As entertainment technology advances, so too does the peak of top-tier home theater projectors rise higher and higher. As such, Sony has just released its new lineup of home theater projectors. This includes the Sony Bravia Projector 8 (AKA VPL-XW6100ES) and their cream of the crop, the Sony Bravia Projector 9 (AKA Sony VPL-XW8100ES). These new 4K laser projector from Sony are their latest in a focus from manufacturers to release laser based units.
The Sony Bravia Projector 9 (not to be confused with the Sony Bravia 9 Mini LED television) is the upgraded version of the 2022 Sony VPL-XW7000ES. For this projector vs projector showdown our experts will break down the similarities and differences between these two standout Sony models.
Sony VPL-XW7000ES
The Sony VPL-XW7000ES was the flagship home theater projector from 2022. This model along with its little siblings, the XW5000ES and XW6000ES were Sony's first laser home theater projectors as part of the wave of high end laser projectors like the JVC NZ9 and Epson LS12000. This 3,200 lumen 4K projector with SXRD and advanced HDR processing made it one of the best commercially available projectors made for home cinemas.
Sony Bravia 9 (XW8100)
The new Sony BRAVIA Projector 9 (model VPL-XW8100ES) is a top-tier flagship home theater projector that offers a stunning visual experience with its 3,400 lumen laser light source and true 4K HDR support. It features advanced SXRD panels for exceptional color accuracy and detail, making it perfect for movie enthusiasts. The Sony VPL-XW8100ES offers improved optics and elevated technology resulting in a superior picture quality on top of what was already top level image.
Despite its somewhat more compact design compared to other home cinema projectors, the Bravia 9 projector maintains a powerful performance and fits seamlessly into various home setups. This projector is designed to deliver bright, vibrant images even in well-lit rooms, providing a cinematic experience right in your living room.
Sony Bravia 9 Vs. Sony VPL-XW7000ES Differences
We already know that the Sony Bravia 9 is going to be a superior projector compared to its predecessor. New projectors almost alwasys are. But what are the differences between the Sony Bravia 9 projector and VPL-XW7000ES? Check out our expert comparison of these two fantastic new 4K laser projectors for home theaters from Sony and JVC and find out who wins.
| |
Sony Bravia Projector 9 |
Sony VPL-XW7000ES |
Our Thoughts: |
Brightness |
3400 |
3200 |
The new Sony projector bumps up the light output by 200 lumens for a brighter image. |
Max Resolution |
4K Native |
4K Native |
Both models use the advanced SXRD for a true 4K picture. |
Projector Lens Shift |
Horizontal +/- 36% & Vertical +/- 85% |
Horizontal +/- 36% & Vertical +/- 85% |
Both offer installation flexibility with plenty of lens shift. |
Chipset |
0.61" SXRD LCoS |
0.61" SXRD LCoS |
These projectors use the Sony SXRD offering 8.3 million. |
Light Source |
Single Laser |
Single Laser |
Both projectors utilize a single blue laser. |
Color |
95% DCI-P3 |
95% DCI-P3 |
Both projectors cover an extremely wide color gamut. |
Contrast Ratio |
15,000:1 (FOFO)
|
8,000:1 (FOFO)
|
Sony claims to have an infinate:1 dynamic contrast ratio. When more realistically measured, the VPL-XW8100ES almost doubles the contrast. |
Input Lag |
19 ms |
21 ms |
The new Sony projector has a moderate decrease in lag time for even faster gaming. |
Price |
$31,999.99
|
$27,999.99
|
As with all new technology, there is a higher price, the new Sony Bravia Projector 9 is about $4,000 more. |
While the specs on the Sony VPL-XW8100ES may seem relatively comparable to the VPL-XW7000ES, when you put them side by side, it's easy to see how the culmination of improved tweaks lead to vast improvements in the picture quality. Luckily, we just so happen to have a video comparing these two projectors side by side.
