At CES 2024, Samsung previewed four tantalizing ultra-short throw (UST) projectors. We’ve heard little about them since then, but out of nowhere, the tech giant decided to launch two of the quartet: the Premiere 7 and Premiere 9.
To understand what makes these so good (and expensive), you first have to understand what ultra short throw means. UST is an alternative to long-throw projectors, as they need to be placed directly under a wall or screen. It’s a configuration that allows these devices to produce vibrant images even in bright environments, and that’s exactly what Samsung’s new models deliver.
Both projectors deliver 4K resolution video with a host of features that offer further enhancement. They offer AI Upscaling, which ensures that content is displayed in ultra-high resolution, and Vision Booster. The latter allows the Premiere duo to automatically adjust brightness and contrast [across] different lighting conditions”. In addition, HDR10 Plus support ensures optimal visual clarity.
Samsung’s projectors run on the company’s Tizen OS, which provides access to multiple streaming services from Amazon Prime Video to YouTube. The Gaming Hub offers gamers a similar experience by letting them enjoy cloud-based titles “directly through the projector.”
Other notable features include a smart speaker mode specifically for music, Mirroring for sharing content from a smartphone, and integration with Samsung’s SmartThings platform for controlling smart home devices.
Design differences
There are several differences between the two. While both can display 4K resolution, their respective image quality is not the same. The Premiere 7 covers 100 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut and its video output has a maximum brightness of 2500 ISO lumens.
The Premiere 9 goes even further by covering 154 percent of the DCI-P3 standard and has a peak brightness of 3,450 ISO lumens. It also features “triple laser technology” for even better visual fidelity. And it houses 40W 2.2.2 up-firing speakers. Samsung’s Premiere 7 only has a 30W 2.2ch speaker system.
Another big plus is that they’re easy to set up. Samsung says all you have to do is plug in one of the Premiere models and connect it to Wi-Fi. It’s that simple.
Be prepared to drop a lot of cash if you’re interested in picking up either one. The Premiere 7 retails for $3,000, while the Premiere 9 costs $6,000 on Samsung’s digital store. To further entice buyers, Samsung is offering a free second-generation Freestyle projector. You’ll need to act fast, as this deal is only available until September 15.
If you’re interested in other options, be sure to check out TechRadar’s roundup of the best 4K projectors for 2024.
