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Sony VPL VW500ES Review | 85 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£2,220
  • ANSI lumens: 1700
  • Native panel resolution: 4096x2160
  • Throw ratio: ?

Sony VPL VW500ES review. Compare 85 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among projectors and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the projector's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best projectors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.6

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
5.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the projector's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, brightness, contrast, connectivity, gaming features, smart features, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare projectors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

42.0%

6.0

Image Quality

22.0%

8.0

Projection & Lens

12.0%

4.4

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

1.9

Audio & Features

8.0%

3.5

Connectivity

6.0%

4.9

Design & Power

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the projector.

When it matters: When you want to know how a projector performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    Input lag

    25.0%

    1.0

    Refresh rate

    20.0%

    9.7

    Output Resolution

    10.0%

    1.0

    HDR10 support

    10.0%

    ?

    Audio output power

  • 2.7
    Portable

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.8

    Weight

    20.0%

    ?

    Has A Built-In Speaker

    15.0%

    1.0

    Bluetooth connectivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Wi-Fi connectivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Smart TV features

  • 5.1
    Home theatre

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Output Resolution

    25.0%

    1.0

    HDR10 support

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dolby Vision support

    15.0%

    4.9

    ANSI lumens

    10.0%

    10

    Audible noise

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £2,220

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a high-performance native 4K home cinema projector featuring a resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels, 1,700 ANSI lumens of brightness, and a 200,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Utilising advanced SXRD panel technology and Triluminos display for a wider colour gamut, it includes 'Reality Creation' upscaling for HD content and a 2.06x motorised zoom for installation flexibility. Its primary advantages include exceptional 4K clarity, industry-leading upscaling, and quiet operation (26dB). However, some users have noted that its black levels are not as deep as those found in rival LCoS models, and it lacks a motorised lens cover compared to higher-end variants.

Technical Specifications of Sony VPL VW500ES

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the projector's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, brightness, contrast, connectivity, gaming features, smart features, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare projectors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

42.0%

?

Image Quality

22.0%

?

Projection & Lens

12.0%

?

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

?

Audio & Features

8.0%

?

Connectivity

6.0%

?

Design & Power

5.6
Sony VPL VW500ES has a technical score of 5.59 points, which is lower than 61.1% of projectors.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the projector.

When it matters: When you want to know how a projector performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the projector.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Sony VPL VW500ES has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 55.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the projector's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a projector with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.6

Overall score

40.0%

1.0

Price

4.2
Sony VPL VW500ES has a quality-to-price ratio of 4.2 points, which is lower than 95.7% of products in this category.
ANSI lumens
What it is: Brightness output measured in ANSI lumens.
When it matters: When you watch with ambient light or on a large screen, higher brightness matters.

Importance: HIGH

1,700
Sony VPL VW500ES reaches 1700 ANSI lumens, dimmer than 62.5% of projectors and equal to 0.4% of projectors.
Contrast ratio
What it is: Ratio of brightest white to darkest black displayed by the projector.
When it matters: When you watch movies in a dark room, stronger contrast matters.

Importance: HIGH

200,000:1
Sony VPL VW500ES has a contrast ratio of 200000:1, higher than 78.2% of projectors and equal to 0.7% of projectors.
Dynamic contrast ratio.
Native panel resolution
What it is: Native resolution of the display panel or imaging device.
When it matters: When picture sharpness matters enough that you want to know the projector's true native imaging resolution, not just supported input formats.

Importance: HIGH

4096x2160
Sony VPL VW500ES uses a native resolution of 4096x2160, higher than 95.3% of projectors and equal to 4.7% of projectors.
Output Resolution
What it is: The resolution the projector can actually display through its imaging system.
When it matters: When you want to know the actual image detail the projector can put on screen rather than just the source format it accepts.

