I have to admit, I didn't have high hopes for these two machines. The first "budget" products in any category always seem to fall short, but in this case I was pleasantly surprised. Both the Vivitek H1080FD and the Optoma HD20, which use DLP technology, offered exceptional performance for the price, but one definitely stood out.

The Results...

The Vivitek takes gold almost every category.
Stack those results up (by weighting each gold medal with 3 points and each silver with 2), and you can see how it all adds up.

Winner: Vivitek H1080FD

While the Optoma HD20 and the Vivitek H1080FD are alike in many respects, the bottom line is that Vivitek pushed the envelope a bit more with picture quality, and provided more of those features that you might find in a pricier projector.

It's a shade bigger than the Optoma, and a little more than a pound heavier at 7.8 lbs, but it is still an extremely portable device (they even go so far as to throw in a carrying case). Both the Vivitek and the Optoma lack lens shift capability, so I had to set them up on this ghetto cardboard box on top of a card table configuration in order to deliver a straight, unobstructed picture to the wall. However, once things were set up and calibrated properly, the Vivitek offered up slightly richer colors and better overall contrast (5000:1) than the Optoma—although black levels and overall quality of the 1080p picture appear similar between the two devices. I also give the Vivitek an edge in the brightness department—especially when comparing the brightest modes. Still, after running through several 1080p video clips on both machines, I was really wowed by the overall image quality on these entry-level projectors.

As I mentioned earlier, the Vivitek brought a few features to the table that you usually find in pricier models. For one thing, it's extremely quiet—especially when compared to the Optoma. It also features more inputs/outputs than the Optoma, including S-Video, RS-232c connector and audio jacks (although it would be a crime to use S-Video). It even features a small 5W onboard speaker which aids in portability and ease of use for those who are looking for a simple, all-in-one solution. The speaker is basic, but I found it helpful in my temporary setup when I just wanted to plug and play.

There isn't much to complain about with regard to the Vivitek H1080FD, but I did notice that menus in the UI don't collapse, so you have to exit in order to get a full picture of your changes. However, the most troubling negative has to do with the $400 cost of a replacement lamp. The overall lamp life of the Vivitek and the Optoma are the same, but there is a $150 difference in the price of the replacement. Given the fact that there isn't a vast difference in performance between the two models, this expense could be a real dealbreaker for people who are looking to use their projector on a more regular basis.

Runner-Up: Optoma HD20

Sure, the runner-up in a contest of two is the "loser," but there's a lot to like about the Optoma. Right off the bat, you have to marvel at how small this thing is. At 12.76" x 3.82" x 9.21" and 6.4 pounds, users don't need to use the HD20 in a permanent setup. It can be easily stored and transported—but, again, the lack of lens shift means you might struggle to get an optimum viewing angle.

Granted, the HD20 isn't going to blow away enthusiasts who will settle for nothing less than the blackest blacks and whitest whites, but most of us will be more than satisfied with the clarity, color and contrast (4000:1). Overall lumen output wasn't quite up to snuff when compared to the Vivitek, but it was still considerably better than you would expect in a budget model in both bright and theater modes—easily allowing for a screen just under 100" in my living room to be comfortably viewable with ambient light.

Of course, the HD20 is not without it's flaws. First of all, excessive fan noise makes it sound more like what you might expect from buying a cheaply priced DLP. It's noticeable in Standard mode, but I was definitely distracted by it in Bright (users might also find the light emanating from the front vent to be distracting). I also found the UI to be well organized but fairly annoying to navigate, mostly because the remote isn't very responsive. I felt like I had to mash the button down to get a response.

Feature Comparison

But What If You Spend More?

OK, so what if you're willing to spend a bit more than $1000?

Epson's HC 8100 represents a price point in the entry-level market for consumers willing to pay extra for better 1080p performance. At $1600, the LCD-based 8100 is a big step up from the Vivitek and the Optoma. In my opinion, it is worth the added expense.

Simply put, it easily outstrips both of its cheaper competitors in just about every performance category. It also has some advantages that the others lack, many of which derive from the advantages 3LCD has over DLP. Brightness and color accuracy are better, no color wheel means no rainbow effect (for the people who suffer from that—you know who you are) and it has a high degree of vertical and horizontal lens shift, meaning you can put this thing just about anywhere and throw a clean image. However, it is literally twice as big and heavy as the Vivitek, which could make it unsuitable for some setups.

If you are concerned with the long term cost of ownership, the Epson is competitive in that area with a $300 lamp replacement cost (4000 hour lamp life in Normal and Eco modes) and a two-year limited warranty. So, in that sense, it could be cheaper to own in the long term than both the Vivitek and the Optoma, depending on your usage.

Verdict

If you have your heart set on 1080p, the good news is that you will probably be satisfied no matter which one of these projectors you choose—definitely an encouraging sign at these price points. That having been said, I think it is worth spending an an extra $600 for the improved performance of the Epson HC 8100.

