Hisense has become a global TV/projector market leader with a successful line of LED/LCD TVs, Laser TVs, and projectors. Their latest projector release is the PL2 UST (Ultra Short Throw) projector. Similar to the previously released Hisense PL1, PX2-PRO, and, PX3-PRO, USTs, the PL2 is designed for people who already have or plan to purchase their screen or intend to use the projector on a blank wall (though we don’t recommend that as dedicated screens give you much better results).
The Hisense L9H and L5H UST Projectors come packaged with either a 100-inch or 120-inch screen. Hisense calls these models “Laser TVs” because they use a laser lighting system and, unlike traditional projectors, include speakers and a streaming app platform as well as a screen. So they really can directly replace a standalone TV. The PL2 also includes a built-in speaker and streaming platform (Google TV) but does not come with a screen.
Pro Tip: The PL2 is the direct successor to the PL1. Expect discounts on existing stock of the PL1 as retailers sell remaining inventory.
The Hisense PL2 is designed to deliver high-quality picture performance. It incorporates a Texas Instruments DLP imaging chip that can achieve 4K UHD resolution (via Pixel Shifting). It also includes AI upscaling and Hisense’s X-Fusion Laser Engine that is said to cover 85% of the DCI-P3 color space with 2,700 ANSI lumens of brightness and a 3,000:1 native contrast ratio.
The PL2 projector can project an image between 80 to 150 inches: 30 inches more than its predecessor. Its ultra-short throw design (0.22:1 throw ratio) requires less space, adding versatility for a variety of rooms and screen setups.
The PL2 includes Filmmaker Mode, ALLM, and MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) to ensure smooth playback for movies, sports, and gaming.
Smart Features
The PL2 runs on the Google Smart TV OS for seamless access to popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Compatible with Control4, AirPlay 2, and Apple HomeKit, it allows connectivity with other smart devices at home, enhancing the overall user experience.
Connectivity
Physical connections include three HDMI 2.1 inputs (one is eARC compatible) and one Digital Optical output.
Pro Tip: The HDMI-eARC and Digital Audio output can be used to connect the PL2 to a compatible external audio system, receiver or soundbar.
Audio
With video projectors, audio isn’t always prioritized. However, PL2 includes a built-in speaker system that provides both Dolby Digital and Dolby Atmos sound with the inclusion of two up-firing speakers. Just remember that this method relies on bouncing sounds off your ceiling for immersive effects and is dependent on ceiling height and seating position to work effectively.
The PL2 is also WiSA-ready for added audio setup flexibility. WiSA enables high-quality audio to be transmitted and received wirelessly by compatible speakers with precise synchronization and no perceivable latency. Products that are designated as “WiSA Ready” mean that a plug-in WiSA transmitter can transmit to any WiSA Certified Speaker.
Comparison
| Hisense PL2 (2024 model) | Hisense PL1 (2023 model) | |
| MSRP | $2,499 | |
| Projector Type | UST (Ultra Short Throw) | UST (Ultra Short Throw) |
| Light Source | X-Fusion Laser Engine | X-Fusion Laser Engine |
| Laser Life | 25,000+ Hours | 25,000+ Hours |
| DLP Imaging Chip | 0.47″ DMD | 0.47″ DMD |
| Brightness | 2700 ANSI Lumen | 2200 ANSI Lumen |
| Contrast Ratio (Dynamic) | 3,000:1 (native) 2,000,000:1 (dynamic) | 3,000:1 (native) 2,000,000:1 (dynamic) |
| Color Space | 85% DCI-P3 | 85% DCI-P3 |
| HDR | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| Resolution | 4K (via pixel shifting) | 4K (via pixel shifting) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Filmmaker Mode | Yes | Yes |
| MEMC | Yes | Yes |
| Throw Ratio | 0.22:1 | 0.25:1 |
| Projection Screen Size | 80″-150″ | 80″-120″ |
| Eye Safety | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI | 3x HDMI 2.1 | 2x HDMI 2.1 |
| HDMI ARC, CEC | Yes | Yes |
| ALLM | Yes | Yes |
| USB | 1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0 | 1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0 |
| Audio Output Power | 30W (Stereo 15 watts x2) | 30W (Stereo 15 watts x2) |
| Surround Sound | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital |
| Analog Audio Output | 1 x 3.5mm | 1 x 3.5mm |
| Digital Audio Output | 1 x Optical | 1 x Optical |
| WiSA Ready | Yes | Yes |
| RF Antenna Input/TV Tuner | – | – |
| Smart TV Platform | Google TV (Google Certified) | Google TV (Google Certified) |
| App Store | Google Play Store | Google Play Store |
| Streaming Service Support | Netflix, Disney+, HBO MAX, Hulu, Prime Video, SHOWTIME, Pandora, Sling TV, YouTube, etc. | Netflix, Disney+, HBO MAX, Hulu, Prime Video, SHOWTIME, Pandora, Sling TV, YouTube, etc. |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Ethernet (LAN) | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Dual-Band) | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Dual-Band) |
| Screen Mirroring/Casting | Chromecast, Airplay2 | Chromecast, Airplay2 |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Works With | Hey Google, Amazon Alexa | Hey Google, Amazon Alexa |
| Sleep Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Remote | Yes, Voice remote with backlight | Yes, Voice remote with backlight |
| Remote Finder | Yes | Yes |
| Detachable Power Cable | Yes | Yes |
| Console Color | Graphite | Graphite |
| Cleaning Kit | Yes | Yes |
| Quick Start Guide / Manual | QSG in the box, Manual online | QSG in the box, Manual online |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 20.9″ x 4.7″ x 13.2″ | 20.9″ x 4.7″ x 13.2″ |
| Weight | 18.7 lbs | 17 lbs |
The Bottom Line
Hisense has been successful in both the TV and projector categories and was the first to make the UST projector concept work in the home entertainment space with its laser TVs that come with both a projector and a screen in one package. However, in the past couple of years they have also released standalone UST projectors that cater to users who may already have a screen or would to like make the decision on what screen might be right for them. The PL2 is the newest projector from Hisense that offers this option.
The Hisense PL2 has most of the core features and specifications as the previously released PL1 but incorporates a higher lumens output, a larger maximum screen size option, can be placed slightly closer to the screen, has an additional HDMI connection, and is almost two pounds heavier than the PL1. The PL2 is priced at $500 more than the current price of the PL1, but the PL1 originally sold for $2,799 (MSRP) so to have its replacement, with even better performance, priced at $2,499 is a decent deal.
For the $500 difference, the PL1 is still a great option while it is still available unless you would like a larger 150-inch screen option and the higher brightness of the PL2.
Where to buy Hisense PL2?
The Hisense PL2 is available as of October 23, 2024 at the following online stores.
The Hisense PL1 is still available for $1,987 at Amazon, and $1,997 at ProjectorScreen while supplies last.
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