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Epson QS100 3LCD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector Review

Posted on July 8, 2025 by Phil Jones
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The QS100 is a 4K PRO-UHD ultra-short-throw (UST) laser projector that retails for $ 4,999 and is designed specifically for custom integrators. The QS100 can deliver 4500 lumens of brightness and has a dynamic contrast ratio of 5,0000,000:1.

The QS100 uses native 1080P 3LCD panels and is equipped with a version of Epson’s 4K UHD Pro technology. This feature combines advanced 2-way pixel-shifting technology to double the onscreen resolution from 2.2 million to 4.4 million pixels.

Due to its blue laser phosphor light source, it can deliver a rated brightness of 4,500 lumens for color and white light output. High brightness combined with Epson’s proprietary 32-bit QZX Picture Processor, which enables dynamic HDR tone mapping, should deliver excellent picture quality whether you are watching movies or gaming.

Laser TVs continue to gain popularity among home entertainment enthusiasts. Since they are ultra-short-throw projectors, they can deliver massive images from just inches away.  The fact that they include smart features and a built-in sound system makes them a viable replacement for a flat-panel TV in many environments.

Over the past few years, Epson’s portion of the Laser TV market has grown significantly. The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800, due to its high brightness, integrated Android TV platform, and Yamaha 2.1 sound system, is one of the highest-rated Laser TVs. The LS800 is also unique because it is one of the only 3LCD smart ultra-short-throw projectors on the market.

The newly released QS100 and LS800 appear similar at first glance, but they are designed with distinctly different users in mind. While the LS800 is an all-in-one entertainment solution designed for mainstream consumers, the QS100 is tailored for discerning users and professional custom installations.

Although it shares the LS800’s core imaging technology, the QS100 introduces a suite of performance enhancements, calibration tools, and system integration features that make it a more suitable choice for videophiles and custom installers.

The LS800 is ideal for users seeking an all-in-one solution, where setup simplicity and convenience are top priorities. Its onboard audio may not replace a true surround system, but it performs well enough to satisfy most day-to-day viewing needs. On the other hand, the QS100 is engineered for users who already have, or plan to build, a more sophisticated audio environment.

The QS100 is available in black-and-white models through Epson's authorized dealers. The QS100 is the newest addition to its Q-Series lineup of premium residential projectors like the QB1000 and QL3000. It is designed as a premium option for great rooms and modern media spaces.

Epson QS1000
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Suggested Retail Price: $4999
Ratings Based On Comparable Models
Brightness
Color Reproduction
Contrast
Sound Quality
N/A
Pros

+ Excellent Brightness

+ Dynamic HDR Tone mapping

+ Good Color Reproduction

+ Extensive Picture Adjustments

+ Excellent Build Quality and Design

Cons

 - Lower Than 4K Resolution

 - Native Contrast Good But Not Great

 - No Dolby Vision 

 - 3D Not Supported

  

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OVERVIEW

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The Epson QS100 is designed for high-end home theater installations and demanding mixed-use media rooms

The Epson QS100 is a 4K PRO-UHD ultra short-throw projector introduced in April 2025. With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $4,999, the QS100 is positioned as a higher-end ultra-short throw projector within Epson’s lineup. Ultra short throw (UST) projectors continue to gain popularity among home entertainment enthusiasts because they offer a cinematic experience without the need for ceiling mounts or long throw distances.

At the core of the Epson QS100 is Epson’s proprietary 3LCD technology combined with 4K PRO-UHD pixel-shifting. The projector combines three native 1080p LCD panels with two-way pixel-shifting mechanism to increase the onscreen resolution beyond Full HD. While the image is not as sharp and detailed as one produced by a native 4K projector, the difference is hard to see when viewing most content from a normal viewing distance.

A key strength of 3LCD is its equal color and white brightness output, which helps maintain vibrant image quality without relying on a color wheel or exposing viewers to “rainbow” artifacts often seen in single-chip DLP systems. The QS100 outputs up to 4,500 lumens of both color and white brightness, making it one of the brightest UST projectors currently available. The high brightness is due to the redesigned 5-in-1 laser light source module.