Importance: HIGH

4096x2160
Sony VPL VW500ES supports output resolution up to 4096x2160, higher than 95.3% of projectors and equal to 3.6% of projectors.
Projection technology
What it is: Projection imaging technology used by the projector.
When it matters: When color character, contrast behavior, and overall image personality matter before you compare brightness alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

LCoS
Show more
Throw ratio
What it is: Ratio between projection distance and image width.
When it matters: When room size and screen size have to match properly instead of guessing whether the projector will fit the space.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Min throw distance
What it is: Minimum distance required between projector and screen.
When it matters: When room depth is limited and you still need a large image from a short placement distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

1.524 m
Sony VPL VW500ES needs a minimum throw distance of 1.524 m, longer than 86.2% of projectors and equal to 0.8% of projectors.
Max projection size
What it is: Maximum supported image size for projection, measured diagonally.
When it matters: When you want a cinema-size picture, maximum projection size matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

300 inch
Sony VPL VW500ES supports projection sizes up to 300 inch, larger than 51.8% of projectors and equal to 38% of projectors.
Zoom ratio
What it is: Optical zoom capability expressed as a ratio.
When it matters: When projector placement is not ideal and you need optical zoom to frame the image correctly.

Importance: MEDIUM

2.06
Sony VPL VW500ES offers a zoom ratio of 2.06, wider than 90.1% of projectors and equal to 3.3% of projectors.
Motorized zoom
What it is: Motorized control of the optical zoom function.
When it matters: When the projector position is fixed but screen size or framing still needs to be adjusted from a distance.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony VPL VW500ES has motorized zoom. 83.8% of projectors have motorized zoom.
Show more
Input lag
What it is: Time delay between input signal and displayed image, measured in milliseconds.
When it matters: When gaming responsiveness matters and you want controls to feel more immediate on fast titles.

Importance: MEDIUM

97 ms
Sony VPL VW500ES has input lag of 97 ms, higher than 95.6% of projectors.
In Game Mode.
Auto low latency mode (ALLM)
What it is: Automatically reduces input lag when gaming.
When it matters: When you play fast games, lower latency matters.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not support ALLM. 20.3% of projectors support ALLM.
Variable refresh rate (VRR)
What it is: Support for variable refresh rate to reduce screen tearing.
When it matters: When gaming matters and you want the projector to handle variable frame rates with less tearing or stutter.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not support VRR. 1.9% of projectors support VRR.
HDMI version
What it is: Version of the HDMI standard supported.
When it matters: When source devices push newer HDMI features, refresh rates, or bandwidth levels that older ports may limit.

Importance: LOW

2.0
Sony VPL VW500ES supports HDMI 2.0, more modern than 45.5% of projectors and equal to 36.7% of projectors.
Max HDMI bandwidth
What it is: Maximum bandwidth supported by HDMI inputs, measured in Gbps.
When it matters: When newer consoles, gaming PCs, or media boxes need more HDMI throughput than older projectors can handle.

Importance: LOW

10.2 Gbps
Sony VPL VW500ES supports HDMI bandwidth up to 10.2 Gbps, lower than 52.1% of projectors and equal to 45.4% of projectors.
Show more
N. of HDMI ports
What it is: Number of available HDMI input ports.
When it matters: When you need a console, streamer, set-top box, and another source connected at the same time without swapping cables.

Importance: LOW

2
Sony VPL VW500ES has 2 HDMI port/s, more than 45.5% of projectors and equal to 47% of projectors.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Support for Wi-Fi network connectivity.
When it matters: When the projector should handle network features, updates, or streaming functions without needing wired Ethernet only.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not support Wi-Fi. 52.7% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Supported Wi-Fi standard version.
When it matters: When wireless stability and throughput matter for streaming, updates, or projector ecosystem features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Support for Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
When it matters: When you plan to pair wireless speakers, headphones, remotes, or other accessories directly with the projector.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not support Bluetooth. 50% of projectors support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Supported Bluetooth version.
When it matters: When wireless accessory compatibility and connection quality matter beyond Bluetooth being a simple checkbox.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
Smart TV features
What it is: Includes built-in Smart TV functions or operating system.
When it matters: When you prefer built-in apps and streaming convenience instead of adding an external media stick or box.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not have smart TV features. 43.8% of projectors have smart TV features.
Operating system
What it is: The built-in software platform that runs the projector interface, streaming apps, and smart features.
When it matters: When you care about which apps are available, how modern the smart interface feels, and whether the projector includes a built-in streaming platform.

