Best 4K Projector Reviews in 2024

The era of 1080p is over! Thanks to the healthy competition brought about by technological innovation, the price of 4K projectors has gradually become more affordable, making them an ideal choice for users who pursue a large-screen viewing experience.

However, when choosing a 4K projector, there are some key factors that differentiate you from 1080p and below, as well as some emerging specifications. In this article, we'll introduce you to the most acclaimed 4K projector models in the market, and break down the core factors that influence your purchase decision, so you can find the perfect device for you.

Best 4K Projector Reviews in 2024

Elements to pay attention to when buying a 4K projector

With the popularity of 4K technology, new features have been introduced, such as a different native resolution processing scheme and support for high dynamic range (HDR) imaging, which is also being introduced on select 1080p models. In addition, factors such as brightness and portability also need to be taken into account when choosing a 4K projector compared to a low-resolution model. Display technology, light source, sound quality and input delay are basically the same as those of traditional projectors.

We'll start by recommending the best 4K projector models for different applications, and then dive into the key considerations that affect your 4K projector purchase.

Best 4K Projector Reviews in 2024

Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K Pro-UHD 激光投影仪

The best 4K projectors for top home theaters

Despite its high price, the image quality offered by the LCD-based Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 projector almost outweighs the high price tag and is significantly better than Epson's other lower-priced models with pixel shift technology.

Benefiting from premium video processing and lens quality, these cheaper Epson models deliver images that are virtually indistinguishable from true 4K UHD images (especially DLP models with pixel shifts) even with only half the screen pixels. LS12000 maintains top-of-the-line lenses and processors while increasing the number of pixels to a full 3840 x 2160. The level of detail is far greater than that of any previous Epson model or any pixel-shift 4K DLP projector.

Another advantage over DLP models is that since the image is generated by three LCD chips, there is no rainbow effect (single-chip projectors are prone to red/green/blue flickering artifacts). What's more, it also offers top-of-the-line color accuracy, contrast, and shadow detail, and you can easily adjust the lens to get the same image height when watching movies with different aspect ratios.

Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K Pro-UHD 激光投影仪

Suitable for people

LS12000 is the projector of choice for serious enthusiasts looking for superior picture quality, and is suitable for home theaters with dark walls, ceilings, and seating to minimize light reflected back to the screen. However, even non-demanding viewers will be able to noticeably feel the improved image quality compared to most affordable 4K models, making it a home theater projector for anyone. It's also bright enough to be used in a family room, especially if you plan to watch a movie with the lights off once in a while. However, it doesn't support 3D, and if you're looking forward to watching Avatar and its sequel in 3D at home, you'll need to look for other options.

Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K Pro-UHD 激光投影仪

Merit:

Available in full 3840 x 2160 screen resolution
The 2700 lumen laser light source has a lifespan comparable to that of the projector itself
支持 HDR10、HDR10+ 和 HLG HDR
For laser projectors, it has good color accuracy, contrast and shadow detail, and deep black performance
Easily maintain image height for different aspect ratios
The three-chip LCD design ensures no rainbow effect

Shortcoming:

expensive
3D is not supported

Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K Pro-UHD 激光投影仪

Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K Pro-UHD 投影仪

The best 4K home theater projectors within 20,000

Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K Pro-UHD 投影仪

The Epson Pro Cinema 4050 features an earlier version of Epson's pixel shift technology, which uses three 1080p LCD chips, each corresponding to a primary color. While this approach results in half the number of pixels on the screen as a 4K (3840 x 2160) image, it actually delivers image detail that rivals or even outperforms many projectors with a 3840 x 2160 screen resolution, thanks to the limitations of human visual acuity (the difference is often imperceptible at normal viewing distances) and the combination of high-quality lenses and advanced video processing.

In addition to top-of-the-line detail, color accuracy, and contrast that are close to its price range, it also offers some advanced features, including large lens shifts and power zoom, focus, and zoom capabilities that allow you to easily maintain the same image height when watching movies with different aspect ratios.

Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K Pro-UHD 投影仪

Suitable for people

The Pro Cinema 4050 is ideal for people who want to use a projector in a traditional home theater with controlled light. But it's also bright enough (2400 lumens) to be used in a family room with ambient light, which makes it an equally excellent choice for a more casual viewing environment. In addition, the three-chip design means that it doesn't exhibit the rainbow effect (red/green/blue flickering artifacts) that most single-chip DLP models have, which is especially appealing to those who are easy to see and find these flickering annoying.

Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K Pro-UHD 投影仪

Merit:

Covers all image quality elements: color accuracy, contrast, shadow detail, black levels, and more
Epson's 4K Pro-UHD technology is almost as close to true 4K resolution as it is in terms of detail
The motorized lens with memory function makes it easy to switch between aspect ratios and provides flexible placement options
Supports HDR10 movie playback on discs
The three-chip LCD design ensures no rainbow effect
The 2D to 3D mode has less drop in brightness than most projectors

Shortcoming:

HLG HDR is not supported

Epson Pro Cinema 4050 4K Pro-UHD 投影仪

BenQ HT3560 家庭影院投影仪

The best 4K home theater projectors under 15,000 yuan

BenQ HT3560 家庭影院投影仪

The BenQ HT3560 delivers an impressive home theater viewing experience in dark environments, delivering high-quality images including top-of-the-line color accuracy, saturation, shadow detail, contrast, and good 3D depth of field performance. In addition, it offers 4K resolution; Supports HDR10, HLG, and HDR10+ (HDR10+ is based on HDR10 technology, which significantly reduces the need to manually adjust settings); As well as high enough brightness to provide a viewable image even in ambient light. In addition to that, it offers 1.3x zoom and moderate vertical lens shift (for easy installation), 3D capabilities that support DLP-Link glasses, and a low enough input lag to be acceptable even for most serious gamers. It even includes very useful onboard audio, which is an extra feature that is not common for home theater projectors.

BenQ HT3560 家庭影院投影仪

Suitable for people

A potential key issue with the HT3560 is that in our tests, we saw the rainbow effect (the red/green/blue flashes that can occur with any single-chip DLP projector) more often than we normally see. Therefore, this projector is more suitable for those who do not see these artifacts or do not find them annoying. As with any DLP projector, if you're concerned about this, buy from a merchant that allows easy returns so you can test it out for yourself. Otherwise, the BenQ HT3560 is a solid choice in its price range.

BenQ HT3560 家庭影院投影仪

Merit:

4K resolution was achieved using Texas Instruments' XPR fast-switching pixel shift technology
Delivers top-tier color accuracy in this price segment
1.3x zoom and moderate vertical lens shift for easy installation
Low input lag for gamers

Shortcoming:

The default 3D mode has a slight yellow cast

BenQ HT3560 家庭影院投影仪

BenQ TK860i 家庭娱乐投影仪

Best 4K Home Entertainment Projectors

BenQ TK860i 家庭娱乐投影仪

The BenQ TK860i is designed for viewing in a room with lights on, so it's no surprise that in our tests, it was able to deliver viewable images on a 90-inch screen in dim to moderate ambient light, even on a bright day in a family room. Even more impressively, in both 1080p SDR and 4K HDR viewing tests in dark rooms, it delivers top-of-the-line color saturation, contrast, and good 3D depth of field performance for home entertainment projectors. In addition, its color accuracy is satisfactory by most standards. Other features include Android TV 11 stick for streaming, very useful onboard audio, 3D support, and low enough input lag for gaming. All in all, the TK860i ticks all the boxes perfectly on the road to good reviews.

BenQ TK860i 家庭娱乐投影仪

Suitable for people

The TK860i is the best of home entertainment projectors and is ideal for anyone who wants to use the projector in the living room or other room where ambient light is present for streaming, watching videos from movies or other sources, watching 3D content, or playing games. One of the potential issues to watch out for is the rainbow effect – i.e. the red/green/blue flashing that can occur with any single-chip DLP projector. In our tests, they appeared more often than today's models, but they are fleeting, and if you don't easily see them, you probably won't see them at all.

BenQ TK860i 家庭娱乐投影仪

Merit:

4K resolution was achieved using Texas Instruments' XPR fast-switching pixel shift technology
Good shadow detail and contrast
Short latency
1.3x zoom and moderate vertical lens shift
Android TV 11 stick included

Shortcoming:

Difficult initial physical setup
The rainbow effect occurs frequently

BenQ TK860i 家庭娱乐投影仪

Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K 最具性价比家庭娱乐投影仪

Despite the wordy "gaming" in the name, the Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K Pro-UHD 3-Chip 3LCD smart gaming projector is actually better suited for home entertainment than gaming. It delivers good color accuracy and shadow detail in both SDR and HDR modes, and unlike many of its competitors, it handles HDR well enough to deliver on its promise of viewing better than its otherwise premium SDR images.

