Hisense PL2 review & presentation
Hisense has launched its Triple Laser TV Model PX3 and thus delivered an impressive successor to the PX2-Pro. The Hisense PX3 impresses across the board and offers significant improvements in the areas of contrast, brightness and general performance. It is therefore only logical that Hisense is now presenting the PL2, a worthy successor to the PL1, which has been available for some time. A lot has also happened with the brand new Hisense PL2, which is why we will take a close look at it in today's test. Is the new Hisense PL2 worth it? Where is it convincing and where is it not? We will find out all of that now.
Highlights
- Pure laser light source
- Resolution: 3.840×2.160 4K (Ultra HD)
- 2700 ANSI lumens
- Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ & HLG
- 24Hz cinema mode
- Coverage of 85% DCI-P3
- 3000:1 native contrast
- High refresh rate of 2K@240Hz & 2K@120Hz
- Filmmaker mode, fluid movement
- 30 watt sound system with two front-firing speakers
- VIDAA U7.6 Smart TV (Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV)
- Airplay2 and Apple Home
Features | Hisense PL1 | Hisense PL2 | Advantages |
---|---|---|---|
DMP chip + Resolution | 0.47” | 3840x2160 (4K XPR) | 0.47” | 3840x2160 (4K XPR) | |
Platform | MT9900 | MT9618 | Improved system performance |
Brightness | 2.100 ANSI lumens | 2700 ANSI lumens | Higher brightness – clearly visible |
Image size | 80 - 120 inches | 80 - 150 inches | The Hisense PL2 offers a larger image while keeping the distance to the screen smaller. |
HDR playback | HDR10 | HDR10+ | HLG | Dolby Vision | HDR10 | HDR10+ | HLG | Dolby Vision | Thanks to new signal processing, the Hisense PL2 can handle these formats better. |
4K AI Upcaler & Pro AI Computing | No | Ja | The 4K AI Upscaler takes low-resolution content to a new level and provides finer detailed images. Comprehensive optimizations improve picture quality through the most advanced algorithms, ranging from color temperature and dynamic contrast, color space and primary white brightness ratios to color adjustments and gamma curve. This combination of sophisticated processing and excellent laser light source enables the Hisense PL to achieve a significant increase in picture quality, which is extreme compared to the previous model. |
color space | 3% DCI-P85 | 3% DCI-P85 | The color space coverage has remained the same. Only ALPD 4.0 and RGB Laser TV models such as the Hisense PX3 achieve higher values. |
Contrast Native | 3000:1 | 3000:1 | |
laser unit | Single Color Laser | Single Color Laser | Both models offer a single color laser. The Hisense PL2 with its new lens a |
projection ratio | 0.25 | 0.22 | Closer to the wall and requiring less space. With only 35 centimeters between the laser console and the screen, the PL2 produces an impressive 120-inch image. |
Operating system | LIFE U6 | LIFE U7.6 | Newer and more up-to-date operating system. Operation is faster and more seamless, and more apps are available. |
TV Tuner | DVB-S/S2, DVB-T/T2 & DVB-C + Common Interface | No | The Hisense PL1 does not need an additional receiver to receive TV programs. The Hisense PL2 no longer has an integrated TV tuner. |
Voice control | Amazon Alexa, VIDAA Voice & Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, VIDAA Voice & Google Assistant | |
Connections | 2 x HDMI 2.1 (1 x eARC), 1x HDMI 2.0, 2 x USB-A, LAN, WLAN, S/PDIF, 3,5mm jack | 2 x HDMI 2.1 (1 x eARC), 1x HDMI 2.0, 2 x USB-A, LAN, WLAN, S/PDIF, 3,5mm jack | |
Operation Volume | 29dB(A) – Eco | 32dB(A) – Max | 29dB(A) – Eco | 32dB(A) – Max | |
Refresh Rate | 4K @ 60Hz | 4K@60Hz, 2K@240Hz, 2K@120Hz | Ideal for gaming |
Sound system | No Name | No Name | |
Interimage calculation | Game Mode | Filmmaker fashion | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Dimensions (WxDxH) | 520 x 324 x 160 mm | 531x335x120mm | |
Price (RRP) | 2222, - € | 2499, - € |
Let's start traditionally and simply with the aspects of the new Hisense PL2 that have remained unchanged compared to the previous model - a list that is much shorter this time than the list of innovations. As is usual with modern ultra short throw projectors, the Hisense PL2 continues to use the DMP 0.47" chipset in the latest revision from Texas Instruments. This chipset enables native Full HD resolution, which is effectively expanded to 4K using the XPR Shifting process, creating a sharper and more detailed image. Hisense also uses a single laser light source for the PL2. This laser technology was taken from the previous model, but further optimized to improve color brilliance and efficiency. The Hisense PL2 uses a single laser light source in which blue laser diodes generate light that is converted into white light by a phosphor wheel. This light is then separated into the primary colors, modulated and finally projected onto a projection surface to create an image. This technology offers a number of benefits, including higher brightness, better color accuracy and longer lifespan.
