Did you know ultra-short throw projectors can create big-screen experiences from just a few inches away? The Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 takes it further, showing a 100-inch image from just 3.9 inches from the wall. It offers great picture quality, easy-to-use features, and a good price, making it perfect for a home cinema.
Its 4,000 lumens brightness and 4K PRO-UHD image quality make colors pop and visuals captivating. Whether you’re watching movies or playing games, this projector shines. In this review, we’ll explore its features, image quality, setup, and value. For more on its advanced features, see the guide on the Epson LS650.
Key Takeaways
- The Epson LS500 features a bright 4,000 lumens output for excellent performance.
- It utilizes advanced laser technology to deliver vibrant and stunning image quality.
- The projector’s ultra-short throw allows for a massive 100-inch image from only 3.9 inches away.
- With an input lag below 20 milliseconds, it is ideal for gaming enthusiasts.
- The bundled ALR screen enhances the viewing experience by rejecting ambient light.
Overview of the Epson LS500
The Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 is a standout home projector. It has a sleek ultra-short throw design and costs $4,999. Released in September 2020, it quickly became known for its advanced features.
This projector comes with a 100-inch ambient light-rejecting screen. It’s perfect for watching in different lighting conditions.
The Epson LS500 shines with a brightness of 4,000 ANSI lumens. This means you get bright and clear images, even with some light in the room. It uses three 1080p LCD chips and pixel-shifting for stunning 4K visuals. It’s great for movies and gaming.
It has a short throw distance of 0.7 to 1.9 feet. This lets you get images up to 130 inches big. The projector is also small, measuring 8.3 inches high and 18 inches wide. This makes it easy to place without taking up too much space.
The Epson LS500 is a mix of innovation and practicality. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a top-notch home theater experience.
Key Features of the Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500
The Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 is a standout in the market. It offers LS500 projector features that boost your viewing experience. With a brightness of 4,000 lumens, it shows vibrant images in any light.
It supports HDR10 and HLG formats for a cinematic feel. This means you get rich colors and sharp contrasts.
The Epson LS500 specifications include a unique periscope-style lens. It ensures sharp images on wide screens. With a contrast ratio of 2,500,000:1 and a max image size of 130 inches, it beats many competitors.
It’s easy to set up, needing just 17 inches from the wall for a 100-inch screen. This makes it perfect for your home theater.
The projector weighs 20.5 pounds, making it easy to move. Its laser engine lasts up to 20,000 hours, saving you money in the long run. It also has HDMI 2.0b ports for easy connection and supports 3D viewing with glasses.
The included UST ALR screen boosts image quality in any light. These features make the Epson LS500 a top choice for home theaters. Check out the full specifications here.
Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 Review
The Epson LS500 review highlights its top-notch performance. It sets a high standard for home theater projectors. With a brightness level of 4000 lumens, it offers excellent image quality. This is even better than many competitors.
In well-lit environments, it shines with about 3000 usable lumens. In its best mode, Cinema, it reaches 1800 lumens. This is a remarkable achievement in today’s market.
The Epson LS500 outshines the LG HU85LA and Optoma P1 in bright conditions. It has nearly double the brightness in its best settings. This makes the viewing experience much better. While some models are better for nighttime, the LS500 excels in bright settings.
The LS500 costs $4,999 and comes with a 100” screen. This is a great deal compared to others. For example, the LG HU85LA costs around $5,500 but doesn’t include a screen. The Epson’s screen is worth over $1,000, making the LS500 a good value.
Setting up the LS500 is easy and takes about an hour. It can project images from 70 to 130 inches. This makes it versatile for different room sizes. It also has multiple color modes and allows for custom settings.
Feature | Epson LS500 | LG HU85LA | Optoma P1 |
---|---|---|---|
Brightness | 3000 usable lumens | Approximately poor in bright conditions | Not watchable in bright environments |
Best Calibrated Mode | 1800 lumens | Variable | Requires calibration |
Screen Include | Yes, 100” screen | No | No |
Price | $4,999 | $5,500 | $5,799 |
Viewing Angle | 170 degrees | Not specified | Not specified |
Lag Time (4K/60Hz) | 16.7 ms | Not specified | Not specified |
The Epson LS500’s performance is impressive. It has four color modes and performs well right out of the box. While a good sound system is a good addition, the video quality alone makes it worth considering for home theater enthusiasts.
