Epson 3800 vs 4010 (Side By Side Comparision)
Epson comes up with Home Cinema projectors that bring theater-like experiences to big-screen entertainment.
If you’re looking at the side-by-side comparison of Epsons 3800 vs. 4010, I have tested both models with all their features, brightness levels, resolution, and contrast ratios.
While making the comparison, it was difficult to give a clear winner in every section due to their neck-to-neck performance.
So, what are the differences between the models you will find in this detailed guide with their reviews?
Quick View
Epson 3800 vs 4010
Model | Epson 3800 | Epson 4010 |
Resolution | Native 4k | Native 4k |
Contrast | 100,000:1 Dynamic | 200,000:1 Dynamic |
Lumens | 3000 Ansi | 2400 ANSI |
Screen Size | 12ft @ 120″ | 50″ – 300″ |
Zoom | Manually | Manually Adjusted |
Connectivity | 2x HDMI, two USB ports, One audio out mini plug | 2 x HDMI ports, 2x USB, 1x LAN, PC port |
Price | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon |
Image Comparision
Contrast
The Epson HC 4010 has a contrast ratio of 200,000:1, which produces more accurate and detailed pictures in black scenes.
On the other hand, the HC 3800 lacks in producing more detailed images in black scenes due to its lower contrast ratio of 100,000:1 in comparison with the 4010 model.
Both models come with a 3LCD 0.610 TFT chip, which makes the unit visible to color breakup artifacts ( related to the rainbow effect).
Brightness
Lumens play a significant role in displaying sharper and brighter images when used in ambient or low light conditions, which directly affect picture quality.
So, if you want to use the projector in some ambient light, go with an Epson 3800 device which produces brightness of 3000 lumens more brighter pictures than HC 4010.
On the other hand, if your usage is more in darker environments and you want extra detailing in black scenes, then you can go with Epson 4010.
Setup
The setup process for both projectors was much easier when placed on the table rather than mounted on the ceiling.
But when I mounted it on the ceiling, the process was a bit time-consuming due to its bulky size. Both models can be placed on the coffee table, flat surface, ceiling mounted, etc.
Also, both units have adjustable feet, which helps align the image geometry on a wall or screen more easily.
But you will need to do extra work in the Epson 3800 as you will have to focus the image manually as it did not have a motorized zoom lens.
Connectivity
Regarding connectivity, the Epson 3800 has two HDMI 2.0, two USB ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, a 12-volt trigger output, and an RS 232 port to control the system.
On the other hand, the Epson 4010 has two USBs, 2 HDMI ports, One LAN port, 1x DSUB/Computer 15 pin, and a 3.5mm jack.
Compared to these Epson models, both have almost the same connectivity options, as explained above. But the 3800 has a maximum bandwidth of 18 Gbps in HDCP 2.2, giving an edge over the 4010 model.
Throw Distance
The throw distance determines the distance the image size will be produced on the screen or wall. Remember, various throw distances come in the projector field, which is ultra-short, standard, and long throw projector.
Both models were placed at a distance of 12 feet to get 120″ a 120-inch image size on the screen. So, both the units are long throw projectors.
Gaming
In my testing, both models are not for professional gaming, but you can play casual games with decent lag time.
I played Fifa 22 on both projectors. On the Epson 3800, I got a lag time of 17ms, and 4010, to my surprise, it was 30ms.
FAQ
Is Epson 3800 or 4010 a true 4k projector?
No, they are not true 4k projectors, but still, you can play 4k content due to its pixel-shifting technology, which doubles the resolution to 4 million pixels.
Can I connect to the Gaming Console?
Yes, you can connect any gaming console to the above projectors. You will get an excellent gaming experience but not a smooth experience while playing high-end games.
Is there any alternative to these projectors?
Yes, there are alternatives with cost-effective prices and 108op native resolution with fewer features. You can check out Epson 880 or 2150 as an alternate option.
Epson 3800 Quick Review
When Epson launched its model 3700 in September 2016, it was an excellent projector in the market, giving tougher competition.
But with 3800, Epson has stepped forward and developed an enhanced 4k resolution, which produces a more natural and vivid color on the screen.
Also, the Epson has used 4K PRO-UHD technology and HDR10/Hybrid Log-Gamma display, used in the Epson 5050 model.
Two internal speakers sound above average, but by connecting with external speakers like the Sonos soundbar, you will get a theatre-like experience.
While testing the projector, I was running it in eco mode, and to my surprise, the fan noise was so quiet that it was impossible to hear even sitting next to HC3800 itself.
The default picture mode was set to cinema mode when the Epson 3800 was taken out of the box for the first time.
But you can still change it to other modes according to lighting conditions. You will get a two-year manufacturer warranty, and the lamp has a life of 5000 hours in eco mode.
Advantages
- It delivers a brightness of 3000 lumens, perfect for usage in medium ambient conditions.
- The remote glows in a darker environment due to the backlit feature.
- With enhanced 4k resolution, the Epson HC 3800 plays UHD content smoothly.
- Almost zero fan noise in Eco mode.
Drawbacks
- The sports mode is too bright when watching anything in a dark room.
- No wifi connectivity.
- You will need Epson V12H548006 3D glasses to work specifically with this model.
Epson 4010 Quick Review
The Epson Home Cinema 4010 has the same design as the above HC3800, but it has a higher contrast ratio and brightness level of 2400 lumens.
So, in this case, if you are going to watch movies, then the black scenes or levels are detailed.
Also, it comes with an improved 4K PRO-UHD Enhancement technology and 12-bit processing, giving much smoother image gradations on the screen.
In terms of design, it has a round curved look, the front having an air vent and a large lens with a shutter that opens & closes when the projector is on or off.
While setting up the 4010, I was eager to test the games on this projector. So, I connected to Xbox to see the actual lag time and picture quality.
The lens shift was a breeze, and I aligned the image on the screen while sitting on the couch with the help of the Epson remote control.
After setting the Epson HC4010, I played the GTA5 on it, and to be honest, the lag time was below 16ms while playing in lower resolution.
But when switched to multiplayer, the lag time increased to 28ms, and the smoothness was slightly delayed.
Advantages
- Clean design.
- A higher contrast ratio gives a detailed black level, making the images more natural.
- It comes with wireless connectivity.
- There are four picture modes to select according to lighting conditions.
Disadvantages
- It is not a portable projector due to its Bulky size.
- Higher price.
- In bright mode, the Epson 4010 will produce much heat, increasing the fan’s sound.
Conclusion
Both models have many standard features, making it harder to decide which one has more edge than the other.
If you want a model for daytime usage, you may want to check out the Epson 3800, which has a power of 3000 lumens.
But if you want to enjoy movies and TV shows or do casual gaming with decent lag time, then the Epson 4010 can be an ideal choice.
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