Pairing a bright UST projector like the L9Q with an ALR screen produces a vibrant image day or night
Finally, let’s wrap up by talking about screens. Some Laser TVs come bundled with ambient light-rejecting screens, but not all. Sure, you can pretty much point any projector at a blank white wall or sheet, but you will get better results with a screen. A wall or sheet isn’t as smooth as you might think, and an ultra-smooth projection screen will help eliminate these imperfections and improve the image quality.
In addition to choosing a projector with enough brightness to combat any surrounding ambient light, you can also invest in a projector screen with a special coating that helps reduce the impact of ambient light which can ruin your content. These screens are frequently referred to as ALR – Ambient Light Rejecting screens.
If you have a matte white screen, it is fully compatible with an ultra-short-throw projector. All of the major screen manufacturers offer a dedicated ambient light-rejecting screen material designed specifically for ultra-short-throw projectors.
A perfectly paired ambient light rejecting (ALR) screen means you don’t have to kill the lights to get a killer picture. Be sure to check out our recent Screen Buyer's Guide to get even more information on the latest in screens.
The Elite Screens Aeon CLR 3 Series is a premium fixed-frame projection screen designed to deliver excellent picture quality when paired with an ultra-short throw projector. Available in 103, 115, and 123-inch sizes, it utilizes Elite’s StarBright CLR 3 material, which features a specialized micro-serriform optical structure that rejects up to 90% of overhead ambient light. This technology dramatically improves perceived contrast and black levels, making it ideal for living rooms and multipurpose entertainment spaces.
The screen features a 0.8 gain and an ultra-wide 180-degree viewing angle, ensuring consistent picture quality from virtually any seating position. Its lightweight aluminum frame features an attractive edge-free design that resembles a large flat-panel television. A spring-tensioning system simplifies assembly, while an optional LED backlighting kit enhances its appearance.
During our review, the Aeon CLR 3 delivered impressive results with several ultra-short throw projectors, including the LG HU85LA, Epson LS500, and Hisense 100L5F. Compared to a matte white screen, it significantly improved contrast and black levels without noticeable color shifts or distracting hotspots.
Combining excellent ambient light rejection, wide viewing angles, and attractive styling, the Aeon CLR 3 is an outstanding option for large-screen entertainment in everyday living spaces.
The EPV Screens DarkStar UST 3 Elevate is a premium motorized floor-rising projection screen that combines excellent ambient light rejection with a convenient retractable design. Available in sizes ranging from 126 to 152 inches, it utilizes EPV’s DarkStar UST 3 ceiling light-rejecting (CLR) material, which absorbs up to 85% of overhead ambient light. Its specialized micro-ridge structure improves perceived black levels and contrast, making it ideal for bright living rooms and multipurpose entertainment spaces.
The screen features a 0.8 gain, wide viewing angles, and a tab-tensioning system that maintains a flat projection surface. Its motorized mechanism allows the screen to disappear when not in use, eliminating the need for permanent wall or ceiling mounting. Multiple control options include IR, RF, and 12-volt trigger integration.
During our review, the 138-inch DarkStar UST 3 Elevate delivered excellent results when paired with the Hisense L9Q ultra-short throw projector. We were impressed by its vibrant colors, improved contrast, excellent uniformity, and smooth operation. Although its 0.8 gain slightly reduces peak brightness compared to a matte white screen, the improvement in black levels makes it a worthwhile trade-off.
Combining excellent picture quality, flexible installation, and unobtrusive design, the DarkStar UST 3 Elevate is an outstanding solution for large-screen entertainment in everyday living spaces.
The EPV Screens DarkStar UST 2 eFinity is a premium fixed-frame projection screen designed to deliver excellent picture quality in rooms with significant ambient light. Our review focused on the 123-inch model, which utilizes a specialized multilayer ceiling light rejecting (CLR) material with a 0.8 gain that rejects up to 85% of overhead ambient light. Its ISF-certified screen material maintains accurate colors while significantly improving perceived contrast and black levels compared to traditional matte white screens.
The screen features an attractive edge-free design with a bezel measuring less than half an inch, creating an appearance similar to a large flat-panel television. Its spring-tensioning system maintains a flat projection surface, although assembly can be challenging and may require professional assistance.
During our review, the DarkStar UST 2 eFinity was paired with an XGIMI Aura 4K ultra-short throw projector in a brightly lit room with large sliding glass doors. We were impressed by its ability to maintain vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and watchable images even during daylight hours. Compared to a matte white screen, the improvement in black levels and overall image visibility was substantial.
Combining excellent ambient light rejection, accurate colors, and attractive styling, the DarkStar UST 2 eFinity is an outstanding choice for laser TV installations in multipurpose living spaces.
The AWOL Cinematic ALR screen is available in 100", 120,", and 120" sizes. It rejects up to 95% of ambient light while still delivering a 170° viewing angle. Also includes an acoustically transparent mesh below the screen which allows you to place a soundbar or center channel behind a screen without negatively impacting the audio quality.
For the LTV-3500 Pro and Aetherion Pro review, we set up the 120" AWOL Cinematic screen system in a living-room/dining combo area, placing the unit in front of a large bay window overlooking the back deck. Even in this challenging environment, the picture quality of the screen did not disappoint. The system delivered excellent images for daytime sports and nighttime movies.
The system’s design offers remarkable flexibility because it doesn’t require mounting a traditional fixed or retractable screen. One of the great benefits of the up-rising screen's low-profile cabinet is that it preserves the room’s view when the projector is off. I especially appreciated how the system blended into the decor when not used.