Image Quality of the Epson LS500
The Epson LS500 is known for its top-notch image quality. It’s perfect for home cinema lovers. Watching movies or playing games becomes better with its brightness, color accuracy, and contrast ratio.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
The Epson LS500 shines with a peak brightness of 4,000 lumens. This means clear and bright images, even in well-lit rooms. In Bright Cinema mode, it’s around 2,100 lumens, and in calibrated mode, it’s about 1,795 lumens.
The Dynamic mode is 40% brighter than Bright Cinema. This brightness is great for colors, making skin tones look better than many TVs. It’s perfect for different lighting conditions.
Contrast Ratio and HDR Performance
The contrast ratio of the Epson LS500 is an amazing 2,000,000:1. This boosts HDR performance. It helps show deeper blacks and brighter highlights in HDR content.
Users can adjust tone mapping between 5 and 9 out of 15. This suits various lighting situations. Watching HDR 4K content on a 120-inch screen is “dazzlingly bright,” making the image quality exceptional.
Setup and Installation Process
Setting up the Epson LS500 is easy. First, you assemble the screen and place the projector correctly. The package comes with detailed instructions and a template. These help you set up the Epson LS500 smoothly.
Screen Assembly and Mounting
Begin by putting together the ambient-light rejecting (ALR) screen. It has four sides of aluminum and springs to hold the screen material. This step takes about an hour.
Use a stud finder and drill to mount the screen on the wall. This ensures the screen is stable and works best with the projector.
Projector Positioning
Positioning the LS500 projector is key. For a 100-inch image, place it 15.4 inches from the screen. The top of the projector should be 13.4 inches above the image’s bottom.
Think about your room’s layout. The distance between the projector and screen affects your viewing experience.
Comparing the Epson LS500 to Competitors
The Epson LS500 shines in the ultra-short throw projector market. It stands out when compared to the BenQ V7050i and other competitors.
The Epson LS500 has a brightness of 4,000 lumens, beating the BenQ’s 3,000 lumens. This makes it better for viewing in bright rooms. It also has a high resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels for clear images.
The LS500’s contrast ratio is 2,000,000:1, while the BenQ V7050i has impressive color accuracy but less brightness. The LS500’s color coverage is 91% DCI-P3, making colors vibrant. It’s also lightweight at 28.8 pounds, making it easy to move.
Here’s a detailed comparison table showing how the Epson LS500 compares to the BenQ V7050i:
Feature | Epson LS500 | BenQ V7050i |
---|---|---|
Brightness (Lumens) | 4,000 | 3,000 |
Resolution | 4096 x 2160 | 4K (3840 x 2160) |
Contrast Ratio | 2,000,000:1 | N/A |
Color Accuracy | 91% DCI-P3 | 145% DCI-P3 |
Weight (Pounds) | 28.8 | Approx. 25 |
The Epson LS500 offers great value with its price, brightness, and features. When choosing between the Epson LS500 and the BenQ V7050i, the Epson LS500 has more to offer.
Audio and Connectivity Options
The Epson LS500 projector offers a full multimedia experience. It has built-in audio and strong connectivity features. These let you set up your system just how you like it.
Built-in Sound System
The LS500 comes with a 20-watt audio system. It has two 10-watt speakers. This setup gives good sound for everyday watching and home fun.
For better sound, you can connect to an external system. Using ARC or a 3.5mm jack can make the sound even better. This is great for action movies, where you might want louder sound but not deep bass.
Input Options and Compatibility
The LS500 is great because it works with many devices. It has three HDMI 2.0b ports for connecting things like gaming consoles and streaming players. It also has an HDMI port with Audio Return Channel (ARC) for easy sound system connection.
It shines with 4,000 ISO lumens, brighter than many others. For a top-notch sound experience, consider a dedicated system. It might cost around $1,000. For more on what the LS500 offers, check out this link.
Specifications of the Epson LS500
The Epson LS500 is a top-notch projector with amazing specs. It has a 4,000 ISO lumens brightness, the highest among ultra-short throw projectors. This is way more than other models, which usually have 2,600 to 3,000 lumens. The next closest competitor is at 3,500 lumens.
This projector uses 1080p resolution chips and 4K PRO-UHD technology for stunning visuals. Its dynamic contrast ratio of 2.0 million:1 makes colors pop. It also supports HDR10 and HLG formats for even better visuals.
The projector has three full 18 Gbps HDMI 2.0 ports, one for 4K HDR at 60 Hz. It has a low input lag of 20.9ms to 21.2ms for 4K/60Hz content. It runs on Google-branded Android TV, giving you access to many apps.
