Projector

7 Best Passive 3D Projectors in 2023

If you are looking to shift to modern 3D technology with a passive 3D projector, I will recommend the Optoma HD146X projector to you. 

Passive 3D is a new 3D display technology that was launched following the success of 3D movies. For a genuinely cinematic experience, 3D Passive Projectors produce an in-depth image for real-time action. Few people are aware of these projectors since they are not very prevalent.

I have gathered a list of eight of the top best passive 3D projectors in this article to aid you when looking for one to buy. Keep on reading to know the full descriptions of these projectors.

Quick Preview of the Best Passive 3D Projectors

  1. Optoma HD146X High-Performance Projector (Best Overall)
  2. VIEWSONIC LS700-4K UHD Laser Projector (Best for Gaming)
  3. Sony VPLVW350ES 4K 3D SXRD Home Theater (Best for 4K)
  4. Optoma GT5600 Ultra Short Throw Movie Projector (Best Short-Throw)
  5. BenQ TH585 1080p Projector
  6. ViewSonic PX725HD Home Theater and Gaming Projector
  7. NEC NP215 2500-Lumen DLP 3D-Ready Mobile Projector

The Best Passive 3D Projectors  Reviewed

1). Best Overall: Optoma HD146X High-Performance Projector

Optoma HD146X, one of the top mid-range 3D projectors currently offered for less than $1,000, comes in first on my list.

Almost any source of 3D media may be projected with the Optoma HD146X. For high-quality projection, this projector has advanced technology and a 6-segment color wheel (RYGCWB).

It has excellent contrast, is small and portable, and boasts an HD resolution. It provides cutting-edge home entertainment with vivid colors and high-definition sound. The 1920 x 1080 pixels enable projection that is crisper and more detailed. The projector is intended to produce bright, vibrant, and detailed pictures when used with the RYGCWB color wheel.

It shows genuine 3D material from practically all 3D sources, including 3D Blu-ray players, 3D television, and the most recent console generations. The image is adjusted to lamp output according to the brightness information of each frame, producing the home entertainment sector’s best contrast ratio of 25,000:1. This device produces 3,600 ANSI lumens and a high contrast ratio for accurate color reproduction and a clearer image in low light.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p

Contrast ratio: 25,000:1

Lamp brightness: 3600 ANSI lumens

Pros

  • The lamp’s lifespan is extended when used in eco mode.
  • It comes with an integrated 10-watt speaker that produces quality sound.
  • It has an input response time of 16 ms, making it suitable for gaming.
  • It has many ports for connectivity.
  • It employs a DLP DMD single-chip picture alignment.

Cons

  • The 1.1x zoom and 40° vertical keystone characteristics could be improved.

2). Best for Gaming: VIEWSONIC LS700-4K UHD Laser Projector

This 3D HDR and 4K model costs more than $1,000, but don’t worry—the price is in line with the features.

The user will be able to see 4K 3D material, which has image quality far better than 1080p resolution. To experience 3D movies in 4K quality would be wonderful. Purchase 3D or active shutter glasses to see 3D media. The three major advancements in projection over the past ten years—3D, 4K, and HDR—are all supported by this projector.

In a variety of lighting situations, the Full HD 1080p Resolution and high 3500-lumen produce amazing image quality. The screen displays true colors using SuperColor technology in both bright and low-light conditions.

The projector is capable of playing 3D content and has the most recent HDMI connector for connecting HDMI accessories. Using the HDMI input that is 3D Blu-Ray compatible, it can show 3D pictures straight from 3D Blu-ray players.

Corner adjustment and horizontal and vertical keystone correction are used to repair crooked and distorted pictures and create proportionate images. Ultra-high brightness and color consistency are provided by the integrated phosphor light source. Reliable color performance is provided by the unique SuperColor Technology.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p (Up to 4K)

Lamp brightness: 3500 lumens

Display technology: Laser

Pros

  • It is compatible with Chromecast, Roku, and Fire TV sticks.
  • It has a low input latency of 16 ms, which is recommended for gaming.
  • It has a 360-degree mounting angle.
  • It features flexible input choices, including USB, HDMI1.4 with HDCP 1.4, and more.

Cons

  • The fan makes a lot of noise.
  • Others may find this projector to be expensive.

3). Best for 4K: Sony VPLVW350ES 4K 3D SXRD Home Theater

If money is available, consider purchasing a high-end 3D projector like this one. It includes a lot more functions in addition to those found on the ViewSonic LS700.

