Optoma has revealed its latest 4K UHD laser projector, the UHZ55, which replaces its previous UHZ50, launched in 2021.
The features and technical specifications remain quite similar, however, the new projector adds WiSA HT certification, a black chassis, dual band Wi-Fi 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, and support for the ‘Works with Google Home’ Action.
It incorporates a .47-inch 1080p resolution DLP imaging chip, which contains 2.1 million pixels. To display 4K, 8.3 million pixels are required, and in this case, they are shifted vertically and horizontally at 240Hz.
It has a laser light source, which eliminates the need to replace lamps every 2,000 to 5,000 hours of use. The laser system has an expected lifespan of 30,000 hours.
It’s also part of Optoma’s DuraCore-branded Technology, which includes:
- Stable Brightness and Colour: It maintains stable operation over the entire life with no gradual decay. No lamp replacement needed.
- Quick On/Off: Doesn’t require any “warm-up” time when turned on and cool down time is shorter than other projectors.
- Eco-Friendly: Mercury-Free.
- IP6X Certification: It features an airtight optical engine with IP6X certification, preventing dust particles from entering.
The projector supports 4K/60Hz and 240Hz/1080p refresh rates, with additional MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) processing.
240Hz refresh rate at 1080p resolution provides flexibility with any gaming console, when paired with a 16.9ms response time.
Additionally, the laser projector comes with Smart Home features including:
- Built-in Media Player: Watch movies without needing a laptop or PC. Use the cloud-connected file manager or copy files to a USB stick.
- Marketplace App Store: Install streaming apps directly on the video projector, and access more streaming apps by connecting an external media streamer via HDMI.
- Creative Cast: Stream content from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop wirelessly using Wi-Fi. Control the projector from the device. Available for Android, Windows, iOS, and Mac.
- Cloud Connected File Manager: Easily share and transfer files, with support for 3 major cloud storage services: Google Drive, MS One Drive, Dropbox, and Cloud Media Player. Files can be downloaded to the projector from a device via an IP address. It also allows PINs for added security.
- IFTTT Support: The projector can be “connected” with other smart devices.
- Optoma Connect/Info Wall: Use a smartphone to set up a personalised control menu. Available for Android and iOS.
- Voice Assistant: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
The UHZ55 laser projector comes with a built in speaker system, and Optoma has secured the use of WiSA technology for added audio setup flexibility.
The WiSA HT certification delivers wireless audio, combined with other WiSA-certified products, and enables high-quality audio with perfect synchronisation and no perceivable latency.
See below the complete list of specifications for the Optoma 4K UHD Laser Projector:
- Displayed Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) via pixel shifting. 3D images displayed in 1080p.
- Brightness: 3,000 ANSI lumens.
- Contrast Ratio: 2,500,000:1.
- Light Source: DuraCore laser light source with up to 30,000 hours life (in Eco Mode).
- Screen Size Range: 34.1 to 302.4-inches.
- Projection Distance: 47.24 to 318.9-inches.
- Zoom: (Manual) 1.3.
- Lens Shift: Vertical (+/- 10%).
- Keystone Correction: Horizontal (+- 30 degrees), Vertical (+/- 30 degrees).
- Gaming Support: Built-in Enhanced Gaming Mode with 4ms response time in 1080p at 240Hz and 16.9ms response time in 4K at 60Hz.
- 3D Capability: Yes.
- Media Player: Built-in with 4K HDR and HLG support.
- Inputs: 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x HDMI 2.0 (eARC), 3x USB-A.
- Outputs: 1x Audio 3.5mm, 1x S/PDIF.
- Control: 1x RS232, 1x RJ45, 1x 12V trigger, 1x 3D sync.
- Built-in Speaker: 2x 10W speakers (WiSA connectivity for compatible external speakers).
- Optoma Marketplace Apps: Access compatible apps, including Prime and Spotify.
- Smart Home Compatibility: Alexa Smart Home Skill and new “Works with Google Home” Action.
- Wireless Operating Frequency: Dual-Band 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz Wi-Fi.
- Fan Noise Level: 27dB (in Eco Mode).
- Dimensions: 13.27 x 10.43 x 4.7-inches.
- Weight: 10.58 lbs (approx. 4.79KG).
The Optoma UHZ55 is currently available in the US for around U$2,499.99. Australian pricing and availability still to come.