However, if the HC 8100 isn't in your budget, there is no shame in going with the Vivitek—it will deliver a lot of bang for your buck. On the other hand, if you plan on using your projector frequently and the long term cost of ownership is a concern, the Optoma HD20 will be less expensive in the long run—and the choice might be further justified since there isn't a vast difference in performance. Perhaps the best news is that, within the next year, more 1080p projectors from the likes of Sony and Panasonic will be competing at these lower prices, too. If you are patient, it might be worth it to wait and see how the market develops. [Epson and Vivitek and Optoma]

Some of these shots could use a penny for scale, because it's unclear exactly how small we're talking. But basically the entire optical module is squeezed into that tiny matte metal box up front, which includes an amazing sugarcube-sized fly-eye lens, with tiny facets used to focus light from the RGB LED light source (one tiny LED for each color) onto the microscopic mirrors of the DLP image processor, with accuracy down to the micron. One day all of our cellphones will have these; until then, marvel at how something that used to be size of your massive audio receiver can now fit in your pants. More images and details at: [Tech ON]

Optoma Introduces World's First Pico Handheld Projector
Based on Texas Instruments' DLP Pico® Chipset, Features Sleek Design and Extreme Portability

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 18, 2008) – Optoma, a leading manufacturer of award-winning digital projection and display devices, introduces the first Pico projector based on the DLP Pico chipset. Smaller than most smart phones, this new micro-portable projector fits in your palm and is the ideal companion to ultra-portable media devices such as iPods®, PDA's, smart phones and digital cameras.

When connected to an ultra-mobile device, the four-ounce Optoma Pico Projector allows users to share photos and videos, and enjoy a far better visual experience with an image that is up to 100 times larger than the small screen of the source device.

"The Pico Projector is the next step in sharing visual media for today's ultra-mobile consumers. Fitting in your shirt pocket, the Pico Projector can display pictures, videos or any content from a mobile media player or smart phone" says Jon Grodem, director of Product Management for Optoma. "Optoma's Pico breaks free from the limitations of the 2 or 3 inch displays found on today's mobile devices. This category defining projector creates a new benchmark for sharing content-on-the-go."

Optoma's Pico Projector utilizes the latest LED technology resulting in a colorful and vivid image. The small and powerful unit is based upon DLP technology assuring the highest possible contrast.

"The handheld Pico projector represents the latest advancement in the mobile device display industry. We view the Pico projector as a completely new and exciting market – one which dramatically expands the reach and potential of projection products into new end user applications," says Dr. William Coggshall, founder and president of Pacific Media Associates.

The product will be first shown at Texas Instrument's InfoComm 2008 booth C909 and will be available in limited distribution in Europe and Asia in late 2008, with a worldwide launch in 2009.

•Optima's HD65 delivers native 720p resolution, 1600 lumens with a 4000:1 contrast ratio, HDMI 1.3, component, VGA, composite, s-video, +12v trigger and USB. Not bad —and neither is the $999 price tag.

•Optima's HD71 also delivers native 720p, but kicks it up with 2400 lumens of brightness with a 4000:1 contrast ratio, HDMI 1.3, DVI, component, composite, s-video and VGA, as well as a 2 watt speaker. Comes in at a respectable $1299.

For the full press releases, hit the following links. [HD65 / HD71 and HD803]

The HD80 has two 1.3 HDMI ports, DVI with HDCP, and both component and composite connections. It stands tall against the Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 1080, another $3k 1080p projector we checked out a few weeks back. The Epson only gains an upper hand with a slightly brighter contrast ratio (12,000:1). Still, the HD80 delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It'll be out this July for $2,999.

Big spenders, on the other hand, can splurge on the HD81-LV. This projector almost doubles the HD80's brightness (2,500 lumens) and packs 3 HDMI ports along with Texas Instrument's DarkChip3, which keeps your picture crisp and bright even when there's light in your theater room. True ballers can pair the HD81 with an optional anamorphic lens to get a 2.35:1 widescreen image. The HD81 will debut in July for $7,999. – Louis Ramirez

Optoma

Optoma Introduces its Definitive 1080p Home Theater Solution
The Latest in 1080p Projection Arrives with the Optoma HD81-LV Home Theater Projector

MILPITAS, CA (June 4, 2007) - Optoma, one of the leading manufacturers of digital projection and display devices, announced the shipping of the HD81-LV 1080p home theater projector. The latest native 1080p home theater projector in Optoma's award-winning projector line, the HD81-LV is the latest incarnation of the company's unique two-piece projection system that includes a native 1080p projector and studio-grade video processor.

The Optoma HD81-LV's brightness opens up new home theater environments. With its extensive connectivity options, personalized setting adjustments and a DarkChip3™ chipset from Texas Instruments, the HD81-LV is able to deliver rich and deep textures with astonishing image quality. The HD81-LV sports 2500 lumens and a 10,000:1 contrast ratio which makes it a unique system in non-light controlled environments.

