector
If you wish to use it in a large hall like a church, theater or conference room, a desktop Projector is the one you should buy. They have a standard throw, but before you buy this one, here are some factors to consider.
Number of people: How many people will you broadcast to? If there will be more people in the room, you need to consider going for a larger picture size. Remember, the size and image distance matter greatly in large rooms since a wider distance ensures that luminosity decreases as light travels from the projector to the screen.
1-20 people: For a room that will occupy up to 20 people, a laser projector with 3000-3500lm is fine with a 1.5-2.2 throw ratio. This dimension is suitable for meeting rooms and classrooms.
21-50 people: For medium-sized rooms that will house up to 50 participants, a laser projector with 5000lm is the model to buy. Consider going for one with a high resolution for sharper images.
51-100 people: For larger rooms with up to 100 people, you need an ultra-bright laser projector with a bare minimum of 5000lm and above for increased brightness and image clarity. If you want one for a business application and you will be projecting to a large crowd, you need a model with a high luminosity of 13000ml.
Brightness and Contrast Ratio
Another thing you should consider when shopping for a laser projector is the room brightness level. This will depend on the natural and artificial lighting conditions. You need an extremely bright laser projector if the room has brighter ambient lighting. There are two things you should consider when deciding on brightness;
Lumens and Ambient Light: For home cinemas with minimal lighting, 1500 lumens is fine. But you need at least 3000lm for a better contrast for business settings with significant ambient light. Your audience will see the displayed images if the Lumens are high enough.
Contrast and Ambient Light: The contrast ratio is another thing to consider. A standard contrast ratio of 3000:1 is suitable for normal rooms with ambient light. Still, for artificial or daylight conditions, you will need at least a contrast ratio of 5000:1. If the contrast is high, the images will appear sharp and natural.
Purpose
What do you want to use the laser projector for? The content you will display often should determine the resolution needed. The resolution required for video is not the same as required for graphics and charts. Here are the different types of resolutions for diverse applications.
WXGA
This type is ideal for presentations since you can stream from your computer to show tables, graphs, and numerical data. WXGA produces detail-packed images with stable colors and rich images. The average WXGA uses 1200×800 pixels with at least 80% 1080p quality. This type is best for educational presentations.
WUXGA
This type is meant for technical data with smaller texts and professional photography. They have 1920×1200 resolution and produce more brightness in full HD. WUXGA is best for professional and business presentations.
Native 4K
Native 4K laser projectors are for larger halls and are the standard projectors you see at cinemas. They work with 4096x2160p for higher contrast, better images, and seamless image projection. They are far more expensive and are mostly used for video content.
As you can see, these resolutions are used for different purposes, so it is up to you to determine your choice based on what you want to use it for.
Extra Features
What extra features do you want? Laser Projectors differ based on their features, and the more features it has, the better the output. Here are some features to consider.
Edge Bending: Edge bending and warping create seamless images from multiple projectors. If you want a super-sized display, you may look for a model with this feature.
Intelligent Settings: the intelligent settings optimize color, brightness, and other settings automatically when the projector is working. If you buy a projector with this feature, you don’t have to manually change the settings all the time.
Interchangeable Lenses: If you use the laser projector for different rooms of different sizes and ambient light, you want a model that will work in almost any condition. Consider a model with interchangeable lenses, so you don’t have to worry about space constraints.
Laser Projector FAQs
Are Laser Projectors Dangerous?
Not at all. Laser projectors don’t pose any dangers to users. But there are side effects you should be aware of. Staring directly into the lens for a long time can affect your eyesight quality, but the same is the case with other types of projectors. Laser projectors are very bright, damaging your vision if you view videos at extreme brightness for hours.
How Long Do Laser Projectors Last?
A laser projector is one of the best models with an extended shelf life. A standard laser projector has a 20,000 hours lifespan compared to a lamp projector with not more than 2500 hours. You also don’t need to change bulbs since lasers come with a permanent lighting source that can last for years without a need for future replacements.
Are Laser Projectors Quieter?
Laser projectors don’t make too much noise. The dB sound rating of laser projectors is far lower than that of a DLP projector. Since they do not use big fans for cooling, the sound the engine makes when it is working is barely audible. You can watch movies in your home at a reduced volume and not hear the engine.
Do Laser Projectors Get Hot?
They may get hot after running for several hours but never as hot as lamp projectors. Laser projectors use LEDs that do not generate too much heat and consume less electricity. Due to their LED light source, they don’t generate as much heat.
Can You Mount a Laser Projector on the Ceiling?
Yes, you can, but a ceiling mount may not be the best for your laser projector. Laser projectors for homes have a short throw, so they are best installed close to the screen, not far from it. You may not enjoy the best image quality if you install yours onto the ceiling. Endeavor to check the throw distance before deciding on a permanent position for your Laser projector.
Laser Projector Vs. DLP Projector
DLP projectors are very good, and we’re among the first projectors to be released to the market for private use. But how does a DLP compare to a Laser? Let’s see their pros and cons.
Laser projector pros
A laser projector will offer crystal clear and ultra-bright video projection, especially if the lens is of high quality. It is durable and will last for years too. An average laser projector has up to 20,000 hours of operational life. When compared to bulb projectors, they stand out for quality and operability. They don’t take time to warm up before working.