Key features include a 1.6x zoom lens and vertical lens shift, which can move the image up and down a distance equivalent to 60% of the image height. This combination offers great flexibility in placement: it can be hoisted from the ceiling, placed on a low table, or placed on a bookshelf at the back of the room. The icing on the cake is that the HC 2350 comes with Epson's Android TV stick, and thanks to its triple-chip LCD design, it's currently the lowest-priced model on the market that doesn't produce a rainbow effect (single-chip DLP projectors tend to flash red/green/blue).

Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K 最具性价比家庭娱乐投影仪

Suitable for people

Weighing all the good things about the Home Cinema 2350, while its input lag is good for casual gaming (27.1ms for measured 1080p/60Hz input), it's still too long for a slightly serious gamer, which is why we didn't give it a high score for gaming performance. In addition, it has a relatively high level of black, which can have some impact on the home theater viewing experience in dark rooms. Luckily, this isn't a problem when viewed in ambient light, as the black level of any projector is diluted in ambient light. Home entertainment is typically viewed with the lights on, and the 2350's 2,800 ISO lumen rating allows it to deliver a bright image that is good enough for ambient light. If you're planning to use a projector for home entertainment and casual gaming, then the 2350 can be a very suitable choice.

Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K 最具性价比家庭娱乐投影仪

Merit:

Excellent out-of-the-box color accuracy
The image resolution is equivalent to 4K
A 1.6x zoom lens that offers superior placement flexibility
Handles HDR well
集成 Android TV 10 棒

Shortcoming:

For gaming apps, the input lag is relatively long
Only one available HDMI port is left (the second port is occupied by the Android TV stick)
3D is not supported

Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K 最具性价比家庭娱乐投影仪

BenQ X3000i 最佳 4K 游戏投影仪

As the previous staple of the BenQ immersive gaming series, the BenQ X3000i is an excellent 4K gaming projector. Although BenQ has already launched a replacement (X3100i), there is still an X3000i on sale, which is a good value for money. It supports HDR10 and HLG HDR; LED light source with 3,000 ANSI lumens; And a pair of built-in 5-watt stereo speakers provide high-quality sound for a large home entertainment room. It features three preset game modes that fine-tune the image and sound according to the naming of each game mode, making it suitable for first-person shooters, role-playing games, and sports games. And it offers state-of-the-art low input latency. We measured a 4K/60Hz input delay of 16.7 milliseconds (ms) and a 1080p/60Hz latency of about the same; The latency for 1080p/120Hz is 8.7ms - all in line with the latency of 4.2ms at rated 240Hz.

BenQ X3000i 最佳 4K 游戏投影仪

Suitable for people

Who is the X3000i for? In short: gamers. More precisely: serious gamers. Like any gaming projector, you can also use it for watching movies and videos, and it even comes with an Android TV 10.0 streaming stick to make it even more convenient. However, BenQ says that the X3000i's video has been tweaked to optimize how it looks when using HDR for game consoles, rather than Blu-ray players, for example. In addition, its features include the convenience of a dedicated button on the remote control to easily switch between the three game modes. In short, if you're a gamer, the X3000i is designed for you.

BenQ X3000i 最佳 4K 游戏投影仪

Merit:

4K (3840 x 2160)分辨率
Bright LED light source (rated at 3,000 ANSI lumens)
Ultra-low input latency
Three paired video and audio modes for three game categories
Android TV 10 stick included, which can be controlled via the projector remote

Shortcoming:

Wi-Fi is the only network connection option
Prone to the rainbow effect
Assembly takes a bit of effort

BenQ X3000i 最佳 4K 游戏投影仪

The Optoma UHD55 is the best bulb-style 4K projector for home entertainment and gaming

While most gaming projectors are also suitable for home entertainment, and most home entertainment projectors can handle gaming as well, in the 4K model, the Optoma UHD55 excels in both, making it a top choice for both.

