During CES 2024, Samsung introduced four attractive ultra-short throw (UST) projectors. Since then, we've heard very little about them, but out of the blue, the tech giant decided to launch two of them: Premiere 7 and Premiere 9.
To understand why they're so good (and expensive), you first need to understand what ultra-short throw means. Ultra-short throw is an alternative to long throw projectors, as they need to be placed directly under a wall or screen. It's a setup that allows these devices to produce vivid images even in brightly lit environments, and this is exactly what Samsung's new models offer.
Both projectors offer 4K resolution video with a host of features that provide an additional boost. They offer AI Upscaling, which ensures content is displayed in ultra-high resolution, and Vision Booster. The latter allows the Premiere duo to automatically adjust “brightness and contrast.” [across] various lighting conditions.” Plus, HDR10 Plus support maintains visual clarity.
Samsung’s projectors run on the company’s Tizen operating system, which provides access to multiple streaming services, from Amazon Prime Video to YouTube. Gaming Hub offers a similar experience to gamers, allowing them to enjoy cloud-based titles “directly through the projector.”
Other notable features include a smart speaker mode exclusively 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, covering 154 percent of the DCI-P3 standard and boasting a peak brightness of 3450 ISO lumens. It also comes with “triple laser technology” for even better visual fidelity. And the device houses 40W 2.2.2-channel speakers that emit light upward. Samsung’s Premiere 7 only features a 30W 2.2-channel speaker system.
Another major plus is that they are easy to set up. Samsung claims that all you have to do is plug in any of the Premiere models and connect it to Wi-Fi. It's that simple.
Be prepared to shell out a lot of money if you’re interested in purchasing either one. The Premiere 7 sells 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 have to act fast because this offer is only available until September 15.
If you're interested in other options, be sure to check out TechRadar's best 4K projectors for 2024.