At some point, while shopping around for projectors, you’ll likely ask yourself whether laser projectors are worth the high price tag. But simultaneously, do lamp projectors still hold their ground in today’s tech-forward home cinemas and offices?
Both are valid questions, so to help you navigate through today’s projector market, here’s my laser projectors vs. lamp projectors comparison. Let’s delve into what sets these technologies apart and which situations might call for one over the other.
With lasers providing advantages like high luminance and reliability, and lamps offering lower upfront costs, the choice isn’t as straightforward as it might seem…
In a Hurry?
Here are the pros and cons of each projector type at a glance.
| Projector Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Laser projector | Longer lasting | More expensive |
| Higher brightness; better for ambient light environments | Fewer options on the market | |
| More energy efficient than lamp projectors | ||
| Greater colour accuracy | ||
| Instant On/Off reduces waiting time | ||
| Generally quieter running | ||
| Lamp projector | More affordable and traditional | Shorter life span than laser-based projectors |
| Lamp components are easier to replace and repair | Brightness can diminish over time | |
| Greater variety on the market | Higher running costs |
Laser Projectors vs. Lamp Projectors
Price
At first look, lamp projectors appear more budget-friendly, with lower initial costs than their laser counterparts. However, if you plan on clocking up some serious screen time, it’s important to factor in the running costs.
With frequent use, lamp projectors will require bulb replacements. The cost of these replacements, along with any maintenance service fees, adds up. In the long run, lamp projectors could equal or even exceed the price of some laser projectors.
But if you see yourself as a casual viewer who’s unlikely to exceed a lamp projector’s lifespan, the lower upfront prices are undeniably more attractive.
Lifespan
Lamp Projectors
Typically, lamp projectors have shorter, limited lifespans which vary between 1500 and 5000 hours of use.
Laser Projectors
Laser-based projectors enjoy a significantly longer lifespan of around 20,000 hours.
Unlike lamp projectors, laser projector components are designed to endure, not be replaced. While the initial cost of a laser projector may be higher, its substantially longer lifespan can make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
If you’re looking for the estimated lifespan of a specific projector model, try scouring the user manual. You can usually find this online, making it easier to research thoroughly before buying!
Maintenance
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, set-it-and-forget-it type of projector, laser is the way to go. Sure, you might want to tinker with calibration settings now and then if that interests you or you move your setup into different lighting conditions. But for the most part, they’re hassle-free.
Lamp projectors, on the other hand, require a bit more attention…
Their bulbs don’t last forever so you can expect to replace them every few thousand hours or thereabouts, depending on the specific lifespan of the projector.
There are two ways to change the bulb. You can opt for the DIY method to save yourself money, but this requires some confidence in handling expensive and delicate electronic components. Alternatively, you could hire professionals to carry out the maintenance for you. While this route comes at a higher cost, it saves time and minimises the risk of damage.
There may also be some cleaning required… sorry, that’s probably not what you wanted to hear. Since they tend to heat up with use, built-in cooling systems help prevent overheating. However, these cooling systems become less effective when clogged with dust and dirt. Maintaining a clear cooling system will minimise the temperature, and therefore the noise, of your setup. While this is true of lamp projectors in general, there are some exceptions (jump to the section about Display Technologies—DLP in particular!)
Image Quality
When comparing image quality between laser and lamp projectors, there are even more noticeable differences.
Laser projectors generally offer higher contrast than lamp projectors, producing deeper blacks and more shades of grey. This gives pictures a greater sense of dimension, so they appear more realistic.
In sharpness, laser projectors also excel, providing clearer images with more detail. This is beneficial not only in home cinema contexts but for presentations with text and complex graphics too. If you’re looking for a projector for school or work, lamp models will be more budget-friendly, but a laser model would definitely impress!
Lastly, in terms of colour range, laser projectors display a broader spectrum of colours for more vibrant and lifelike images. They’re particularly good at producing saturated primary colours and subtle gradations, enhancing any product showcase, photo slideshow, or movie screening.
