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Best Laser TVs For 2021 - Our Picks

By Diane Jones

A bright Laser TV combined with a good ALR screen can be utilized day or night

Laser TVs offer some significant advantages over flat-panel TVs. First, they offer larger images for less money—in other words, you pay fewer dollars per inch of image size. Another big advantage is portability; a Laser TV is much easier to move from one home to another than a monster TV. And you get most of the other features of a flat-panel TV—long lifespan, zero maintenance, smart apps, built-in audio—as well as the ability to upgrade the screen size and performance without having to replace the entire TV.

ProjectorReviews.com has reviewed many Laser TVs over the years. To help you find the perfect one for your needs, and budget, below are links to some of our favorites.

Also, be sure to check out our article on Things To Consider When Purchasing a Laser TV.

Enjoy!

BENQ V7050I

Ben Q V7050i Highly Recommended by Projector Reviews

PROJECTOR SPECS

SpecificationDescription
Price$3499
TechnologyLaser DLP
Native Resolution3840x 2160
Light EngineLaser
Claimed Lumens2500
Contrast2,000,000:1
Light Engine Lifespan20,000 Hours in Normal Mode
30,000 Hours in ECO Mode
HDRHDR10
Zoom Lens RatioUltra Short Throw
Warranty3 Years Limited Parts and Labor

AWARD WINNER

The BenQ V7050i was given our "Highly Recommended" Award because this projector delivers a noticeably crisper, more detailed, and colorful image than I have seen to date on any other ultra-short-throw projector in its class. It’s superb and BenQ knows something about making a projector that looks good, both inside and out.

The V7050i is a beautifully designed projector with sleek-edged aluminum lines that houses a laundry list of high-performance video technology ready to bring a cinematic entertainment experience to your living room.

PROJECTOR OVERVIEW

The BenQ V7050i is a 2400 lumen Laser TV that retails for $3499. Ultra-short throw, smart 4K laser projectors commonly referred to as “Laser TVs” have been growing in popularity. If like me, you have been waiting for BenQ to enter the Laser TV category, then you are going to be as excited as I am about the BenQ V7050i Laser TV projector.

At the heart of the V7050i is a 2,500-lumen laser diode light source and a Texas Instruments DLP (.47″ DMD) imager to display a bright 4K picture. It features HDR-Pro™ (High Dynamic Range) for improved image quality and shadow detail from HDR content. The V7050i also utilizes BenQ’s proprietary CinematicColor™ technology to deliver a wider color gamut covering up to 98% of the DCI-P3 color space. The projector’s Fimmaker mode did a great job utilizing the unit’s color capability accurately.

The most notable features of this projector are:

  • BenQ CinematiccolorTM Technology – BenQ’s exclusive CinematicColor technology reproduces a wide range of colors for both 4K HDR (High Dynamic Range) and 1080p SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) movies. Today we are fortunate to have so much content mastered in 4K HDR and the DCI-P3 color space.
  • BenQ Filmmaker Mode – BenQ strives to display movies and television shows as their directors envisioned. The new Filmmaker mode meets the standards of the UHD (Ultra High Definition) Alliance preserving creative intent for a cinematic experience on supported UHD TVs.
  • Smart Capabilities Included – The included BenQ QS-01 media stick provides that Smart capability to the V7050i. The QS-01 provides access to more than 5,000 of the latest Android apps, movies, TV shows, live sports, news, games, music, and services like Google Play, and YouTube™ anytime, anywhere across compatible devices.
  • treVolo-Tuned Sound System – V7050i’s treVolo-tuned 5W x 2 virtual surround stereo uses what BenQ calls DSP-IC. This patented audio correction algorithm powered by MaxxAudio™ adjusts the V7050i’s speakers and psychoacoustics tuning, allowing better 3D surround sound, more detailed highs, and more powerful vocals. At the same time, MaxxAudio achieves excellent, distortion-free cinematic bass while preserving sounds in the higher ranges.

