Is it worth it to buy a 4K projector? We think yes! In addition to the ability to display more detail onscreen, a 4K projector lets you sit closer to a bigger screen and the image will be clearer. However…
Not all “4K” Projectors are created equal.
While some projectors can reproduce true 4K resolution, others can just accept 4K content and use techniques to get improved results out of an HD resolution display. A native 4K projector has a native resolution of either 4096 x 2160 (8.8 million individual pixels) or 3840 x 2160 (8.3 million individual pixels).
Resolution Differences by Format
A 4K pixel shifting projector uses imagers that contain are less than 8.3 megapixels, but every pixel’s image is rapidly shifted allowing each one to do the job of multiple pixels. When it comes to pixel shifting, faster is better. The pixel wobbling is done so fast that it fools your eyes into seeing up to four times the projector’s native resolution.
When viewed from a normal viewing distance, it is difficult to differentiate between a 4K pixel shift image and an image projected on a native 4K projector. It is only when you do a side-by-side comparison between a true 4K projector versus a pixel-shifting projector using test patterns that the resolution difference is truly noticeable.
In many situations, the content, including movies, lack the fine detail required or the image is viewed so far away that the difference between 4K and pixel shifting cannot be perceived.
The list of projectors below includes both native 4K and 4K pixel-shifting models. We get asked all the time – What’s the best 4K projector to buy? Click below to see our picks for the best 4K projectors .
The best 4K projectors are still the ultimate way for you to get an immersive theater experience at home. All of the projectors in this guide are capable of beaming a larger image than any regular TVs, with 100 inches being a standard image size when a 4K projector is paired with a projection screen.
Over the years, we've reviewed many of the best 4K projectors, from some of the highest-specified models on the market through to the more affordable and high-value ones. Not every viewer has the same needs when buying a 4K projector, so we’ve made our recommendations here based on a range of requirements, from no-compromise home cinema to sports viewing and portable use – and in all cases, tested by us.
An advantage to the best 4K projectors we've selected below is that, unlike one of the best 85-inch TVs, they don't take up much room. If you're set on a portable option or a projector you'll only use now and again, also take a look at our best outdoor projectors guide .
And if you're specifically interested in ultra short throw projectors, a category that provides more convenience when it comes to positioning, plus the benefit of built-in speakers and streaming capability, also check out our guide to the best ultra short throw projectors.