Importance: LOW

none
Android OS

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Dedicated smartphone app
What it is: Availability of a dedicated smartphone control app.
When it matters: When you want setup, input switching, or basic control handled from your phone without always reaching for a remote.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not come with a dedicated smartphone app. 35.6% of projectors come with a dedicated smartphone app.
Remote control
What it is: Comes with a dedicated remote control for operation.
When it matters: When you want easier everyday control without extra gear, built-in convenience features matter.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony VPL VW500ES includes a remote control. 1.6% of projectors include a remote control.
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Light source type
What it is: Type of light source used by the projector.
When it matters: When maintenance expectations, startup behavior, brightness stability, and long-term running costs all matter in the buying decision.

Importance: LOW

lamp
Sony VPL VW500ES uses lamp light source technology, less advanced than 67.1% of projectors and equal to 33% of projectors.
Mercury lamp.
Laser Light Source
What it is: Whether the projector uses a laser light source instead of a traditional lamp.
When it matters: When lower maintenance, faster startup, and a lamp-free light engine matter over the long term.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony VPL VW500ES does not use a laser light source. 28.1% of projectors use a laser light source.
Lamp life
What it is: Expected operational lifespan of the lamp in standard mode, measured in hours.
When it matters: When you care about running costs and maintenance intervals, light-source lifespan matters.

Importance: LOW

4,000 hours
Sony VPL VW500ES offers lamp life of 4000 hours, longer than 77.2% of projectors and equal to 9.9% of projectors.
Lamp life (eco mode)
What it is: Expected operational lifespan of the lamp in eco mode, measured in hours.
When it matters: When you care about running costs and maintenance intervals, light-source lifespan matters.

Importance: LOW

?
Operating power consumption
What it is: Average power consumption during normal operation.
When it matters: When electricity use and heat output matter because the projector runs for long sessions or frequent daily use.

Importance: LOW

375 W
Sony VPL VW500ES uses 375 W of power, more than 88% of projectors and equal to 0.2% of projectors.
Show more

Sony VPL VW500ES vs the average projector

  • Higher output resolution
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports a higher output resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.
    What it is: The resolution the projector can actually display through its imaging system.
    When it matters: When you want to know the actual image detail the projector can put on screen rather than just the source format it accepts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony VPL VW500ES supports a higher output resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.4096x2160 vs 1920x1080
  • High native resolution
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher native panel resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.
    What it is: Native resolution of the display panel or imaging device.
    When it matters: When picture sharpness matters enough that you want to know the projector's true native imaging resolution, not just supported input formats.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher native panel resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.4096x2160 vs 1920x1080
  • Supports lens memory
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
    What it is: Ability to store and recall custom lens settings.
    When it matters: When you switch between different screen formats or positions, lens memory matters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
  • 0.76 2x wider zoom range
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher zoom ratio than the average projector (2.1 vs 1.3). The average projector has 1.3 of zoom ratio.
    What it is: Optical zoom capability expressed as a ratio.
    When it matters: When projector placement is not ideal and you need optical zoom to frame the image correctly.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher zoom ratio than the average projector (2.1 vs 1.3). The average projector has 1.3 of zoom ratio.2.06 vs 1.3
  • Higher contrast ratio
