Choosing Between Top Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors: A Complete Guide

Over the past few years, Ultra Short Throw (UST) laser projectors have revolutionized home theater setups. These impressive devices can create massive screens up to 130 inches while sitting just inches from your wall. Today, we're comparing two leading options: the Hisense PX2-PRO ($2,997) and LG CineBeam HU915QB ($2,739).

Understanding the Technology

UST projectors use advanced optics and laser light sources to project images from a very short distance. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, these units can create huge images from just 4-8 inches away. This is perfect for modern homes where mounting a projector on the ceiling isn't practical or desired.

Both projectors use triple laser technology, which means they have separate red, green, and blue lasers instead of a single light source with a color wheel. This results in better color accuracy and brightness than conventional projectors.

Picture Quality Deep Dive

Brightness and Room Considerations

The LG HU915QB offers 3000 ANSI lumens compared to the PX2-PRO's 2400 ANSI lumens. While both are bright enough for most rooms, this difference matters in spaces with ambient light. ANSI lumens are a standardized measurement of actual brightness output, unlike marketing "LED lumens" that can be misleading.

In real-world use, the LG's extra brightness provides more punch in scenes with bright highlights, especially when watching HDR content. However, both projectors perform best in rooms where you can control the lighting - think basement home theaters or rooms with good blackout curtains.

Color Performance

The color technology in both projectors is impressive, but they take slightly different approaches:

• The Hisense PX2-PRO covers 107% of the BT.2020 color space (the widest standard for digital video)
• The LG HU915QB achieves 100% of the DCI-P3 space (the current standard for digital cinema)

In practical terms, both deliver outstanding color accuracy. The Hisense technically covers a wider range of colors, but you'd be hard-pressed to notice the difference in regular viewing.

Contrast and Black Levels

This is where the LG pulls ahead. Its 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, combined with sophisticated laser dimming, produces deeper blacks and better shadow detail. The Hisense still performs well, but in dark scenes, the LG's superior contrast becomes noticeable.

Smart Features and Usability

The Hisense PX2-PRO runs Google TV, providing access to thousands of apps and integrated Google Assistant. The interface is snappy, and native Netflix support means no external streaming device is needed. Voice control works well for finding content or adjusting settings.

The LG's WebOS platform is more limited, but some users prefer its simplicity. If you're already planning to use an Apple TV, Roku, or other streaming device, the LG's basic smart features won't be a limitation.

Gaming Performance

If you're planning to game on your projector, the Hisense has a clear advantage. Its 30-35ms input lag in game mode is noticeably better than the LG's performance. While neither matches the ultra-low latency of gaming monitors, the Hisense is perfectly suitable for casual gaming.

Installation and Setup

Both projectors include automatic geometric correction to help align the image with your screen or wall. The Hisense offers a particularly clever phone-based calibration system that makes initial setup easier.

Key installation considerations:

• Both need about 4-8 inches from the wall
• Proper height placement is crucial for alignment
• A proper screen will significantly improve picture quality
• Both benefit from professional calibration, but the LG includes more advanced calibration options

Recent Updates and Improvements

Since their 2022 releases, both projectors have received firmware updates improving performance:

• The Hisense PX2-PRO has gotten better HDR handling and smart TV improvements
• The LG HU915QB has received updates to its tone mapping and motion handling

Value Proposition

At current prices, both projectors offer strong value but for different users:

The Hisense PX2-PRO at $2,997 provides:

• Excellent all-around performance
• Better smart features
• Good gaming capabilities
• Easier setup and use

The LG HU915QB at $2,739 delivers:

• Superior contrast and black levels
• Higher brightness
• Professional calibration options
• Premium build quality

How to Decide

Choose the Hisense PX2-PRO if:

• You want a versatile entertainment hub
• Gaming is part of your usage plan
• You prefer built-in streaming
• You value user-friendly setup
• You want the latest smart features

Choose the LG HU915QB if:

• Picture quality is your top priority
• You're building a dedicated home theater
• You plan to use external devices
• You want professional calibration options
• You need maximum brightness

Final Thoughts

Both projectors represent excellent choices in the UST category, but they target slightly different users. The Hisense PX2-PRO is the better all-arounder, offering great picture quality with convenient features at a competitive price. The LG HU915QB is the choice for home theater enthusiasts who prioritize pure picture quality and are willing to add separate devices for streaming.

Remember that room setup, screen choice, and proper installation are crucial for getting the best performance from either projector. Consider these environmental factors alongside the projectors' features when making your decision.

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

LG CineBeam HU915QB 4K UHD Laser Projector Deals and Prices