Designed for gaming and home entertainment, the UHD55 offers a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) on-screen display (using a DLP chip equipped with Texas Instruments fast switching pixel shifts) and images bright enough to handle ambient light. It also supports HDR10 and HLG HDR; Good color accuracy, contrast, and shadow detail right out of the box; And it also offers Full HD 3D support and built-in streaming capabilities. For gaming, it has state-of-the-art low input lag. The projector is rated at 1080p/240Hz for 4.2ms; We measured it at 4K/60Hz and 1080p/60Hz at 16.9ms, and almost halved at 1080p/120Hz (just 8.6ms), all in line with the rating.

The Optoma UHD55 is the best bulb-style 4K projector for home entertainment and gaming

Suitable for people

The UHD55 is very attractive for players who need a quick reaction time for first-person shooters or sports games. It is equally suitable as an alternative to a living room TV or to watch movies. If you're looking for a projector to enjoy both gaming and home entertainment on a big screen, then it might be ideal for you. Its 4K HDR output (for movies or games) is particularly noteworthy.

The Optoma UHD55 is the best bulb-style 4K projector for home entertainment and gaming

Merit:

4K UHD resolution
Full HD 3D
HDR10 and HLG HDR are supported
Bright enough for rooms with ambient light
Good color accuracy right out of the box
Short input delay

Shortcoming:

Only one of the two HDMI ports provides a short input delay
The number of streaming apps is limited

The Optoma UHD55 is the best bulb-style 4K projector for home entertainment and gaming

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 最佳超短焦 4K 投影仪

The Epson LS800 takes the main advantages of an ultra-short throw projector one step further, or arguably closer, as it offers the shortest throw distance we've seen so far. It allows you to place the projector very close to the wall, filling the entire wall with a 120-inch wall-mounted screen without having to move the furniture where the projector is placed away from the wall. In addition to that, it offers a laser light source with 4,000 ANSI lumens brightness, a three-chip LCD design that guarantees no rainbow effect, high-quality images with good color accuracy and contrast, and the lowest input latency of any 4K ultra-short throw projector we've seen so far.

It has only slightly longer latency than today's best gaming projectors, measuring 20.4 milliseconds (ms) at 4K/60Hz input, 21.4ms at 1080p/60Hz, and 11.7ms at 1080p/120Hz. It even offers the equivalent of a built-in stereo audio system, which has two 5-watt speakers and a 10-watt subwoofer.

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 最佳超短焦 4K 投影仪

Suitable for people

The LS800 does not support 3D and does not offer an option that allows for full calibration, which means that if you need either of these two features, you will need to look for something else. It is a really great option for anyone who wants to change their TV, as it has excellent image quality right out of the box, both with a low input lag that is perfect for gaming and a very short throw distance even for an ultra-short throw projector. For those who can't stand the rainbow effect, the fact that it doesn't have a rainbow effect is enough to make it a strong contender.

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 最佳超短焦 4K 投影仪

Merit:

Bright laser phosphorus light source
The three-chip LCD design means there is no rainbow effect
Fully integrated Android TV
Low input lag for gaming
Good sound quality

Shortcoming:

There is no Ethernet port; Wi-Fi is required for streaming
3D is not supported

Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 最佳超短焦 4K 投影仪

Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector Best in-room mobile 4K projector

The Hisense C1 was one of the first 4K portable projectors to support Dolby Vision, an important variant of HDR that offers many advantages over the more common HDR10 and HLG (which also support this format). What's more, it delivers good color accuracy, contrast, and shadow detail, while black levels are low enough to retain the dramatic visual impact they deserve even in dark scenes. In our tests, it achieved all of the above performance, whether using Dolby Vision and HDR10 in a dark environment, or normal SDR. The C1 is rated at 1,600 ANSI lumens, and according to our tests, it projects a bright and clear 80-inch image even in a bright family room with numerous windows. As with most of its counterparts, it also offers a built-in sound system that's good enough that you may not need to connect additional audio equipment.

Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector Best in-room mobile 4K projector

Suitable for people

The C1 is almost one of the best options for those who want a projector that can be easily moved around the room or permanently set up for casual viewing. The exception is for 3D enthusiasts, as it doesn't support 3D playback. It's also not suitable for serious gamers, as its input lag is only applicable to casual games. The out-of-the-box high-quality images make it a great choice for those who don't want to spend time looking for the right settings, while the abundance of setting options also makes it ideal for users looking for perfect quality to fine-tune their images.

Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector Best in-room mobile 4K projector

merit

4K resolution on-screen display
HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision are supported
Smart TV features
Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity

shortcoming

3D is not supported
The rainbow effect is a bit frequent

Hisense C1 Laser Mini Projector Best in-room mobile 4K projector

JMGO N1 Ultra is the best 4K projector for moving around the room and more

The two key features of the JMGO N1 Ultra are the tri-color laser light source and the stand with dual gimbals, one for horizontal adjustment and the other for vertical adjustment. Red, green, and blue lasers have a color gamut (color range) rating of 110% of BT.2020 (aka Rec.2020), which is the standard for Ultra High Definition (4K UHD) TVs. The gimbal can rotate the projector 135 degrees vertically and 360 degrees horizontally on its stand, allowing you to point it exactly where you want it in just a few seconds. We found the projector to be easy to adjust with one hand and stable even when released. It also comes with a carrying case.

The N1 Ultra offers good image quality, supports HDR10 and HLG HDR, and integrates Android TV 11 for streaming and a powerful sound system with a pair of 10-watt speakers. Gamers need to note that we measured an input lag of 35.1 ms, which is only for casual games.

JMGO N1 Ultra is the best 4K projector for moving around the room and more

Suitable for people

The N1 Ultra's gimbal stand improves portability by speeding up setup, which makes the projector ideal for moving around a lot, whether it's between rooms, in your backyard, or elsewhere. Similarly, the carrying case (which is rare for portable projectors that move around the room) makes it ideal if you need to safely move the projector over a longer distance.

JMGO N1 Ultra is the best 4K projector for moving around the room and more

merit

4K resolution on-screen display
HDR10 and HLG HDR are supported
Includes integrated Android TV 11 for streaming
Good sound quality

shortcoming

Streaming via Wi-Fi connection only; There is no Ethernet port
Full HD 3D doesn't work with Blu-ray players

JMGO N1 Ultra is the best 4K projector for moving around the room and more

BenQ GP500 最佳 3D 便携式 4K 投影仪

The BenQ GP500 achieves one of the highest SDR and HDR10 image quality of any 4K portable projector we've tested to date, and it also handles 3D content well. For both SDR and HDR inputs, it offers good color accuracy, contrast, and shadow detail, as well as solid three-dimensionality. For true 3D inputs, it is free of crosstalk and controls the 3D motion artifacts common to 3D projectors to an almost imperceptible level.

The built-in audio system uses a DSP and four 5-watt cavity speakers (drivers) with one at each of the four corners of the projector. This creates a 360-degree soundstage that provides enough volume to fill a large family room, while also having good enough sound quality without the need to connect to an external sound system.

BenQ GP500 最佳 3D 便携式 4K 投影仪

Suitable for people

Whether it's a 4K projector that moves around the room or a permanent installation in your home theater, the GP500 is a great option to consider. It offers a decent brightness (rated at 1,500 ANSI lumens); In our tests, SDR, HDR10, and 3D all had high-quality images; And it also has high-quality audio. These combined features make it a strong contender for users who want to have a 4K projector and an easy-to-use sound system in a single, compact device.

BenQ GP500 最佳 3D 便携式 4K 投影仪

merit

4K native resolution
Full HD 3D support is supported
Impressive sound quality and volume
HDR is well supported and handled
Get great image quality right out of the box
Comes with Android TV 10 for streaming and can be controlled via the projector remote

shortcoming

Only Wi-Fi is supported, there is no Ethernet port
Medium brightness limits image size

BenQ GP500 最佳 3D 便携式 4K 投影仪

Understanding Native Resolution: Do I Have to Have a True 4K Chip When Buying a Projector?

For lower resolution projectors, native resolution (the actual number of pixels on the projector chip) is one of the important factors affecting image quality. For example, a 1280 x 720 resolution projector can process a 1080p (1920 x 1080) signal and convert it to a 720p image to be projected onto the screen. However, no matter how good the quality of the lens of this projector is, the resulting image will be softer than that of a projector with a 1080p chip of the same specs, since the number of pixels on its own is not enough to render higher resolution details.

However, when it comes to 4K projectors, native resolution isn't the absolute deciding factor. This is partly due to a technique called "pixel shifting," and partly due to the limits of human vision (even if you have good eyesight).

