Should You Buy the Samsung Premiere 9 or Hisense PL2? A Complete Comparison of Ultra Short Throw 4K Projectors

In the rapidly evolving world of home theater, Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors have emerged as an exciting alternative to traditional large TVs. Today, we're comparing two notable offerings: the $5,999 Samsung Premiere 9 and the $2,197 Hisense PL2. Both promise theater-like experiences, but their approaches and capabilities differ significantly.

Understanding Ultra Short Throw Projectors

Before diving into the specifics, let's understand what makes UST projectors special. Unlike traditional projectors that need to sit far from the screen, UST projectors can create massive images from just inches away from your wall. This clever engineering means you can place them in a TV console rather than mounting them on your ceiling or across the room.

The technology has improved dramatically in recent years, with brighter outputs, better color accuracy, and smarter features becoming standard. Both the Samsung Premiere 9 and Hisense PL2 represent the latest generation of these advancements.

Picture Quality: A Tale of Two Approaches

Brightness and Color Technology

The Samsung Premiere 9 employs a sophisticated triple laser system that outputs 3,450 lumens. This means each primary color (red, green, and blue) has its dedicated laser, resulting in more precise color control and better brightness. It's particularly noticeable in HDR content, where the ability to display bright highlights while maintaining rich colors makes a significant difference.

The Hisense PL2 takes a different approach, using a single blue laser with a phosphor wheel to create its 2,700 lumens output. While this method is more cost-effective, it can't quite match the color precision of the triple laser system. However, for most viewers in controlled lighting conditions, the difference might not be dramatic enough to justify the price premium.

Color Accuracy and HDR Support

Both projectors handle HDR content, but their capabilities differ. The Premiere 9 supports HDR10+ (a dynamic HDR format that adjusts picture settings scene-by-scene) along with standard HDR10 and HLG. The PL2 counters with Dolby Vision support, another premium HDR format that many streaming services use.

In real-world viewing, the Premiere 9's higher brightness and triple laser system give it an edge in HDR performance, particularly in scenes with bright highlights or subtle color gradations. The PL2 still performs admirably, especially considering its price point, but can't quite match the Samsung's color volume or brightness.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Modern UST projectors essentially function as smart TVs, and both units offer comprehensive features. The Samsung Premiere 9 runs on Tizen OS, the same platform used in Samsung's TV lineup. It includes gaming features through the Gaming Hub and supports popular streaming services. The interface is polished and responsive, though some users might find it less intuitive than other platforms.

The Hisense PL2 uses Google TV, which offers a more familiar experience for many users. The platform provides excellent content recommendations and seamless integration with Google services. Both projectors support voice control, though Google TV's implementation feels more natural and comprehensive.

Audio Performance

One often-overlooked aspect of UST projectors is their built-in audio capability. The Premiere 9 shines here with its 40W 2.2.2 channel Dolby Atmos system. The upward-firing speakers create a surprisingly immersive soundstage that might eliminate the need for a separate soundbar in smaller rooms.

The PL2's 30W stereo system is competent but less sophisticated. While it works fine for casual viewing, serious home theater enthusiasts will want to pair it with a dedicated audio system.

Installation and Setup

Both projectors require careful placement for optimal image alignment. The Premiere 9's slightly shorter throw ratio (0.189:1 vs 0.22:1) means it can sit slightly closer to the wall for the same image size. Both units include geometric correction features to help achieve perfect alignment, though the Samsung's system is more refined.

A critical consideration for any UST projector is the screen. While both can project onto a white wall, they perform best with ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens specifically designed for UST projectors. These screens help maintain contrast and color accuracy, especially in rooms with ambient light.

Performance in Different Environments

Bright Room Performance

The Samsung Premiere 9 has a clear advantage in brighter rooms. Its higher brightness output and superior contrast make it better suited for daytime viewing or rooms with significant ambient light. The triple laser system also helps maintain color accuracy even when fighting room light.

Dark Room/Home Theater Performance

In a dedicated home theater or dark room, both projectors perform well. The PL2's lower brightness becomes less of an issue, and its contrast performance is quite good. However, the Premiere 9's superior color accuracy and HDR capabilities still give it an edge in picture quality.

Value Proposition

The nearly $3,800 price difference between these projectors cannot be ignored. The Hisense PL2 delivers impressive performance for its price point, offering many of the same features as the Premiere 9 at a much lower cost. For many users, especially those with controlled lighting conditions, it represents excellent value.

The Premiere 9's premium price brings noticeable improvements in picture quality, audio performance, and brightness capability. Whether these improvements justify the cost depends largely on your specific needs and budget.

How to Decide

Choose the Samsung Premiere 9 if:

• You need maximum brightness for viewing in well-lit rooms
• Color accuracy and HDR performance are top priorities
• You want premium built-in audio
• Your budget allows for the best available technology

Choose the Hisense PL2 if:

• Value is a primary consideration
• You have good light control in your viewing space
• You prefer the Google TV interface
• You plan to use an external audio system

Both projectors represent significant advancement in UST technology, offering viable alternatives to traditional large TVs. The Hisense PL2 provides excellent value for most users, while the Samsung Premiere 9 delivers premium performance for those willing to pay for the best available picture quality and features.

Remember that proper installation and screen selection are crucial factors in getting the best performance from either projector. Consider these factors alongside your room conditions and viewing preferences when making your final decision.

Samsung Premiere 9 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Deals and Prices

Hisense PL2 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector Deals and Prices