Best 4k projector Under 1500 (2023) Guide
Everyone wants a movie experience like a movie theater in their home with family and friends.
Also, many believe that 4k projectors are costlier and getting a decent one needs to spend a good amount of $$$$.
But as technology advances, the cost of these 4k projectors has drastically decreased, and now you can get a native 4k projector under 1500 with premium features.
If you still don’t believe me, then hover downwards, and you will find projectors in the below price range of $1500.
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Best 4k Projector Under 1500
When we were testing the multiple devices, we kept numerous points in mind and which are
- True 4k image quality
- Excellent gaming experience with the lowest lag time
- Ease to set up the unit
- A higher contrast ratio with almost zero rainbow effect.
Also, many models in the market claim to be “4k projectors, but they are the enhanced version of 1080p” [we have pointed out clearly].
1). Anker Nebula
The 4k projector from nebula with an oval design and the top competitor of Xgimi Horizon pro, where the features are identical but at different prices.
This unit is compact but not portable, and I would say good choice for casual gamers who wants a UHD device capable of doing multiple tasks.
Additionally, the best part is that you can set up this projector in less than 20 minutes even though you are using it for the first time due autofocus feature.
The best image quality gives you the most impressive native UHD resolution (3840×2160), which is four times better than full HD, which is 1080p.
If you don’t want to attach any other external speakers to your unit, the Nebula Cosmos has four x 10w speakers optimized to deliver 360° of true 3D audio.
But if you want a theatre-like experience, attaching the external speaker to this unit will do the job with a 3.5mm jack.
With HDR10 & HLG technology, you can watch your content on a bigger screen with a higher contrast ratio in a bright room.
Also, the HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) automatically detects the non-HDR content and upscales it to near HDR quality for better viewing.
The projector lamp has a 30,000 hours life but is in energy saver mode, which reduces the brightness level to 40% on screen.
It is no surprise that Android software popped up when I first tested this unit in my living room, where hundreds of applications were ready to get downloaded on this model.
It also comes with the google assistant feature, which makes it easier for you to play anything right from your voice with the help of remote control.
At the back of the unit, there are optical audio, 2 USB A ports, two HDMI ports, and power ports.
While testing this unit, we found no optical zoom, so to adjust the image, you need to move the model.
Secondly, if you save picture settings like adjusted contrast ratio, brightness, and even gamma settings, it will return to factory mode when you switch off the unit.
Benefits
- 4k cinematic experience.
- The auto keystone and autofocus adjust the image even if the projector is placed in the corner of the room.
- It gives 30,000 hours of lamp life.
- In-built sound quality is an outstanding giving experience of Dolby digital experience.
Drawbacks
- If you want to use the Nebula Cosmos in some lighter condition, it might lack in giving brighter images.
- Also, you will need a nebula app manager to install Amazon Prime or Netflix on the projector to view the content.
2). BenQ TK700STi:
Next, we have the best projectors under 1500, which is from BENQ, that are ideal for gamers and have a refresh rate of 60hz with an input lag of 16 milliseconds.
With the feature of a short-throw ratio, you can project the image 100 inches from only 6.4 feet(2m) away, so it will be perfect for small rooms or apartments.
Also, this unit has a laser projector lamp power of 3000 lumens that will give brighter images in gameplay mode.
But it has a contrast ratio of 10000:1, which we feel is at the lower end.
The cool feature we like about this model is that it has HDMI and CEC options, which let the projector automatically power on/off when connected to any streaming device.
Remember, this device does not support 4k at 120 Hz, but it will support 120 Hz on 1080p, so the input lag you will get is around 8-9 milliseconds depending on which game you play.
You can connect this model with various playing sources like PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Google Stadia, Nintendo Switch, etc.
Terms of what we didn’t like about this unit were noise. The projector does get heated up, and the fan noise might distract you if the sound level is too low for the movie or games.
Higher brightness makes the projector’s temperature go up tremendously in this case, you can place the model in cooler and less humid conditions.
Benq provides a warranty of 3 years, a bonus, as their brand models generally have fewer than two years.
Also, the unit automatically shuts down when there is no signal detected for a few minutes, or no activity has happened.
Also, your home theatre and other projectors will power on automatically when connected with BENQ TK700STi.
Pros
- Comes with an Android nine operating system with thousands of apps loaded on the device.
- The wireless voice remote comes with Google Assistant.
- 3d ready with full HD.
- 4K UHD with pixel shifting (3840 x 2160).
Cons
- No lens shift feature.
- Colors are not as vivid in cinema mode.
3). Optoma UHD 38
If you are looking for a device that can serve both the purpose of gaming and is also perfect for viewing movies in lighter conditions, then Optoma UHD38 is perfect for you.
The Optoma UHD38 provides a home theater experience with the help of 8.3 million distinct pixels.
You can also use this projector in lighter conditions due to the contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 and the lumens power of 4000 it will project brighter images in a brighter room.
