In this article, we will explain laser vs lamp projector, the pros and cons of both, and which one is better for you. We have written this article after testing 11 lasers and 14 lamp projectors.
As per our survey, we have found that lots of newbies are getting scattered information about laser vs lamp projectors and which to choose.
So today, we are going to provide you with an unbiased comparison between them with actual parameters that should be considered before making a buying decision.
Before a detailed compression, let’s discuss both technologies.
Lamp projector: What Are Lamp Projectors?
An old-school, reliable technology used in lots of home theaters that utilize a durable lamp as a light source, we don’t want to dive deep into the physics of a lamp; let’s have a look at the diagram. You will find all the details about the lamp projector.
Laser projector: What are Laser Projectors?
A newer, more efficient, and more reliable technology that constantly seeks the interest of buyers, a laser projector comes with an ultra-durable laser engine as a light source. Speaking of laser, check out my review on the LG HU85LA 4K laser Projector.
Laser vs. Lamp Projector & Detailed Breakdown
Light source Life:
Lamps need more frequent replacement than lasers because they heat up rapidly, and the inner system loses efficiency more frequently.
The latest leaser sources can last for 20,000 to 30,000 hours. However, a lamp projector can last for 6,000 to 10,000 hours only. Other than that, the lamp is not that reliable in maintaining brightness for a long time; you may feel visible decay in brightness and colors; this is a sign to change the lamp.
You also might want to know about projector mounting, whether it is laser-based or lamp-based.
Related: How Long Do Laser Projectors Last?
Brightness:
As per our tests on top-of-the-line, lamp projectors are as bright as the modern laser projector; still, after moving down, we have found that laser projectors have more consistent and brighter image quality.
Laser projectors have no brightness decay. However, the lamp projectorís picture turns light gray after a certain time.
So, the bottom line is that laser projectors dominate the lamp projector in terms of brightness.
Redundancy:
The best laser projectors have higher redundancy because we tested a laser projector with a failed diode, and sparingly, it still projects images. However, we are not able to get images from a projector whose lamp explodes.
Picture quality:
Laser projectors have a wider color gamut than lamp projectors, though this is not true in all cases. Expensive lamp projectors of Sonny and any other brands have wider color gamuts in general; we have found that laser projectors project more vibrant colors and decent sharpness as compared to the lamp.
Moreover, with extra brightness, the colors of the laser projector become more prominent; however, lamp projectors have slightly muted colors and contrast.
Freedom of installation:
Laser projectors are more reliable to install at any orientation; they have 360-degree orientations; however, in a lamp projector, you have a fixed Lamp, and you canít install it at any ideal position.
Weight and portability:
Laser projectors are bulky and heavy as compared to lamp projectors because of the complex inner mechanism. Though the manufacturer rushes to cut its weight, the fact is currently; they are somehow heavier compared to lamp projectors.
Noise:
As lamps need a decent cooling source, you will find a noisy large fan inside the lamp projector. However, laser projectors donít require any large fans since lasers are not vulnerable to heat.
The bottom line is laser projectors are less noisy or even noiseless as compared to lamp projectors.
Cost:
Lamp projectors are way cheaper than laser projectors, though they need some ongoing maintenance, lamp replacement, etc. The initial cost of a laser projector may be 1.5x or even more than a lamp projector.
I have a sonny Sony VPL-PHZ10 that cost me $2200. However, my friend has another sonny Sony VPL-CH375 with lamp technology that cost him about $1550.
So the bottom line is you have to spend at least 1.5x more than a lamp projector until the technology becomes mature.
Maintenance:
Laser projectors are free from maintenance even if we don’t need to clean their filter because they don’t need adequate ventilation to cool down. However, the lamp projector needs to be properly maintained, such as cleaning the filter, ventilation, etc.
Lamp projectors need a clean filter and ventilation; if the ventilation and filter become choked, the lamp has a massive thread of high heat up.
Startup time:
Laser engines donít need initial heat-up; you just need to push the turn-on button. However, lamp projectors need an initial heat-up of about a few seconds or even minutes.
If you are a guy who wants to deliver presentations and lectures, it is better to go for a laser projector.
Safety:
As you might know, lasers are not safe for the eyes; however, a lamp is a better option for them. Still, we donít need to see the laser light of the projector. We just need to see the projection, which is fine unless you are crossing the laser beam.
Other than that, modern projectors have a safety system. Whenever a person crosses from the beam of the projector, the projector’s beams automatically turn off.
Check out our guide about projector troubleshooting.
Pros and Cons of Lamp Projector
Pros of Lamp projector
- Low initial investment.
- Lightweight.
- Radially available.
- Cheaper lamps as compared to laser engines.
- Decent picture quality.
Cros of Lamp projector
- Long startup time.
- Low lamp life.
- High brightness decay.
- Need maintenance.
- High ongoing cost.
Pros and Cons of Laser Projector
Pros of Laser projector
- Instant startup.
- Negligible maintenance.
- Long lamp life.
- Vibrant color.
- Impressive sharpness.
- Efficient.
- No brightness decay.
- No ongoing cost
Cros of Laser projector
- High initial cost.
- Low verities in the market.
- Bulky.
Check out our blog post about the advantages and disadvantages of projectors in general.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are the laser projectors better for home theater?
Yes, laser projectors are an excellent choice for home theaters because they are silent, long-lasting, and provide top-notch picture quality.
Are the laser projectors worth the money?
Yes, if budget is not a problem, go for the laser to cut off your ongoing cost
How long will a laser projector last?
If you are talking about the whole projector, it can last longer than your expectations; however, the laser may need to be replaced after 20,000 to 30,000 hours.
Are the laser projectors dangerous?
Not at all; modern laser projectors have the functionality to cut off the light source when striking an object.
Do you need a screen with a laser projector?
Yes, you need a source to project the projection; it could be a screen, a bare wall, a sheet, etc.
Do laser projectors dim over time?
No, lasers are free from brightness decay.
How much does a laser projector cost?
Depending on the product, maybe you have to spend over 6,000 bucks for the high-end model. However, you can get an average model within 2,000 bucks.
Are the laser projectors noisy?
No, they are silent as they don’t need an ultra-cooling source.
Conclusion: Laser vs Lamp Projector
We have done several practicals and consulted with experts to provide you with an unbiased comparison between laser and lamp projectors; I hope you will not struggle to make buying decisions between them.
Keep in mind that laser projectors have a bright future due to their simplicity, sustainability, and readability.
Though lamp is an old-school mature technology constantly dominating the market, still the trend of laser engines is stepping up; as per our research, the most famous brands like Epson, Sony, VAVA, Samsung, BenQ, etc. are trying to step into the market with latest laser engines.