Most 4K projectors on the market that cost less than 30,000 yuan use one of two pixel shift technologies to achieve a 4K resolution picture effect. One of the more prevalent is Texas Instruments' XPR fast-switching pixel shift technology, which is based on the 1080p DLP chipset. The principle is to break down each frame of 4K images into four subsets of 1920 x 1080 images, and then display these four sets of images on the screen at high speed in turn, cleverly using the visual persistence effect to allow the viewer's brain to integrate these images into a single frame of complete 4K images.

As of now, the only vendor in the same price segment to use different pixel shift technology is Epson, whose 4K Pro-UHD series projectors offer two options, both with three 1080p LCD chips.

The latest and more expensive 4K Pro-UHD models are similar to DLP-based schemes, delivering four sets of 1920 x 1080 images to the screen per frame;
An older version of Epson's 4K Pro-UHD technology places two sets of 1920 x 1080 images on the screen per frame.

In terms of pixel count alone, Epson's older solution seems to be only half the resolution of 4K. However, thanks to its unique image processing technology and excellent optical design, the solution can provide image sharpness and detail performance comparable to other 4K projectors in terms of actual viewing experience.

The human visual system also influences our perception of resolution. Viewing distance is also one of the influencing factors. Generally speaking, when we are viewing a projector at a suitable viewing distance, it is difficult to tell the difference between a 4K image and a VGA (640 x 480) resolution. It is only in very close proximity to the screen that we can gradually discern the difference in resolution. As a result, you don't have to worry too much about which pixel shift technology to use when choosing a home 4K projector, as the nuances of the two images are negligible to the viewer at typical viewing distances.

It's important to emphasize that viewing distance and individual vision differences can affect whether you can distinguish subtle differences in image quality between different pixel shift technologies. Users who choose the Epson 4K Pro-UHD series projectors also need to consider as there may be a slight gap in image detail between the two models in the series.

Understanding Native Resolution: Do I Have to Have a True 4K Chip When Buying a Projector?

Do you need a 4K projector with HDR?

As you may already know, the improved image quality of 4K TVs over 1080p models is not only due to a four-fold increase in resolution, but also to the introduction of Higher Dynamic Range (HDR) technology. However, projectors on the market today are not yet able to perfectly deliver the high peak brightness required for HDR images, because to achieve the desired HDR effect, the size of the projected image needs to be reduced, which will weaken the size advantage of projectors compared to TVs or other displays in the same price range. In addition, many projectors struggle to render deep enough blacks.

So, while many 4K projectors claim to support HDR, the reality is that some don't support HDR at all, and some support it is better than nothing, or even less desirable. Some older projectors can look very bad when playing HDR content, and for some newer models, even if HDR is supported, the image quality of playing HDR content is often lower than that of SDR content.

If you're buying a projector for business presentations or educational use, and you're choosing 4K resolution to display finer lines or make small text more legible, it doesn't matter if the projector's HDR capabilities are perfect. In most cases, even if you include video content in your presentation, or occasionally play a movie in class, the quality of HDR won't make much of a difference.

Theoretically, a projector with HDR support would be better than one without HDR for home theater or TV replacement needs. However, HDR performance varies greatly from projector to projector, so it's a good idea to check with an independent reviewer to see if the projector's HDR capabilities are as expected. That's why we've separated HDR and SDR quality in our review.

Do you need a 4K projector with HDR?

Which HDR formats should you consider when choosing a 4K projector?

There are several HDR formats out there, and your projector needs to support them specifically to be effective. So, before you buy a projector, you'll want to check your product specifications to see which HDR formats they support, and make sure they cover the format used by the source you want to watch.

The most common HDR format for projectors is HDR10, which is the format used by Blu-ray discs and is also widely supported by streaming services. Many projectors also support Hybrid Log Gamma, also known as HLG HDR or HLG for short. Although HLG is not as commonly used in video sources as HDR10, it is becoming more popular. For example, YouTube currently supports the HLG format.

One new format that is emerging is HDR10+, which is currently only available for select content on a handful of streaming platforms, such as some titles on Amazon Prime. HDR10+ builds on HDR10 to improve image quality while eliminating the manual adjustments required by HDR10 to switch between sources.

A fourth format, Dolby Vision, is common on TVs, with some major streaming services offering Dolby Vision support for some content, and a growing number of projectors supporting it.

