To help you find the best laser projector to serve all of your home entertainment needs, we spent multiple hours researching over 20 different products. Our research and ranking focused on features like brightness, resolution, and user-friendliness. However, we also gave points to projectors for additional features like portability, onboard audio, and smart functionality. If you consider these in your search for the top-rated projector then you will enjoy the best laser projectors in the market.
With these features in mind, we chose the Optoma CinemaX P2 Laser Projector as the best laser projector for this year. This amazing projector creates a stunning picture with 4K resolution, insanely accurate colors, and superb color accuracy. Keep reading about this and our other top picks to learn more about the best projectors on the market today.
Update: the Vava 4K is currently out of stock. But we highly recommend our #2 pick, the Optoma CinemaX P2 Laser Projector…hence why it’s our #2.
Top 10 Best Laser Projectors
#1 Optoma CinemaX P2 Laser Projector
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Stunning 4K resolution, vivid color accuracy, and Dynamic Black contrast are the hallmarks of this best-of-class laser projector. It also features a high-quality integrated soundbar and a 30,000-hour lifespan so you get the most out of its use.
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- Crisp picture quality with vivid colors
- 30,000-hour life
- Six-segment color wheel for more color accuracy
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- SmartFIT app isn’t the most user friendly
- Higher input lag isn’t good for online gamers
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The Optoma CinemaX P2 is an upgrade to the P1 from the same manufacturer, and it has done a lot of work to keep the best features from the previous generation and improve its offering by adding some new features. Before we get started exploring new features, it’s worth it to talk about the projector’s performance and picture quality. You get native 4K UHD resolution here with amazing color accuracy due to the projector’s 2,000,000:1 Dynamic Black contrast ratio, HDR10 support, and six-segment color wheel. You also get an impressive 3,000 lumens of brightness, which offers a good balance between both light and darkroom performance. This is an ultra-short throw project that can create a 120” screen from as little as 5.7 inches away.
The new features in the CinemaX P2 projector are mostly focused on connectivity and user-friendliness. For starters, the projector offers IFTTT support, which means you can seamlessly connect it to a wide variety of smart devices. You can also use the project with smart home voice assistants like Alexa Echo and Google Home devices. The Optoma features three HDMI ports, three USB ports, an optical out connection, and audio out connection for comprehensive connectivity. Even better, the projector features stellar audio with an integrated 40W soundbar. Be aware that this projector is an excellent choice for TV, movies, and casual gaming, but more competitive gamers may be turned away by the somewhat slower 55ms input lag. Gamers may also be interested in the best projector for gaming that offers a stunning 500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for better differentiation between lights and darks.
#2 LG HU85LA Laser Projector
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This 4K laser projector is built with precision and quality in mind, in and out. From the sleek, durable design to the seamless user experience and smart functionality, this projector is a premium option through and through.
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- Integrates well with virtual assistants
- 7.2-inch ultra short throw distance
- HDR10 compatible
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- Integrated speakers could be better
- Heavier than other projectors
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When you first unbox the LG HU85LA laser projector, you’ll be immediately impressed with the product’s overall design. Many projectors are shaped strangely, with awkward angles or hard-to-reach controls. This isn’t the case with the best LG projectors. Featuring clean lines and a modern white case, this projector is designed to look good without sacrificing functionality. It also features a built-in soundbar, which could probably be better in many instances, but still works in a pinch if you don’t have your sound system set up yet. The LG is a little heavier than other projectors like the LG HF65LA, weighing in at 26 pounds, but since you’re not hanging this on the ceiling, like some of the other top ceiling-mounted projectors are equipped for, this isn’t much of a problem.