As far as HD and 4K SDR performance go, the V7050i exceeded our expectations. This projector comes pre-calibrated from BenQ, so out-of-the-box they have put their best foot forward.

The BenQ V7050i slightly outperformed its rated brightness of 2,500 ANSI lumens. Its brightness has a lot to do with the V7050i’s Laser Light Source and the BenQ’s implementation of their proprietary technologies like HDR-Pro and CinematicColor.

The V7050i’s HDR performance was noticeably better than many of the DLP projectors that we have reviewed. I’ve seen DLP projectors where the HDR implementation makes the image look worse. That’s not the case with this BenQ Laser TV. Overall, this was a beautifully designed projector with amazing picture and sound, which is why we highly recommend this BenQ 7050i if you are in the market for a Laser TV.

VAVA LASER TV

Vava-Laser-TV

PROJECTOR SPECS

SpecificationDescription
Price$2799
TechnologyDLP (0.47" DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840x 2160
Native Resolution1920x1080x4
Light EngineLaser
Claimed Lumens2500
Contrast1,500,000:1 (Dynamic)
Light Engine Lifespan25,000 Hours
HDRHDR10
Zoom Lens RatioUltra Short Throw
Warranty1 Years Parts and Labor

AWARD WINNER

The VAVA Laser TV won this award because it is one of the least expensive projectors of its type to hit the market. It offers good performance at an affordable price which is why it is one of the most popular Laser TVs on the market.

Like all Laser TVs, it will work best in rooms with ambient light when paired with one of the screens designed for both UST projectors (Laser TVs), and ambient light rejection (ALR).

PROJECTOR OVERVIEW

With an MSRP of only $2799, it claims 2500 ANSI lumens, at a price point well below the better-known brand names. It can sit several inches away from and several inches below your screen. VAVA says the projector will support screen sizes up to 150” diagonal. Like all Laser TVs, it will work best in rooms with ambient light when paired with one of the screens designed for both UST projectors (Laser TVs), and ambient light rejection (ALR).

The VAVA is smart, you can run apps, like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and many others. Like most new smart projectors, it uses an Android operating system. The VAVA Laser TV supports the usual Alexa and Google Assistant personal support. The VAVA is equipped with a 30 watt x2 stereo system designed by Harmon Kardon speakers which should “blow away” the sound quality of most LCD TV’s

The most notable features of this projector are:

  • Smart TV Features – The VAVA utilizes an Android OS operating system so it supports Google Assistant. You can just pick up the remote, hold down the microphone button, and command the VAVA. You also have access to several of the popular streaming apps including Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video.
  • Laser Light Engine – VAVA claims their laser light engine can produce 2500 lumens for up to 25,000 hours. At 40 hours a week, that’s over 12 years.
  • 4K UHD Capable – While the VAVA’s DLP (0.47″ DMD) chip isn’t native 4K, rapid pixel shifting gives the DLP chip the ability to deliver a perceived resolution of 8.3 million pixels. This system works so well that it would be difficult for any viewer to notice a difference in resolution from a native 4K UHD (8.3 megapixels) imager.
  • Harmon Kardon Sound System – Laser TVs typically have a much better built-in sound system than a flat-panel display. This projector’s 30watt x 2 audio system can easily deliver room-filling sound.

The VAVA is an affordable Ultra Short Throw projector, that has 4K UHD resolution, and comes with a built-in media player. It has a hefty, built-in Harmon Kardon sound system (60 watts) and a good picture, but it is a little rough around the edges. That’s fair, as this is their first home theater/home entertainment projector. It claims 2500 lumens. This is a projector that will please a great many people. The picture it puts up can look great.