Brightness
The brightness of lamp projectors is typically around 2,000 to 4,000 lumens but will vary from model to model. This is a decent brightness level and will be plenty for small, dark rooms… until the projector approaches the end of its lifespan. At this point light intensity begins to wane and brightness levels diminish as the bulb quite literally starts to lose its spark.
Laser projectors, on the other hand, reach between 4,000 and 6,000 lumens. Their brightness potential is far superior, making them versatile and well-suited to environments with a lot of ambient light.
Ultra-Short Throw (UST) projectors, which are exclusively laser-based, are an ideal solution to projection through ambient lighting conditions. As well as the superior brightness of the laser technology, their proximity (usually just a few inches from the screen) reduces glare and shadow effects.
Ease of Setup
After reading the user manual of your projector carefully and ensuring it’s appropriately situated, there will be a few initial adjustments to make, regardless of whether you’re using a lamp or a laser model. These include (but are not limited to) picture size, focus, and tilt.
With lamp projectors, most of these adjustments and calibrations will be done via old-school analogue controls. On higher-end laser projectors, by contrast, you can do more of the tweaks digitally via set-up menus and remote controls.
As well as being more convenient, such sophisticated digital controls allow you much greater precision over your settings. Think about manually twisting the focus ring or zoom lever on a projector; accuracy is dependent on your own physical stability and precision. With digital controls, however, simply input a setting and watch technology cover the rest.
Once in position and connected, laser projectors start up instantly, without the minute or two of warm-up typically required of lamp projectors. This immediacy is particularly beneficial in professional settings where time is of the essence.
Display Technologies Explained
While doing your own product research, you’ll probably stumble across some terms like DLP, 3LCD, D-ILA, and SXRD.
These are not other types of projectors but rather display technologies which make a big difference in projection quality. In some cases, they also combat some of the generic limitations of lamp projectors mentioned previously.
DLP
Digital Light Processing (DLP) is a common display technology based on a chip called a Digital Micromirror Device (DMD). The DMD contains millions of tiny mirrors, each representing a pixel in the image. The mirrors tilt to reflect light, which then passes through a spinning colour wheel, resulting in the projected image.
DLP projectors with one chip (some have three) are generally smaller and lighter than others. Their chips are typically sealed, increasing protection from dust and other debris while reducing the need for cleaning maintenance.
One drawback of DLP, however, is the ‘rainbow effect’ where fleeting colour flashes make their way into the projected image. This can be perceived in varying degrees and is less common in newer, three-chip DLP systems.
3LCD
3LCD technology operates by channelling light through three separate liquid crystal displays (LCDs), one each for the red, green, and blue (RGB) components of the image. Each colour passes through its own LCD panel, where individual pixels open or close to allow light through. These three light paths are recombined before being projected onto the screen.
Notable attributes of this technology are a wider colour gamut, greater light efficiency, smoother gradations, and reduced chance of rainbow effects.
SXRD and D-ILA
Silicon X-tal Reflective Display (SXRD) and Direct-Drive Image Light Amplifier (D-ILA) are both variations of Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS) display technology. This means they use advanced forms of liquid crystals on silicon to reflect and project light.
The main difference without falling too far down a rabbit hole? SXRD is Sony’s take on LCOS while D-ILA is that of JVC.
4K Projectors Explained
Unlike televisions, not all 4K projectors are created equal. In fact, not every 4K projector will display a full 4,000 pixels from left to right. This is an important distinction which impacts both laser and lamp projectors.
While 4K projectors all surpass the standard 1080p display resolution, they come in three different types: 4K UHD, 4K Enhanced, and Native 4K.
4K UHD
4K UHD projectors provide a step up from 1080p, typically with an approximate 2K horizontal pixel count. This offers a significantly sharper image than standard HD, lending more detail and depth to the visuals.
4K Enhanced
4K Enhanced projectors utilise a unique method to simulate a 4K experience. The typical process involves layering four 1080p images over each other in a circular motion to create 4K pixels from left to right while the picture is moving. However, if you press pause, the image will revert to a 1080p frame.
There is some variance between manufacturers, however, with Epson’s 4K Enhanced technology layering two 2K images over each other. This results in a source image of higher quality.