What HDR formats should you consider when choosing a 4K projector?

How can you tell if the brightness of a 4K projector is enough?

The easiest way to tell if a projector's brightness meets your needs is to read the review article, which provides a review of the best image quality in different lighting conditions, and also mentions the best screen size and environment for which the projector is best suited (dark home theater, conference room, or family room with ambient light).

We can calculate the brightness of the projector that we need to play SDR content. However, this calculation process is complex and involves a variety of variables, so I will not explain it in detail here. In simple terms, these variables include screen size, ambient light intensity (which determines how bright the image you need), and screen gain (some screen materials can increase image brightness by reflecting more light).

In general, 500 ANSI lumens is enough to illuminate a 100-inch diagonal, 1.0 gain, 16:9 aspect ratio screen with SDR content in a dark room. In a typical family room with nighttime ambient light (low to medium levels), a screen of the same size would require 1200 lumens of brightness. In a brighter office environment, 1500 lumens are required.

Note that the best image quality is usually lower than the projector's brightness (or its brightest available mode, if the projector's actual brightness is not as bright as the callout). As a rule of thumb, the mode you'll be using for viewing is typically only 40 to 50 percent brighter than the brightest mode.

However, there is currently no accepted standard for image brightness for HDR viewing. This makes it difficult for us to give a general recommendation for the brightness of the projector. The HDR brightness level recommended by some is considered too bright even when used to watch SDR content. Others disagree, but still recommend brightness close to the maximum value of the SDR.

These discrepancies come both from subjective preferences and from differences in HDR implementations between projectors. In fact, if you can't test the projector yourself, a review article like PCMag will be your best source of information to determine if your projector's HDR image is bright enough for your needs. Pay special attention to the description of HDR image brightness (as distinguished from SDR brightness) in the review article, and whether the HDR image is bright enough at the same image size as SDR, or if the overall picture appears darker.

Do portable projectors require 4K?

As of now, there are no pocket-sized 4K projectors on the market, nor are there 4K projectors that can be powered by batteries.

Choose the display technology of your 4K projector

As mentioned earlier, there are only two display technologies available today for affordable 4K or 4K-like projectors: DLP (the technology used by most manufacturers) and LCD (the technology used by Epson).

The main advantage of DLP technology is the price: DLP projectors tend to be cheaper than LCD projectors with similar features and image quality. In addition, for entry-level or portable projectors, DLP is currently your only option.

One of the main advantages of LCD technology also applies at 4K resolution: it doesn't create a rainbow effect. The rainbow effect refers to the rapid flickering of red, green, and blue in the picture, which is caused by the need for a single-chip DLP projector to rotate the three primary colors at high speeds in turn. LCD projectors (with the exception of some lower-resolution portable models) use three separate chips that can project all primary colors onto the screen at the same time.

Some DLP projectors are more prone to the rainbow effect than others, and different people have different sensitivities to the rainbow effect, so you may or may not see the rainbow effect on some DLP models. For business and educational applications, the occasional rainbow effect is acceptable to most audiences. Whether or not you feel like the rainbow effect is a problem for home entertainment or home theater depends on how often you see a rainbow when you watch a particular projector and how much you personally tolerate the rainbow effect.

If you don't see the rainbow effects or don't find them annoying, then a DLP projector has you covered. However, some people are very prone to seeing the rainbow effect and find them so intrusive with the viewing experience that they can't enjoy playing videos or movies with a DLP projector. If you fall into this category, then it is highly recommended that you choose a projector that uses three-chip LCD technology.

If you can tolerate some slight rainbow effects, but can't accept too much, then you may or may not be happy with some DLP projectors. Our review articles always mention whether we're seeing these artifacts and how often they occur. However, since it may be easier or harder for you to see these artifacts than we are, if you are sensitive to the rainbow effect, or are not sure if you are sensitive, we recommend buying a brand new (good return) so that you can try the projector for yourself and make a decision.

Choose the display technology of your 4K projector

The best type of light source for a 4K projector

Nowadays, more and more projectors use solid-state light sources, i.e. LEDs or lasers, but traditional bulbs still have some advantages. (Many projectors still use light bulbs).