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (200000:1 vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.
    Dynamic contrast ratio.
    What it is: Ratio of brightest white to darkest black displayed by the projector.
    When it matters: When you watch movies in a dark room, stronger contrast matters.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (200000:1 vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.200,000:1 vs 10,000:1
  • Has motorized zoom
    Sony VPL VW500ES has motorized zoom, while the average projector does not. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
    What it is: Motorized control of the optical zoom function.
    When it matters: When the projector position is fixed but screen size or framing still needs to be adjusted from a distance.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES has motorized zoom, while the average projector does not. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
  • Supports frame interpolation
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports frame interpolation, while the average projector does not. 39.9% of projectors support frame interpolation.
    Via Motionflow.
    What it is: Support for frame interpolation to smooth motion.
    When it matters: When you watch sports or camera pans and want motion to look smoother than basic playback allows.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES supports frame interpolation, while the average projector does not. 39.9% of projectors support frame interpolation.
  • 25 % more vertical lens shift
    Sony VPL VW500ES has more vertical lens shift than the average projector (85 % vs 60 %). The average projector has 60 % vertical lens shift.
    What it is: Vertical lens shift adjustment range for image positioning.
    When it matters: When you want installation flexibility without depending only on digital keystone correction.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES has more vertical lens shift than the average projector (85 % vs 60 %). The average projector has 60 % vertical lens shift.85 % vs 60 %
  • Higher output resolution
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports a higher output resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.
  • High native resolution
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher native panel resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.
  • Higher contrast ratio
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (200000:1 vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.
  • Supports lens memory
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
  • 0.76 2x wider zoom range
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher zoom ratio than the average projector (2.1 vs 1.3). The average projector has 1.3 of zoom ratio.
  • Has motorized zoom
    Sony VPL VW500ES has motorized zoom, while the average projector does not. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
  • 25 % more vertical lens shift
    Sony VPL VW500ES has more vertical lens shift than the average projector (85 % vs 60 %). The average projector has 60 % vertical lens shift.
  • Advanced focus control
    Sony VPL VW500ES offers Advanced focus control than the average projector (motorized vs manual). The average projector uses manual focus control.
  • 50 inch larger image size
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher projection size than the average projector (300 inch vs 250 inch). The average projector has 250 inch of projection size.
  • Motorized focus
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports motorized focus, while the average projector does not. 47.2% of projectors support motorized focus.
  • Supports frame interpolation
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports frame interpolation, while the average projector does not. 39.9% of projectors support frame interpolation.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    Sony VPL VW500ES has more RJ45 ports than the average projector (1 vs 0). The average projector has 0 RJ45 ports.
  • Includes VGA
    Sony VPL VW500ES includes VGA input, while the average projector does not. 43.1% of projectors include VGA input.
  • 4 dB quieter operation
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower audible noise than the average projector (26 dB vs 30 dB). The average projector has 30 dB of audible noise.
  • 0.2 W lower standby power
    Sony VPL VW500ES uses less standby power than the average projector (0.3 W vs 0.5 W). The average projector uses 0.5 W of standby power.