Epson rates the projector’s dynamic contrast ratio at 5,000,000:1. While Epson does not list the unit’s native contrast, 3LCD-equipped projectors usually deliver better black levels than competitive DLP models.  The QS100's refined laser dimming, combined with video processing capabilities, should deliver deeper onscreen black levels and improved detail in shadowy scenes.

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The QS100 includes Epson’s new QZX 32-bit image processor. This processor enhances color accuracy, refines contrast handling, and supports advanced frame-by-frame HDR tone mapping. The QS100 supports HDR10 and HLG content with 10-bit color processing, but like most projectors on the market, it does not support Dolby Vision. However, the addition of dynamic HDR tone mapping represents a notable upgrade over the static HDR support found in the LS800. This allows the projector to dynamically adjust brightness and contrast levels depending on the content, improving visibility in dark and bright scenes alike.

For enthusiasts and integrators who want to fine-tune the QS100 color reproduction, the unit includes an extensive suite of calibration adjustments. These include gamma adjustments, grayscale tuning, full CMS (color management system) controls, and precise panel alignment. This level of flexibility is not available on the LS800 due to its Android-based interface. The QS100 also includes geometric correction features, though, as with most projectors, physical alignment is preferred for optimal image fidelity.

With its combination of advanced image processing, expanded brightness, and professional calibration tools, the Epson QS100 offers a level of performance that caters directly to home theater integrators and discerning viewers looking for full control over picture quality.

Due to its higher brightness, Epson also increases the maximum recommended image size to 160 inches. The projector's optical focus adjustment ensures sharp edge-to-edge focus regardless of screen size. While the two projectors may appear nearly identical physically, the QS100 features a redesigned multi-array laser light source and a new 32-bit QZX image processor. These hardware upgrades enable more refined dynamic tone mapping, enhanced HDR performance, and improved calibration flexibility.

With its increased brightness, enhanced processing capabilities, and professional-level setup options, the QS100 is well suited for enthusiasts seeking precision image tuning and seamless integration with high-end AV components.

Comparison with Epson LS800

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The Epson QS100 looks similar to the EpiqVision Ultra LS800 but is designed to a different customer

The QS100 shares the same chassis, 3LCD panel, and 4K PRO-UHD pixel-shifting technology as the LS800, but there are some noticeable differences in performance and functionality.  The LS800 is designed for mainstream consumers seeking a simple and bright “laser TV” experience, so it includes an integrated 2.1-channel 20 watt Yamaha speaker system and Android TV 11 with built-in streaming apps.

However, LS800’s Android TV operating system does not offer advanced image adjustments, such as CMS controls and gamma tuning, making it less appealing to those who want to fine-tune their viewing environment.

The LS800 features an integrated speaker system and offers wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. These features make it a self-contained entertainment hub, suitable for casual users who may not own external audio equipment.

The QS100 is designed to be paired with external sources and a surround sound system, or high-performance soundbar, which are typically part of a custom AV installation, so Epson removed the internal speakers and smart features, instead emphasizing HDMI eARC support for high-fidelity audio passthrough and integration with AV receivers.

Epson Ultra Short Projector Model Comparison
ModelQS100LS800
Price (MSRP)$4999$2999
Target User MainstreamIntegrator/Videophile
Brightness4500 lumens4000 lumens
HDR Tone MappingDynamicStatic
CalibrationAdvanced (ISF)Basic
Smart Home ControlYesNo
Smart OSNoneAndroid TV
Sound SystemNoneYamaha 2.1 ch

The QS100 delivers a rated brightness of 4,500 lumens for color and white light output, while the LS800 max brightness is 4,000 lumens. The new QS100 utilizes a new laser light source, which is why it is 500 lumens brighter than the LS 800 while still delivering excellent color reproduction. Due to its increased brightness, the QS100 will work with screens up to 160 inches compared to the LS800’s 150-inch limit.

In the QS100, the Android TV OS has been replaced with Epson’s traditional projector menu system, which includes a full suite of calibration options, including ISF Day/Night modes, grayscale adjustment, panel alignment, and CMS controls. It also adds professional control interfaces, including Ethernet, RS-232, and IP command compatibility with Crestron, Control4, and similar systems.

