LG updates its CineBeam 4K projectors for better daytime viewing

LG may be best known for its high-end TVs, home appliances, and (now defunct) mobile phone business, but the Korean company also makes projectors. The company just launched its latest CineBeam 4K laser projectors, and both models have been tweaked for great daytime viewing.

The LG HU715Q is an Ultra Short Throw laser projector, which essentially means it can project a large image from a relatively short distance away. The HU715Q can create a 120-inch image (measured on the diagonal) from 8.5 inches from the wall. The new projector can generate 4K (3840 x 2160) images at 2,500 ANSI lumens, which should be easily viewable even in daylight. It boasts a contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1, though LG did not divulge how it achieves such a high ratio.

The HU710P is a more traditional laser projector. Unlike its short-throw cousin, the HU710P must sit a fair distance from the surface onto which it projects. It can project between a 40 to 100-inch (measured on the diagonal) 4K image from between 9.5 to 15 feet away. Because it sits further away from the projection surface, it is less bright than the short-throw HU715Q. Still, the HU710P is rated at 2,000 ANSI lumens and has the same contrast ratio as its cousin.

Both projectors have built-in stereo speakers, three HDMI ports, a single USB 2.0 port, and a lamp rated at 20,000 hours of life. Both will run LG’s webOS software, giving them some smart features. The HU710P retails for US$2,499, and the HU715Q sells for $2,999. Both are available now.