Ultra short throw projectors are a relatively new type of projector that sits directly under the screen. But which laser TV is the best? We'll answer that question as part of our ultra short throw projector shootout series. Let's see who wins this battle between the Formovie Theater and the Vava Chroma.
The Formovie Theater ultra short throw projector just launched here in the USA early this summer and is the enhanced and updated version of it's Chinese counterpart, the Fengmi T1. This triple laser UST utilizes ALPD® 4.0 RGB+ technology which helps give it some of the best black levels we've seen on a projector. You can also check out our in-depth Formovie Theater review.
The Vava Chroma exploded on Indiegogo, raising funds at a record setting pace. The Vava Chroma is the second laser TV from Vava and the first to sport a RGB triple laser light source. Also utilizing the ALPD® 4.0 light engine, this sleek ultra short throw is loaded with potential.
So which is better the Formovie Theater or the Vava Chroma UST?
Check out our expert comparison of these two fantastic lower priced triple laser ultra short throw projectors to find out.
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Formovie Theater |
Vava Chroma |
Our Thoughts: |
Brightness |
2800 |
2500 |
Despite utilizing the same light source, the Formovie Theater clearly beats the Vava Chroma in terms of brightness |
Throw Ratio |
0.23:1 |
0.23:1 |
These two USTs sit at basically the same distances and slightly closer than most other laser TVs. |
Chipset |
.47" DLP |
.47" DLP |
Both projectors use the same .47" DLP chipset from TI. |
Light Source |
ALPD® 4.0 RGB+ triple laser |
ALPD® 4.0 RGB+ triple laser |
Both UST projetors utilize an RGB laser light source |
Color |
107% BT.2020 |
106% BT.2020 |
The Formovie Theater offers extra vibrant colors thanks to it's wider coverage capabilities |
Sequential Contrast Ratio |
3333:1 |
3000:1 |
Both projectors claim a 3000:1 contrast but we measured a higher ratio on the Formovie Theater. When watching content it is clearly superior |
Input Lag |
41.9 ms |
42.2 ms |
Both laser TVs offer pretty good input lag times, with the Formovie having a slight edge |
Audio |
Full-range×2 + Tweeter×2 (30W) By Bowers & Wilkins |
60W Harman Kardon Speakers
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The Vava Chroma has a more powerful built-in soundbar, but the B&W audio on the Formovie is superior sounding |
Price |
$2,799.00
|
$3,599.00
|
The Formovie Theater is a tremendous bargin out-performing the higher priced Vava Chroma |
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Add to Cart
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Add to Cart
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Vava Chroma Vs. Formovie Theater Side By Side Comparison
We put together this video of the Vava Chroma and the Formovie Theater comparing them side by side to show you how the image looks. We'll break down this video at a later time so make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Pros And Cons Of Each UST Projector
Formovie Theater
The Pros
- Very low price tag, especially given the incredible performance
- Higher lumen output
- Vibrant colors out of the box
- Laser speckle reduction technology
- Best native contrast for a .47” XPR DLP
- Supports Dolby Vision
- Sits closer than most other USTs
- Can make an image size up to 150 inches
- Winner of the 2022 Laser TV Showdown
The Cons
- Menu is sometimes less intuitive
- Fan can be a little noisy
- Lacks 3D support
- Fixed-level line output for attachign a sub-woofer; volume controls on remote will change levels of built-in speakers but not adjust volume of the attached subwoofer
Vava Chroma
The Pros
- Bright triple laser light source
- Supports 3D
- Sits closer than most other USTs
- Sleek modern design
- Powerful 60W speakers
- Can make an image size up to 150 inches
The Cons
- Colors appear oversaturated and not as accurate
- Contrast ratio is good but could be better
- Lacks robust color management system hampering calibration
- Does not handle HDR content very well
- Needs upcoming firmware updates to address some of the issues
So Which Is Better, The Formovie Theater Or The Vava Chroma Laser TV?
These are two phenomenal ultra short throw projectors. Without a doubt, you'll be satisfied with either one you buy.
However, one of them has a significant edge in this fight. So between the Vava Chroma and Formovie Theater the winner of this ultra short throw projector shootout is the………
Formovie Theater
Even though this is Formovie's first ultra short throw projector sold in the USA, their practice with the Fengmi T1 certainly paid off. the Formovie Theater is arguably the best laser TV on sale. So good in fact, that a panel of independent judges named it the winner of the 2022 Laser TV Showdown.
This UST has incredibly bright accurate colors, super sharp detailed image, great motion handling, phenomenal contrast and some of the deepest blacks we've seen on a laser TV. With a 2800 lumen, triple laser light source, the Formovie Theater is bright enough for most rooms, especially when paired with an ambient light rejecting screen.
The Vava Chroma had a somewhat disappointing launch compared to the buzz it generated on Indiegogo. The Chroma has some firmware updates that are needed to unlock this projector's true potential. That being said the Vava Chroma is an all around solid projector. With a stylish design and a powerful built in soundbar, this unit is an ideal replacement for a livingroom television.
If you're looking to save money and want an incredible picture the Formovie Theater is the best option available.
We'll be breaking down the comparison between the Formovie Theater and Vava Chroma even further in our Ultra Short Throw shootout series on YouTube. So make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you can get notified when our shootout goes live plus other great content in our pipeline.
If you have any questions on these projectors or anything else projection related don’t hesitate to hit us up at ProjectorScreen.com. Thanks for reading and keep on projecting!
Which projector do you think is better? Leave us your thoughts in the comments below
Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | VAVA |
Product Status: | Leaves Warehouse within 4-6 Weeks |
Lumens: | 2500 |
Projector Type: | Ultra Short Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Contrast Ratio: | 3,000:1 |
Chipset: | DLP |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 0.23:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Input Lag: | 4K/60Hz: 42.2ms |
3D Support: | Full HD 3D |
Built-In Speaker: | Yes |
Warranty: | 2 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Manual |
Projector Resolution: | 4K |
Brand: | Formovie |
Product Status: | In Stock |
Lumens: | 2800 |
Projector Type: | Ultra Short Throw |
Light Source: | Laser |
Contrast Ratio: | 3,000:1 (full on/off) |
Chipset: | DLP |
Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 [HD] |
Throw Ratio: | 0.23:1 (D:W) |
Native Resolution: | 3840x2160 |
Lens Shift: | No |
Input Lag: | 4K/60Hz: 43ms | 1080p/60Hz: 41ms | 1080p/120Hz: 37ms | 1080p/240Hz: 34ms |
3D Support: | No |
Built-In Speaker: | Yes |
Warranty: | 2 Years |
Standard Lens Focus: | Motorized |
ARC/eARC: | eARC |
Operating System: | Android TV |