Ultimately, the LS800 and QS100 are not direct competitors but complementary offerings aimed at different segments of the home entertainment market. The LS800 is ideal for buyers replacing a television with minimal setup effort, while the QS100 is targeted at those constructing or upgrading a high-performance media room where precision matters. This makes the QS100 a significantly better fit for custom installers and enthusiasts who expect precision and control in their display setup.

From a pricing standpoint, the LS800 retails around $3,000 to $3,499, depending on current promotions. The QS100 commands a premium, launching at $4,999 and sold exclusively through authorized dealers. The higher price reflects its advanced processing, calibration tools, and installation flexibility. It also comes with a longer three-year warranty and expedited service, compared to the LS800’s two-year coverage.

HARDWARE

CHASSIS

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At first glance, the QS100 looks identical to the EpiqVision Ultra LS800. It measures 27.4" wide x 6.2" high x 13.4" deep and weighs 27.6 lbs. The projector has three adjustable feet: two on the front bottom and one at the rear. A removable panel that completely hides all the projector's inputs and any cables that may be plugged into them.

The QS100 offers two HDMI 2.0 ports, one of which supports eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel). While it does not include HDMI 2.1 or support for 4K at 120Hz, both HDMI ports are capable of handling 4K/60Hz content or 1080p/120Hz at full 18 Gbps bandwidth. The inclusion of eARC is particularly important for users planning to pair the projector with a modern AV receiver or soundbar, as it enables high-bitrate audio passthrough, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from connected sources. This is a significant improvement over the LS800, which only offered ARC and could not pass through the latest audio formats via HDMI.

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Another important connectivity distinction is the QS100’s integration-focused feature set. It includes a Gigabit Ethernet LAN port for reliable network access and remote configuration, along with an RS-232C serial port for compatibility with commercial control systems. These connections enable full IP control and support for automation systems such as Crestron, Control4, and AMX. Epson also provides a browser-based configuration tool, allowing installers to access and configure projector settings from a web interface on a computer or tablet connected to the same network.

The QS100 has two USB ports, one rated at 5V/900mA and another at 5V/2.0A, which are primarily intended for powering external streaming devices or for service use. There is also a USB-B port for firmware updates and diagnostics. Notably, the QS100 does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, as it is not designed to function as a self-contained media player. Likewise, it does not provide analog or optical audio outputs, since all audio is expected to be routed through HDMI eARC or through the connected AV system.

While we do not measure audible noise according to Epson’s product specifications, the QS100 is quiet. With the projector’s Light Output set to its default of 85%, I could barely hear the unit from my sitting position 8 feet away. However, fan noise increases noticeably when switching from Quiet (20dB) which is 50% light output to Normal (34dB).

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While the LS800 shipped with a simplified remote, the QS100 uses the same full-size remote as Epson's premium Home Theater projectors.  The remote is well-organized and features backlit buttons for visibility in a dark space. There are direct access buttons for common functions and several picture adjustments, such as Color Mode, HDR adjustment, image enhancement level, and frame interpolation. Although there are numerous buttons, the remote’s large size prevents it from feeling cramped. The large number of shortcut buttons makes it easier to make on-the-fly picture adjustments because you don't have to dig through on-screen menus. 

Due to its ultra-short-throw lens, the QS100 sits very close to the screen. For example, the QS100 chassis needs to be 6.4 inches away from a 120-inch screen. The QS100 is compatible with screens up to 160 inches. The lens features a small amount of optical zoom, with a throw range of 0.16:1 to 0.22:1. This adjustability ensures sharp edge-to-edge focus, regardless of screen size.

The older Epson LS800 features an integrated 2.1-channel, 20-watt speaker system, designed to provide a virtual surround experience. The LS800’s built-in audio enables it to function as a complete standalone entertainment solution. The new Epson QS100, by contrast, omits onboard speakers entirely. This is a deliberate design choice rather than an oversight. The projector is intended to be used as part of a professionally integrated home entertainment system, where a dedicated surround sound system handles audio responsibilities.

This divergence in audio design highlights the difference in target users. The LS800 is ideal for users seeking an all-in-one solution, where setup simplicity and convenience are top priorities. Its onboard audio may not replace a true surround system, but it performs well enough to satisfy most day-to-day viewing needs. On the other hand, the QS100 is engineered for users who already have, or plan to build, a more sophisticated audio environment.