The LG projector’s performance matches the high-quality nature of its design, too. This is a leading short-throw projector that only needs 7.2 inches between the unit and the wall to create a picture of up to 120 inches. With native 4K resolution, Dynamic Tone Mapping, HDR10 support, and LG’s proprietary TruMotion technology, you’ll get a stellar picture no matter what movie you’re watching. The LG HU85LA uses a three-channel laser instead of a traditional color wheel, which leads to insanely accurate and vivid colors. We were also really impressed with the overall user-friendliness of this laser projector. It comes with a simple, well-functioning remote control and LG’s award-winning webOS lite, which is easy to navigate. You also get a built-in Alexa voice assistant, plus Bluetooth connectivity for additional smart functionality. iPhone users will also love the best iPhone projector that also includes a sturdy tripod, which you can use to easily set up the projector anywhere.
#3 Epson LS-100 3LCD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector
Award: BEST CONTRAST RATIO
WHY WE LIKE IT: With the best contrast ratio you can get today, this laser projector offers incredibly deep black and exceptionally vivid colors. Plus, it’s extra-bright laser light and multiple connection ports make this an extremely flexible projector.
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- Three-chip design for fantastic visual spectrum
- Super-bright 4,000 lumens
- 14 connection ports for ultimate versatility
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- Larger than other laser projectors
- No 4K resolution
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Even though the Epson LS-100 laser projector doesn’t offer ultra HD resolution, it still creates a stunning overall picture quality due to a variety of different features. For starters, the LS-100 has an amazing dynamic contrast ratio at 2,500,000:1. This amazing contrast ratio means you’ll get some of the deepest blacks and most vivid colors at the same time. When you combine this high contrast ratio with the Epson’s advanced three-chip design – which eliminates rainbow effects and white segments – you still get a stellar picture.
The Epson is also designed really well overall, although it is much larger than other laser projectors and requires upwards of 15 inches to create a larger screen size. Keep this in mind as you plan out your home theater space. We were most impressed that the LS-100 included 14 total connection ports, including HDMI ports, USB ports, audio ports, and more. This means you can connect many different devices for a comprehensive home entertainment system. Compare this model to the best 4k projector that features an awesome 1000,000:1 contrast ratio which keeps bright screens clear and dark screens detailed.
#4 Optoma CinemaX P1 Laser Projector
Award: BEST AUDIO
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you don’t want to purchase an expensive home theater sound system to go along with your new laser projector, this option is the best pick for you. With an integrated NuForce soundbar, you get amazing Dolby 2.0 audio, which pairs well with the projector’s native 4K resolution and wide color gamut.
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- User-friendly setup and installation
- Extensive smart home compatibility
- Stunning 4K picture quality with wide color gamut
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- 15-inch throw distance is longer than other models
- Lower dynamic contrast ratio at 1,500,000:1
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The Optoma CinemaX P1 laser projector brings one of the most immersive audiovisual experiences to the table. This is due largely in part to the integrated NuForce soundbar on the P1. This soundbar delivers amazingly rich audio with crisp dialogue due to its dual full-range speakers, dual woofers, ported chambers, and 40 watts of power. Combine this with true 4K resolution and HDR10 support, and it will be like you’re sitting in a movie theater. The CinemaX P1 also features a bright 3,000 lumens laser light that can be used for 30,000 total hours and a 1,500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. This isn’t as high as other laser projectors, but it still provides stunning detail between contrasting colors in the picture.
The Optoma P1 laser projector is incredibly easy to get set up and working. Since it’s a short-throw projector, you won’t need to mount it to your ceiling. Instead, place it on a table or tv console in front of your projector screen and simply turn it on. The throw distance is a little longer at 15 inches, but this is still minimal in the bigger picture. Optoma gives you access to the SmartFIT app with your purchase, which allows you to use your smartphone to help calibrate and align your home theater projector. You even get Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice compatibility with the P1 for more hands-free controls. And if you’re a gamer you will be interested in the best 3D projector that has both Sports and Game modes that create smooth, judder-free images for a more immersive experience. If you’d like other long-throw projectors, then you should go through our best long-throw projector guide.
#5 LG HU80KA Laser Projector
Award: BEST PORTABLE DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you need a portable entertainment source that still provides excellent picture quality and reliable audio, this is the best projector for you. Compared to other portable projectors, this is lightweight, easy to set up, and includes comprehensive streaming functionality for the ultimate portable experience.