The extremely incredible picture quality of this Sony projector justifies its high price. Although it costs a little more than comparable HD versions, the incredible features more than makeup for it.

The native resolution of this device is 4K, or 4096 x 2160 pixels, which is four times greater than 1080p. Movies are reproduced using Sony’s 4K with Super Resolution upscaling to match the 4K visuals. Sony’s proprietary 2D to 3D upconversion technique enables 4K 3D viewing of high-definition 2D movies linked through HDMI. Also, as it has an integrated RF 3D sync transmitter, there is no need to connect an external 3D emitter. Use the Sony TDG-BT500A or any 3D glasses that are compatible with viewing 3D content.

Also Read:

Best projectors for dorm room

With a screen 150 inches in size, a user can see a clear image because of the high resolution and brightness. This screen size is suitable for getting clear, bright images in 2D, but for 3D material, stays at 120 inches. Obtain 42-85 inches at a distance of 8 feet and 62-126 inches at a distance of 12 feet.

Sony’s projector has a slightly different lumen count; it has 3000 lumens of brightness, 1500 of which are white and 1500 of which are colored.

Key Features

Resolution: 4K

Lamp brightness: 3000 lumens

Pros

  • A 3-year limited warranty and a dedicated tech support line are provided.
  • It features Motionflow technology, Dark Frame Insertion, and 24p True Cinema for more fluid action.
  • It has a sophisticated air discharge system that reduces the fan’s noise.
  • Keystone adjustment of +85%/- 80% vertically and +/- 31% horizontally are available.
  • It can upscale from HD content to 4K.

Cons

  • It is very expensive.

4). Best Short-Throw: Optoma GT5600 Ultra Short Throw Movie Projector

This ultra-short throw projector creates crystal-clear, finely detailed images from a short distance. It supports both 3D DLP Link Glasses and material in 3D from various sources.

It enhances photos with auto-keystone, focus-corner correction, and 1080p 3D content. Moreover, it supports wireless screen mirroring for a simple setup and cord-free operation. The ultra-short throw projector outputs 1080p definition pictures that are clear and brilliant. On a huge screen, the use of a sophisticated optical lens and a 20,000:1 contrast ratio results in images with incredible detail, dark shadows, and amazing textures.

Almost any 3D source may be used to project 3D material, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, the most recent gaming consoles, and more. It supports Top/Bottom, Side by Side, Sequential (PC), and Frame Pack 1080p 3D content. A correctly sized image is produced every time, thanks to the auto keystone sensors and four-corner correction. The picture will automatically refocus even if the projector is set up on a jarred surface. 

You will obtain a precisely square picture with a simple, trouble-free setup. The lamp has a long lifespan of 15000 hours, providing 4 hours a day of viewing for more than 10 years.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p

Contrast ratio: 20,000:1

Lamp brightness: 3600 lumens

Pros

  • It has a fast refresh rate of 144Hz for flicker-free visuals.
  • With an ultra-short throw design, you can project on a 100′′ screen while standing only a few inches away.
  • It has a high-quality in-built 10-watt speaker that produces clear audio.

Cons

  • It does not have a digital zoom feature.

5). BenQ TH585 1080p Projector

The BenQ TH585 has some excellent features, and I appreciate how quickly things respond due to its low latency at 16ms. Although that might be most useful for gaming, it’s also a nice feature to have with other fast-moving stuff.

Enabling 3D is simple thanks to the menu option 3D On-Screen Display (OSD), which offers a variety of 3D formats. You gain access to all of the common sorts of 3D content, including Auto, Top-Bottom, Frame Sequential, Frame Packing, Side-by-Side, and Sync Invert.

The 10-watt built-in speaker is not recommended since it lacks a stereo sound field that does justice to 3D stereoscopic movies. Purchasing a couple of sets of optional BenQ 3D glasses makes sense to prevent cross-vendor compatibility problems. 

The TH585 is an excellent all-around model for 3D content and strikes an excellent price/performance combination.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p

Lamp brightness: 3500 lumens

Contrast ratio: 10,000:1

Pros

  • It has excellent reaction times result due to its low latency performance.

Cons

  • The in-built speakers are not recommended when using it to view 3D content.

