Top Picks

Projectors

Top Pick of the Year: JVC DLA-X590R D-ILA projector
(June) JVC's entry-level 4K D-ILA pixel-shifter offers a similar feature set, along with similar performance, to the more expensive DLA-X790R step-up model that won a Top Pick award in 2017. Advantages include near-full P3 color gamut coverage, excellent native contrast (which gets better when you activate the projector's auto or manual iris control), and even higher HDR brightness than its sibling. $3,995, jvc.com

Hisense Laser TV 4K DLP Projector
(May) This Hisense offering combines a laser-driven ultra-short-throw 4K DLP projector with a 100-inch Screen Innovations Zero Edge ST ambient light-rejecting screen. Built-in video streaming apps and a Harman 2.1 audio system make it a compelling all-in-one package for the price. $10,000, hisense-usa.com

Acer VL7860 4K DLP Projector
(September) Acer managed to surprise us with this 4K pixel-shifting projector, a model that ups the picture quality game for DLP through its effective use of a dynamic iris control. The VL7860's laser-driven light engine also promises many years of maintenance-free operation. $3,999, acer.com

Sony VW295ES 4K SXRD projector
(February/March 2019) Sony's new entry-level full-4K projector manages to improve on last year's Top Pick-winning VPL-VW285ES by adding improved Reality Creation video processing, 4K input lag reduction, and a 4K-capable vertical stretch mode for use with an anamorphic lens and 2.35:1 screens. $5,000, sony.com

Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K PRO-UHD LCD Projector
(February/March 2019) Epson's affordable new 4K LCD pixel-shifter proves to be an exceptional value, delivering strong contrast, near-full P3 color gamut coverage, good HDR highlight brightness, and useful setup features in a model that can be found for less than two grand. $2,000, epson.com