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- Integrates well with streaming platforms
- Eight segment color wheel eliminates rainbow segments
- Solid onboard audio
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- User interface is a little confusing
- Only good for dark rooms
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The LG HU80KA is the best out of other portable models when it comes to portability and versatility. It measures at just 18 inches tall and 6.5 inches wide and deep, and it only weighs a mere 14 pounds. This is the most compact option your money can buy today. This laser projector even includes a convenient carrying handle for easier transportation. We were also impressed that the projector was equipped with LG Smart TV functionality, so you can stream content from all of your favorite streaming services. For wireless portable projectors, always keep the battery life in mind.
Fortunately, the LG portable laser projector doesn’t sacrifice much in the way of output, like with picture quality and performance to achieve better portability. It’s not a short-throw projector, so you’ll need a little bit more room to get a large screen size. However, once you get it adjusted correctly, you’ll get an impressive 4K resolution with super accurate and vivid colors. This good picture comes into play because of LG’s unique eight-segment color wheel, which provides a wider range of colors without the associated rainbow segmentation. You also get HDR10 support with this laser projector, which only improves overall picture quality and displays colorful image quality. And if you’re looking for a good model for use at your workplace, consider the best business projector that offers a long-lasting performance that you can rely on in any business scenario.
#6 Optoma GT1090HDR Laser Projector
Award: BEST FOR GAMING
WHY WE LIKE IT: With incredibly minimal input lag, tons of connection ports, and a high level of brightness, this laser projector is the best choice for both casual and pro gamers. It also performs well with movies and TV shows because of its accurate colors and crisp picture quality.
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- Minimal 16ms input lag
- Lens is dust resistant for less maintenance
- 4,200 lumens brightness can be viewed in the day
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- Only 1080p resolution
- Cannot be zoomed manually
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The Optoma GT1090HDR is one of the more affordable laser projectors available today, and while it makes some smaller sacrifices, it’s still of the same high quality you can find in other, more expensive, high-end Optoma projectors. Perhaps the biggest tradeoff the GT1090HDR makes is in native resolution. This is a 1080p full HD laser projector, so you’re not getting 4K ultra HD here. However, the projector is compatible with 4K inputs, so it will upscale all of your 1080p content to a 4K resolution. One of the best parts about this lower resolution, though, is the fact that it offers minimal input lag. At only 16ms of input lag, the Optoma GT1090HDR is the best laser projector for gaming.
We were also impressed with the overall durability and build quality of this Optoma projector. For starters, it has an IP6X dustproof lens, which prevents dust from entering the larger body of the projector and bogging things down. The projector also provides an impressively bright, 4,200 lumens light source which can even be used in daytime light. You can also expect a total of 30,000 hours of total use time out of this unit, which is more life than many other competitors. And for an outdoor viewing experience, consider the best outdoor projector with 10 individual elements that increase color, brightness, and sharpness.
#7 Optoma HZ39HDR Laser Projector
Award: BEST 1080P RESOLUTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This laser projector is affordable and high-performing, with plenty of connectivity options and beautiful, full HD resolution. It’s also extremely well built, with a dustproof lens and bright laser light that can even work in full daylight.
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- IP6X dustproof construction
- Incredibly bright with 4,000 lumens
- Compatible with Crestron A/V systems
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- Disappointing contrast ratio
- Remote control backlight is too bright
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The Optoma HZ39HDR is the best 1080p projector available today for a wide variety of reasons. For starters, the 1920×1080 pixel resolution is perfectly fine for most entertainment purposes, including gaming. You do still get a 4K input port though, so you’re not limited solely to 1080p sources. Fortunately, the HZ39HDR provides a good picture overall with accurate and bright colors. The 4,000 lumens laser light is incredibly bright, as well, so you can even use it in broad daylight with ease.