Total
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
HDMI & Gaming
Connectivity
Design & Power
  • No HDR10 support
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
  • 2 bit lower color depth
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.
  • 29.4% lower refresh rate
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower refresh rate than the average projector (60 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.
  • 22.7% dimmer image
    Sony VPL VW500ES has lower ANSI lumens than the average projector (1,700 vs 2,200). The average projector has 2,200 ANSI lumens.
  • 0.46 m longer throw distance
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.5 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.
  • 70 ms higher input lag
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher input lag than the average projector (97 ms vs 27 ms). The average projector has 27 ms of input lag.
    In Game Mode.
  • 43.3% lower HDMI bandwidth
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower HDMI bandwidth than the average projector (10.2 Gbps vs 18 Gbps). The average projector has 18 Gbps of HDMI bandwidth.
  • Limited HDMI format
    Sony VPL VW500ES supports a less capable max HDMI input format than the average projector (4K/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz). The average projector supports a max HDMI input format of 4K/120Hz.
  • No Wi-Fi support
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not include a 3.5 mm audio jack, while the average projector does. 82.2% of projectors include a 3.5 mm audio jack.
  • No built-in speaker
    Sony VPL VW500ES drawback: no built-in speaker. 85.3% of projectors have a built-in speaker.
  • No sleep timer
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not have a sleep timer, while the average projector does. 80.8% of projectors have a sleep timer.
  • Basic light source
    Sony VPL VW500ES has Basic light source than the average projector (lamp vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.
    Mercury lamp.
  • 16,000 hours shorter lamp life
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower lamp life than the average projector (4,000 hours vs 20,000 hours). The average projector has 20,000 hours of lamp life.
  • 4.52x heavier weight
    Sony VPL VW500ES is heavier than the average projector (14 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.
  • 141.1 W higher power use
    Sony VPL VW500ES uses more power than the average projector (375 W vs 233.9 W). The average projector uses 233.9 W of power.
  • 196.1 mm wider body
    Sony VPL VW500ES is wider than the average projector (495.6 mm vs 299.5 mm). The average projector has a width of 299.5 mm.
  • 68.3 mm taller body
    Sony VPL VW500ES is taller than the average projector (195.3 mm vs 127 mm). The average projector has a height of 127 mm.
  • 8 older model
    Sony VPL VW500ES was released earlier than the average projector (2,013 vs 2,021). The average projector was released in 2,021.
    December 2013
  • No HDR10 support
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
    What it is: Support for HDR10 high dynamic range standard.
    When it matters: When you want the projector to handle mainstream HDR movie and streaming content instead of standard dynamic range only.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
  • Basic light source
    Sony VPL VW500ES has Basic light source than the average projector (lamp vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.
    Mercury lamp.
    What it is: Type of light source used by the projector.
    When it matters: When maintenance expectations, startup behavior, brightness stability, and long-term running costs all matter in the buying decision.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES has Basic light source than the average projector (lamp vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.lamp vs laser
  • 2 bit lower color depth
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.
    What it is: Number of bits per color channel for color depth.
    When it matters: When you care about accurate tones and refined image quality, color precision matters.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.8 bit vs 10 bit
  • 70 ms higher input lag
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher input lag than the average projector (97 ms vs 27 ms). The average projector has 27 ms of input lag.
    In Game Mode.
    What it is: Time delay between input signal and displayed image, measured in milliseconds.
    When it matters: When gaming responsiveness matters and you want controls to feel more immediate on fast titles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher input lag than the average projector (97 ms vs 27 ms). The average projector has 27 ms of input lag.97 ms vs 27 ms
  • 43.3% lower HDMI bandwidth
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower HDMI bandwidth than the average projector (10.2 Gbps vs 18 Gbps). The average projector has 18 Gbps of HDMI bandwidth.
    What it is: Maximum bandwidth supported by HDMI inputs, measured in Gbps.
    When it matters: When newer consoles, gaming PCs, or media boxes need more HDMI throughput than older projectors can handle.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower HDMI bandwidth than the average projector (10.2 Gbps vs 18 Gbps). The average projector has 18 Gbps of HDMI bandwidth.10.2 Gbps vs 18 Gbps
  • No Wi-Fi support
    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
    What it is: Support for Wi-Fi network connectivity.
    When it matters: When the projector should handle network features, updates, or streaming functions without needing wired Ethernet only.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW500ES does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
  • 0.46 m longer throw distance
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.5 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.
    What it is: Minimum distance required between projector and screen.
    When it matters: When room depth is limited and you still need a large image from a short placement distance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.5 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.1.524 m vs 1.06 m
  • 29.4% lower refresh rate
    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower refresh rate than the average projector (60 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.
    What it is: Number of screen refreshes per second, measured in hertz.
    When it matters: When motion clarity matters for gaming, sports, or fast-moving video instead of slower cinematic content only.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower refresh rate than the average projector (60 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.60 Hz vs 85 Hz
Total
Overall
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
HDMI & Gaming
Connectivity
Audio & Features
Design & Power

