Welcome to Our Annual Laser TV Buyer’s Guide
What is a Laser TV?
A Laser TV is a modern alternative to traditional LCD or OLED TVs. It combines the big-screen impact of a projector with the ease and features of a regular flat-panel TV.
Why Laser TVs?
Laser TVs have gained popularity, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic increased demand for at-home entertainment. People now want immersive, theater-like experiences for movies, sports, and shows—right in their living rooms.
TV sizes have steadily increased over the years:
65-inch TVs are now the most common.
75-inch models are rising in popularity.
50-inch TVs are now often used in guest rooms.
However, larger flat-panel TVs (85″ and above) are very expensive, often costing five to six figures, especially OLEDs and newer micro-LED screens. They’re also hard to transport and install.
Laser TVs vs Traditional Projectors
When most people imagine a big-screen setup, they think of:
A projector mounted on the ceiling
A dark home theater room
Bulky gear
No built-in speakers or smart features
Frequent (and costly) bulb replacements
Laser TVs solve these problems.
Thanks to ultra-short throw (UST) technology, laser TVs can create massive images from just a few inches away from the wall or screen. They:
Don’t need a dark room
Don’t require ceiling installation
Have built-in speakers, smart TV apps, and long-lasting laser light sources
Are ideal for homes, classrooms, or meeting rooms
Why We Love Laser TVs
Laser TVs are a cost-effective way to enjoy a true big-screen experience, often at a fraction of the price of oversized flat-panel TVs.
Here at Projector Reviews, we’re big supporters of this tech. Check out our in-depth guides:
These articles explore how laser TVs are becoming more affordable, smart-feature-ready, and accessible for everyday users.
Whether you’re upgrading your home theater or looking for a flat panel alternative, Laser TVs offer an exciting, immersive option for all kinds of users
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Laser TV
1. Brightness
To truly replace a flat-panel TV, a Laser TV must work well both day and night and deliver vibrant colors even in bright rooms. Most Laser TVs today are bright enough—some even brighter than traditional flat-panel TVs.
Laser TVs also have other benefits over traditional projectors:
Turn on quickly
Last longer (typically 20,000+ hours)
Quieter operation
Less heat output
2. Smart Features
Many traditional projectors lack smart features, but Laser TVs are designed for modern, everyday use—perfect for living rooms, not just home theaters.
Laser TVs should include:
Built-in apps (Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, etc.)
Access to a full app store (usually Android-based)
Voice control
Screen casting from mobile devices
Note: Most Laser TVs don’t include an OTA (over-the-air) tuner. Some (like the LG 100L5F) have ATSC 1.0, but most brands are waiting for ATSC 3.0 to become standard. For cord-cutters, a wide app selection is crucial.
3. Audio
Flat TVs often sound bad due to thin speakers. Laser TVs have more room for larger, better speakers—some sound like soundbars and may even support:
Wireless subwoofers
HDMI eARC for high-quality surround sound systems
4. Convenience
Laser TVs bring big-screen projection to small spaces. They:
Sit just inches from the wall
Avoid ceiling mounting
Eliminate shadows from people walking by
Are ideal for living rooms or apartments
Plus, laser light sources:
Don’t need replacement bulbs
Keep brightness for their full lifespan
Power on instantly
While not as simple as placing an LCD TV, Laser TVs are still easier to install than large, wall-mounted TVs with hidden cabling and equipment.
5. Stylish Placement
Laser TVs can blend into your space:
Some fit into furniture or custom cabinets
They can be hidden when off
Use retractable screens to keep your wall clean when not in use
Optional furniture hides both the projector and screen for a minimalist look
Summary
Laser TVs offer larger images at lower cost per inch than flat-panel TVs. They’re easier to move, last longer, and include smart features, solid sound, and upgrade flexibility without replacing the whole unit.
They’re ideal for anyone wanting a theater-like experience without needing a dedicated room or complicated setup. Most come with Android TV, making them familiar and user-friendly.
Why settle for a 65-inch screen when you can have a 100-inch+ image from a sleek, compact unit at a fraction of the price?
Featured Model: Leica Cine 1 – An elegant Laser TV with cutting-edge performance and style
What’s Inside Our Buyer’s Guide
This guide covers Laser TVs that offer key advantages over large flat-panel TVs—especially better value per inch of screen size. Laser TVs are also more portable. While you won’t take one camping, they’re far easier to move between rooms or homes than massive, fragile flat-screen TVs.
Laser TVs deliver many of the features you expect from a flat-panel TV, including:
Long lifespan
No maintenance
Smart apps
Built-in audio
The ability to upgrade your screen size or performance without replacing the whole unit
This year, we reviewed dozens of projectors and selected the Laser TVs we believe are the best replacements for flat-panel TVs. In this guide, you’ll find detailed overviews of each one, with links to full reviews and in-depth specs.
Some models we reviewed may have similar versions in the same product line, offering variations in:
Resolution
Brightness
Extra features
Bundled screen size
The goal of this guide is to highlight standout models currently on the market.
Our Focus: Real-World Use
This guide isn’t just about specs. We give awards to Laser TVs that perform well in different settings—whether for general use, specific rooms, budget-conscious buyers, or specialized applications. It’s a living document that we’ll keep updated with the newest models throughout the year.
How We Choose
We’re very selective about which Laser TVs we review and feature. Our goal is to spotlight the best options in each price range and usage category.
We hope this guide helps you find the right Laser TV to replace your flat-panel TV. Since the first Laser TV launched in 2014, brands like Leica have continued to push innovation. As more models release, we’ll keep this guide current with the latest trends and top picks.
Check back often for updates and new recommendations