Hisense PL2 Review: Affordable UST 4K Laser TV
Big-Screen Cinema at Home Without the Bulk
If you’re looking for a projector that can deliver a big-screen experience without the usual installation hassle, the Hisense PL2 might be just the thing. It’s a compact ultra short throw 4K laser projector that can create a 120-inch image from just a few inches away. In this article, we’ll look at how it performs, what features it offers, and whether it stands up against competitors from Samsung, LG, and Epson.
Design and Build
If you're after something stylish for your living room, the Hisense PL2 fits right in. It has a clean, understated look with a matte black finish that helps reduce glare and avoids the usual fingerprint mess. Because the lens points upward, you can park it just a foot away from the wall and still get a huge 100-inch image. No need to drill ceilings or run long cables.
It’s also surprisingly portable—under 10 kilograms—so you can move it around easily. Setup is quick too, thanks to helpful features like auto focus and digital keystone correction.
Features
- True 4K resolution (3840x2160) with HDR10 support
- Projects 80" to 120" images from just 25–42cm away
- Bright 2,400 ANSI lumens for daytime and evening use
- X-Fusion™ laser engine rated for 25,000 hours of use
- Android TV built-in with Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video and more
- 15W stereo speakers with Dolby Audio support
- Plenty of ports: HDMI, USB, LAN, audio out, and built-in Wi-Fi
Image Quality
For a projector in this price range, the PL2 delivers seriously impressive picture quality. The 4K resolution is sharp, colors are vivid without being overdone, and it holds up well in moderately lit rooms—especially if you’re using a proper UST screen.
HDR content has more depth than you’d expect, though blacks aren’t quite OLED-deep. Motion is smooth on most content, but you won’t get fancy frame interpolation like you would on pricier models. That said, for casual films, sports, and streaming, it’s more than good enough.
Sound Performance
The built-in speakers won’t replace a full sound system, but they’re better than expected. Dialogue is clear, and there’s a surprising amount of presence and bass for a compact box. For everyday TV or movies, you might not even reach for a soundbar. That said, if you're going full home cinema, plug it into a proper setup via HDMI ARC.
Smart TV Experience
Android TV is built in, so you won’t need a separate streamer. Apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video come preloaded, and you can add more via the Play Store. Google Assistant is included for voice control, and the remote has quick-access buttons for the main platforms. The UI feels familiar if you’ve used Android TV before—nothing groundbreaking, but easy to navigate.
Specifications
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Light Source: X-Fusion™ laser rated for 25,000 hours
- Brightness: 2,400 ANSI lumens
- Contrast: Dynamic 1,000,000:1
- Throw Ratio: 0.25:1 – get 100" from ~30 cm
- Audio: Dual 15W speakers with Dolby Audio
- Smart TV: Android TV with built-in apps
- Inputs: 2 x HDMI, USB 2.0, LAN, audio out
- Dimensions: 547 × 346 × 158 mm
- Weight: 9.2 kg
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sharp 4K picture with good brightness for the price
- All-in-one design with Android TV and speakers built in
- Laser engine means no bulb replacements
Cons:
- Netflix 4K is limited (HD only in most cases)
- No 3D support or advanced motion smoothing
- Black levels are just okay—better in darker rooms
FAQ
Can the Hisense PL2 replace my TV?
Yes, for many users. It’s a great option if you want a large screen without a traditional TV. It has smart features and decent built-in speakers.
Do I need a special screen?
You’ll get the best picture using an ALR screen designed for ultra short throw projectors. A white wall works, but the contrast won’t be as strong.
Does it support Dolby Vision?
No—HDR10 is supported, but Dolby Vision isn’t included on this model.
Conclusion
The Hisense PL2 is a solid entry point into the world of 4K ultra short throw projectors. It’s compact, smart, and bright enough for most rooms. You won’t get every premium feature under the sun, but for the price, it nails the basics—and then some. If you want big-screen home entertainment without the bulk of a traditional setup, this is definitely one to shortlist.