It’s an interesting topic to know about, Lamp Vs. Laser projector. Which one should be your pick? What is the difference? Let’s understand together in simple words.
I have often seen people debating about laser and lamp projectors. It is challenging to decide which is better, especially if you don’t know the difference between them.
This article will tell you the fundamental difference between laser and lamp projectors. I will also highlight the advantages and disadvantages of buying both laser and lamp projectors to decide what works best for you.
How are laser projectors different from lamp projectors?
Before I dive into the pros and cons, let me tell you the fundamental difference between the two.
To be precise, if you do not want to get into the technical details of how these projectors work, the primary difference between laser and lamp projectors lies in the light source.
In traditional lamp projectors used in home theatres, the light source is a lamp, whereas the light source in laser projectors is a laser engine.
You must wonder what difference it makes if one uses the lamp and the other uses laser engines as a light source. It does make a lot of difference. The light source is bound to affect the projectors’ shelf-life, brightness, picture quality and cost.
Pros and Cons of Laser and Lamp Projectors
Now that you know the fundamental difference between laser and lamp, let me walk you through the pros and cons of both laser and lamp projectors. It will help you decide faster whether you wish to go for a laser projector or want to invest in a lamp projector.
Laser Projector: Laser Advantages Over Lamp
Life & Maintenance: Longer shelf life with zero maintenance
The most significant advantage of buying laser projectors is that they have a longer shelf life than lamp projectors. To be specific, a laser projector can easily last for 20 to 30,000 hours, whereas a lamp projector can only last for 6 to 10,000 hours which is half the capacity of a laser projector. Nevertheless, laser projectors come with zero maintenance cost.
Since laser projectors don’t heat up, they don’t require ventilation for cooling and accumulate dust in the filter. Therefore, the filters in laser projectors don’t need to be cleaned. Apart from this, you don’t need to replace the laser engines very often unless something is drastically wrong. It’s a one-time investment.
Laser never loses over time: The brightness in laser projectors does not subside with time.
Another added advantage of using laser projectors is that in laser projectors, you won’t notice any decay in brightness even if the projector has been running for quite a while. This is not the case in lamp projectors. No matter how well you maintain lamp projectors, you will notice the projector’s picture turning light Gray after a certain amount of time.
A plus point of these projectors is that the projector still projects images even if the laser engines malfunction. In contrast, you cannot project images if the lamp explodes in lamp projectors. This means when you use
laser projectors. You get time to arrange for an alternative in case of an
emergency.
Better Picture Quality: It matters a lot for everyone.
No doubt, laser projectors give you better picture quality. The colors are brighter and sharper, and the contrast is better than in lamp projectors. However, the colors you get in lamp projectors are a little muted and deteriorate with time.
Easy Installation: It can be installed anywhere with ease.
Since laser projectors come with a 360-degree installation, they can be installed anywhere. On the contrary, in lamp projectors, the lamp is fixed and therefore cannot be installed anywhere and everywhere.
The Noise: Laser Projectors are Noiseless
Because lamp projectors need a constant cooling source, so they do not get heated up too often. In addition, most projectors come with a built-in fan that creates noise as long as the projector runs, whereas laser projectors are completely silent because they do not require any fan for cooling.
Overall Startup time: It doesn’t take time to start.
When you are using laser projectors, there is no wait time involved. These projectors start as soon as you push the button. On the other hand, lamp projectors take a couple of minutes to operate. This is because every time you start a lamp projector, the lamp requires heating up, which takes time. Since laser projectors do not require initial heating up, they can start immediately.
Safety: Laser projectors come with an auto-cut
Previously there was a belief that lamp projectors were safer than laser projectors but not anymore. Today laser projectors have an auto-cut system. As soon as the beam hits an object, it automatically cuts off. Therefore, it is entirely safe.
Lamp projectors: Lamp Advantages Over Laser
Even though laser projectors dominate, there are a few added advantages of lamp projectors, relying on which they are a buyer’s preference even today.
Let’s walk you through the significant advantages of buying lamp projectors.
Inexpensive: Lamp projectors are cheap.
The most significant advantage of buying lamp projectors is that they are cheaper than laser projectors. So, if cost is your primary concern, we suggest opting for a lamp projector over a laser projector.
Even though lamp projectors come with an additional maintenance cost as long as it works, because you need to clean the filters and change the lamps occasionally, the initial investment is much lesser than a laser projector.
Also, the lamps are cheaper compared to the laser engine used in laser projectors. So, if you don’t mind the maintenance cost and are low on a budget right now, go ahead and buy a lamp projector.
Weight & Portability: Lamp projectors are lighter than laser projectors.
Laser projectors are primarily bulky and heavier compared to lamp projectors. You can easily lift lamp projectors during installation because they are light in weight.
Availability: You get a lot of variety in lamp projectors.
If you are looking for variety, then lamp projectors win over laser projectors. Lamp projectors are readily available in the market, and you are spoilt for choice, whereas your options are limited for laser projectors. In addition, you don’t get a lot of variation in laser projectors.
FAQs: What is the difference between a Lamp and a Laser Projector? Most Frequently Asked Questions About the topic.
Can I buy a laser projector for home use?
Yes, you can. Laser projectors will be a perfect pick for your home. These projectors deliver excellent picture and sound quality. So go for it as long as your pocket allows it.
Do laser projectors require any special screen?
No, you don’t need a special screen for your laser projector; you can use it on the wall, sheet, curtain, ETC. However, an actual projector screen will give you a better picture.
Related: Projector Screen Buying Guide
Do laser projectors are more expensive compared to lamp projectors?
Yes, laser projectors are pricier than lamp projectors. You can buy an average laser projector for around 2,000 dollars. However, high-end laser projectors cost more.
Related: Best Budget Laser Projectors
Do laser projectors lose brightness over time?
No, they don’t. Laser projectors maintain their brightness till the end. Or, you can say, they lose brightness at an unnoticeable rate.
Conclusion: Laser Vs. Lamp Projector
Therefore, to conclude, we can say that even though laser projectors are now ruling over lamp projectors because of their added advantages,
Why lamp projectors?
A decent percentage of the crowd still prefer using lamp projectors because they are cheaper, light in weight and readily available in the market.
Why Laser projectors?
If you prioritize quality over money and want to experience a hassle-free projection over a more extended period, then laser projectors are your take.
Related: Best Laser Projectors For 2023
What do I think?
If you ask me personally, I’d say it entirely depends on your requirements and personal preference. Both laser and lamp projectors have their advantages and limitations. You should always analyze your need, budget and temperament before you make a buying decision.
I am sure I have cleared all your doubts regarding laser and lamp projectors in this article. However, if you still have second thoughts, scroll up and run your eyes through the pros and cons of lamp and laser projectors again.
Be rest assured, you’ll find answers to all your questions there and will be able to make a wise decision.