In essence, the QS100’s audio philosophy is that less is more. By forgoing built-in speakers, Epson gives the end user complete control over sound system design, which aligns more closely with the expectations of high-end home theater enthusiasts. This makes the QS100 a stronger match for users who prioritize cinematic audio experiences and intend to route all media through a centralized AV setup.

The QS100 has one of shallowest throw distances in the industry so it sits very close to the screen. For example, the QS100 chassis needs to be 6.4 inches away from a 120-inch screen. The QS100 is compatible with screens up to 160 inches. The lens features a small amount of optical zoom, with a throw range of 0.16:1 to 0.22:1. This adjustability ensures sharp edge-to-edge focus, regardless of screen size.

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Unlike the LS800, which runs Android TV 11, the QS100 is not a smart projector; therefore, the menu contains an extensive array of settings needed to adjust the unit. The QS100’s on-screen menu system will be familiar to anyone who has used recent Epson projectors. It’s a straightforward text-based menu (with logical categories: Image, Signal, Settings, Memory, etc.). 

This approach reflects its intended role in professionally installed setups where content playback is handled by external devices such as an Apple TV, Roku, or high-end Blu-ray player. The benefit of this stripped-down approach is that the QS100 boots faster, avoids software-based performance bottlenecks, and unlocks the full suite of calibration features that were previously restricted in Android TV-based models, such as the LS800.

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Since the QS100 is targeted at custom integrators and video enthusiasts, it includes extensive picture controls and calibration options. Notable image controls include Image Enhancement presets (which apply sharpening/detail processing), frame interpolation settings for motion smoothing (with multiple levels, or Off for purists)

There is a full Color Management System (CMS) to adjust the hue, saturation, and brightness of the primary and secondary colors (RGBCMY). There are detailed white balance controls, including two-point and (in the projector’s professional menu) a 13-point grayscale/gamma adjustment to dial in color temperature across the range. The projector offers several Gamma presets and the option to customize the gamma curve.

The QS100 also includes a web-based menu system that allows users to access and control projector settings remotely from a laptop or mobile device connected to the same network. This eliminates the need for a remote control or a direct line of sight to the projector. Once the projector is connected to the network, you must input the QS100's IP address into a laptop or mobile device web browser to access the simple and advanced menus.

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The Epson QS100 includes a web-based menu system which can be access from a web browser

For professional installers and integrators, a web-based system streamlines the setup process by enabling adjustments like lens alignment, focus, and keystone correction from a distance, which is particularly helpful when the projector is mounted on a ceiling or in another hard-to-reach location.

The web interface includes all the advanced configuration options, including detailed calibration tools. Additionally, the projector can be integrated into a broader networked system, allowing for centralized monitoring, remote diagnostics, and even automated alerts in case of errors or maintenance needs.

Compared to the LS800, which was built for standalone operation with features like Chromecast, voice control, and wireless connectivity, the QS100 is unapologetically a projector built for integration. It prioritizes fast, stable wired connections, reliable device control, and image performance over convenience features. For home theater enthusiasts and professional installers, the increased brightness, extensive picture adjustments, and seamless compatibility with popular control systems are key reasons to consider the QS100 over a more consumer-oriented model.

PERFORMANCE

COLOR REPRODUCTION

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Like the LS800, the QS100 delivers good color reproduction out of the box. It includes four preset SDR picture modes. The DYNAMIC mode was the brightest but also the least accurate. The VIVID mode’s color temperature is cool with more saturated colors and boosted contrast. This mode would be good for watching content under warm ambient lighting.

The most accurate modes are NATURAL and CINEMA. The color temperature of the NATURAL mode was closest to my target of 6500K, but the CINEMA mode delivered the best RGB balance. Measurements showed that the color tracking of both modes was nearly identical. The NATURAL mode did exhibit a slight green bias, which is why the CINEMA mode looked litte better.

In NATURAL mode, most of the projector's image enhancements are turned off. Switching to CINEMA activates several settings designed to enhance contrast and sharpness, including Dynamic Contrast, Scene Adaptive Gamma, Frame Interpolation, and Image Enhancement, which are changed from Preset 1 to Preset 2.