EPSON EPIQVISION ULTRA LS500

Epson-LS500

PROJECTOR SPECS

SpecificationDescription
Price$4999 (100" Screen) $5999 (120" Screen)
Technology3LCD
Native Resolution1920×1080
Light EngineLaser
Claimed Lumens4000
Contrast2,500,000:1 (Dynamic)
Light Engine Lifespan20,000 Hours
HDRHDR10, HLG
Zoom Lens RatioUltra Short Throw
Warranty2 Years Parts and Labor

AWARD WINNER

The Epson LS500 is a great TV replacement option and offers, essentially, unlimited content from streaming services. Plus, you have inputs for your cable/satellite box, game console or 4K Blu-ray player.

Its audio system is better than most wall-mounted TVs and, most importantly, it produces a large sharp image, one that makes a 65” LCD TV look like something that’s more suitable for a spare bedroom. Epson’s value proposition is really very good which is why it earns a “Hot Product” Award

PROJECTOR OVERVIEW

An Ultra Short Throw projector, like the Epson LS500 Laser Projection TV, makes it easy for the average consumer to own a projector. It comes with the familiar Smart TV functionality of Android, it is easy to install, the laser is rated for a whopping 20,000 hours (eco mode) and the unit comes with a 2-year warranty. At around $5,000 (including the 100-inch screen), the Epson LS500 Laser Projection TV is a real alternative for customers who crave the big screen experience in their living room.

The most notable features of this projector are:

  • Smart TV Features – The Epson LS500 Laser Projection TV includes an Android TV operating system and has voice search with built-in Google Assistant. Users can still stream live TV through popular apps, like Netflix, HBO, Showtime, YouTube, Hulu, ESPN, and more.
  • Epson Pro-UHD pixel shifting – 4K Enhancement Technology shifts each pixel diagonally to double Full HD resolution of the LCD panels.
  • Laser Light Engine – Epson LS500 has a  claimed brightness of 4000 lumens with a rated life of 20,000 hours. The Epson LS500 is one of the brightest Laser TVs on the market today.
  • Upgraded Sound System – The projector has a 10W stereo speaker system that produces a wide sound stage and a better sound quality than a flat-panel display.
  • 100″ or 120″ Ambient Light Rejecting Screen – Remote Control/Presentation via Smart Device

EpiqVision Ultra LS500 4K PRO-UHD Laser Projection TV, according to Epson, combines modern design with advanced laser technology, Android TV™, onboard sound, and includes a high-resolution ambient light rejecting screen designed specifically for the LS500 to deliver immersive 4K HDR content up to 120 inches.

LG HU85LA

LG-HU85LA

PROJECTOR SPECS

SpecificationDescription
Price$5999
TechnologyDLP (0.66" DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840x 2160
Native Resolution2716x1528x2
Light EngineLaser
Claimed Lumens2700
Contrast2,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
Light Engine Lifespan20,000 Hours
HDRHDR10, HLG
Zoom Lens RatioUltra Short Throw
Warranty2 Years Parts and Labor

AWARD WINNER

G, a leading manufacturer of Smart TVs, combined all the smart capabilities of a flat-panel TV with the high-quality laser light engine and 4K resolution to create one of the best Laser TVs on the market.

The HU85LA’s dual-channel laser engine delivers a claimed brightness of 2700 lumens while producing a wider color gamut. While the HU85LA commands a premium price, it offers a lot of performance and features for its price.

PROJECTOR OVERVIEW

The HU85LA is the top model in LG’s CineBeam lineup of projectors designed to make front projection more accessible and appealing to a wider range of consumers. LG’s goal was to build a line of projectors that could replace a TV in an environment where a large TV just won’t fit.

The LG CineBeam HU85LA has a rated brightness of 2700 lumen, and its Laser light source will last up to 20,00 hours. The HU85LA is compatible with HDR10 and HLG content and includes HDR Auto Tone Mapping to automatically adjust dark/bright levels to better optimize the unit’s HDR performance.

It has built-in, 5-watt stereo speakers. For those who want to connect the unit to an external, the projector has an HDMI ARC output and is compatible with Bluetooth speakers.