Native 4K
Lastly, Native 4K projectors are the crème de la crème, offering the only true 4K experience. The catch is the price point; these projectors usually start at £4,000+ because the ability to reproduce 4K is expensive to implement in projectors. Nonetheless, for those seeking the ultimate in home cinema or professional display technology, Native 4K is the gold standard.
Choosing the right projector for you
So, after absorbing all these differences, which projector should you choose? Here are some conclusions based on everything you’ve just read.
Where will you be using it?
Depending on where you intend to use your projector, one type might be more appropriate than another. Most significantly, if the location you have in mind will get natural light through windows, skylights, or glass doors for example, you’ll want a projector with higher brightness capability. Likewise, if your room is large, you’ll need a projector with upwards of 3,000 lumens.
Laser projectors typically have higher lumen levels and are, therefore, more suitable in the instances mentioned above.
Ultra short throw projectors, with their laser technology and inherent high lumen levels, would also work well in a regular living room with its natural lighting conditions. Their proximity to the screen also makes them great for small rooms or awkwardly shaped spaces.
Where will it be installed?
Say you want to install a ceiling-mounted projector or keep all your home theatre components hidden away in a recessed space, it’s not going to be easy to carry out maintenance tasks like bulb replacement or cleaning.
In such instances, laser projectors are advisable, but lamp projectors with DLP display technology could also work. With a DLP lamp projector you won’t need to worry about cleaning as frequently, only bulb replacement. But if you aren’t going to be using it all day every day, you probably won’t need to replace the bulb for a few years, if at all.
What’s in your budget?
It’d be great to have the very best that money can buy, but sometimes, “computer says no”.
If money is no object, laser projectors are the more capable and efficient choice. In terms of display technology, go for SXRD or D-ILA as they combine the best attributes of DLP and 3LCD. Oh, and definitely go for one with 4K Native.
For long-term value on a budget, I’d recommend laser projectors still, but a compromise on 4k Native and LCOS display technologies.
For a low upfront cost, choose a lamp projector with DLP display technology – just be conscious of the lifespan if you don’t want to deal with bulb replacements.
Projector Recommendations
To make the search for the right projector easier, here are our recommendations based on various needs and specifications:
Lamp Projector with DLP: Optoma HD29HSTX Full HD 1080p Short Throw DLP Projector
Lamp Projector with DLP: XGIMI Horizon 2200LM 1080P Projector
Lamp Projector with DLP and 4K UHD: Optoma UHD55 4K Ultra HD Projector with Free HDMI Cable
Laser Projector with 3LCD and 4K UHD: Epson EH-LS11000W 4K Laser Projector
Laser Proector with SXRD and Native 4K: Sony VPL-XW5000 4k Laser Projector
Laser Projector with D-ILA and 8K/e-shiftX: JVC DLA-NZ8 Black D-ILA Projector
Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector with DLP: Hisense PX1-Pro 4K Ultra Short Throw DLP Smart Projector
FAQs
What are the disadvantages of a laser projector?
Laser projectors, while offering excellent brightness and longevity, do have some drawbacks. They tend to be more expensive initially than their lamp-based counterparts. Also, although the lasers last longer, once they do fail, you typically need to replace the entire projector as the lasers are not user-replaceable.
Are laser projectors worth the money?
Yes, laser projectors are generally considered worth the investment. Despite their higher initial cost, they offer vibrant colours, consistent brightness, and a longer lifespan than traditional lamp projectors. They eliminate the need for regular lamp replacements, providing better value over time. However, the value can be subjective and depends on individual needs and usage scenarios.
What is the lifespan of a laser projector?
The lifespan of a laser projector varies considerably depending on the model and usage, but it’s typically rated between 20,000 and 50,000 hours. With proper care and maintenance, this could translate to at least 12 years of high-quality displays.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, having weighed up the pros and cons of laser projectors vs. lamp projectors, you’re now a little closer to picking the right projector for your needs. Just remember it all boils down to where you plan to place it, how often you intend to use it, how easily you’ll be able to access it, how high quality you want the picture to be, and what you can afford.
If you still have any burning questions about projectors, or anything AV-related, we’d be happy to have a quick chat over the phone. Alternatively, book a visit to our showroom in Bacup, Lancashire.