And, like the HD81, Optoma's award-winning 1080p projection system, the HD81-LV and its two-piece design eliminates the need for multiple cables going from video sources to the projector.

Together with the optional Anamorphic Lens/Sled Kit from Optoma, the HD81-LV can create a true widescreen cinematic experience. When the anamorphic lens is installed together with the HD81-LV, it creates a 2.35:1 widescreen image, without the loss of color clarity, brightness or resolution.

Features
Native 1080p (1920x1080) resolution
2500 lumens with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio
1080p DarkChip3™ DLP® chipset by Texas Instruments
Video processor supports up-scaling to 1080p with de-interlacing
The Auto-IRIS and Auto235 functions automatically detect the aspect ratio, then formats the image for the anamorphic lens

Specifications
Display Technology: Single 0.95-inch DarkChip3™ DLP® chipset
Brightness (typical): 2500 lumens
Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1 (Full On/Full Off)
Resolution: 1080p native (1920 x 1080)
Video Compatibility: Full NTSC, PAL, SECAM, HDTV (720p, 1080i/p), SDTV (480i/p, 576i)
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 native, full automatic 2.35:1 with Anamorphic Lens
I/O Connectors: HDMI, RS-232, USB (projector);
3x HDMI (+1 external HDMI expansion), 2x BNC Component YPbPr/RGBHV, 2x Component, 3x Composite Video, One VGA, RS-232, 2x 12V triggers, 1x IR port extension (video processor)
Image Processing: Motion Adaptive 480i, 576i and 1080i de-interlacing, 10-bit image processing, advanced 3D comb filter, 3x presets, 3x programmable display formats, advanced noise reduction and sharpening
Color Management: User definable gamma, RBGCYM 6-color 16 region adjustment, three user definable modes, ISFccc color settings
Weight: 10 pounds (projector); 9.2 pounds (video processor)
Warranty: 3 years limited parts and labor; 1 year on lamp (projector); 3 year Optoma Express replacement

The Optoma HD81-LV home theater projection system will be available in July 2007 for an estimated street price of $7,999 through authorized Optoma dealers and retailers.

# # #

Optoma Introduces Sub-$3,000 DLP-Based 1080p Home Theater Projector
Optoma's New 1080p Projector Snaps Price Point in DLP Front Projection Category

MILPITAS, CA (June 4, 2007) - Optoma, one of the leading manufacturers of digital projection and display devices, introduced the HD80 1080p home theater projector. The HD80 is the company's new 1080p home theater projector that offers outstanding features, functionality and value.

The HD80 features the latest 1080p DLP® DMD chipset from Texas Instruments and a 10,000:1 contrast ratio with Optoma's proprietary ImageAI™ technology, which allows the HD80 to deliver extraordinary color saturation and subtle details for incredible image quality. The Optoma HD80 allows conscientious home theater enthusiasts to enjoy 1080p pictures without compromising performance.

With 1300 lumens and a native 16:9 aspect ratio, the HD80 also offers studio-grade resolution with its internal video/color enhancement processing system, which delivers an advanced three-stage process flow that offers personalized adjustment settings at each stage. The HD80 also boasts Texas Instruments' BrilliantColor™ color processing technology to deliver higher brightness and provide truer, more vibrant colors to the projected picture.

Features
1080p DLP® chipset and BrilliantColor™ technologies by Texas Instruments
Native 1080p (1920x1080) resolution
1300 lumens with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio (with ImageAI™)
Three-stage video processing system offers personalized adjustment options: decoding, image enhancement and color reproduction enhancement

Specifications
Display Technology: Single 0.95-inch 1080p DMD DLP® chipset
Brightness (typical): 1300 lumens
Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1 (with ImageAI™)
Resolution: 1080p native (1920 x 1080)
Video Compatibility: Full NTSC, PAL, SECAM, HDTV (720p, 1080i/p), SDTV (480i/p, 576i)
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 native, full automatic 2.35:1 with Anamorphic Lens
I/O Connectors: 2x HDMI (1.3), DVI-I w/HDCP, S-Video, Component Video, Composite Video, RS-232, 12V trigger, External IR receiver port
Image Processing: Motion Adaptive 480i, 576i and 1080i de-interlacing, 10-bit image processing, advanced 3D comb filter, 3x presets, 3x programmable display formats, advanced noise reduction and sharpening
Color Management: User definable gamma, three user definable modes, ISFccc color settings
Weight: 10 pounds (projector)
Warranty: 2 years limited parts and labor; 1 year on lamp

The Optoma HD80 home theater projector will be available in July 2007 for an estimated street price of $2,999 through authorized Optoma dealers and retailers.

# # #

HD81, the Full HD DLP video projector [Akihabara News]

The Bigvizion's $20,000 price tag is not cheap, but it'll cost you a lot less than that 103-inch Panasonic plasma display, and even though the Panasonic behemoth is three inches larger, it only has a 3000:1 contrast ratio and takes 45 minutes just to warm up.

Product page [Optoma, via Sci Fi Tech]