Choosing Between Today's Top Ultra Short Throw 4K Projectors

When it comes to creating a true home theater experience without dedicating an entire room to a traditional projector setup, ultra short throw (UST) projectors have revolutionized what's possible. Today, we're comparing two leading options: the Hisense PX2-PRO ($2,997.97) and the AWOL Vision LTV-2500 ($2,999), both released in 2022 and representing the current state of the art in UST technology.

Understanding Ultra Short Throw Technology

Before diving into the specifics, let's understand what makes UST projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit 10-15 feet from the screen, UST projectors use advanced lens designs to create large images from just inches away. This means you can place them in a TV stand and project upward onto your wall or screen, making them perfect for modern living spaces.

Both the PX2-PRO and LTV-2500 use triple laser technology, which represents a significant advancement over traditional lamp-based projectors. These lasers provide more accurate colors, instant on/off capability, and much longer lifespans - typically 25,000 hours or more.

Picture Quality Deep Dive

Brightness and Room Lighting

The PX2-PRO's 2400 ANSI lumens versus the LTV-2500's 2000 ANSI lumens (2600 peak) makes a noticeable difference in real-world use. For context, ANSI lumens are a standardized measurement of brightness, and this difference means the PX2-PRO maintains better image quality in rooms with some ambient light. If you're planning to watch during daytime or in a room that isn't completely dark, this extra brightness matters.

Color Performance

Both projectors cover approximately 107% of the BT.2020 color space, which is impressive. BT.2020 is the widest color standard currently in use, and covering more than 100% means these projectors can reproduce virtually any color in modern content. The triple laser technology in both units ensures colors stay consistent over time, unlike traditional bulb projectors that can shift as they age.

HDR Processing

Here's where we see some meaningful differences. The PX2-PRO includes Dolby Vision support, which provides dynamic HDR adjustment scene-by-scene. The LTV-2500 supports HDR10+ but lacks Dolby Vision. In practical terms, Dolby Vision can provide better contrast and color in supported content, though both projectors handle HDR content well.

Gaming Performance

For gamers, input lag (the time between pressing a button and seeing the result on screen) is crucial. The LTV-2500 excels here with just 15ms lag at 4K/60Hz and an impressive 8ms at 1080p/120Hz. The PX2-PRO's 30-35ms lag isn't bad, but competitive gamers will notice the difference.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Operating System

The PX2-PRO's Google TV interface provides a more modern, intuitive experience compared to the LTV-2500's Android 9.0. Google TV offers better content recommendations and a more polished user experience. It's similar to what you'd find on current high-end smart TVs.

Connectivity

Both projectors offer similar connectivity with multiple HDMI ports supporting modern gaming consoles and streaming devices. The PX2-PRO includes HDMI 2.1 ports, which is slightly more future-proof for gaming and high-bandwidth content.

Installation and Setup

Ease of Setup

The Hisense PX2-PRO has a clear advantage with its auto geometric correction feature, which uses your smartphone to automatically adjust the image geometry. The AWOL LTV-2500 requires manual adjustment, though once set up, both projectors maintain their alignment well.

Screen Size Flexibility

The LTV-2500 offers more flexibility with its 80-150 inch range compared to the PX2-PRO's 90-130 inches. This could be important depending on your room size and viewing preferences.

Audio Capabilities

While both projectors include built-in sound systems (30W for PX2-PRO, 36W for LTV-2500), neither replaces a dedicated home theater audio setup. However, they're both adequate for casual viewing, with the LTV-2500 having a slight edge in power output.

Special Features

3D Capability

The LTV-2500 supports 3D content, which might be important for some users. The PX2-PRO doesn't offer this feature, reflecting a broader industry trend away from 3D content.

Motion Handling

Both projectors handle motion well, but the LTV-2500's lower input lag suggests better processing capabilities for fast-moving content.

Value and Long-Term Considerations

At essentially the same price point ($2,999), the choice comes down to specific needs:

• For mixed-use rooms: The PX2-PRO's higher brightness makes it more versatile
• For dedicated theater rooms: Either projector performs excellently
• For gaming: The LTV-2500's lower input lag gives it an edge
• For streaming: The PX2-PRO's Google TV interface is superior

Home Theater Integration

In a dedicated home theater setting, both projectors excel but in different ways. The PX2-PRO's Dolby Vision support and higher brightness make it slightly better for movie viewing, while the LTV-2500's gaming performance and 3D support offer more versatility.

How to Decide

Consider these key factors when choosing:

1. Room Conditions
   • Bright room: Choose the PX2-PRO
2. Dedicated theater: Either works well
3. Mixed-use space: PX2-PRO has the edge
4. Primary Use
   • Movies/streaming: PX2-PRO
5. Gaming: LTV-2500
6. Mixed use: Depends on gaming priority
7. Installation Requirements
   • Limited space: Both work well
8. Need auto-setup: PX2-PRO
9. Want larger screen options: LTV-2500
10. Feature Priorities
    • Smart TV features: PX2-PRO
11. 3D capability: LTV-2500
12. Gaming performance: LTV-2500
13. HDR quality: PX2-PRO

Technical Evolution

Since their 2022 release, both projectors have maintained competitive positions in the market. The PX2-PRO and LTV-2500 represent the current sweet spot of UST technology, offering excellent performance without the premium pricing of flagship models. Their triple laser systems and advanced processing capabilities continue to compete well with newer releases, though we're seeing some 2023-2024 models push brightness levels higher.

The biggest advancement since release has been in software updates, with both manufacturers improving HDR handling and smart features. The PX2-PRO has particularly benefited from Google TV platform updates, while the LTV-2500 has received gaming optimization improvements.

For most users, I recommend the PX2-PRO for its superior brightness, Dolby Vision support, and better smart platform. However, if gaming performance is a priority or you need 3D support, the LTV-2500 makes an excellent choice. Both represent strong value in the UST projector market and will serve well as the centerpiece of a modern home theater setup.

Hisense PX2-PRO TriChroma 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Cinema Projector with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, & Google TV Deals and Prices

AWOL Vision LTV-2500 Ultra Short Throw 4K Projector Deals and Prices