A comparative analysis: Hisense PL1 versus Hisense PL2 – determining which Ultra Short Throw projector is suitable for your living room.
In the world of ultra-short-throw 4K laser projectors, the Hisense PL2 has emerged as a standout choice, particularly for those looking to upgrade from the PL1 model. Here's why the Hisense PL2 is generally considered the better and more worthwhile upgrade.
Firstly, the PL2 offers a significant brightness boost. With a brightness of 2700 ANSI lumens, the PL2's image is brighter and more vivid compared to the PL1's 2100 lumens. This difference is particularly noticeable in scenes with explosions and large expanses of desert, such as in Dune: Part 2.
Both projectors deliver excellent 4K images with impressive HDR performance (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG) and cinematic picture quality. Their image handling and dark detail performance are similarly strong, but the PL2’s brighter output gives it an edge in well-lit rooms.
While both projectors have built-in speakers, neither excels extraordinarily in sound quality. However, the PL2's sound is noted as rich and clear relative to most TVs.
Despite the improvements, the PL2 is priced about £700 less than some higher-end Hisense models like the PX3-Pro, which is even brighter at 3000 lumens but significantly more expensive. The PL2 balances improved features with a relatively reasonable price, making it a very good value upgrade from the PL1.
The PL2 projector is praised for its ease of use and setup, though it lacks autofocus and its settings menu can be somewhat complex. The projector's picture is generally balanced and consistent overall, and it delivers a better picture performance compared to the PL1, particularly with the Warm 2 color profile in Filmmaker mode.
The PL2 projector uses 4K Smart Laser Cinema technology and has upgraded specs compared to the PL1, offering a brighter and larger picture. It has 3 HDMI ports, including 2 HDMI 2.1 and 1 HDMI 2.0 with ARC. The projector's operating system is VIDAA U7.
The maximum image size of the PL2 projector is larger than the PL1, at 150 inches. It is also smaller in size compared to the PL1. However, neither projector is capable of generating a huge amount of bass, and distortion may occur on the PL2 when the volume is turned up too much.
Both the Hisense PL1 and PL2 projectors have the same 2x 15W sound system built-in, with front-facing drivers. Scenes that demand a high level of contrast between light and dark on the PL2 projector may not look as vibrant, particularly when upscaling, and its middling black levels can become more apparent at times.
The Hisense PL2 projector is available in the USA with Google TV, while other regions receive Hisense's own VIDAA software. Neither projector offers a significant amount of height or width in Dolby Atmos certification, but dialogue clarity is more impressive on both models.
In conclusion, the upgrade to the Hisense PL2 is worth it if you want brighter images and improved overall performance without jumping to the much pricier PX3-Pro. The PL2 builds smartly on the PL1’s foundation, making it the better buy for most users looking for an ultra-short-throw 4K laser projector with solid HDR and good brightness. If your main priorities are absolute maximum brightness and superior contrast beyond the PL2’s capabilities, then models like the PX3-Pro may be considered, but for most home cinema uses, the PL2 strikes the right balance of value and performance.
- The Hisense PL2's audio quality, while not extraordinary, is richer and clearer compared to most TVs.
- When comparing the Hisense PL2 and PL1, the PL2 offers a significant brightness boost, making it advantageous in well-lit rooms and enhancing bright scenes in movies.
- The Hisense PL2, equipped with 4K Smart Laser Cinema technology, boasts upgraded specs including a larger maximum image size and more HDMI ports compared to the PL1.
- In terms of gadgets and technology, the PL2 projector is praised for its straightforward use and setup, though it could benefit from improved autofocus and a less complex settings menu.
- The Hisense PL2 projector is a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking brighter images and improved overall performance, without having to invest in the significantly more expensive PX3-Pro model.