While we thought the LS800's deliver fairly accurate colors, due to the projector operating system there was no way to further improve the unit image quality. The LS800 lack of adjustability is why it did place higher in 2024 Projector Screen / Projector Reviews UST Showdown. The QS100 has all the adjustments needed to fine-tune the projector’s color reproduction making it a worthy challenger in this year UST Showdown.

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I took the time to measure the QS100 picture modes and make some picture quality adjustments. Since your room and screen material significantly impact the overall picture, we don’t recommend using someone else's calibration adjustments. If your room is brighter or darker or your walls are a different color, copying someone else's results can cause more harm than good.

If you would like to make some quick adjustments to improve the picture quality of your projector in your room, check out our video called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns. However, below are the before-and-after calibration results in my room. To test, measure, and calibrate the QS100, I used my Klein K10-A colorimeter, Murideo Six-G test pattern generator, and Portrait Displays Calman color calibration software.

Pre-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale

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I measured and adjusted the NATURAL Mode. Before pre-calibration, the color temperature was 6718K, which is close to my target of 6500K. The gamma was around 2.0, which is higher than my normal target, so blacks looked closer to grey in my room. Before calibration, the saturation sweep measurement had an average Delta error was just 2.24 while the Grayscale error was 3.2, which is better than average.

The LS800 was more accurate out of the box but the QB1000 includes an extensive array of picture adjustments, which can be utilized to optimize the projector’s image.

Before calibration, on my hundred-inch screen, the NATURAL mode's peak brightness produced around 295 nits, which is more than bright enough to deliver a vibrant HDR content, even under low to moderate ambient light.

  • Picture Mode: NATURAL
  • Gamma: 2.1
  • Color Temperature: 6718K
  • Average Grayscale dE: 3.2
  • Average Color Tracking dE: 3.4

Post-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale

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To achieve my Gamma target of 2.2, I reduced the Gamma setting to -1. I left the Color Temp setting at its default of 6500K, which is fine since the color temperature was already close to my target of 6500K.

Measurements showed a slight green biased but this was easily corrected using the 2 point white balance adjustments.  I reduced the Green Gain settings slightly which resulted in a color temperature that was even closer to my target of 6500K.

Correcting the projector's white balance also significantly improved the unit's color tracking by eliminated the majority of the color shift that were that was causing errors in the Color Saturation Sweep. The brightest colors were a little under saturated, but the majority of color points were spot on. Brightness after the calibration was 217 nits which is still quite bright.

  • Picture Mode: NATURAL
  • Gamma: 2.18
  • Color Temperature: 6535K
  • Average Grayscale dE: 0.7
  • Average Color Tracking dE: 1.1

The projector’s grayscale and color reproduction are good enough out of the box to satisfy the average Laser TV customer. However, many home entertainment Enthusiasts desire the best picture quality possible, so it is great that the QS100 includes a full suite of picture adjustments.

HDR Color Tracking and Grayscale

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The out-of-the-box HDR color reproduction was also very good. Like SDR, the most accurate picture mode was NATURAL. Picture adjustments, such as contrast, brightness, CMS, and RGB adjustments, are applied to both the HDR and SDR versions of that picture mode.

The QS100 features ten memory settings that can be used to store various SDR and HDR settings. Once NATURAL mode was calibrated for SDR, I saved those settings under one of the memories. For HDR, I made various adjustments to the White Balance, Brightness, and Contrast settings and saved them in separate memory settings. 

 

BRIGHTNESS

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The QB1000 has a rated brightness of 4500 lumens. To estimate the projector's maximum brightness, I switched the unit to its brightest mode, DYNAMIC. I set the laser light output to 100% (Normal) and zoomed the lens out fully (wide angle) to ensure the most light got through. I took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the lens.

Epson QS100 Brightness (wide zoom Dynamic mode): 4750 Lumens

Many manufacturers exaggerate the brightness of their projectors, while Epson's brightness ratings are often very conservative. The DYNAMIC mode measured 4750 lumens, which is actually higher than the unit’s rated brightnessMeasuring an ultra-short throw projector is challenging due to their steep image projection angle, but I am confident that the QS100 meets or exceeds its brightness rating. I also measured the brightness of each SDR preset picture mode. All the QS100’s picture modes measured within a few hundred lumens of each other.

