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WEMAX Nova 4K Smart UST Projector Review

Posted on May 29, 2023 by Kam Valentine
Wemax Nova 4K Smart Ust Projector - Projector Reviews - Image
WEMAX Nova Laser TV 4K Cinema

The WEMAX Nova, retailing for $2,699.00, is a smart 4K Ultra Short Throw (UST) laser projector featuring Advanced Laser Phosphor Display (ALPD) technology and 2,100 ANSI lumens. With a Full On/Full Off (FOFO) contrast ratio of 3,000:1, WEMAX claims the Nova projector is capable of displaying a maximum 4K image of up to 150 inches, while also covering 100% of the Rec. 709 color gamut.

At first glance, it's easy to mistake the WEMAX Nova for the Formovie THEATER, a product we evaluated last December. The WEMAX Nova and Formovie THEATER share an almost identical exterior appearance. Notably, they even exhibit similar initial startup screens. At least, that was the case with the demo unit I had the opportunity to explore. Upon powering up the WEMAX Nova for the first time, I was welcomed with a message saying, "Hello, welcome to the Formovie Laser TV 4K Cinema” and “A simple start to your Formovie Laser TV 4K Cinema 150” journey."

  • Wemax Nova 4K Smart Ust Projector - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Smart Ust Projector - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Smart Ust Projector - Projector Reviews - Image
When I initially turned on the WEMAX Nova, I saw the above messages displayed on various loading pages, exposing (not in a bad way) the deep connection between the WEMAX Nova and Formovie THEATER, which can be attributed to Appotronics.

The WEMAX website states, “WEMAX is the sub-company of Appotronics” and goes on to state, “PS. Formovie is the brand belonging to Fengmi, who is the sub-company of Appotronics and Xiaomi as well, who is focusing on Chinese domestic company and B2B business. However, WEMAX is focusing on international online markets.” The situation is analogous to General Motors offering both the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra. In broad terms, the Chevy tends to be priced more affordably, while the GMC has a more premium feel and a correspondingly higher cost.

Later in the review, we will compare the WEMAX Nova and Formovie THEATER in greater detail. Ultimately, selecting one over the other depends on individual preferences and particular requirements.

  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Unboxing - Projector Reviews - Image

Projector Reviews was loaned a demo unit of the Nova from WEMAX for evaluation purposes. To test the Nova, various devices were connected, such as a Kaleidescape Compact Terra 6TB movie server, Kaleidescape Strato C 4K movie player, Apple TV 4K, PS5, and a Sony 4K Blu-Ray Disc player, using certified 48Gbps HDMI cables. For this review, the WEMAX Nova was projected onto a 100-inch (16:9) Elite Screens Aeon fixed frame projection screen, which features Elite's Edge Free® technology and CineWhite® UHD-B 1.3 gain screen material. I also projected onto a 110-inch (16:9) Screen Innovations Solo Pro 2 with Unity AT Pure White 1.3 gain screen material.

  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Front Face - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Rear Face - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Top Face - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Front Left - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Front Right - Projector Reviews - Image
buy now on amazon button grey - Projector Reviews - Image
WEMAX Nova Specs
Price$2699.00
TechnologyDLP (0.47" DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840 x2160
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)2100 ANSI Lumens
Light SourceLaser
Contrast3,000:1 
Zoom Lens RatioFixed
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life25,000 Hrs
Sound System30W (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter)
Weight15.4lb
WarrantyOne (1) Years

Overview

The WEMAX Nova is a smart ultra-short-throw laser projector, often referred to as a Laser TV. However, not all UST projectors are Laser TVs. The primary differences between Laser TVs and regular UST projectors are their smart features, built-in sound system, and light source. Laser TVs use laser light sources, which offer a wider color gamut, longer lifespan, and higher brightness. 

Wemax Nova Laser TV - Projector Reviews - Image
The WEMAX Nova is a UST projector, also known as a Laser TV.

