Choosing Between Hisense's Latest Laser Projectors: A Complete Guide

Today we're diving deep into two impressive ultra short throw laser projectors from Hisense - the more affordable PL1 and the premium PX2-PRO. Both launched in 2023 as part of Hisense's push to bring theater-like experiences into more homes. As someone who's spent considerable time with laser projectors, I'm excited to help you understand the key differences and decide which might be right for your setup.

Understanding Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors

Before we dive into the specifics, let's quickly cover what makes these projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, ultra short throw (UST) projectors can create massive images from just inches away. They use advanced lens systems and laser light sources instead of traditional lamps, offering better color, longer life, and instant on/off capability.

Both these models represent the latest in UST technology, using sophisticated laser systems to produce bright, colorful images up to 120-130 inches diagonal. Think of them as alternatives to giant TVs, but with some unique advantages and considerations.

Image Quality Deep Dive

The most noticeable difference between the PL1 and PX2-PRO is their light engine technology. The PL1 uses what Hisense calls X-Fusion, which is essentially a blue laser with a phosphor wheel that creates other colors. It's proven technology that works well, producing 2,200 lumens of brightness and covering about 85% of the DCI-P3 color space (the standard used for digital cinema).

The PX2-PRO steps things up with TriChroma technology, using three separate lasers (red, green, and blue) to create colors directly. This more sophisticated approach delivers 2,400 lumens and covers an impressive 107% of the BT.2020 color space - which is actually wider than what most content is mastered in. In practical terms, this means the PX2-PRO can produce more vibrant, accurate colors, especially noticeable in HDR content.

Real-world Performance

In typical living room lighting, both projectors perform admirably. I've found the PL1's 2,200 lumens sufficient for casual viewing with some ambient light, though you'll want to control lighting for the best experience. The PX2-PRO's extra 200 lumens helps marginally, but the bigger difference comes from its superior color handling.

When watching HDR movies, the PX2-PRO's advantage becomes more apparent. Its TriChroma system can better reproduce subtle color gradations and extreme highlights, making scenes pop with more naturalism. The PL1 still produces beautiful images, but side-by-side, you can spot the difference in color richness and accuracy.

Installation and Setup

Both projectors use similar ultra short throw ratios, meaning they need to sit about 4-15 inches from your wall or screen depending on desired image size. The PL1 handles 80-120 inch images, while the PX2-PRO extends this to 90-130 inches.

A neat feature both share is automatic geometric correction using your smartphone's camera. This makes initial setup much easier than traditional projectors, though I still recommend taking time to get the placement exactly right for the best image quality.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Hisense equipped both models with Google TV, which I find more intuitive than the older Android TV system. You get access to all major streaming services and can use Google Assistant for voice control. Both include three HDMI 2.1 ports, supporting modern gaming features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

The built-in 30-watt Dolby Atmos sound systems are identical between models. They're fine for casual viewing but, given the premium nature of these projectors, I'd recommend pairing them with a proper sound system for the full home theater experience.

Gaming Performance

Both the PL1 and PX2-PRO offer similar gaming performance with input lag around 30-35ms in game mode. This isn't as low as the best gaming TVs but is perfectly serviceable for most games. The PX2-PRO's better color handling gives it a slight edge for HDR games, but the core gaming experience is comparable.

Value Consideration

At $2,497.97, the PL1 represents excellent value for most users. It delivers 90% of the PX2-PRO's performance at a significantly lower price point. The PX2-PRO at $2,997.97 justifies its premium mainly through superior color performance and slightly larger maximum screen size.

Long-term Ownership

Both projectors use laser light sources rated for 25,000 hours of use. At 4 hours per day, that's over 17 years of viewing. Neither should require maintenance beyond occasional cleaning, making them cost-effective alternatives to traditional lamp-based projectors.

How to Decide

Choose the PL1 if:

• You want excellent picture quality without breaking the bank
• Your viewing space suits screens up to 120 inches
• You mainly watch standard content like streaming shows and sports
• Color accuracy is important but not critical

Choose the PX2-PRO if:

• You're a video enthusiast who appreciates ultimate color accuracy
• You watch lots of 4K HDR content
• Your space can accommodate screens up to 130 inches
• The $500 premium fits your budget

Final Thoughts

After spending time with both projectors, I find the PL1 offers remarkable value for most users. Its picture quality is excellent, and most viewers would be hard-pressed to spot its limitations without a direct comparison. However, if you're building a dedicated home theater or are particularly sensitive to color accuracy, the PX2-PRO's superior color performance and slightly higher brightness make it worth the extra investment.

Remember that either projector will benefit greatly from a proper screen and some level of light control. While they can work in bright rooms, you'll get the best experience in controlled lighting conditions, especially for HDR content.

In the few months since their release, both models have proven reliable, with firmware updates improving their smart features and performance. They represent the current state of the art in consumer UST projectors, making either one a solid choice for creating a theater-like experience at home.

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