The most notable features of this projector are:

  • Smart TV Features – To make the HU85LA as smart as possible, LG utilizes the same ThinQ AI webOS that is offered in their lineup of smart flat-panel TVs. Like their smart TVs, the HL70LA can be voice-controlled and offers a wide variety of apps.
  • Dual-Channel Laser Light Engine – The HU85LA sports a dual Laser light engine using both a red and blue laser. This increases the projector’s color gamut coverage and eliminates the need for a spinning phosphor wheel, which reduces the rainbow effect common on many DLP projectors.
  • 4K UHD Capable – HU85LA is a 2716x1528x2 pixel shifter – using the larger DLP (0.66″ DMD )chip. This results in higher native contrast and a sharper image than most 4K UHD DLP projectors, which use the smaller 1920x1080px4 pixel shifting chip.
  • HDR with Dynamic Tone Mapping – Like LG’s flat panels, the HU85LA can dynamically measure HDR metadata, which further improves the projector’s HDR performance. The goal is to utilize the projector’s brightness capabilities based on the HDR scene being shown.

The HU85LA utilizes their ThinQ AI webOS, which was developed for their flat-panel TVs. You have all the apps and capabilities normally found in an LG Smart TV, including Google Assistant, which allows you to control not only the projector but a wide variety of compatible smart home devices using your voice. Great picture, smart features, and low maintenance make the HU70LA a compelling alternative to a large flat panel TV, especially in a room where space is at a premium.

OPTOMA CINEMAX P2

Optoma_CinemaX_P2_Product Image
Optoma CinemaX P2

PROJECTOR SPECS

SpecificationDescription
Price$3299
TechnologyDLP Laser
Native Resolution1920x1080x4
Light EngineLaser
Claimed Lumens3000
Contrast2,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
Light Engine Lifespan20,000 Hours
HDRHDR10, HLG
Zoom Lens RatioUltra Short Throw
Warranty2 Years Parts and Labor

AWARD WINNER

The Optoma CinemaX P2 is an ultra-short-throw smart 4K laser home theater projector that retails for $3299. The P2 is part of a class of projectors referred to as Laser TV.

The P2 keeps the same stunning design as its predecessor, the CinemaX P1, but this time in tan instead of black.

Highly recommended projector award

PROJECTOR OVERVIEW

The CinemaX P2 combines its 4K UHD resolution with its Ultra Short Throw design that allows for it to be placed just below your screen and at less than two feet back from it. It has a rated brightness of 3000 lumens. It supports HDR – both the primary HDR standard and also the newer HLG (hybrid log-gamma), which is more for broadcast and streaming.

  • Android Smart Projector – the P2 is a smart projector with access to Android apps built into the projector’s operating system. With Android app support built-in you don’t have to worry about using a third-party dongle like an Amazon Firestick or the new Chromecast with Google TV. 
  • 4K UHD Capable – The CinemaX P1 utilizes a DLP (0.47” DMD) chip to reproduce perceived 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) resolution. I use the term “perceived” because a 4K DLP chip does not actually have 8.3 million mirrors. Hence, the projector utilizes pixel (mirror) shifting to deliver the perceived sharpness of a native 4K display.
  • Bluetooth Built-in Soundbar – The NuForce sound system has 19 watts x 2 to drive the four speakers. Those consist of two full-range drivers (one for each channel) and two separate “woofers” to handle the low end. It certainly handles the audio better than any LED/LCD TV and should best many of the lower-cost soundbars for that matter.
  • Dolby Digital 2.0 Audio System– The CinemaX P2 has plenty of power, starting with a specification of 2×19 watts to drive the four speakers inside the case consisting of two full-range drivers (one for each channel) and two separate “woofers” to handle the low end. The P2 has plenty of muscle and is capable of producing big, and yes, accurate sound.

The CinemaX P2 delivered a great looking picture with accurate colors out-of-the-box. It was one of the best sounding Laser TVs we have reviewed. Overall, the P2 is an excellent choice, value-wise, for a Laser TV.

Also, be sure to read our article on things you should know when purchasing a Laser TV.

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