

It also has a 12 V trigger and Ethernet onboard, making it easier to incorporate into complex integration setups. Although the resolution tops out at 1080p, the Epson can digitally process a 4K source to make it look a bit sharper than regular 1080p-the grid lines between pixels all but disappear. It produces a slightly more accurate (that is, with more realistic color) and sharper image than the Sony, and can display almost the entire DCI/P3 color gamut used on WCG sources (more on this topic later).
#Best home theater projector upgrade
If you want better image quality, along with support for wide color gamut (WCG) Ultra HD sources (although not at 4K resolution), even easier setup, and support for automation integration with complex home theaters, the Epson Home Cinema 5040UB is our upgrade pick. If you can live without them, the Sony VPL-HW45ES offers truly exceptional performance for its relatively affordable price. Such features are nice to have but far from necessary for most people, even for those who have dedicated home theaters. For example, it lacks both an Ethernet port and a 12-volt trigger with IP control, which are necessary for compatibility with many automation setups (for example, if you want to set up a single routine that turns on the projector and lowers the screen at a push of a button). However, the Sony is missing some features you might expect from a high-end projector. The darker blacks make letterbox bars disappear, make nighttime scenes appear much more realistic, and give the image far more pop. Looking at the Sony's image next to that of our affordable projector pick (the BenQ HT2050 as of this writing) makes the BenQ's blacks look dark gray by comparison. In a light-controlled room, the Sony VPL-HW45ES offers a noticeable improvement in image quality over budget projectors, with fewer compromises. Typically selling for around $2,000, it costs about $1,000 less than anything else offering comparable performance. The Sony VPL-HW45ES is the best projector for a dedicated home theater because it offers superb contrast ratios, accurate colors, plenty of light output, low input lag for gaming, and flexible setup options to help it fit almost any location. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter, reviews for the real world.