Picture Modes: Brightness and Color Temperature

Picture ModeBrightness Measured (Lumens) Average Color Temperature
Dynamic47507392K
Vivid41258640K
Cinema36967312K
Natural40516718K

The projector’s rated brightness of 4500 lumens is useful when watching TV Shows and sporting events under ambient lighting or on a larger screen. Higher brightness also makes HDR look significantly better because it reduces the amount of tone mapping that needs to be applied to produce an image that more closely resembles what the content creator intended.

When high brightness is combined with effective Dynamic HDR Tone mapping, colors look rich and lifelike.  Due to its effective dynamic HDR tone mapping, the QB1000 produced a brighter, more vibrant HDR image than many home entertainment projectors with higher rated or measured brightness.

I used the QS100 on both matte white and ALR screens. The QS100 can deliver 4,500 lumens, so when combined with an ambient light-rejecting screen, it can easily be used to watch content in a room with low to moderate ambient light.  I just replaced an LS800 with a QS100 in a CI speaker demonstration room. Since the projector was ceiling-mounted, it required the use of a matte white screen; however, the image still looked good even under low ambient light conditions.

BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL

The black’s produced by the QS100 were closer to dark gray. The black levels and native contrast are superior to those of most DLP projectors. The QS100 contrast is comparable to that of other Epson home entertainment projectors, such as the Home Cinema 3800. Epson does not list the QB1000 native contrast on its specification sheet. In my space, using a sequential test, I measured a ratio of 1637:1, which is good but not exceptional. 

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The QS100 features effective dynamic laser dimming, resulting in a Dynamic Contrast rating of 5,000,000:1 for the QS100. When this feature is fully engaged, the projector’s dynamic contrast is nearly infinite. While the QS100 is much brighter, it can not deliver the same black level native contrast as the comparably priced Epson ProCinema LS12000, which was designed to excel in dark home theater environments. 

While deep blacks are great, in a room with ambient light, our eyes are less sensitive to blacks, so the benefits for high native contrast is reduced. In most viewing spaces, higher brightness provides a higher perceived level of contrast. The QS100 rated brightness of 4500 lumens will make both SDR/HDR images pop in a family or game room. Most QS100 customers would be more than happy with the unit’s black levels, especially when combined with noticeably increased brightness.

STANDARD DYNAMIC RANGE

The QS100 is equipped with Espon's latest QZX picture processor,  so it did an excellent job upscaling HD content.  Whether I was watching 720p sports from ESPN or 1080p Blu-ray content, the QB1000 produced a clear, well-defined image. While the QS100 utilizes native 1080p 3LCD panels, it can deliver higher HD on-screen resolution through two-way pixel shifting. While the new pixel-shifting technology found in Epson's latest premium residential projector, such as the QB1000 version, quadruples the visible pixels onscreen, the older version found in the QS100 only doubles them. 

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When viewing test patterns and some ultra-detailed footage, the QS100 and a native 4K projector, the difference in resolution is noticeable. However, most 4K content lacks the fine detail required to discern the difference between a 4K image and a pixel-shifted image from a normal viewing distance. When it comes to producing a detailed onscreen image, the lens is just as important as the imager’s resolution. The QS100 lens did a good job delivering a sharp image from edge to edge.

Motion handling is also superb, with 24 fps movies displayed cleanly. The QS100 includes a frame Interpolation system that can further smooth out motion in fast-action scenes and sports without introducing glaring artifacts. The QS100 does not support 3D. However, there isn't much 3D content available except for some older Blu-rays and games, so most users will not miss this feature.

The QS100 doesn't have a dedicated game mode but it does include ALLM (Auto Low LatencyMode) which automatically engages the Fast processing setting when gaming content is detected. Using my Leo Bodnar 4K video signal tester, I measured an input lag of 21ms when playing displaying 1080/120Hz content. Therefore QS100 is responsive enough to deliver an enjoyable and competitive gaming experience for a casual gamer.

HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE

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Due to its high brightness, good native contrast, and excellent video processing, the QS100 delivered excellent HDR image quality. The QS100’s rated brightness is much higher than that of most comparable ultra-short throw projectors, which is beneficial when viewing HDR on screens over 120”. Higher brightness also reduces the amount of tone mapping that needs to be applied to HDR content.