This model gives a more vivid color and deeper black level with the HDR10 & HLG technology.
Now in terms of gaming experience, you will get a 240 HZ in 1080p with a lag time of 4.2 ms, and there will be less motion blur or freezing while you play your favorite game.
But if you want to play your favorite games on true 4k mode, chances are you will get a lag time of 16ms and a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which is a little bit low for hardcore gamers.
The life of a lamp is 15,000 hours which will last for 10+ hours if you use it daily for 3 hours.
Also, you can project the images @ 300″ inches, only 13.1 feet away, which is ideal for those who are shorter in space.
While testing this unit, I would say the internal speakers’ sound quality is average, and you might have to purchase the external speakers to experience true gaming or cinematic experience.
Also, the fan’s noise is so loud when you play the game in 4k mode. And when this device runs in sports modes, the experience of running your games is different.
Pros
- The images can be zoomed at 1.1x and keystone correction of ±40°.
- A contrast ratio of (1,000,000:1) will surely let you see the images even if your curtains are lifted in daylight conditions.
- HDR 10 & HLG technology gives you a more enhanced viewing experience.
- A lag time of 4.2 ms in 1080p with a refresh rate of 240 Hz will give you an awesome gaming experience.
Cons
- No Wifi connectivity at this price.
- You might need an external speaker system for a cinematic feel.
4). XGIMI Horizon
If you are looking for a projector that has a resolution of Full high definition 1080p with 4k support at a budget-friendly price, then check out the XGIMI Horizon unit.
This projector comes with an inbuilt 8-watt Harmon Kardon sound system which will give a brilliant sound system.
Now when you boot up the projector for the first time, it will go into autofocus mode, automatically adjusting the picture according to your best viewing angle.
The digital zoom feature allows you to zoom in or out as you want.
The best feature that we like about the XGIMI projector is it comes with an obstacle avoidance feature.
So, what it will do is when something is on its way, like in front of its projection lens, it will automatically project on a projector screen.
This unit will run on Android 10 os, and also you will need a third-party app to download to watch Netflix with your family and friends.
You will get a crystal clear image from only 3 feet away.
Also, you will get 24 GB of space, and built-in Wifi and Bluetooth audio support enable you to connect a wireless audio device or your best projector devices.
So, this projector is not perfect for hardcore gamers looking to play their favorite games with low lag time.
But still, for movie lovers or using it for a business meeting, this unit will be an excellent choice for you.
Pros
- You can project the screen with 30″-300″ inches.
- It comes with inbuilt wifi, Bluetooth, and 3.5mm headphone input.
- 2200 ANSI lumens give you warmer colors in dim and dark rooms.
- The autofocus adjusts the image size according to the wall or the projector screens.
Cons
- Remember, this is not a home theater projector. It will enhance the 4k images when you are projecting on the screen.
- Not ideal for gamers.
5). BenQ TK800M
The BenQ TK800m is made to give its viewers more brightness in ambient lighting conditions while playing games or watching their favorite movie on a bigger screen.
First, let’s talk about the design, this projector comes with blue aqua color on the front, which gives a more premium look when sitting on the table.
On the front is a BenQ logo, and on the top is a six menu button that helps you control all the settings of TK800m.
Now in terms of image quality, it comes with a DLP chip that produces a 4k resolution of 8.3 million distinct pixels giving a more detailed picture quality on the screen.
Also, with 3000 lumens power, you can use this 4k projector as a daily viewing unit with ambient light in the room, which will not wash the videos on the screen.
But you will need to put the projector 12 feet away from the wall or screen to project the image of 120″ inches.
6). ViewSonic (X10-4KE)
Next, we have a Viewsonic projector with a new rectangle shape design and a high-quality projector made of metal finish.
This unit can produce a 3840×2160 4k resolution with a screen size up to 200 inches.
This unit can also be known as a portable 4k projector that is perfect for those who want their unit not to be fixed in one place.
You can either take this unit with you in your RV while camping while powering the projector with the help of a generator, or you can also use it in the backyard of your house.
Now, why is this called a smart home theater projector, it works with google home, Amazon Alexa, and other smart devices.
So, when you don’t need to access the back of Viewsonic ports, a leather cover covers all your connecting ports when traveling with your unit.
The input delay you will get for around 60 ms, and the LED technology provides 8.3 million pixels giving 4x more clarity when projecting UHD content on the surface.
Remember, for true 4k projection, you will need a 4k screen for a 4k projector.
When we got out hands on this model, we didn’t like the third-party App Aptoide, which is provided to download all the apps and games to watch on the screen.
Also, due to the lumens power of 2400 LED, this model is made specially to project in darker conditions, not in daylight or a brighter room.
Pros
- Premium audio system.
- Ultra High Definition projector.
- You can mount this unit on the ceiling or a solid surface.
- The back cover hides all the connection ports, making it easy to carry on the go.
Cons
- Instead of giving the cover backside, the manufacturer should have given cover to the projector lens opening and closing.