The projector is 9 by 18 by 14.7 inches big. The screen is 88 by 50 by 1.2 inches and comes with special light technology. It’s 20.9 pounds heavy and projects up to a 100-inch diagonal screen with a wide viewing angle of 170 degrees.
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Price | $4,999 (100-inch), $5,999 (120-inch) |
Brightness | 4,000 ISO lumens |
Dynamic Contrast Ratio | 2.0 million:1 |
Native Resolution | 4K PRO-UHD with 1080p chips |
HDR Compatibility | Supports HDR10 and HLG |
HDMI Ports | 3 full 18 Gbps HDMI 2.0 |
Input Lag | 20.9ms to 21.2ms for 4K/60Hz |
Operating System | Google-branded Android TV |
Warranty | Two-year limited warranty |
Lamp Life | 20,000 hours |
The Epson LS500 is a top choice for your home theater. It offers great performance and is easy to use.
User Experience and Interface
The Epson LS500 has a user-friendly interface that makes your viewing experience better. Its Android TV capabilities make it easy to find your favorite shows and apps. Plus, the built-in Chromecast makes streaming content from your devices a breeze.
Smart TV Functionality
The LS500 smart TV comes with a wide range of apps, including Netflix and Hulu. You can enjoy endless entertainment with streaming services right at your fingertips. The remote control is easy to use, making it simple to access important functions quickly.
The LS500’s throw ratio of 0.29:1 lets you place the projector just 15.4 inches from the screen for a 100-inch image. This makes it easy to set up in different spaces. Here’s a look at screen sizes and distances:
Screen Size | Throw Ratio | Distance from Screen | Price |
---|---|---|---|
100 inches | 0.29:1 | 15.4 inches | $5,000 |
120 inches | 0.25:1 | 23 inches | $6,000 |
The Epson LS500 shines with a max brightness of 4,000 lumens in dynamic mode. It’s perfect for both movie lovers and gamers. Enjoy smooth streaming and vivid images from your living room with ease.
Pros and Cons of the Epson LS500
The Epson LS500 is a top choice for those looking for a quality projector. It’s important to weigh the good and bad points before making a decision.
Pros:
- It shines bright at 4,000 lumens, perfect for light-filled rooms.
- The ALR screen boosts viewing quality by cutting down on light interference.
- It shows colors accurately, thanks to its 3LCD setup.
- It’s great for gamers with input lag under 17 milliseconds.
- The laser engine lasts about 20,000 hours, saving on replacements.
- It has a high contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1 for deeper blacks.
Cons:
- You might need an external sound system, as the built-in speakers are weak.
- It doesn’t have automatic focus, so you’ll need to adjust it manually.
- The throw ratio of 0.29:1 requires careful placement for big images.
- It only supports Rec.709 colors, not the full DCI-P3 range.
In conclusion, the Epson LS500 review shows it’s great for brightness and image quality. But, it has some downsides like audio and setup. It’s key to consider these points before buying.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Epson LS500 is priced at $4,999. This price is compared to other 4K ultra-short throw (UST) projectors. It’s important to consider its features and the included screen. This makes its value clear. There are many models at different prices, so you can find one that fits your budget and needs.
Comparison with Other Models
The LS500 offers great value for money. It has quality without losing features. Here’s a comparison that shows its value:
Model | Price | Resolution | Brightness (ANSI Lumens) | Notable Feature |
---|---|---|---|---|
Epson LS500 | $4,999 | 4K | 2,700 | Integrated Screen |
Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 | $4,999 | 4K | 2,700 | High Performance |
Epson Pro Cinema 4050 | $2,737.98 | 4K (equivalent) | 2,400 | Affordable Option |
BenQ HT3560 | $2,143.00 | 4K (3840 x 2160) | 2,200 | Home Theater Appeal |
Hisense PX3-PRO | $3,497.97 | 4K | Brightness unknown | TriChroma Technology |
The Epson LS500 is special because of its performance and all-in-one solution. It makes your viewing experience better. Many people think it’s a good deal for a high-quality home theater setup.
Performance in Different Contexts
The Epson LS500 is known for its versatility. It shines in both movie nights and gaming sessions. Its top-notch specs and features ensure you get the best experience, no matter what you’re watching or playing.
Home Theater Experience
The Epson LS500’s home theater performance is impressive. It brings out vibrant colors and clear images, making your movies and shows come alive. In Bright Cinema mode, it has a brightness of about 2,500 lumens, perfect for rooms with some light.