Since the QS100 is equipped with Epson’s new QZX processor, it includes Dynamic Tone Mapping. This feature does a good job of balancing screen brightness with highlight detail. While this feature preserves more highlight detail when viewing content mastered above 1000 nits, the overall image appears a little dimmer when this feature is engaged. With 4500 lumens of brightness available, the slight reduction in overall brightness is not a big deal. When viewing HDR content, I selected the NATURAL mode, engaged the Dynamic Tone Mapping feature, and set the Dynamic Contrast setting to Normal.

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The Epson QS100 is equipped with the new QZX processor with enables Dynamic HDR tonemapping

If the HDR Dynamic Tone Mapping feature is not engaged, you can use the HDR button at the bottom of the remote control to quickly change the HDR tone mapping curve applied to the signal.  Increasing the setting’s number makes highlight details more visible but reduces screen brightness.

The QS100 can reproduce about 87% of DCI-P3 color gamut, so it can’t produce the massive color range of a tri-laser DLP projector. When viewing HDR on a projector, I have found that higher brightness is usually more beneficial than wider color gamut. Since the QS100 is a 3LCD projector, it can reproduce an equal amount of color lumens as white lumens, resulting in higher color volume, which means colors still appear bright and saturated.

SUMMARY

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The Epson QS100, which retails for $4999, combines high brightness, accurate color, good contrast, and cutting-edge processing in a flexible, installer-friendly package. When I reviewed the Epson LS800 I really liked it and I believe it is one of the best Laser TVs on the market. Since the LS800 includes a built-in sound system and smart features, it is excellent alternate to a large flat panel TV.  However, most enthusiasts already have a variety of video sources such as an Blu-ray player, Apple TV and or Kaleidescape along with a external sound system. So when a projector is incorporated into large custom install project, features like built-in smart apps and an internal sound system are often not utilized.

Custom integrators and home entertainment enthusiasts also want to able to fine tune the image and reliability control the projector. While the QS100 delivers good color reproduction right out of the box, for those who love to tinker or for installers optimizing it, the Qs100 includes all the picture adjustments you could ever need. The QS100 will also integrate seamlessly with a wide range of control system include Control and Crestron. 

The projector's HDMI Inputs support 4K/120 Hz, which is great news for gamers. While the QS100 doesn’t have a dedicated gaming-focused picture mode, the projector includes ALLM auto low latency mode, automatically switching the projector’s Image Processor to Fast to minimize input lag time. When playing 4K games at 120fps, the input lag should be around 21ms.

COMPETITIVE COMPARISON

The Epson QS100 with retails for $4,999 competes with premium consumer ultra short projectors, including the new Hisense L9Q ($5999 SRP), and AWOL Vision LTV3500 Pro ($5999). Each of these projectors delivers outstanding picture quality, but they have unique strengths that cater to different user preferences and environments.

Both AWOL Vision LTV3550 Pro and Hisense L9Q are DLP projectors which utilize XPR technology to deliver 4K onscreen resolution. While the 4K Pro UHD pixel shifting technology found in the QS100 deliver higher than 1080p resolution, it can't deliver the image detail of  a4K projector.

AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro

The Epson QS100 and the AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro  are positioned as premium ultra short throw projectors. The QS100 uses a 3LCD engine with 4K PRO-UHD pixel-shifting and delivers 4,500 lumens of brightness with a focus on calibration flexibility and integration into high-end AV systems. The QS100 is significantly brighter and retails for $1000 less. In addition, the QS100 is more accurate out of the box.

In contrast, the LTV-3500 Pro is 4K DLP projector that employs a triple-laser (RGB) light source, which enables it to cover 107% of the BT.2020 color gamut.  The LTV-3500 Pro also supports Dolby Vision which the Epson lacks.

AWOL’s model is designed to be more of a living room centerpiece, offering built-in 36W Dolby Atmos audio, Android TV via Fire TV stick integration, and 3D support. The QS100 was designed to appeal to integrators and image purists who prioritize higher brightness, precise image adjustments and reliable control. 

Hisense L9Q

While we have not had the opportunity to review the Hisense L9Q, it specifications are quite impressive. Like the AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro, the Hisense is a full feature Laser TV so it includes a built-in sound system and smart features. The L9Q employs a triple-laser RGB light source that can reproduce of 110% of BT.2020 color gamut. The L9Q is one of the few consumer ultra-short throw projectors that is brighter than the QS100.