Advantages of single laser technology
- Higher brightness and color accuracy: Laser light sources offer higher brightness and more precise color representation compared to traditional lamps.
- Longer lifetime: Laser light sources have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance.
- Energy efficiency: Laser projectors are generally more energy efficient than lamp projectors.
Although the PL1 and PL2 share some key functions and features, the PL2 offers significant advantages and improvements thanks to new processing technologies. The details of these improvements will be covered in more detail later in this post. In summary, these features include support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG, all of which are at the cutting edge of image technology.
Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG are advanced image enhancement technologies that provide a more immersive viewing experience. Dolby Vision is a popular HDR format that uses dynamic metadata to optimize color and brightness scene by scene or even frame by frame, resulting in exceptionally realistic image quality. HDR10 is the most widely used HDR format that uses static metadata and also contributes to improved color depth and brightness. HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) is another HDR format designed specifically for live broadcasts, supporting both HDR and SDR content simultaneously, making it ideal for live sports and live TV.
In addition, the PL2 has a high-quality interframe calculation, also known as Smooth Motion. This technology smoothes motion blur and ensures smoother images, especially during fast movements, which is ideal for sports broadcasts and action-packed films.
The Game Mode optimizes response time and reduces latency, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The Film Maker Mode, another standout feature, turns off additional image processing such as sharpening and motion smoothing to reproduce movies as the filmmakers intended. This mode preserves the original frame rate, aspect and colors of the content, resulting in a more authentic cinematic experience. However, that's where the similarities between the two models end. In areas such as optics, brightness, sound system and processor performance, the PL1 and PL2 share no similarities. Hisense has taken user feedback seriously and made fundamental improvements, presenting the PL2 as a completely new development, not just a simple successor. Before we delve deeper into the tech, image quality and operating system, let's start with the design, connections and distance to the screen.
Design, connections and spacing
The new Hisense PL2 does not look any different from its predecessors, which is not surprising. In contrast, the Hisense PX2-Pro urgently needed a redesign, which was also implemented with the Hisense PX3. The predecessor PL1 was already very well received, so Hisense continues to rely on the tried and tested design. We have nothing against it either. The design has no influence on the rating in our test, as it is a subjective decision and depends on personal taste whether you like the design of the Hisense PL2 or not.
Before you can start watching films and series with family or friends, the Hisense PL2 Laser TV must first be set up and correctly aligned. This projector can produce an image of up to 150 inches. The size of the projected image depends on the distance from the screen. For a 100-inch image, for example, a distance of 21,6 cm is required between the back of the Laser TV and the wall. You can find further distances for image sizes between 80 and 150 inches in the table below this text.
Screen size | Length and width of the projected image (mm) | Distance from the back of the Laser TV to the wall (cm) | Distance from sideboard to lower part of screen (cm) | |
80 | 1771 | 996 | 11,6 | 32,5 |
90 | 1993 | 1121 | 16,5 | 35,6 |
100 | 2214 | 1245 | 21,4 | 38,7 |
110 | 2435 | 1370 | 26,3 | 41,9 |
120 | 2657 | 1494 | 31,1 | 45,0 |
130 | 2878 | 1619 | 36,0 | 48,2 |
150 | 3321 | 1868 | 45,7 | 54,5 |
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Hisense PL2 Setup
As with the Hisense PX3, setting up the Hisense PL2 is quick, easy and intuitive using the VIDAA U7.6 operating system.