Sony Bravia Projector 9 / VPL-XW8100ES
The Pros
- Brighter laser light source
- Fantastic black levels giving notably better shadow details
- Wide color gamut
- Native 4K LCoS chipset
- Very accurate colors out-of-the-box
- Uses Sony’s Flagship-level X1 Ultimate for Projectors processing chip
- More refined tone mapping vs. prior model
- 4K gaming at 120Hz and includes ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- Imax Enhanced
- Live Color Enhancer that provides more vivid images without compromising saturation where needed.
The Cons
- Doesn't support 8K
- No 3D support
- Doesn't support HDR10+
- Higher price tag
- Doesn't come with any built in streaming apps
So What Are The Differences Between The Sony Bravia Projector 9 & VPL-XW7000ES?
The Sony Bravia Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and the Sony VPL-XW7000ES are both breathtaking high-end 4K laser projectors, but the Bravia Projector 9 brings several enhancements over its predecessor. The most notable difference is the brightness, with the Bravia Projector 9 offering 3,400 lumens compared to the 3,200 lumens of the VPL-XW7000ES. This increase in brightness allows for more vibrant and clear images, even in well-lit rooms. Additionally, the Bravia Projector 9 boasts a significantly higher contrast ratio of 15,000:1 (FOFO) versus the 8,000:1 (FOFO) of the VPL-XW7000ES, resulting in deeper blacks and more detailed shadow areas.
Like its predecessor, the XW8100ES offers a razor sharp image and smooth motion handling that's just about unrivaled in the industry. Both projectors share several advanced features, such as true 4K resolution using Sony’s SXRD panels, a wide color gamut covering 95% of DCI-P3, and flexible installation options with horizontal and vertical lens shift. However, the Bravia Projector 9 includes Sony’s flagship X1 Ultimate for Projectors processing chip, which enhances tone mapping and overall image processing. This makes the Bravia Projector 9 particularly appealing for those who prioritize the highest possible picture quality for their home theater setup.
Investing in the Sony Bravia Projector 9, despite its higher price tag, is justified for several reasons. The improved brightness and contrast ratio alone can significantly enhance the viewing experience, making movies and games look more lifelike and immersive. The advanced processing capabilities ensure that the projector can handle the latest 4K HDR content with ease, providing a future-proof solution for home entertainment. For enthusiasts who demand the best in home theater technology, the Bravia Projector 9 offers a combination of performance, features, and image quality that for the most refined of home theater owners, more than justifies its premium price.
Our Experts Are Here To Help At ProjectorScreen.com
If you have any questions on the Sony Bravia Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES), other projectors or anything else projection related don’t hesitate to hit us up at ProjectorScreen.com. Thanks for reading and keep on projecting!
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Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | Sony |
Product Status: | Contact Us to Place Order |
Lumens: | 3400 |
Projector Type: | Standard Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Chipset: | LCoS |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 1.34:1 - 2.87:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Lens Shift: | Horizontal & Vertical |
Input Lag: | 4K/60Hz: 19ms | 4K/120Hz: 9ms | 1080p/120Hz: 9ms | 1080p/60Hz: 24ms |
3D Support: | No |
Warranty: | 3 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Motorized |
Wi-Fi: | No |
Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | Sony |
Product Status: | Contact Us to Place Order |
Lumens: | 3200 |
Projector Type: | Standard Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Chipset: | LCoS |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 1.35:1 - 2.84:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Lens Shift: | Horizontal & Vertical |
Input Lag: | 4K/60Hz: 27ms | 1080p/120Hz: 16ms |
3D Support: | Yes |
Warranty: | 3 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Motorized |
Wi-Fi: | No |
Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | Sony |
Product Status: | Contact Us to Place Order |
Lumens: | 2700 |
Projector Type: | Standard Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Chipset: | LCoS |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 1.34:1 - 2.87:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Lens Shift: | Horizontal & Vertical |
3D Support: | No |
Warranty: | 3 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Motorized |
Wi-Fi: | No |
Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | Sony |
Product Status: | Contact Us to Place Order |
Lumens: | 2000 |
Projector Type: | Standard Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Chipset: | LCoS |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 1.38:1 - 2.21:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Lens Shift: | Horizontal & Vertical |
Input Lag: | 4K/60Hz: 21ms |
3D Support: | No |
Warranty: | 3 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Manual |
Wi-Fi: | No |
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