- The third-party app is not user-friendly.
Best Projectors Under $1500 (Buying Guide)
There are some things that you should consider before going to purchase the projection system.
The factors below will help you select the right projector to experience true UHD (ultra-high definition) on a bigger screen that ranges above 100″ inches.
Size For
The size of the projector is a must to consider factor. It is perfect to use a high pixel density to eliminate the “screen-door” effect.
Smaller projectors have lower pixels, and thus it will be hard to experience what true 4k is on screen.
You can choose between short-throw or ultra-short-throw projectors. A short-throw projector can throw an image from around 3ft away, which displays an image size of 100″ inches minimum size.
While the ultra-short-throw projector, you can project the images from as low as 2 feet away from the screen, giving a size 120″ inches from the unit.
So, in short, before deciding to go with your favorite 4k model, make sure you have the right calculation of the wall or either the screen size where you are going to project the images.
Lumen Value
The lumen value of the projector is an important factor to consider. Lumen is a light output that is needed to project your image onto a screen.
The higher the lumens, the brighter the image will be on the screen or wall.
To get a clear and brighter image experience even in ambient light conditions, go with a higher or more powerful lumens lamp.
If you are going to project the unit in darker condition, most probably, then you can go with a 2000-3000 lumens power, depending on darker your room is.
But, if you are using it in a sunny room where you need to lift the curtains, then with at least 4000 lumens power, you will need to project in daylight conditions.
Pixel Resolution
The next factor that you must consider is pixel resolution. This will help you to understand whether your 4k projector is real or just an up-scaling one.
The minimum pixel count for full 4k great picture quality should be around 8 million pixels.
Lag Time of Projector
Last but not least is the lag time of the projector. This is very important because this will help you experience high frame rates and fast-action videos.
The lower the latency, the better it is to see the full 60fps on your screen without any input lagging issue.
The units of latency timing are measured in milliseconds or ms, which will tell you how fast your projector renders enhanced image sharpness without lagging.
The lag time is usually mainly used when using your 4k projector for gaming.
So, if you are a hardcore gamer and want lag-free audio quality in your gaming, select the unit in the range of 6ms up to 18ms, depending on what type of game you are playing.
Types Of HD Projectors.
There are different types of projectors available in the market. The most common display technologies include DLP, LCD, and LCoS types of units.
The main difference between these three types is how they handle the light reflected on the screen.
DLP projectors use a single color wheel, LCD use three (RGB), and LCoS uses three independent light modulators.
In DLP projectors, colors are produced by a color wheel rotated in front of the light source, giving three different colors.
These are fast projectors with almost no input lag time but have the lowest contrast ratios among all three display technologies.
In LCD and DLP projectors, colors are produced by combining a color wheel and a series of dichroic mirrors.
These have slightly higher lag times than DLP projectors but have higher contrast ratios.
LCoS projectors have three independent light modulators, one for each primary color. These produce the highest contrast ratios and have a relatively low lag time.
Price
Before selecting the projector, the price also plays an important role when selecting the right projector for your living or master bedroom.
You will get fewer choices for true UHD experience in a cheap projector below 1500.
But if you go for a price range of under 3000 dollars, then you will have multiple true UHD 4k projectors to choose from for your outdoor, business meetings, or home theater projectors, etc.
FAQ
Can I project a 4k image from my laptop or computer?
No, it’s impossible to display a 4k picture from your laptop on a full-sized projector.
To do so, you will need an upscaling video card that takes the lower resolution picture and scales it to match the higher resolution of the projector.
Are 4k projectors dim?
No, the number of lumens output tells you how bright your projector is. The higher the lumen value, the brighter projector will be.
So if you are using it in a dark room, go for high lumens value, whereas if you are planning to use it in a lit room, then go for a higher lumens power bulb.
What is the difference between 4k and 1080p projectors?
The main difference between these two is that a 4k projector can produce much higher resolutions than 1080p.
A 4k projector has a pixel resolution of 8 million pixels, whereas a 1080p projector has a pixel resolution of up to 2 million pixels.
The high number of pixels produced by the 4k projector results in sharper, clearer, and more life-like picture quality.
Conclusion
We hope the above information has helped you select the best 4k projectors under $1500 according to your need and viewing experience.
We will keep updating the article and surely add new products available in the market.
At that moment, I thought, why should I restrict myself to a smaller screen when an alternate option like a projector is available on the market.
So, I began searching the internet for the best projectors in 2014. And to be honest, I didn't find the information I was looking for.
But then, on my friend's suggestion, I purchased a BenQ 1080p projector in 2015. After that, my love and interest in Projector started, and I kept reviewing the latest available projectors available in the market.
I wrote down each advantage and disadvantage of the current Projector model. I gave only an honest reviews to my readers on projectorsplace.com and my social media pages like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.
If you feel I have left any projector model uncovered, let me know on my official email id: carry@projectorsplace.com.
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Carry
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