Laser projector cons
A laser projector is very expensive, and only a few people can afford it. It is not a practical model for home use. However, the picture quality and lifespan justify the price.
DLP projector pros
A DLP projector works well in low light conditions and has a very bright output, and the color accuracy is great and offers viewers a great viewing experience of 60 seconds per frame. Furthermore, DLP projectors are affordable, so you can get one on a low budget.
DLP projectors cons
DLP projectors suffer from rainbow effects that affect image quality from time to time. Colors may appear on the screen soon after an image disappears, which can ruin your viewing experience. Despite their cheapness, they have a limited shelf life of about 2000-2500 hours.
Laser vs. DLP comparison
Laser projectors have certain advantages over DLP projectors. For starters, they are energy efficient and don’t consume too much power. Secondly, they are far brighter than DLP projectors. You spend less time and resources on maintenance because laser models do not use replaceable bulbs like DLP models. Lastly, Laser projectors have a much longer shelf life. Despite being the more expensive model, you get what you pay for in terms of quality, efficiency, and longevity.
Laser Projector Vs. TV
Which is better, a laser projector or a TV set? If you had the resources to afford both, which one should you buy if you had to pick only one? There isn’t a straightforward answer since we all have our preferences, but here is how they stack up against each other.
Size
Projectors once dominated the size competition because they had a bigger screen, and we love to watch movies and TV shows on mega screens, right? However, all that changed with the invention of HD television sets with big screens. Today there are TV sets with 85-inch screens and above. So the advantage projectors once had is a thing of the past. However, the size competition is still on the side of projectors because they still have much larger screens than TVs but only just.
Brightness
Brightness is a big deal when it comes to screens. The brighter the screen, the better the images. However, brightness is not only down to the screen but the ambient light in the room. If the room has more light, you will need a brighter screen. But screen brightness drives up the cost of projectors in general. For instance, a laser projector with 3000 lumens will cost more than another model with 2000 lumens brightness.
TVs are also capable of immense brightness, but their brightness is measured in units, not lumens. Tvs don’t have to consume more energy to produce brightness the way a projector will. This means you can get the same brightness value from a Tv at a lower price and less running cost. In this category, Tvs have the edge.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio is what defines the whiteness and brightness of the screen. A projector can be rated for its contrast ratio by looking at the lumens ratings. Besides, you can also use these metrics to determine how dark the room can get before it affects brightness quality. Laster projectors have extremely good contrast, like HD television with relatively high adjustable contrast. For contrast comparison, there is no clear winner between a laser projector and a modern TV.
Resolution
Which has the better resolution output? Not all TVs have high resolution, but 4k and HD sets do, depending on the type of television in question. But the price of these advanced TVs is astronomical. Laser projector costs are not far behind but cannot measure up to 4k or HD television sets.
When you factor in accuracy, Installation, and ease of use, among other factors, laser projectors lag behind advanced television technology. But the final word is yours. A laser should be the ideal gadget if you want the device for business or education presentations. Television sets are essential for home entertainment.
Laser Projector Vs. LED Projector
Brightness
Laser projectors produce more brightness than LED projectors. The average Laser projector has about 3500 lumens, while a LED projector has 2000 lumens. So if you had to decide based on screen brightness alone, a laser projector should be the better option. Also, the ambient light in a room affects LED projectors more than Laser projectors.
Cost
LED projectors cost less than Laser projectors, making them affordable for home use. Laser projectors, on the other hand, are far more expensive and well beyond the budget of most buyers.
Lifespan
The LED projector has an average of 10,000-20,000 hours of life, while a laser projector has roughly 30,000 hours and above. This implies that if you buy both and use them at a similar rate, the laser will outlive the LED model.
Portability
Laser projectors are heavy and not easy to move around, unlike LED projectors that are lighter. Portable laser projectors are still much heavier than portable LED versions.
Rainbow Effect
Rainbow effects are delayed color lags that affect image quality. This effect is common with DLP projectors but occasionally occurs in laser projectors. LED projectors don’t experience rainbow effects because they use separate primary colors for each panel.
Laser Projector Vs. 4k Projector
Which is better, a Laser projector or a 4k projector?
Brightness
Both laser and 4k projectors are extremely bright. Laser projectors tend to win the brightness contest against other projector models. Still, advanced 4K models can match the 3500 lumens that lasers have, and some have higher lumens than laser projectors.
Lifespan
They both have an extended shelf life of 30,000 hours and above. Investing in either is money well spent as you stand to enjoy them for many years to come.
Color accuracy
4K projectors produce high-definition, picture-perfect images that laser projectors cannot match. Furthermore, 4K projectors do not suffer from the rainbow effect like laser projectors. Their color accuracy is top-notch and delivers crystal clear images.
Cost
Laser projectors may be expensive, but they don’t cost as much as 4K projectors. 4k devices have smart features that drive their prices up.
While 4K may be the better option, they are preferable for home entertainment and dark rooms. Let your purpose guide your decision when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
In this article, we discussed in detail the 10 best laser projectors available in the market. We went through different aspects of each projector and discussed the pros and cons. However, two projectors on the list offer unmatched quality:
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