For darker rooms, the Cinema mode’s 1,795 lumens is ideal. The dynamic mode is even brighter, great for sports. You can place the projector just 15.4 inches from a screen to get a 100-inch image.
Gaming Performance
The LS500’s gaming performance is top-notch. Its input lag of 16.7 ms is much lower than many others, making games feel smooth and fast. It supports 60 hertz refresh rate and 4K resolution in game mode, perfect for gamers.
With a laser light source lasting at least 20,000 hours, you won’t need to replace it often. It also works well with external sound systems for a full experience. Learn more about its features in this guide here.
Aspect | Home Theater Performance | Gaming Performance |
---|---|---|
Brightness Output (Bright Cinema Mode) | 2,500 lumens | N/A |
Input Lag | N/A | 16.7 ms |
Maximum Brightness (Dynamic Mode) | 4,000 lumens | N/A |
Throw Ratio (100-inch image) | 0.29:1 | N/A |
Refresh Rate in Game Mode | N/A | 60 Hz |
Laser Light Source Lifespan | 20,000 hours | 20,000 hours |
Environmental Considerations
The Epson LS500 is designed with the environment in mind. It has a long-lasting laser light source that lasts about 20,000 hours. This means you won’t need to replace it as often, which helps reduce waste.
Unlike traditional projectors, the Epson LS500 is more eco-friendly. It appeals to those who want to lessen their environmental impact. This makes it a great choice for those who care about the planet.
The Epson LS500 also comes with an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen. This screen boosts projection efficiency and quality. It uses less energy than other models, which lowers its carbon footprint.
With its energy-efficient technology, the Epson LS500 lets you enjoy amazing visuals. You don’t have to worry about harming the environment. It’s a win-win for both you and the planet.
Conclusion
The Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 Review shows this projector is top-notch. It offers great performance, flexibility, and is affordable. It shines with a max brightness of 36.6 footlamberts and a well-calibrated light output.
Its image quality is robust, with a contrast ratio of 1,413:1 and 87.2 percent Rec. 709 color coverage. This makes your home entertainment setup even better.
Expect an amazing viewing experience for movies and gaming. The Epson LS500 projector has earned an editor’s choice award. It gets a solid 4.5 out of 5 performance rating.
Though it costs $4,999, including a premium 100-inch ALR screen, it’s worth it. This price is competitive with other similar products.
If you want a projector that’s easy to use but has the latest tech, the Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500 is a great pick. It has a long-lasting laser engine, can project large images, and is compact. It’s perfect for any media room.
FAQ
What is the price of the Epson 100″ EpiqVision Ultra LS500?
The Epson LS500 costs ,999. This price includes the projector and a 100-inch ambient light-rejecting screen.
How does the image quality of the Epson LS500 compare to other projectors?
The Epson LS500 has top-notch image quality. It shines with a brightness of 4,000 ANSI lumens and vibrant colors. Its contrast ratio of up to 2,000,000:1 beats many competitors, like the BenQ V7050i.
What are the key features of the Epson LS500?
The Epson LS500 boasts 4K PRO-UHD image quality and HDR content support. It has a unique periscope-style lens for sharp images. Plus, it comes with a built-in sound system.
Is setting up the Epson LS500 difficult?
No, setting up the Epson LS500 is easy. It comes with detailed instructions and a template for correct positioning. You can assemble the ALR screen in about an hour.
What are the connectivity options available on the LS500?
The Epson LS500 has three HDMI 2.0b ports. It also supports built-in Chromecast for easy streaming. This enhances connectivity for various devices.
Can the Epson LS500 be used for gaming?
Yes, the LS500 is great for gaming. It has low input lag of about 16.7ms. It’s also perfect for home theater use.
What kind of audio system is included with the Epson LS500?
The LS500 comes with a built-in sound system. It has dual 10-watt speakers for decent sound quality. But, connecting an external audio system is recommended for a better experience.
How does the Epson LS500 perform in well-lit rooms?
The Epson LS500 shines in well-lit rooms. Its 4,000 lumens brightness ensures clear and vibrant images.
What are the eco-friendly features of the Epson LS500?
The Epson LS500 has a long-lasting laser light source. It lasts up to 20,000 hours. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and energy consumption.
How does the Epson LS500 compare to other ultra-short throw projectors?
The Epson LS500 outshines rivals like Optoma CinemaX P2 and BenQ V7050i. It offers superior brightness and features, making it a top choice for buyers.