Graphic comparison of Sony VPL VW500ES and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony VPL VW500ES?

  • Native 4K resolution provides incredible detail levels and a deep depth of field.
  • Exceptional HD upscaling via Reality Creation engine makes Blu-rays look near-4K quality.
  • Superb color accuracy and natural skin tones, especially with Triluminos technology.
  • Highly flexible installation with motorized zoom, focus, and large lens shift ranges.
  • Quiet operation and good build quality despite being more compact than previous flagships.
  • Includes a full Color Management System (CMS) for precise calibration.

What customers dislike about Sony VPL VW500ES?

  • Black levels are good but not class-leading; rivals like JVC's D-ILA offer deeper blacks.
  • Dynamic iris can cause distracting brightness 'jumps' when set to aggressive levels.
  • Mixed 3D performance, with some reviewers reporting crosstalk and a lack of full vertical resolution.
  • 3D glasses are not included in the box and must be purchased separately.
  • HDMI 2.0 implementation is limited to 4:2:0 chroma subsampling at 60fps.
  • Some permanent, non-defeatable noise reduction can slightly dampen fine film grain.

Expert reviews

T
trustedreviews.com
26/10/2013
Sony VPL-VW500ES Review

The Trusted Reviews assessment of the Sony VPL-VW500ES highlights it as a monumental achievement in home cinema for bringing native 4K projection to a lower price point, featuring stunning picture quality with excellent Triluminos color and outstanding Reality Creation processing. While delivering immersive 3D and high-resolution upscaling, the projector compromises on black levels...Read more

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stereonet.com
29/11/2013
Official thread - SONY VW500ES Review

The StereoNET official thread for the Sony VPL-VW500ES outlines a native 4K (4096 x 2160) SXRD projector designed for high-end home cinema, featuring a matte black finish and a front exhaust for flexible installation. Key performance strengths highlighted in the discussion include excellent 4K picture fidelity, an effective 4K Reality Creation upscaling engine, a 2.06x powered zoom,...Read more

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avforums.com
03/12/2013
Sony VW500 (VPL-VW500ES) 4K Projector Review

The AVForums review of the Sony VPL-VW500ES highlights this native 4K SXRD projector for delivering exceptional, high-end visual performance with superb black levels and advanced video processing. It features precise color reproduction, flexible calibration tools, quiet operation, and motorized,, high-quality lens mechanics. While setting a lower price point for native 4K at the...Read more

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expertreviews.co.uk
05/01/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES Review

Sony VPL-VW500ES Review Summary The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a high-end, 4K home cinema projector that delivers spectacular 4,096×2,160 image quality and excellent upscaling of Full HD content via its Reality Creation processing. It provides a more compact chassis than its predecessor, the VW1000ES, making it easier to fit into standard living rooms, and runs with impressively quiet fan...Read more

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homecinemachoice.com
04/01/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES review

The Home Cinema Choice review labels the Sony VPL-VW500ES a "brilliant proposition" for delivering native 4K imaging at a more accessible price point than its predecessor. Key strengths include exceptional upscaling for non-4K content, smooth motion handling for 3D, and an overall revolutionary picture performance. homecinemachoice.com However, the projector exhibits minor 3D...Read more

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whathifi.com
01/04/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES review

The What Hi-Fi? Sony VPL-VW500ES review highlights this projector as a major milestone for home entertainment, praising its ability to set a high standard for Ultra HD picture quality. Utilizing Sony's proprietary SXRD technology (Liquid Crystal on Silicon), the unit is highly commended for its effortless setup, remarkable color finesse, and extreme precision in defining outlines....Read more

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insideci.co.uk
22/06/2014
Reviewed: Sony 4K VPL-VW500ES projector Are you looking for these reviews to help with setup calibration or are you considering buying a used unit?

The Inside CI Review hails the Sony VPL-VW500ES as a groundbreaking, "budget" 4K native projector that delivers elite-tier home cinema performance for £8,500. Sharing the native UHD SXRD chipset and picture processing innovation of Sony's pricier flagship models, it offers jaw-dropping image clarity and vibrant colors that make pictures appear almost three-dimensional. The reviewer...Read more

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cine4home.de
05/09/2013
Sony VPL-VW500 4K Home Cinema Projector: The Exclusive Reference Review

The Sony VPL-VW500 is a native 4K home cinema projector that delivers high-end performance in a more compact, affordable chassis than its predecessor, the VW1000. A major strength is its future-proof connectivity, featuring the HDMI 2.0 standard to support 4K signals up to 60Hz, alongside user-friendly USB update capabilities. Key advantages include a highly optimized 265W light...Read more

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hifitest.de
12/10/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES - Projector Review - Very Good - hifitest.de

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a high-end home cinema projector that brings native 4K resolution (4096 x 2160) to a more accessible price point compared to its predecessor, the VW1000ES. Evaluated as "outstanding" within the reference class, this SXRD-panel projector delivers exceptional sharpness extending all the way into the corners of the screen, with zero visible chromatic...Read more

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heimkinoraum.de
05/05/2014
Sony VPL VW 500 ES - 4K Projector Update Test for 3D Movies

The ⁠HEIMKINORAUM review details a specialized testing update for the native 4K projector, Sony VPL-VW500 ES, focusing on how the firmware version 1.006 alters its active 3D playback performance. Originally, the high-end projector stood out for delivering stunning 4K and 2D visual fidelity, paired with a virtually flicker-free 3D shutter system that prevented viewer fatigue....Read more

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4kfilme.de
09/10/2013
Sony VPL-VW500 Ultra HD / 4K Projector Review by Heimkinoraum (digitalfernsehen.de) | 05.12.2013 | Review: Sony VPL-VW500ES 4K Projector