The projector's native contrast ratio also indicates that it can deliver better black levels. While QS100 support HDR10 and HLG, the L9Q also supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

Both projector include a full suite of picture adjustments and they booth offer seamless integration with popular control systems including Control 4 and URC. The retail price of  the L9Q is $1000 higher than the QS100 but its higher brightness and feature set does justifies its higher price especially for someone looking for an all in one TV replacement. . 

Final Thoughts

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The Epson now offers two excellent consumer ultra short projectors, the LS800 and QS100. They are not direct competitors but complementary offerings aimed at different segments of the home entertainment market. While they share foundational technology. they diverge significantly in their intended use cases and feature sets, and performance tuning. 

The LS800 was designed for mainstream consumers looking for a simple and bright “laser TV” experience. Due to its integrated 2.1-channel Yamaha speaker system, and Android TV 11 with built-in streaming app., the LS800 appeals to users seeking minimal setup and maximum convenience. However, its reliance on Android TV also limits the image adjustment available such as White Balance and CMS controls making it less appealing to those who want to fine-tune their viewing environment.

The QS100, directly addresses these limitations. It removes the Android TV OS entirely in favor of Epson’s professional projector firmware, unlocking full calibration options including ISF Day/Night modes, grayscale adjustment, panel alignment, and CMS controls. This makes the QS100 a significantly better fit for custom installers and enthusiasts who expect precision and control in their display setup. In addition, the QS100 offers increased brightness of 4,500 lumens, support image size up to 160 inches. It is also in equipped with Epson's new QZX 32-bit processor which add Dynamic HDR tone mapping. 

Another major distinction is in audio design. The LS800 offers an integrated speaker system and wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. These features make it a self-contained entertainment hub, suitable for casual users who may not own external audio equipment. The QS100, by contrast, omits all internal speakers and smart features, instead emphasizing HDMI eARC support for high-fidelity audio passthrough and integration with AV receivers. It also adds professional control interfaces, including Ethernet, RS-232, and IP command compatibility with Crestron, Control4, and similar systems.

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With a retail price of $4999, QS100 commands a premium over the LS800. The higher price reflects its advanced processing, calibration tools, and installation flexibility. The Qs100 will be sold exclusively through authorized dealers and it includes a longer three-year warranty and expedited service, compared to the LS800’s two-year consumer-grade coverage. The LS800 and QS100 are not direct competitors but complementary offerings aimed at different segments of the home entertainment market.

If you are looking to seamlessly integrate a high quality ultra short throw projector into a large home entertainment system or you want the ability to fine tune the image for your space, the Epson QS100 is a great option.

PROS

  • 4500 lumens (color and white)
  • Good color out of the box (extensive calibration controls available)
  • HDMI 2.1 inputs are compatible with 4K@120p HDR content
  • Good motion performance and 4K upscaling
  • Low Game Lag with ALLM (Auto Low Latency) Support
  • Full of picture adjustments

CONS

  • Black Level and native contrast could be better for its price point
  • No 3D support
  • No support for Dolby Vision

Epson QS100- SPECIFICATIONS

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Full Specifications
Projector ModelQS100
Price (MSRP)$4999
Imager Type3LCD
Displayed Resolution1920 x 1080 X2  (2-way pixel shifting)
Native Resolution1920 x 1080 
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)4500 Lumens
Light Source TypeBlue Laser Phosphor
Contrast Ratio5,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
Lens Throw Ratio0.16:1 to 0.22:1
Power Zoom/FocusNo
Lens ShiftNo
Interchangeable LensNo
Ultra Short ThrowYes
Native Aspect Ratio16:9 (Widescreen)
4K/120 fpsYes
3DNo
SpeakersNo
Noise Level (-db)20 dB Quiet (34 dB Normal)
Low Lag GamingYes
Smart FunctionalityNo
BusinessNo
ClassroomNo
PortableNo
Special FeaturesDynamic HDR Tone mapping
NetworkingRJ45 Lan
Dimensions (WxDxH)20.5 x 17.6 x 7.6 inches (521 x 447 x 193 mm)
Weight26.5 lbs.
Warranty3-year Limited
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