Ultimate Edition Your benefits
Device check (panel, zoom, sharpness, volume)*
Image modes set by our professionals (e.g. film, TV, gaming, HDR...)*
Telephone, e-mail, live chat support & free loaner device in case of service (subject to availability)
* If you wish, we will unpack your ordered device and carry out an inspection. This way we can ensure that you do not receive a defective device. At the same time, we will set up the device with the corresponding settings of our Ultimate Edition. If you would like us to check and adjust your ordered device before shipping, please indicate this in the shopping cart under "Order notes". If you do not indicate this, we will assume that we are not to carry out any inspection or adjustment. Of course, you will also receive access to the Ultimate Edition after purchase via our Knowledge baseso that you can make the settings yourself at any time.
VIDAA U7.6 & operation
The Hisense PL2 uses the latest VIDAA operating system, version U7.6. This operating system offers user-friendly controls and fast navigation. Users can access popular apps such as Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, Paramount and more. In addition, VIDAA U7.6 supports AirPlay 2 and Apple Home integration, making it easy to mirror iOS devices. Android users also benefit from the ability to mirror their smartphones or tablets easily and conveniently.
In summary, the combination of the VIDAA U7.6 operating system, a faster processor and the new remote control offers an innovative and high-quality user experience. Even users who are less tech-savvy or don't use a laser TV every day will find it easy to navigate thanks to this intuitive operating concept and user-friendly interface.
Interframe calculation, Game Mode & Filmmaker Mode
Even though the inter-image calculation on the Hisense PL1 was already good, Hisense has taken it up a notch with the latest processor generation. The image appears sharper and more three-dimensional, even when the inter-image calculation is switched on. The increase in computing power is clearly noticeable here. In addition to the inter-image calculation, there have also been encouraging advances in the area of dynamic metadata, such as Dolby Vision. The image quality has improved noticeably through the use of the new laser light source. This means that the colors not only appear richer and more realistic, but the increased brightness of the PL2 also significantly optimizes the display of dynamic image data. Overall, these improvements contribute to a more convincing viewing experience.
The Filmmaker Mode on the Hisense PL2 ultra short throw projector offers a number of benefits that take the home cinema experience to a new level. This special setting is designed to reproduce films as the filmmakers intended. It turns off unnecessary image processing functions such as motion smoothing and sharpness enhancements, resulting in a more authentic presentation. This means that viewers can experience the films in true-to-life colours, correct frame rate and with the intended dynamic contrast.
Another benefit of the Filmmaker Mode in the Hisense PL2 is the improved image depth and detail, which is especially noticeable when viewed in a darkened room. As the PL2 is an ultra short throw projector, it can project large images at a very short distance, making it ideal for living rooms where conventional projectors would not be practical due to space constraints.
The combination of ultra-short throw projection and Filmmaker Mode makes the Hisense PL2 an excellent choice for film enthusiasts who want to experience cinema quality in their own home without compromising on image integrity. Whether it's the latest blockbusters or classics from the film canon, the Hisense PL2 delivers a presentation that stays true to the filmmakers' vision and immerses the audience deeply in the action.
240Hz refresh rate
A high refresh rate, such as 240 Hz, is particularly advantageous for gaming on a laser TV. This brings several key improvements to the gaming experience, which are particularly noticeable in fast-paced, action-packed games.
1. Smoother movement sequences: One of the biggest advantages of 240 Hz is the extremely smooth representation of movements. Games, especially those with fast-paced action such as first-person shooters or racing games, benefit from the higher refresh rate as it presents movements more precisely and with less blur. The result is a clearer and more pleasant visual experience.
2. Reduced Motion Blur: Motion blur is significantly reduced at a refresh rate of 240 Hz. This is because each image is displayed on the screen for a shorter time, which improves the sharpness of the image during fast movements. This allows players to better track fast-moving objects and show more precise reactions in dynamic gaming environments.
3. Improved response times: A higher refresh rate results in a shorter delay between each image. This means that player input is reflected on the screen more quickly, which can be a crucial advantage, especially in competitive games where every millisecond counts.
4. Advantage in multiplayer: In multiplayer scenarios where multiple players react and interact at the same time, a higher refresh rate provides a critical advantage. Players can react more quickly to what's happening, giving them an edge over other players with lower refresh rates.
5. Reduced Eye Strain: A higher refresh rate can also reduce eye strain by providing a more stable and smooth image. This is especially important during long gaming sessions where eye comfort plays an essential role.
6. Optimized use of graphics card performance: Modern graphics cards are capable of producing high frame rates. A projector that supports 240Hz can take full advantage of this performance to provide the maximum smooth and engaging gaming experience.