Like many other Optoma laser projectors, the HZ39HDR is built incredibly well. It features a tough DuraCore light that lasts upwards of 30,000 hours of use. It even features an IP6X dustproof build so the internal workings are protected from getting ruined from dust over the years. The Optoma is also easy to install and set up, with a 1.3x zoom and vertical keystone correction so you get the perfect angle. And for a portable option, consider purchasing the best mini projector.
#8 Epson EF-100
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you want the benefits that laser projectors provide without spending an arm and a leg for them, then this is the best choice for you. This great cheap projector features a bright and colorful picture, built-in Android TV, and an integrated audio system to give you an all-in-one package.
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- Multi-array laser light creates darker blacks
- Three chip design eliminates rainbow effects
- Surprisingly good onboard audio
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- Not ultra HD definition
- Lower performance with larger screen sizes
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The Epson EF-100 is the best budget laser projector available today and it makes the perfect choice for people with smaller spaces or who want to bring their projector with them on the go. While it doesn’t offer many of the features of high-end laser projectors, like 4K resolution and premium onboard audio, it still functions perfectly well as a single product without the need for peripheral accessories.
The EF-100 offers full HD resolution and a bright 2,000 lumens laser light. The multi-array laser light increases the brightness somewhat, but the projector is still really only good for use in darker lighting situations. More importantly, the multi-array configuration creates deeper blacks for a better-looking picture. On top of that, the EF-100 features a three-chip design that creates better colors overall without any of the rainbowing effects. While the onboard audio isn’t from a premium sound company, we were surprised at how well the sound quality worked overall, especially in smaller spaces. You may want to compare this model to one of the best projectors on the market today, in terms of audio.
#9 Optoma UHZ65 Laser Projector
Award: BEST FOR SPORTS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This laser projector creates an incredible picture that’s both smooth and detailed thanks to proprietary PureMotion and UltraDetail technology. These features combined with an extra-bright laser light source make this an excellent option for watching spots.
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- PureMotion creates a smooth, fluid picture
- Bright, 3,000 lumens laser light
- High-quality 4K upscaling
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- Shorter, 20,000-hour life
- No horizontal lens shift
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The Optoma UHZ65 is one of the first high-quality laser projectors released for normal consumers and it continues to hold up year over year. It doesn’t offer quite as much life as newer projectors – at only 20,000 total hours of life – but it’s built just as well. The projector features an impressive laser light with 3,000 lumens of brightness. This brightness is perfect for use in both dark and light rooms.
When it comes to picture quality, the UHZ65 really shines. The projector doesn’t offer true native 4K resolution, however, it does digital 4K resolution with its TI DLP chip, which stands for Digital Light Processing, and this creates the proprietary UltraDetail technology. The end result is 2716×1528 pixel resolution. And while many people would frown on this, the Optoma does an amazing job at producing an impressively detailed and crisp picture with vivid and accurate colors. The UHZ65 also offers PureMotion technology to create a superfluid and smooth picture during high-action shots. This makes Optoma the best choice for sports lovers. So if you’re a sportsman, you will also love the best projector for sports that’s helpful if you’re on the go and don’t have a portable external audio system.
#10 Vava 4K Laser Projector
We’re sorry, this product is temporarily out of stock
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: An amazing native contrast ratio, high-quality integrated audio, and gorgeous 4K UHD picture quality all make this laser projector our top pick. It’s also got a long life and works well in virtually any kind of ambient light for the most versatile experience your money can buy.
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- 3,000:1 native contrast ratio
- Built-in Harman Kardon speakers
- ALPD 3.0 technology works in any ambient lighting
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- Higher input lag isn’t great for gaming
- Disappointing smart functionality
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The Vava 4K laser projector is the cream of the crop, which is why it sits at our #1 spot. As soon as you plug this projector in and get it fired up, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t make the switch sooner. For starters, it offers up to 120 inches of native 4K resolution with incredibly accurate colors, HDR10 support, and super crisp details. Even better, though, is the projector’s native contrast ratio. This gives you a more accurate measurement of how well a projector can display white and blacks at the same time without decreasing the image quality. With a 3,000:1 native contrast ratio, the Vava projector is better than movie theater projectors, which usually only offer a native contrast ratio of 2,000:1. This is what makes this option the best 4K laser projector, although you can compare it to the ViewSonic LS700 4K laser projector to see which one is better in our review.
