Is Hisense’s latest ultra short-throw projector a true TV replacement?
UST projector | £1999 | whf.cm/HisensePL1
Ultra short-throwprojectors (USTs) are becoming much more common within the projector market at large – and for good reason. Designed as a TV alternative that can reach up to 100 inches without costing nearly as much as a super-large TV would – and having the benefit of being practically plug-and-play (with some fiddling required) – a UST projector strikes a nice balance between practicality and theatricality.
At the forefront of this UST revolution is Hisense, which has been developing ultra short-throw models for more than six years now. The PL1 we have before us today is the latest model in Hisense’s line of Ultra Short-Throw Laser Cinema Projectors (not to be confused with its separate line of Laser TVs, which act in a similar fashion).
In order to be a successful UST, it has to tick every box we look out for in both the best projectors and the best TVs, which is no easy task. Thankfully, the PL1 not only steps up to the task, but ticks a number of other boxes too.
Locking down the price of the PL1 is trickier than first anticipated. While it is currently available for £1999, we have also sometimes seen it closer to £1800 or even as low as £1500. When questioned about this, Hisense states that aggressive pricing is its aim and that the price will probably drop during big sale events such as Black Friday.
Looking at alternatives near this price, it’s not easy to find a UST to match its specification. Even last year’s Award-winning LG Cinebeam HU715Q, since discontinued, was a chunk more expensive at £2999. Samsung’s The Premiere LSP9T is one of our only other points of reference and that, too, is much more expensive at £3999.
Small and discreet
Structurally, the Hisense PL1 starts on a strong foot. It’s much smaller than other UST projectors we have seen before (see dimensions, left), being roughly akin to a home printer in stature. This means it will be unobtrusive in your home and easy to manoeuvre during set-up.
Aesthetically, the Hisense impresses too, which is more important than you may think. Remember, this box will sit in direct view when you are using it, so it is important that it’s not an eyesore. Thankfully, Hisense’s tasteful design language on the PL1 is understated enough to blend into most living room environments as well as having enough subtle design e