6). ViewSonic PX725HD Home Theater and Gaming Projector

The ViewSonic PX725HD is another 3D projector that’s simple to operate. You receive a staggering contrast ratio of 22,000:1 and a low input latency. Although the output is just 2,000 lumens, most users will find it to be more than bright.

It’s important to note that viewing 3D in a room with excessive ambient light is not recommended. This will completely confuse your brain since it won’t get the proper “cues” to create a 3D image. The DLP-Link sync 3D feature is strong and trustworthy, and the remote-control operation is extremely efficient.

Every Viewsonic projector is a safe bet, and the PX725HD performs all it does with taste and flair.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p

Lamp brightness: 2000 lumens

Contrast ratio: 22,000:1

Pros

  • The 3D functionality is easy to configure.
  • You will experience little crosstalk and ghosting in 3D.
  • The DLP technology produces precise colors.

Cons

  • The brightness level may be too low for some users.

7). NEC NP215 2500-Lumen DLP 3D-Ready Mobile Projector

NEC is another powerful force in large-scale semi-professional and professional projection. However, in this instance, they concentrated on the affordable residential portable models market. Their expertise is still present in the 2,500 Lumen DLP NP215 that, when used with NEC active shutter glasses (NP02GL) and DLP LinkTM technology, is completely 3D compatible.

The contrast ratio is 2000:1, and the output is a moderate 2500 Lumens. Although inputs in 720p and 1080p are permitted, the resolution is only XGA (1024 x 768). There includes a built-in speaker, which is unusual for a small device but makes sense in this use case because it is inexpensive.

Key Features

Resolution: 720p

Lamp brightness: 2500 lumens

Contrast ratio: 2000:1

Pros

  • The price for this device is low compared to others on this list.
  • Despite being inexpensive, the 3D photos are good.

Cons

  • Resolution falls short of certain cheap competitors.

8). BenQ HT5550 Projector

The specifications of the BenQ HT5550 are really enticing. 100% DCI-P3 color is delivered with a bigger color volume than the Rec. 709 technology. It translates to more realistic and richly colored movie material used for 2D and 3D content. With compatibility for HDR10 and HLG, you also get excellent HDR performance.

Best-in-class 100,000:1 contrast ratio combined with rated 1,800 Lumens results in extremely realistic peak whites and deep blacks. When used with BenQ shutter glasses, the 3D operation, like all consumer-priced 3D capable projectors, is at 1080P with 3D Modes such as Frame Packing, Top-Bottom, Side-by-Side, and sync inversion.

It is worth looking at this top-tier projector, which competes in the same market as Sony.

Key Features

Resolution: 1080p

Lamp brightness: 1800 lumens

Contrast ratio: 100,000:1

Pros

  • It produces cinematic hues using the DCI-P3 colorspace and easily surpasses those of regular projectors.
  • Its incredible dynamic range results in highlights and shadows in more realistic photos.
  • Support for HDR for even better image quality.

Cons

  • You should take the time to study the instructions because there are so many different adjustment options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best  Passive 3D Projector

A 3D projector is more difficult to get than a standard projector. Although some projectors advertise that they can display 3D material, this is not always the case. Hence, before purchasing, you should confirm if the projector can view 3D materials.

Passive 3D Compatibility

The two types of 3D display technologies now in use are active and passive. Be sure the 3D passive projector you purchase has the most recent 3D technology, which displays the 3D effect by using polarisation in both the display and the active shutter glasses. Due to the need for pricey silver screens and twin projector configurations, these projectors are difficult to locate.

Accessories

You might be able to acquire projectors that come with these extras, as 3D material necessitates the usage of 3D glasses. This is good to have, but it doesn’t happen very often. To go along with your 3D projector, you might also need to spend some time looking for the finest 3D Active shutter glasses. Generally speaking, I will advise that you buy the glasses the projector maker suggests; frequently, the company will make their own 3D glasses.

Brightness

It is crucial to consider the lamp’s brightness and where it will be positioned. Purchase a projector with the appropriate ANSI lumens for the room’s illumination. While a passive 3D projector with great brightness is required for bright spaces, a high lumen rating is not necessary for dark rooms. Get a projector with 2,500–3,000 lumens of brightness for improved 3D projection.

Resolution

Although not required, 4K projection resolution is a major selling factor for 3D entertainment. Accept a 1080p resolution, often known as Full HD, if you are on a tight budget. Full HD projectors that support 1920x1080p will provide crystal clear, sharp, and well-defined pictures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Passive 3D Projector Technology?

