Choosing Between Top Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors: A Detailed Comparison

In late 2021, both Hisense PL1 ($2,497.97) and VAVA Chroma ($3,599) entered the ultra short throw (UST) laser projector market, offering compelling alternatives to traditional large TVs. Let's dive deep into how these projectors compare and which might be right for your setup.

Understanding UST Laser Projectors

Unlike traditional projectors that need significant distance from the screen, UST projectors sit just inches from your wall. Using advanced optics and laser light sources, they can create massive images from very close distances. This technology has revolutionized home theater setups, especially for those wanting 100"+ screens without ceiling mounting or complex installation.

The key advantage of laser light sources over traditional bulbs is their consistency and longevity - both projectors offer around 25,000 hours of use without significant brightness degradation. That's about 17 years of watching 4 hours daily!

Image Quality Deep Dive

Brightness and Room Lighting

The VAVA Chroma edges out the Hisense PL1 in brightness (2500 vs 2200 ANSI lumens). In practical terms, this means the Chroma performs better in rooms with some ambient light. I've found that both projectors work well in controlled lighting, but the Chroma's extra brightness provides more flexibility for casual viewing with some lights on.

ANSI lumens, unlike marketing lumens, represent standardized brightness measurements you can actually rely on. Think of it like comparing true horsepower versus theoretical engine output.

Color Performance

Here's where things get interesting. The Chroma uses a triple laser system (separate red, green, and blue lasers) to achieve an impressive 106% of the Rec.2020 color space. The PL1 uses a single blue laser with a phosphor wheel, covering about 90% of the smaller DCI-P3 color space.

In everyday viewing:

• Chroma produces more vibrant, saturated colors
• PL1 offers more accurate, cinema-like color reproduction
• Both handle skin tones well, but the PL1 tends to look more natural

HDR Processing

The PL1's support for Dolby Vision gives it a significant advantage in HDR content. Dolby Vision provides dynamic scene-by-scene optimization, while the Chroma's HDR10+ support, while good, doesn't quite match up in real-world viewing. When watching complex HDR scenes (think sunsets or dark scenes with bright highlights), the PL1's handling feels more refined.

Real-World Performance

Gaming Experience

Both projectors handle 4K/60Hz gaming well, but there are important differences:

• PL1 offers lower input lag in game mode
• Chroma provides smoother motion handling
• Both support auto low-latency mode (ALLM)

For casual gaming, either projector works great. Competitive gamers might prefer the PL1's lower latency.

Home Theater Performance

In a dedicated home theater setting, both projectors shine but in different ways:

The PL1 excels with:

• More accurate color reproduction
• Better dark scene handling
• Superior HDR processing through Dolby Vision

The Chroma stands out for:

• Brighter overall image
• Larger maximum screen size (150" vs 120")
• More powerful built-in audio

Sound System Comparison

The Chroma's 60W Harman Kardon speakers outperform the PL1's 30W Dolby Atmos system in terms of raw power and clarity. However, in a proper home theater setup, you'll likely use external speakers anyway. The PL1's Dolby Atmos support becomes more valuable when connected to a compatible sound system.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both projectors offer smart TV platforms, but their approaches differ:

PL1:

• Google TV interface
• Better app support
• More polished user experience
• Limited to 2 HDMI ports

Chroma:

• Android TV with Alexa support
• More customization options
• Occasionally laggy interface
• More generous port selection

Technical Evolution Since Release

Since their late 2021 debut, both projectors have received firmware updates improving their performance:

The PL1 has seen:

• Enhanced HDR processing
• Improved gaming mode performance
• Better auto-calibration features

The VAVA Chroma received:

• Better color accuracy
• Improved motion handling
• Enhanced smart features

Value Consideration

When considering value, it's important to look at the total package:

PL1 at $2,497:

• Excellent picture quality
• Dolby Vision support
• More accurate colors
• Limited to 120" maximum size

Chroma at $3,599:

• Superior brightness
• Larger possible image size
• Better built-in audio
• Wider color gamut

How to Decide

Choose the PL1 if you:

• Want the best value for money
• Prefer accurate, cinema-like colors
• Watch lots of Dolby Vision content
• Have a controlled lighting environment
• Don't need larger than 120" screen

Choose the Chroma if you:

• Need maximum brightness
• Want the largest possible image
• Prefer vibrant, punchy colors
• Have a larger budget
• Need powerful built-in audio

Final Thoughts

Both the Hisense PL1 and VAVA Chroma represent excellent choices in the UST projector market, but they serve slightly different needs. The PL1 offers tremendous value and excellent picture quality, making it my general recommendation for most users. However, if you need the extra brightness and screen size of the Chroma and don't mind paying the premium, it's also a fantastic choice.

Remember that proper screen selection and room setup are crucial for either projector. A good ALR (ambient light rejecting) screen will significantly improve performance, especially in rooms with ambient light.

Consider your specific viewing environment, content preferences, and budget when making your final decision. Both projectors will provide years of enjoyable big-screen entertainment when properly set up and matched to your viewing needs.

Hisense PL1 Laser Cinema Projector Deals and Prices

VAVA Chroma Triple Laser Projector Deals and Prices