Here’s the first 4K 120Hz UST projector with optical lens shift

The Verge ·

Awol Vision has unveiled the LuxVision, which it claims is the first ultra-short throw (UST) projector to combine a 4K 120Hz picture with optical, rather than digital, vertical lens shift. This matters because most UST projectors rely on digital manipulation or keystone correction to fit the image onto a wall, which can degrade detail, whereas optical lens shift preserves picture quality without needing to physically reposition the unit. Running Google TV, the projector is being pitched as a genuine alternative to a large flat-screen TV for buyers willing to pay a premium.

The LuxVision produces 6,000 ISO Lumens and can cast a 120-inch image from just 7.5 inches away from the wall, and it comes in several colours and trims. It is aimed at both sports viewers, thanks to the fluid 4K 120Hz output, and gamers, courtesy of Dolby Vision Gaming HDR, ALLM, VRR, roughly 1ms input lag, three HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort and multiview support for up to four simultaneous sources. It will launch around October priced at $6,499 / €5,999 / £4,999, excluding an optional ALR screen costing around $1,000 extra, with pre-order discounts available from 5 September ahead of reviews.

In short

  • Awol Vision's LuxVision is the first UST projector with optical lens shift
  • Offers 4K 120Hz, 6,000 lumens, and gaming-friendly specs like 1ms lag
  • Launches around October from £4,999/$6,499, pre-orders open 5 September

Steelman: both sides, in good faith

The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.

The case for

The LuxVision could make a compelling alternative to a large television for buyers who want a very large, bright image without mounting a projector far from the wall. Its optical lens shift may help preserve detail when aligning the picture, while 4K at 120Hz and gaming features could appeal to sports fans and gamers seeking a premium, versatile setup.

The case against

At its announced price, the LuxVision is a substantial investment, especially if a compatible screen is also needed, and its real-world picture quality and performance remain to be assessed. Buyers may reasonably prefer a large television or a less costly projector if they value proven performance or lower cost over the LuxVision’s combination of features and short-throw convenience.

Explained simply

Ultra-short throw projectors sit close to a wall and use specialised optics to create a large picture, making them an option for rooms where a conventional projector would need more space. They are often compared with large televisions, though the result depends on the room and screen.

Projectors may use digital correction to straighten or reposition an image, which can affect its detail. Optical lens shift moves the image through the projector’s lens instead, while 4K describes picture resolution and 120Hz refers to how often the image can refresh each second.

Awol Vision is a projector maker, and Google TV is the smart TV platform that provides streaming apps and other features. The LuxVision is aimed at people who want a large-screen setup for films, sport or gaming, with its price and the possible cost of a suitable screen relevant to that choice.

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