Cameras firing slightly off-axis left, and right angles are how 3D movies and TV operate. This works because stereopsis occurs in the brain when our eyes acquire depth information, which the brain then interprets as distance.

Each pair of photos is then utilized in post-production to create two precisely timed but slightly out-of-alignment signals, which are each fed into a final “master” signal that is sent to a TV or projector, which subsequently displays the left and right images to the right eyes of the spectator. There are several ways to project images. However, the two primary types of projectors used today employ passive polarised or active shuttered lenses.

Rechargeable battery-powered shutter glasses are used with passive 3D glasses. With a synchronized frame transmitted by the projector, the glasses’ lenses shutter on and off. Active glasses have a lot of disadvantages despite their potential for success. The glasses are fragile, expensive, and far too easy to lose or break, which is a problem if you want the whole family to enjoy movies together. Moreover, you must remember to recharge the glasses. 

Also, the synchronization with the projector is challenging and subject to error, resulting in either a 3D signal that causes headaches or none at all. Positives include less screen resolution loss and greater vertical viewing angles than the competing polarised technology.

A polarised 3D projector and extremely cheap plastic passive polarised glasses are used in a passive glasses system, also known as a polarised 3D projector or passive polarised 3D projector. Each polarising filter only allows the polarity-aligned light stream to pass while blocking the oppositely polarised light. Although some signal leakage (which appears as “ghost” pictures) is unavoidable, superior passive technology makes a concerted effort to minimize it.

These passive 3D glasses are more durable physically than their active 3D counterparts. They are also freely available after seeing a movie at your local theatre and don’t require charging.

In the realm of film, polarised systems are less expensive to purchase and maintain than active shutters. Because of this, many seasoned 3D movie multiplexes favor top-rated passive 3D projectors over the more expensive and troublesome active 3D systems. Nevertheless, installing a polarising system on a home projector is a significant bother. It is much easier to utilize active glasses and an SD sync function. It’s critical to consider if you want an active system in your 3D home projector and, if not, what sort of polarising is employed.

One of them works well but has a drawback: the image is altered if you tilt your head since each eye is polarised by opposing different angles. Spiral polarisers are an option where opposing clockwise and anticlockwise spirals continue to function when the head angle is altered.

Considering that these are sunglasses, the passive glasses will greatly reduce the projector’s brightness. So, purchasing a projector with a larger power is beneficial to offset the effects of this darkening.

Moreover, remember that your resolution is decreasing as compared to 4K, Full HD (1080p) will be reduced to a level similar to standard definition (SD). So, avoid basing your choice just on a brand, a person’s list of recommendations, or poorly researched top evaluations. Currently, the subject of false information on social media is high.

This brings up the topic of the ideal 3D projector projection screen. With active glasses, you only view pictures half the time while the other half is a black shutter, or even more so with polarised sunglasses. You definitely need a full high-gain projection screen because you are dealing with significant brightness decreases.

Get a screen that is highly rated for 3D, has excellent ratings, and is portable if it won’t be used every day. Last but not least, do make the investment in a good stereo or 5.1 sound system. A comparable stereo or surround-sound field is required if you invest in the time, money, and effort of 3D imaging. It should be obvious that soundbars or built-in speakers cannot produce the appropriate audio location and depth to match the stereo images.

Hence, you should expect to see an active-glasses system, an exemplary high-gain screen, Bluetooth speakers, or more conventional wired stereo or 5.1 surround sound.

How Effective are 3D Projectors?

Indeed, 3D projectors are top-notch goods. Depending on the model you select, these projectors can show 2D content in full HD and 4K quality and 3D movies if you prefer that experience.

Are Specific Screens Required for 3D Projectors?

Most consumer 3D projectors don’t require a specific screen of any type. To watch the material effectively in 3D, you will require 3D glasses, just like with any other 3D technology.

Can My Projector Play 3D Movies?

If your projector is 3D compatible, you may watch 3D movies on it.

Final Thoughts

Switching to the best passive 3D projector has a lot of benefits. As stated before, the Optoma HD146X projector is what I will recommend for you. Remember that high-quality 3D projectors do not come cheap. Hence, beware of low-cost projectors that advertise 3D features.

Josephine

Josephine is a home theater and tech enthusiast who is curious about electronics and how they are interconnected to produce beautiful sound and images. Beside coding, I also write about technology.

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