The Sony VPL-VW500ES Ultra HD / 4K Beamer is highly praised by Heimkinoraum.de as a formidable high-end home cinema projector that effectively bridges the gap between premium reference units and entry-level setups. The detailed 20-minute video review highlights its native 4096 x 2160 resolution, flexible physical installation options, and advanced internal image processing. A...Read more

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connect-living.de
02/06/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES Review - 4K Projector - connect-living

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a native 4K home cinema projector featuring professional-grade SXRD-LCD panels with a resolution of 4,096 x 2,160 pixels, offering a cinematic 1.85:1 native aspect ratio for around €10,000. It provides future-proof connectivity by supporting HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 standards, alongside accommodating Ultra-HD and 4K signals at up to 60 frames per second....Read more

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cine4home.de
01/07/2026
Cine4Home Edition: Sony VPL-VW500 (Review & Calibration)

The Sony VPL-VW500 is a native 4K home cinema projector that offers exceptional detail, brightness, and image plasticity at roughly half the price of its predecessor, the VW1000. Testing across multiple production units reveals excellent real-world performance, achieving an impressive average calibrated brightness of 1,600 lumens and a native contrast ratio averaging 7,100:1. Key...Read more

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avcesar.com
13/12/2013
Sony VPL-VW500ES - review, specifications & benchmark - AVcesar

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a high-end SXRD 4K projector that delivers exceptional image quality, precision, and depth, closely rivaling its much more expensive predecessor, the VPL-VW1000ES. Key strengths highlighted in the review include its outstanding 4K upscaling for both 2D and 3D content, precise motion compensation (Motionflow), powerful contrast, and excellent out-of-the-box...Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
17/03/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES Review: 4K Home Cinema

The Sony VPL-VW500ES home cinema projector receives a perfect 5 out of 5 rating from Les Numériques, praised as a premium 4K display jewel despite its hefty €10,000 price tag. The reviewer notes that when playing native 4K or UHD footage, the visual output is incredibly sharp, lifelike, and immersive. Key strengths include its pristine 2D and 3D rendering, a stellar 2100:1 contrast...Read more

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homecinema-fr.com
08/09/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES Review

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a massive 4K home cinema projector that offers mixed results given its steep €9,990 price tag. Reviewers found that the product's overall build quality and physical finish are highly disappointing for an elite tier device, noting poorly adjusted, low-end plastics, an unmotorised lens cover that lacks protective foam, and a gaping opening around the lens...Read more

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01net.com
17/09/2013
Sony VPL-VW500ES Spec Sheet: The 01net.com Review", "Sony VPL-VW500ES Datasheet: What 01net.com Thinks

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a highly capable 4K SXRD home cinema projector evaluated by 01net as a premium flagship device that delivers exceptional image quality. It features a native digital cinema definition of 4096 x 2160 pixels, a motorized lens shift, and 3D compatibility. The projector outputs a brightness of 1700 lumens and claims a massive contrast ratio of 200,000:1, supported...Read more

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xataka.com
10/01/2014
Sony VPL-VW500ES: In-depth review of Sony's UHD projector

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a highly capable native 4K Ultra HD home cinema projector that brings commercial-grade cinema resolution down to a slightly more accessible (though still premium) tier. The main pros of this model include its outstanding 2D image quality when playing native 4K source material, delivering exceptional detail, natural textures, and immense depth. Additionally,...Read more

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xatakahome.com
30/12/2013
Sony VPL-VW500ES: Reviewing Sony's 4K Projector

The review for the Sony VPL-VW500ES projector highlights it as an incredible device that delivers a true, native 4K cinematic experience. The main advantages of this high-end unit include its outstanding native 4K (4096x2160) image quality, which delivers sharp details, excellent brightness at 1,700 lumens, and a deep 200,000:1 contrast ratio even on massive screen sizes reaching up...Read more

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D
digitalvideoht.it
19/04/2015
Digital Video Home Cinema

The Sony VPL-VW500ES is a high-performance consumer projector that offers native 4K resolution (4096×2160) using SXRD reflective LCD technology at a significantly lower price point than its predecessor, the VW1100ES. In real-world installations, it delivers an impressive calibrated output of approximately 1,200 to 1,250 lumens, providing excellent brightness for screens up to 4...Read more

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