Image quality & signal processing
Now we come to the heart of the Hisense PL2, its comprehensive laser light unit combined with advanced signal processing. We have already covered the interframe calculation and FilmMaker Mode in detail, but the Hisense PL2 has a lot more to offer. It has a high-quality and powerful laser light source with 2700 ANSI lumens, which ensures a color space coverage of 85% of the DCI-P3 standard. In addition, this is supported by AI computing to raise the picture quality to cinema level. Comprehensive optimizations improve the picture quality through the most advanced algorithms, ranging from color temperature and dynamic contrast, color space and brightness ratios of the primary white, to color adjustments and the gamma curve. This combination of sophisticated processing and excellent laser light source enables the Hisense PL2 to achieve a significant increase in picture quality, which is clearly visible compared to the previous model. The Hisense PL2 continuously analyzes the incoming content and optimizes it according to the maximum possible picture performance. The result is a higher contrast image with higher brightness and more realistic colors. This makes watching films and series twice as much fun! The appropriate screen type can be pre-set in the PL2 menu.
What is AI Computing?
AI computing, or artificial intelligence computing, refers to the use of computer technologies specifically designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. This includes activities such as recognizing language, making decisions, solving problems and learning from experiences. AI computing uses machine learning algorithms and models to analyze and respond to large amounts of data, often in real time.
In practice, AI computing can help automate processes, create personalized user experiences, and effectively manage complex data sets. For example, in products such as smart TVs, such as the Hisense PL2 mentioned above, AI computing is used to automatically improve picture quality, recommend content based on viewer preferences, or interpret voice commands.
The visual quality of our favorite movies and TV shows can significantly impact how we enjoy them. With the introduction of the Hisense 4K AI upscaler, this problem is elegantly solved. This innovative technology improves every single pixel so that content of all kinds - whether old classics or the latest streaming hits - can be experienced in impressive 4K quality. The upscaler works with a combination of machine learning and algorithms specifically designed to recognize and reproduce patterns in pixels. These algorithms analyze each scene to optimize colors, sharpness and contrast to produce an image that appears more natural to the human eye. The Hisense 4K AI Upscaler is more than just a gadget; it's an essential feature for anyone who wants to get the most out of their viewing experience. By improving image quality to near 4K levels, this upscaler transforms any viewing experience into something extraordinary, ensuring your favorite content can always be enjoyed in the best possible quality.
Advantages of the Hisense 4K AI Upscaler
- Improving image quality: By increasing the resolution of older or lower quality content, the upscaler provides a sharper, clearer image that improves the viewer experience.
- Revitalization of old classics: Many older films and series are only available in lower resolution. The Hisense 4K AI Upscaler breathes new life into this content by increasing the image quality without losing the authenticity of the original.
- Unified viewing experience: Regardless of the original quality of the content, the upscaler ensures that everything viewed on the Hisense PL2 reaches the highest possible quality. This means less switching between different quality levels when changing channels or streaming services.
Conclusion
Basically, the smaller Hisense model also delivers everything we already mentioned positively about the Hisense PX3, but at a cheaper price thanks to the single laser light source. If you want to get even more out of the picture, go for the bigger brother, the Hisense PX3. This offers the same high contrast and high-quality signal processing, but is equipped with a triple laser light source. This enables a larger color space and thus richer colors. For around 500 euros less, you get the equally phenomenal PL2. This means that Hisense is already offering two highlights in 2024.
In the area of contrast and color space, Hisense is not introducing any groundbreaking innovations, but is instead following the current market standards. Rather, the focus is on the way Hisense handles signal processing and image processing. With the PL2 model, the company is setting new standards in image optimization. The computing power of the PL2 enables advanced inter-frame calculation and uses AI-based technologies that continuously analyze and optimize the incoming content. These functions make the PX3 an outstanding example of how intelligent image processing can improve the viewing experience.
The interaction of these technologies makes the Hisense PL2 a real highlight. Content in SDR, HDR and Dolby Vision is displayed outstandingly, vividly and with accurate colors, although the Hisense PX3 is clearly ahead here thanks to its TriChroma laser light source. The image sharpness is impressive and the inter-image calculation works so cleanly and efficiently that it is rarely seen in this quality. This combination of functions ensures that the Hisense PL2 offers a convincing, immersive visual experience.
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