By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech

Optoma, a leading projector brand, has launched the UHZ35ST, a short-throw 4K UHD laser projector aimed at home entertainment and gaming enthusiasts. While it boasts impressive features like a 3,500-lumen brightness, 500,000:1 contrast ratio, and a compact design, the hefty price tag of $3,299 in the US might make potential buyers cautious.

Facing Fierce Competition:

This projector enters a crowded market with several competitors offering similar features at different price points. AWOL, Sony, JVC, Samsung, and Hisense all have strong contenders within the $2,000-$3,000 range. To truly stand out, the UHZ35ST needs to offer significant advantages like superior picture quality, lower input lag, or unique features.

Compact Design and Superior Performance

Boasting 3,500 lumens, a 500,000:1 contrast ratio, and a DuraCore laser light source, the UHZ35ST delivers impressive brightness, color performance, and a long life span of up to 30,000 hours in Eco Mode. Its short-throw lens allows users to project up to 100-inch images from a minimal distance, facilitating easy setup in various environments. Notably, the UHZ35ST is 34% smaller than its predecessor, claiming the title of the most compact projector in its class.

Flexible Installation and Eco-Friendly Design

Equipped with horizontal and vertical keystone, 360° and portrait mode operation, the UHZ35ST ensures flexible installation in any orientation. The projector's chassis is made from 50% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, showcasing Optoma's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Gaming Advantages and Input Response

The UHZ35ST is not just about visuals; it caters to gamers with a built-in Enhanced Gaming Mode offering a remarkable 4ms response time in 1080p at 240Hz and 16.9ms response time in 4K at 60Hz. This ultra-low input lag and high refresh rate deliver a competitive edge to gamers, providing crystal clear images and a responsive gaming experience.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Resolution: 4K UHD (3840x1260)
• Brightness: 3,500 lumens
• Contrast ratio: 500,000:1
• Throw ratio: 0.496:1
• DuraCore laser light source with up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation (in eco mode)
• Enhanced Gaming Mode with ultra-low input lag
• Flexible installation with 360° and portrait mode operation
• I/Os: 2x HDMI 2.0 in, 3.5mm Audio out, USB-A power 1.5A, RS232, RJ45

Pricing and Availability

The Optoma UHZ35ST is available for purchase in the United States with an estimated street price of $3,299 and $4,499 in Canada, CAD. As consumers explore options in the competitive landscape, Optoma positions the UHZ35ST as a compelling choice for those seeking a balance of compact design, high-performance features, and eco-conscious manufacturing.

Anticipation for Reviews and CE Critic Score

As the UHZ35ST makes its debut, the home theater community eagerly anticipates comprehensive reviews to validate its promises and performance claims. The CE Critic Score is poised to become a key benchmark, offering insights into how the UHZ35ST stacks up against its competitors. The industry and consumers alike are optimistic about the potential of this new entrant, and the forthcoming reviews are awaited with excitement and enthusiasm.