The Vava 4K HDR laser projector is also designed incredibly well. It features a sleek, low-profile design that won’t get in the way of your home theater experience. Plus, it’s a short-throw projector, so you only need 7.2 inches of space between it and the screen to get a large, crisp picture. The Vava also features impressively loud and rich Harman Kardon speakers, so you won’t even need an additional sound system to supplement the audio. We were a little disappointed by the projector’s smart functionality. It didn’t work well, so we recommend using something like an Apple TV or Roku for streaming services. But it will definitely work well with the best projector screen that has the vinyl screen material that makes your colors shine in ways you never thought possible.
How We Decided
To start finding the best laser projectors, we first started ranking products based on their picture quality. In general, laser projectors offer a much brighter and crisper picture over traditional lamp-based projectors, but there is a lot of variation between different options. We awarded more points for 4K resolution and gave preference to projectors that included additional technology made specifically to increase color accuracy or contrast.
Next, we scored laser projectors based on their brightness and throw distance. We gave preference to the best laser projector short throw options because they create large screens with minimal space requirements. However, we didn’t completely exclude projectors with long-throw configurations. These are still completely viable options. When it comes to brightness, we only considered options with consumer-level brightness ratings. We gave more points for brightness ratings in the range of 4,000 lumens because they tend to perform better in a wider variety of lighting ambiances.
Finally, we looked at the overall durability and build quality of each of the projectors we researched. In general, laser projectors offer more lifespan than bulb projectors but gave preference to options with at least 30,000 hours of total life. We also awarded bonus points for features like dustproof lenses and durable casing. We also preferred laser projectors that include onboard speakers.
Best Laser Projector Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Resolution
Like most video products, one of the first considerations to make when purchasing a new laser projector is how high of a resolution it offers. Laser projectors offer the best picture quality, so you shouldn’t settle for anything less than 4K UHD resolution, which is at least 3840 x 2160 pixels. There are 8K laser projectors available, but they are incredibly expensive and hard to find. For now, the best 4K projectors do more than well enough for all of your movie and gaming needs. - Brightness
A laser projector’s brightness is measured in lumens, like other kinds of projectors. The amount of brightness you need really depends on the room where you’ll be using the projector. In general, you’ll need a lower number of lumens for really dark rooms and a higher number of bright rooms. Most laser projectors range from 3,000 to 7,000 lumens in brightness, but there are some models that can reach up to 20,000 lumens. For home use, it’s generally a good idea to stick in the range of 3,000 to 7,000 lumens. - Screen Size and Throw Distance
One of the best things about projectors is the fact that you can essentially choose how large you want the overall picture to end up, simply by adjusting the distance between the projector and the projector screen. This is why it’s more important to look at the throw distance, or throw ratio, that your projector provides. Measured in feet or inches, this ratio tells you how far away your projector needs to be from the screen to create a large image. This number is especially important for smaller home theaters that can’t efficiently work with projectors that have larger throw ratios. - Picture Quality
Resolution is one aspect of picture quality, and we discussed that above. However, there are a few other considerations to make when it comes to the quality of the picture you get with your laser projector. One of these aspects is the contrast ratio, which indicates how detailed your picture will be between contrasting colors, e.g., lights vs. darks. A higher contrast ratio equates to a more detailed picture. Another aspect to picture quality is color accuracy. Laser projectors already offer more colors with more accuracy than traditional projectors. However, many products in this category offer additional color-enhancing functionality like Dynamic Tone Mapping and HDR. - Included Audio
In the earlier versions of traditional projectors, onboard speakers and audio functionality were of low-grade quality. Laser projectors are much more advanced and often include built-in, high-quality soundbars or speakers. If you don’t have and don’t want to install a full home theater sound system, this is an excellent alternative solution.