As previously mentioned, WEMAX is a subsidiary of Appotronics, a renowned international technology conglomerate. Appotronics is well-known for its ALPD laser technology, which boasts over 2000 patents and properties. ALPD lasers are the most widely used brand of laser in movie theater projectors across the globe. It’s highly likely that the projector used for the last movie you watched at a theater utilized an ALPD laser light source. The ALPD 3.0 light engine utilized in the WEMAX Nova is a blue laser/phosphor wheel design. This laser light source is more economical and eliminates the laser speckle common in RGB laser models.

Wemax Nova with ALPD Technology - Projector Reviews - Image
ALPD lasers are used in more movie theater projectors worldwide than any other brand

Laser TVs are known for their vibrant colors, high contrast, and sharp images due to their laser light source. UST projectors can also deliver good image quality, but their performance may vary depending on the light source and other factors, like the projection technology utilized.

Like a UST projector, Laser TVs are designed to be positioned just a few inches away from a screen or wall, which enables them to produce a large image that can rival the size of a traditional TV. Laser TVs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to produce bright, colorful, and high-quality images with a long lifespan. Laser TVs also eliminate the need for mounting on the ceiling and can be easily integrated into a room's decor.

The WEMAX Nova utilizes a 0.47-inch Texas Instruments Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) in conjunction with the previously mentioned ALPD laser light source. With a 25,000-hour lifespan, the light source offers lasting durability. To put this into perspective, even if the projector were used for 8 hours daily, it would endure for more than eight years. Such longevity would be unattainable with a lamp-based projector.

Offering 2,100 ANSI lumens of brightness, this projector can produce clear visuals even in the absence of a completely dark room. This is a notable advantage, as an effective Laser TV should be able to function well in spaces with some ambient light.

Wemax Nova Infrared Motion Detection - Projector Reviews - Image
The WEMAX Nova is equipped with an intelligent infrared motion detector.

No one should expose their eyes directly to a laser light source or 2,100 ANSI lumens of brightness. Children whose innocent curiosity might lead them to investigate the source of the light. Luckily, the WEMAX Nova has an intelligent infrared motion detector designed to protect the human eye from potential harm due to intense light within the projected area.

Upon detecting movement, the sensor triggers the projector to diminish its brightness to the minimum possible level, simultaneously displaying the warning: "Do not look directly at the light source" and "Infrared motion detection can automatically adjust the brightness to prevent harm to human eyes." To dismiss the alert, select the onscreen “Exit” tab and then press enter on the remote control.

With a retail price of $2,699.00, the WEMAX Nova is competitively positioned among other UST/Laser TV products with similar specifications. Furthermore, as a Laser TV, the WEMAX Nova has the advantage of producing large images even in tight spaces. This makes it perfect for various settings, from small apartments to business conference rooms, increasing its appeal to a broad range of consumers.

The WEMAX Nova is a smart projector that utilizes AndroidTV 9.0 with Google Assistant, which gives you access to several popular streaming services, including YouTube, Disney+, and HBO Max. There are also thousands of apps available in the Google Play store.  While Netflix is not natively supported, the Nova has Chromecast built-in so you can cast photos, videos, music, and other content directly from your mobile device.

While the WEMAX NOVA has a retail price of $2,699.00, it is often available online for as low as $1999 on sites like Amazon. WEMAX Nova is competitively positioned among other UST/Laser TV products with similar specifications. Furthermore, as a Laser TV, the WEMAX Nova can produce large images even in tight spaces. This makes it perfect for various settings, from small apartments to business conference rooms, increasing its appeal to a broad range of consumers.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • MSRP – $2699
  • Single DLP chipset (0.47" DMD) with XPR technology
  • 3,840 × 2,160 4K UHD displayed resolution
  • Rated Brightness: 2200 ANSI lumens 
  • 100% Rec. 709 color gamut coverage
  • HDR10 compatible
  • 3000:1 contrast
  • 30W integrated audio system (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter)
  • Supports various Google technologies like Google Assistant and Chromecast

HARDWARE

CHASSIS

The WEMAX Nova has dimensions of 3.6 inches x 18 inches x 12 inches (H x W x D) and a weight of 15.4 lbs. The Nova uses a typical design for many UST projectors with a rectangular chassis. While its rectangular design with sharp edges may not appear very contemporary, the grey chassis and charcoal front should complement most home interiors. Once I placed the Nova on my AV cabinet, I was pleasantly surprised by its aesthetics

  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Front Face - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova 4K Projector Rear Face - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Inputs & Connections - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Remote Control - Projector Reviews - Image

The projector's back panel houses the inputs and connections, all neatly aligned in a straight row for easy identification by touch. On the rear of the Nova, you'll find a power port, three HDMI ports (with HDMI port 3 supporting ARC), a 3.5 mm AUX headphone jack, a 3.5 mm composite AV port, an optical S/PDIF port, an RJ-45 Ethernet (LAN) port, and a USB 2.0 Type-A port. Please note that the USB Type-A inputs are limited to the lower data transfer rate of USB 2.0.

While the WEMAX Nova has a built-in audio system, some users might opt to connect the projector to an audio-visual (AV) receiver for an enhanced audio experience using the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) functionality. HDMI ARC facilitates two-way communication between an audio device, like an AV receiver or soundbar, and the projector. In addition to transmitting audio, HDMI ARC enables the projector's remote control to manage certain features of the connected audio device, including basic functions like volume adjustment.

The Nova's single remote offers comprehensive control over the projector and its smart features, a convenience highly regarded by us at Projector Reviews, as some "smart" projectors necessitate an additional smart dongle which takes up an HDMI port and a second remote.

Equipped with all the typical buttons found on contemporary projector remotes, the WEMAX Nova's remote also incorporates a built-in microphone for voice command systems compatible with Google Assistant. Unfortunately, the Nova remote lacks backlighting, just like many other projector remote controls. This can make it challenging to find and use the correct buttons in dimly lit environments, as both the remote and its buttons are black and dark grey. Nonetheless, the Google Assistant button is easily distinguishable thanks to its blue, red, and yellow circles. 

LENS

Wemax Nova 4K Projector Lens - Projector Reviews - Image

The WEMAX Nova utilizes a fixed focal length ultra-short-throw lens. WEMAX states that the Nova can project images between 80 and 150 inches. With its 0.233:1 throw ratio, the WEMAX Nova displays an 80-inch image at a mere 5.5 inches from the screen or wall and a 150-inch image at just 19.3 inches away. In my testing lab, I used the Nova to project content in sizes varying from 80 to 100 inches. At those screen sizes, the image was focused and sharp from edge to edge. 

While WEMAX says that Nova will work on screens as large as 150", it's crucial to recognize that factors like the projection screen type and room environment can influence image quality. The projector can produce sufficient brightness to deliver a high-quality image at 100 inches, even when I exposed the room to ambient light by opening my blackout shades.

Wemax Nova Throw Ratio Chart - Projector Reviews - Image

MENUS

Since the Nova is a smart projector, numerous menu and entertainment options exist. The interface to access apps and streaming service is similar to other Android TV-equipped projectors. 

The menu system of the Nova is neatly arranged and user-friendly. The remote control includes a Home menu button (depicting a silhouette of a home) that takes you directly to the projector's home menu screen. While the images in this section show only a limited number of available sub-menus, there are many more to explore. The images above represent some of the more frequently used sub-menus.

  • Wemax Nova Projector Menu - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Menu - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Keystone Correction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Focus Correction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • WEMAX-Nova Smart Menu (1) - Projector-Reviews-Image
  • WEMAX-Nova Smart Menu (5) - Projector-Reviews-Image
  • WEMAX-Nova Smart Menu (7) - Projector-Reviews-Image

Like many projectors that rely solely on the Android TV menu system as the main user interface, there is a limited amount of picture adjustments. None of the projector's preset picture modes except for USER can be adjusted.  The picture quality adjustments are also limited to Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness, and Hue. Since there are no grayscale adjustments, gamma settings, or CMS, the Nova can not be calibrated. 

PERFORMANCE

COLOR REPRODUCTION

  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image

WEMAX states that the Nova covers up to 100% of the Rec. 709 color gamut range. Covering a broad spectrum of colors is distinct from color accuracy, which refers to the projector's capability to faithfully replicate the exact color envisioned by the director during the mastering process of the video content. Despite Nova's limited image adjustability and absence of an advanced color management system (CMS), the factory-calibrated on-screen image appears to be well-balanced.

Upon entering the projector's Image Mode, you'll find six user-selectable image modes: STANDARD, MOVIE, VIVID, SPORTS, CHILD, and USER. When connecting the WEMAX Nova to an external HDMI source, the available image modes expand to include Monitor and Game, while the Child mode is no longer accessible.

I found MOVIE image mode to strike a good balance between brightness and color reproduction in my testing environment, with the lights out and the blackout shades closed. However, STANDARD image mode was the best mode for everyday usage with some lights on and my windows open.

I liked to toggle between Standard for daytime usage and Movie for nighttime usage modes; it made the most sense for my viewing environment since I utilized the WEMAX Nova in both my projector lab and living room for this review. Surprisingly, unlike many other projectors, switching to Game mode does not disable Keystoning, so it is less important to ensure proper alignment of the projector if you plan to use the WEMAX Nova for gaming.

  • Wemax Nova Projector News - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector News - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector News - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector News - Projector Reviews - Image

Although the USER mode lacks advanced picture adjustments like Grayscale, Gamma, and CMS controls, it does allow you to make basic adjustments to the projector's image based on your specific viewing environment. In this mode, you can modify settings such as Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness, Hue, Color Temperature, and Digital Noise Reduction to fine-tune the image. 

If you would like to make some quick adjustments to improve the picture quality of the WEMAX Nova in your room, check out our video called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns

BRIGHTNESS

  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image

WEMAX states that the Nova has a brightness of 2,100 ANSI lumens. At Projector Reviews, we prefer manufacturer-provided ANSI lumens over other brightness measurements like ISO lumens. ANSI lumens gauge brightness under real-world conditions, taking into account different levels of light reflection. While it's possible to measure ISO lumens outside a laboratory environment with some effort, the results might not be as dependable or consistent. On the other hand, it’s a relatively straightforward process to measure ANSI lumens.

To be thorough, I used my Murideo SIX-G Generator to project the Murideo Full White Test Pattern and measured Nova’s brightness for myself. To measure the unit's brightness, I set the Nova’s Projector Brightness to Highlight Mode and then set the Image Mode to Standard, which together are the projector’s brightest settings. I then took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the lens.

WEMAX Nova Brightness (STANDARD mode, HIGHLIGHT brightness): 2089 Lumens

With the projector’s maximum brightness settings, the Nova measured 2,089 ANSI lumens. Next, I selected the WEMAX Nova’s settings and measured all the other available image modes. The chart below shows my calculated brightness rating for each of the projector's out-of-the-box preset image modes.

BenQ GP500 Brightness

ImageBrightness Measured (ANSI Lumens)
Standard2089
Movie1835
Vivid2074
Sports1552
Child1778
User2073
Monitor2020
Game1792

BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL

  • Wemax Nova Projector Blacks & Shadows - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Blacks & Shadows - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Blacks & Shadows - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Blacks & Shadows - Projector Reviews - Image

The photos above show various dark scenes, giving you an idea of the WEMAX Nova’s black-level performance. The Nova’s blacks appeared more like dark gray than true black. This was particularly noticeable during darker scenes when watching at night in my room. While home projectors within the Nova’s price range may offer better black levels and shadow detail, they generally tend not to be as bright and or feature Laser TV smart capabilities.

When assessing a projector's picture quality, it's essential to consider the likely use case for the device. Although the Nova’s black level could be improved, UST projectors like this one are not intended to rival high-end home theater projectors typically found in completely darkened media rooms. Instead, the Nova is more likely to be used in rooms with higher ambient light levels, where the ability to produce deep blacks is less crucial. The extra brightness would likely be more beneficial to users in environments with more ambient light.

During my tests utilizing an Elite Screens Aeon fixed frame projection screen featuring CineWhite® UHD-B 1.3 gain screen material and a Screen Innovations Solo Pro 2 with Unity AT Pure White 1.3 gain screen material, the Nova produced appealing images even in the presence of some ambient light. Naturally, using Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) and Ceiling Light Rejecting (CLR) screens can further improve image quality in environments with ambient or ceiling light. It's important to note that while ALR and CLR screens provide improved black levels, those better black levels are achieved at the cost of diminished screen brightness. Nevertheless, giving up a bit of brightness shouldn't be worrisome; with a measured output of 2,089 ANSI lumens, the WEMAX Nova provides ample brightness.

 

HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE

  • Wemax Nova Projector Blacks & Shadows - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector HDR10 - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector HDR10 - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Brightness - Projector Reviews - Image
The WEMAX Nova supports HDR10

The Nova supports HDR10, which is essential for projecting HDR content. Projectors and HDR do not always play well together. To effectively display HDR, a projector must possess a high contrast ratio and brightness, allowing it to reproduce the expanded range of colors and luminance that HDR content offers. However, the perceived quality of HDR content may be affected by the room's ambient lighting conditions, as the heightened brightness and contrast can be impacted by any surrounding light.

  • Wemax Nova Projector Orange/Yellow - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector Color Reproduction - Projector Reviews - Image
The processing of HDR10 was inconsistent on the unit I was testing; the flames in this image should ideally be orange, rather than yellow

To enable HDR for the HDMI inputs, I was required to manually go into the HDMI setting and toggle HDMI 2.0 to the on position. However, although the WEMAX Nova can accept an HDR10 signal, its processing of this signal was a bit irregular on my demo unit. Despite my efforts, the highlights from HDR source material were intermittently clipped instead of being accurately tone-mapped to match the projector's inherent abilities, as you can see in the attached image.

When I first viewed the clip from Mad Max: Fury Road, the explosion was yellow. However, upon rerunning the clip, the explosion correctly showed up as orange. Aside from this inconsistency, the HDR functioned as expected.

GAMING

  • Wemax Nova Projector for Gaming - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector for Gaming - Projector Reviews - Image
  • Wemax Nova Projector for Gaming - Projector Reviews - Image

The Nova's Image Mode options include a Game mode. As an enthusiastic gamer, I was eager to test this mode for everyone. I chose two games from the "Best Games To Play On A Projector" series by Projector Reviews: Resident Evil 4, Hogwarts Legacy, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. While the Nova may not be the top choice for gaming competitions that require minimal input lag, it is well-suited for enjoying casual large-scale gaming in any room of your home.

SOUND QUALITY

Wemax Nova Projector Audio by Dolby - Projector Reviews - Image
The WEMAX Nova is compatible with Dolby Audio and DTS-HD

The viewing experience is elevated by four integrated speakers that deliver a surprisingly robust sound from its 3.6-inch tall chassis. In addition, the Nova is compatible with Dolby Audio and Digital Theater Systems HD (DTS-HD). Dolby Audio, developed by Dolby Laboratories, is a collection of audio encoding and processing technologies, encompassing Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Atmos.

DTS is another family of audio technologies, including DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X. DTS Digital Surround is a competitor to Dolby Digital, supporting 5.1 surround sound as well. Overall, the audio performance is comparable to a mid-sized soundbar, which is quite impressive given that the WEMAX Nova's size is smaller than many conventional mid-sized soundbars.

The Nova supports ARC on HDMI port number three, allowing for enhanced audio transmission from the projector to an external audio device like a soundbar or home theater audio system. For testing, I connected the Nova to my latest projector lab audio setup using HDMI, which includes a Marantz AV8805 AV Pre Tuner, Marantz MM8077 7CH power amplifier, a set of Definitive Technology BP9080x bipolar tower speakers, and a Definitive Technology Demand D5c center channel speaker, and the system functioned seamlessly.

SUMMARY

Wemax Nova 4K Projector Front Right - Projector Reviews - Image

The WEMAX Nova is competitively priced within the UST projector landscape. Yet, it's worth noting that the market for UST projectors is becoming increasingly saturated, with new models emerging seemingly on a monthly basis. With that being said, I thought it would be fitting to conduct a quick comparison of the Nova with a few other UST projectors.

