Exploring the Pros and Cons of Laser TVs [UST Projectors]: A Comprehensive Analysis
In recent years, Laser TV a.k.a. Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors have gained significant popularity as an alternative to flat screen TVs or Projectors. UST projectors offer unique advantages, but they also come with some drawbacks. In this blog, we will delve into the pros and cons of Laser TV / UST projectors, helping you make an informed decision about whether they are the right choice for your needs.
What is a Laser TV?
A Laser TV is basically a combination of Ultra Short Throw (UST) Projector and UST screen that are typically easier to install than standard projectors and screens.
Laser TV manufacturers often market their Laser TVs as a good replacement for large flat screen TVs, but in reality, they don’t even come close in terms of flexibility in real life situations.
Pros of Laser TVs
- UST: As the name suggests, Ultra Short Throw projectors only need very short distance to the screen as UST projectors are often placed just inches away from the screen. This eliminates the need for long throw distances between the traditional projector and the screen, making them ideal for small or limited spaces.
- Bigger Screen Size for Less Money Than a TV: With a Laser TV, you can get much bigger screen size for the same money spent on regular flat screen LCD, LED or OLED TV, hence making Projector TV more of an economical option if you really want that huge size screen in your space.
- Easy Installation and Setup: UST projectors are generally easy to install and set up. Unlike traditional projectors that require careful positioning and adjustment, running HDMI cable from input source device to the projector and requiring a power outlet where projector is installed or setup, UST projectors can be conveniently placed on a TV stand and just install the UST screen, then adjust image onto the screen and you’re good to go.
- Built-in Speakers: Most Laser TV UST projectors have built-in speakers that sound as good as speakers built into flat screen televisions – which are not the best, but not as bad as the built-in speakers in traditional projectors which sound horrible.
Cons of Laser TVs
- Not so great picture quality in bright rooms: Yes, UST projectors use powerful laser light source to battle the bright room conditions, but it still suffers even in semi bright rooms where lighting can’t be fully controlled. A Laser TV simply cannot be a replacement for a traditional flat screen television where you don’t need to worry about the brightness of the TV or ambient light in the room interfering with the image quality on your flat screen television.
- Having to Recalibrate the Image: Every time someone bumps into the UST projector or the stand the UST projector is sitting on, you’ll need to recalibrate the image which can be very annoying, especially if you have kids running around in the house where this can happen very frequently.
- Higher Price Tag: Compared to traditional projectors, UST projectors tend to be more expensive. The advanced technology and specialized optics required for the ultra-short throw capability contribute to the higher price point.
- Screen Quality Considerations: To achieve optimal image quality with UST projectors, it is crucial to use an UST screen to reduce ambient light, enhance contrast & brightness, and viewing angles. Using them on regular projector screen in bright rooms will result in horrible image quality and drastically reduced performance.
- Expensive UST Screens: Ultra Short Throw screens have tiny micro-bevels on the surface in order to collect the light coming from the projector only and to reduce the ambient light affecting image quality which makes it more difficult to produce UST screens. Hence, proper UST screens are a lot more expensive than traditional projector screens.
- Limited Image Size: UST projectors typically have limitations on the maximum image size they can produce. While they excel at creating large images in small spaces, they may not be suitable for those seeking massive projection sizes. The optimal image size of UST projectors usually ranges from 80 to 120 inches diagonally, depending on the specific model.
Conclusion
Laser TVs have revolutionized the way we can experience projections by offering space-saving benefits & easy installation. However, it’s very conditional where Laser TVs can be put to good use depending on the environment of your space. There are definitely some applications where Laser TVs can shine but it’s just not nearly as flexible as regular flat screen TVs. And limited screen size makes it not so immersive for home theater applications.
Are you in Toronto GTA?
If you’re located in Toronto GTA, looking for advice on whether Laser TV is suitable for your space, reach out to Professionals at Climax AV for consultation & professional installation services for all your AV integration needs.
Call 416-628-3212 or email info@climaxav.com to schedule consultation today!