For darkroom home theaters that pursue the ultimate image quality, a high-quality projector with a lamp can present deeper black levels and higher contrast than most solid-state light models, resulting in a more visually impactful dark scene. However, the darker black gradation can make a noticeable difference only when viewed in a dark room, so if you're buying a projector for office, classroom, or home entertainment in a room with ambient light, this benefit is less obvious.

Another advantage of traditional bulbs is that they are less expensive than LEDs and laser projectors, so projectors with bulbs will be more affordable than otherwise identical solid-state light source models. However, if you've been using your projector long enough to replace one or more bulbs, the total cost of ownership is likely to be about the same. When comparing a less expensive projector with a lamp and a more expensive projector with an LED or laser light source, it's important to look at how much it costs to replace the lamp, and how often it will be replaced.

The main advantages of solid-state light sources are a longer lifespan and slower brightness decay. A typical bulb loses about 25% brightness over the first 500 hours of life, and then continues to slowly decline in brightness until it needs to be replaced. LEDs and laser projectors can last almost as long as projectors – rated for 20,000 to 30,000 hours. Their useful life also decreases brightness with age, but the decay rate is closer to a straight line. This means that they retain more than 75% of their original brightness for a longer period of time, both in terms of hours of use and percentage of life, compared to bulbs.

How to choose the difference between LED and laser? LED projectors are more susceptible to color oversaturation, but not all models will have this problem. Similarly, laser projectors allow for higher brightness levels, but there is an overlap in the brightness ranges of the two light sources, so there is no need to ignore the LED model within the overlap range. So, don't just choose based on technology, just pick a projector with good color accuracy and the desired brightness.

Note that when comparing projector brightness, you should limit the comparison to ANSI or equivalent ISO lumen ratings. There is no uniform standard for LED lumens, so they cannot be compared. You may also see some brightness ratings that use CVIA lumens, which is a relatively new specification defined by the China Audiovisual Industry Association. CVIA cannot be directly compared to ANSI or ISO lumens, but if done correctly, it should be lower than the ANSI or ISO lumens rating of the same projector.

The best type of light source for a 4K projector

Is the projector's latency suitable for gaming?

Input latency is measured in milliseconds (ms) and refers to the time it takes for a projector to receive a video frame and for that frame to appear on the screen. If you're using it for business presentations, classroom lectures, or watching movies and videos, it doesn't matter if the delay is long. However, if you're building a flight simulator or projected first-person shooter, a shorter delay can make it to the next frame.

The input latency of any particular projector will vary depending on its resolution and refresh rate (the number of times an image is redrawn per second). Doubling the refresh rate typically halves latency. However, a projector capable of delivering a 1080Hz refresh rate at 240p resolution may be limited to a 60Hz refresh rate at 4K, and the input lag will quadruple. For a gaming projector with the shortest available input lag currently available, this equates to just over 1080ms at 240p/4Hz and 16ms at 4K/60Hz.

Obviously, the input latency that matters to you is the latency of the resolution and refresh rate you plan to use. Hardcore gamers should look for models that don't have an input lag of 17ms at their desired settings. Casual gamers may be able to tolerate latency of up to 50ms or even longer. In either case, a shorter delay time is always better.

Does a 4K projector require an external sound source?

For projectors, it has long been widely believed in industry insiders and users that users who need high-quality or high-volume audio will use external sound bars or speakers, so there is little point in building a luxury sound system into the projector itself. Because of this, the best home theater projectors often don't have built-in sound features.

In contrast, most projectors used for business or educational purposes include a sound system, but in many cases this is just a convenient feature, and the volume is simply too small for the room where the projector may be used. The sound quality is usually barely acceptable, but rarely better. If you buy a projector for business or educational use, be sure to check the sound quality and volume.

Recently, manufacturers have begun to position some projectors specifically as TV alternatives and add sound systems to their designs to match the intended tasks. The two categories of 4K projectors that are most likely to offer better than just a decent built-in sound system are ultra-short-throw (UST) laser projectors and portable projectors that can be moved around the room. Often referred to as a TV replacement or laser TV, the UST model is sized and shaped to make it easy to add a built-in sound bar on the viewer-facing side.

So, which 4K projector should I buy?

The good news is that the number of 4K projectors is increasing rapidly lately, which makes it easier to find the right one for your needs and budget. A few of our favorite projectors listed above are the best 4K or 4K-like models we've tested for a variety of use cases and price ranges, just as a guideline.