Remember that WEMAX’s website states, “WEMAX is the sub-company of Appotronics” and goes on to state, “PS. Formovie is the brand belonging to Fengmi, who is the sub-company of Appotronics and Xiaomi as well, who is focusing on Chinese domestic company and B2B business. However, WEMAX is focusing on international online markets.” Even though the WEMAX Nova and Formovie THEATER target different customers, it seemed suitable to juxtapose them since they are both sub-companies of Appotronics. The Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart, with a price range similar to that of the WEMAX Nova, is also incorporated in this comparative analysis.

Wemax Nova Projector Features - Projector Reviews - Image

The WEMAX Nova sells for $2,699.00 compared to the Formovie THEATER’s $3,499.00 and Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart’s $2,299.00 MSRP. It should be noted that the Optoma was previously priced at $2,699.00, which made it a direct competitor to the WEMAX.

All three projectors mentioned are 4K projectors. Meaning, like most 4K projectors on the market today, all three are capable of displaying four times the pixel count (8.3 million) of their native 1080P DLP imager, thanks to the Texas Instruments XPR technology. The 4K Ultra High Definition (4K UHD) specification was established by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). The CTA states, in part, that a projector/display system can be classified as 4K UHD if it meets the minimum performance standards, which include a display resolution of a minimum of 8 million active pixels (at least 3840 in width x 2160 in height).

THE COMPETITION

Wemax Nova, Formovie THEATER, and Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart Projectors - Projector Reviews - Image
Laser TV Model Comparison
ModelWEMAX NovaFormovie THEATEROptoma CinemaX D2 Smart
Price$2699$3499$2299
Displayed Resolution3840x2160
(1920x1080x4)
3840x2160
(1920x1080x4)
3840x2160
(1920x1080x4)
Light SourceLaserRGB LaserLaser
Brightness2100 ANSI lumens2800 ANSI lumens3000 lumens
Operating SystemInternal Android TV 9.0Internal Android TV 11.0External Android TV 11.0 Dongle
Audio System30W (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter)30W (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter) Bowers & Wilkins10W X 2
3D SupportNoNoYes
Keystone Correction8-Point8-Point4-Point
Weight15.4 lbs21.6 lbs18.52 lbs

Optoma CinemaX D2 $2699 MSRP

As of the writing of this review, the Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart is $400 less expensive than the WEMAX Nova. The Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart is a 4K DLP projector utilizing a single laser alongside a phosphor light source, complemented by a six-segment (RGBRGB) color wheel. According to Optoma, the peak brightness of the D2's laser is rated at 3,000 lumens.

The CinemaX D2 Smart projector is engineered to replicate the full Rec.709 color range. Its laser light source is competitively durable, lasting 20,000 hours in standard mode and 30,000 hours in ECO mode, which is standard for its category. In addition, Optoma indicates the contrast ratio of the CinemaX D2 Smart to be 1,800,000:1. A unique feature of the Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart is its "Wall Color" option, which enables you to adjust the projected image according to your wall color. You can choose from six available settings - blackboard, light yellow, light green, light blue, pink, and grey - to optimize the color accuracy based on your wall color.

On the upside, the D2 Smart supports 3D, a feature absent in both the WEMAX Nova and Formovie THEATER. On the downside, the D2 Smart relies on an external dongle for its "smart" functionalities, while both the Nova and THEATER have these smart features seamlessly integrated into the projector itself. Between the WEMAX Nova and Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart, the D2 Smart is your choice if you want Android TV 11 and 3D support. In contrast, the Nova is your choice if you prioritize keystone correction options and a more powerful audio system. For additional Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart information, read Projector Reviews’ Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart full review.

Formovie Theater - $3499 SRP

For $800.00 over the price of the Nova, the Formovie THEATER has a triple laser light source compared to the Novas single laser light source with more ANSI lumens. The Formovie THEATER also utilizes Bowers & Wilkins speakers. Bowers & Wilkins, often abbreviated as B&W, is a British company that produces audio equipment, notably loudspeakers.

B&W is known for its commitment to creating high-quality audio and has established a reputation for its innovative designs, superior craftsmanship, and outstanding acoustic performance. Many recording studios and music artists use B&W speakers due to their high fidelity, which accurately reproduces the source material. For more Formovie THEATER information, check out our Formovie THEATER full review.

Like WEMAX Nova and Optoma CinemaX D2 Smart, The Formovie THEATER employs a 0.47 Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) from Texas Instruments. The THEATER combines the DMD with an ALPD 4.0 RGB+ triple laser light source from Appotronics. The expected lifespan of the light source at full output is a competitive 20,000 hours. With a brightness of 2,800 lumens, this laser light source suggests that the projector doesn't necessitate a totally dark room for a satisfactory image quality - a claim that our own Philip Boyle evaluated in his Formovie THEATER Performance-Brightness review segment of his Formovie THEATER review.

Formovie rates a native contrast ratio of 3,000:1 for their THEATER UST projector. Coupled with Formovie's proficiency in identifying and processing Dolby Vision encoded signals, it promises a lifelike viewing experience. To put it into perspective, HDR10 is presently the most economical and commonly implemented HDR format, while Dolby Vision is considered a high-end alternative.

If the Formovie THEATER's cost of $3,499.00 feels too steep for a UST projector, the WEMAX Nova makes for an excellent alternative. Priced at $2,699.00, the WEMAX Nova is considerably more affordable than the Formovie THEATER. However, it's important to note that the Formovie THEATER is a premium UST projector with superior audio and image quality. However, given its price, the WEMAX Nova still delivers impressive imagery.

Wemax Nova UST Laser Projector - Projector Reviews - Image

The WEMAX Nova’s cutting-edge laser phosphor display (ALPD) technology, boasting 2,100 ANSI lumens of brightness and a Full On/Full Off (FOFO) contrast ratio of 3,000:1 is great in the highly competitive world of Laser TV/UST projectors. The Nova can project a maximum 4K image of up to 150 inches and cover 100% of the Rec. 709 color spectrum.

Being a product of WEMAX, a subsidiary of the tech giant Appotronics, the Nova leverages the globally recognized ALPD laser technology found in many cinema projectors. It employs the cost-efficient ALPD 3.0 light engine with a blue laser/phosphor wheel design, free of the laser speckle common in RGB laser models. The Nova's laser light source contributes to its vibrant colors, high contrast, crisp imagery, and extended durability, thereby surpassing many conventional UST projectors.

Furthermore, the WEMAX Nova is a simple, user-friendly device providing access to numerous streaming services, including Apple TV, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. Paired with its integrated sound system, it delivers a convenient option for grand-scale entertainment. Considering these attributes and its affordable price, the Nova is a superb choice for consumers searching for a cost-effective UST projector.

PROS

  • Game Picture Mode
  • 30W (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter)
  • Three HDMI inputs
  • Google Assistant
  • Google Play Store
  • 8-Point keystone correction

 CONS

  • Remote control lacks backlighting
  • No 3D support
  • Netflix not supported
  • No color management system (CMS) for calibrations

WEMAX Nova - SPECIFICATIONS

Wemax Nova 4K Smart Ust Projector - Projector Reviews - Image
Full Specifications
Projector ModelWEMAX Nova
Price$2699.00
Imager TypeDLP (0.47” DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840 x 2160 pixels
Native Resolution1920 x 1080 x 4 pixels
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)2100 ANSI lumens
Light Source TypeLaser
Light Source Life20,000 hours 
Contrast Ratio3000:1
Zoom Lens RatioFixed
Power Zoom/FocusNo
Lens ShiftNo
Interchangeable LensNo
Ultra-Short ThrowYes
Native Aspect Ratio16:9 (Widescreen)
HDTV/4K Yes
DVI or HDMIYes
3DNo
Blu-Ray 3DNo
Speakers30W (10W x 2 Full Range, 5W x 2 Tweeter)
Noise Level (-db)37 dB
Low Lag GamingYes
Smart FunctionalityYes
BusinessNo
ClassroomNo
PortableNo
Special FeaturesInfrared Body Sensor, Android OS, Streaming Apps, Google Assistant, Decodes Dolby, and DTS-HD Audio
NetworkingWireless
Dimensions (HxWxD)10.2 inches x 10.5 inches x 7.2 inches
Weight15.4 lbs.
Warranty1 Year
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