Choosing Between Today's Top Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors

When it comes to creating a true home theater experience, Ultra Short Throw (UST) laser projectors have revolutionized what's possible. Two standout options released in 2023 are the $2,997 Hisense PX2-PRO and the $3,699 Formovie 4K Max. Let's dive into what makes these projectors special and help you decide which one best fits your needs.

The Evolution of UST Projectors

UST technology has come a long way in recent years. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, these units can create massive images from just inches away. This breakthrough has made proper home theater setups possible even in smaller rooms.

Both the Hisense PX2-PRO and Formovie 4K Max represent the latest generation of this technology, featuring triple laser light sources that produce incredibly vibrant colors and impressive brightness levels.

Picture Quality Deep Dive

Brightness and Ambient Light Handling

The Formovie takes the lead in raw brightness with 3,000 ANSI lumens compared to Hisense's 2,400. What does this mean in real-world use? The extra brightness makes a noticeable difference in rooms with ambient light, particularly during daytime viewing. The Formovie can maintain punchy, vibrant images even with some lights on, while the Hisense performs best in more controlled lighting conditions.

Color Accuracy and Range

Both projectors utilize triple laser technology, but their implementations differ:

• The Hisense TriChroma system achieves 107% of the BT.2020 color space, which is impressive considering this is the widest color standard currently available. This means it can display more colors than most content even contains.
• Formovie's ALPD 4.0 RGB+ technology focuses on contrast and color accuracy, achieving a 3,000:1 native contrast ratio that helps create more depth in dark scenes.

In practice, both projectors deliver stunning color reproduction, though the Hisense has a slight edge in absolute color range while the Formovie produces better contrast in challenging scenes.

Smart Features and Usability

The Hisense PX2-PRO comes with Google TV built-in, offering a more polished and user-friendly experience than Formovie's Android TV implementation. The inclusion of native Netflix support on the Hisense is a significant advantage - the Formovie requires an external streaming device for Netflix, which adds complexity and cost.

Setup and Calibration

Both projectors offer automatic geometric correction, but Hisense's system is more refined. It uses your smartphone to analyze and adjust the image, making initial setup considerably easier. The Formovie requires more manual adjustment but offers more granular control for enthusiasts who want to perfect every aspect of the image.

Gaming Performance

For gamers, both projectors support 4K/60Hz gaming, but there are important differences:

• Hisense offers lower input lag (around 30ms)
• Formovie provides better motion handling through MEMC (Motion Estimation Motion Compensation)
• Both support ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)

The Hisense is the better choice for competitive gamers, while the Formovie might appeal more to those who prioritize motion clarity in single-player experiences.

Audio Solutions

Built-in audio has traditionally been a weak point for projectors, but both units show significant improvement:

• Formovie partners with Bowers & Wilkins for a 40W system
• Hisense provides a 30W Dolby Atmos setup

While the Formovie's audio is noticeably better, most users will want to pair either projector with a proper sound system for the full home theater experience.

Value and Long-term Considerations

The $701 price difference between these projectors requires careful consideration. The Formovie's higher brightness and contrast ratio may justify the premium for some users, particularly those with challenging room conditions. However, the Hisense's more polished smart features and easier setup make it the better value for most users.

Laser light sources in both projectors are rated for approximately 25,000 hours of use, meaning they should last over a decade with typical use. This longevity helps justify the investment compared to traditional lamp-based projectors.

How to Decide

Choose the Hisense PX2-PRO if:

• You want the best value for money
• Your viewing room has good light control
• You prefer an integrated streaming solution
• Gaming responsiveness is a priority
• Easier setup is important to you

Choose the Formovie 4K Max if:

• You need maximum brightness for daytime viewing
• You want the largest possible screen size (up to 150")
• Superior contrast is worth the premium price
• You're willing to use external streaming devices
• Audio quality is a priority

Final Thoughts

Both projectors represent excellent choices in the UST category, with the decision largely coming down to your specific needs and budget. The Hisense offers tremendous value and easier everyday use, while the Formovie provides superior peak performance for those willing to pay for it.

For most users, I'd recommend the Hisense PX2-PRO - its combination of features, performance, and value is hard to beat. However, if you're building a dedicated home theater room and want the absolute best image quality regardless of cost, the Formovie 4K Max is worth the premium.

Remember to factor in the cost of a proper UST-specific screen and sound system when budgeting for either projector - these additional components are crucial for getting the best possible experience from these impressive devices.

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

Formovie 4K Max Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices