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Sony VPL VW500ES Review | 85 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£2,220
ANSI lumens: 1,700
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

Good

5.6

Good

?

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

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £2,220

Best rankings

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

Overall score

5.6

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?

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.

Image Quality

6.0

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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

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

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

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

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

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Projection & Lens

8.0

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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

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

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

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

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HDMI & Gaming

4.4

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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

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

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

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

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

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Connectivity

3.5

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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

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

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

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

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Audio & Features

1.9

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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

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

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

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Design & Power

4.9

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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

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

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

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

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Sony VPL VW500ES vs the average projector

Why is Sony VPL VW500ES better than the average projector?

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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
Wider color gamut
Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher color gamut coverage than the average projector (86% DCI-P3% vs 99% Rec.709%). The average projector has 99% Rec.709% of color gamut coverage.
What it is: Percentage of the target color gamut covered by the projector.
When it matters: When you care about accurate tones and refined image quality, color precision matters.
Importance: HIGH
Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher color gamut coverage than the average projector (86% DCI-P3% vs 99% Rec.709%). The average projector has 99% Rec.709% of color gamut coverage.86% DCI-P3 % vs 99% Rec.709 %
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.
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.
Wider color gamut
Sony VPL VW500ES has a higher color gamut coverage than the average projector (86% DCI-P3% vs 99% Rec.709%). The average projector has 99% Rec.709% of color gamut coverage.
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.

Projection & Lens

Why is Sony VPL VW500ES worse than the average projector?

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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 (1700 vs 2200). The average projector has 2200 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.
16000 hours shorter lamp life
Sony VPL VW500ES has a lower lamp life than the average projector (4000 hours vs 20000 hours). The average projector has 20000 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 (2013 vs 2021). The average projector was released in 2021.
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

Projection & Lens

Audio & Features

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

trustedreviews.com

26/10/2013

Summary of the review

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 compared to JVC competitors and exhibits noticeable brightness instability when using the dynamic iris. Additionally, the unit features a high input lag unsuitable for competitive gaming and lacks full HDMI 2.0 specifications for future-proofing, according to Trusted Reviews. Despite these limitations, the projector is praised for its significant 4K performance, setting a new benchmark for its class.

stereonet.com

29/11/2013

Summary of the review

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, and built-in RF 3D technology. Critiques of this 2013-era projector center on the lack of modern High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Wide Color Gamut (WCG) support. Furthermore, while it supports 4K, its HDMI inputs are limited to 4:2:0 chroma subsampling at 60fps, and some users note reliance on plastic optics.

avforums.com

03/12/2013

Summary of the review

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 time of review, the projector is criticized for mediocre 3D performance, which suffers from ghosting and crosstalk. Furthermore, it lacks included 3D glasses, requires manual gamma adjustments, and remains a significant financial investment.

expertreviews.co.uk

05/01/2014

Summary of the review

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 noise. Crucially, its dual HDMI 2.0 inputs future-proof the device by supporting 4K video at 50 or 60fps. Other major pros include robust motion handling via its Impulse mode, intuitive calibration menus, and a backlit remote control. However, to lower the cost compared to older flagship models, Sony made several structural and hardware compromises. The cons include a lower brightness rating of 1,700 ANSI lumens, which requires drawn curtains for darker film content, and a lens that is partially made of plastic rather than pure glass. The lens cover is entirely manual, requiring users to physically remove it by hand. Additionally, connectivity is limited; the unit lacks any built-in audio connections, which mandates the use of an external amplifier that must also...

homecinemachoice.com

04/01/2014

Summary of the review

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 crosstalk, such as subtle ghosting in certain scenes. While delivering superb, detailed images, it is noted that some competing high-end models offer deeper black levels for improved contrast.

whathifi.com

01/04/2014

Summary of the review

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. When tested with native 4K source material, it delivers breathtaking depth, stark clarity, and vibrant yet natural color handling that reveals subtle, stable textures even during complex moving camera pans. It also showcases an exceptional ability to upscale standard-definition DVDs and provides a convincing, highly detailed, and layered performance with 3D Blu-ray content. Despite its stellar imaging, the reviewer notes a few critical drawbacks, starting with its high tested price tag of £8,500, making it an expensive luxury proposition. In terms of physical screen alignment, its native 4096 x 2160 resolution creates an uncommon 17:9 aspect ratio, which frustratingly forces black bars on both conventional widescreen and cinemascope content. Furthermore, its absolute black level contrast is somewhat less surefooted than cheaper, non-4K rivals like...

insideci.co.uk

22/06/2014

Summary of the review

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 particularly praises its outstanding 2D shadow detail and "prodigious" upscaling talent, which effortlessly elevates standard Full HD Blu-ray content to look immaculate without visible pixel structures. Additional core highlights include excellent motion handling via the "Combination Clear" and "Impulse" settings, near-flawless Active Shutter 3D performance with virtually no crosstalk, a very quiet operational volume, and an automated calibration sensor that compensates for bulb degradation over time. However, the review details specific drawbacks and compromises that buyers must consider before installation. On the hardware front, Sony managed to lower the unit's price tag by swapping the premium glass optics of higher-end models for plastic lens elements. While image clarity remains sharp, the projector's 1,700 ANSI-lumens brightness rating means it is strictly optimized for light-controlled, dedicated dark theatres...

cine4home.de

05/09/2013

Summary of the review

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 path that retains an impressive 1500 calibrated lumens, motorized lens controls with memory, and an innovative built-in auto-calibration system using Tristimulus sensors to counteract lamp aging. Additionally, it integrates a long-awaited on-screen Color Management System (CMS) and upgrades its 3D functionality to standard-spanning RF (radio frequency) technology for broader third-party glasses compatibility. On the downside, the projector compromises on contrast and absolute black levels, offering roughly 20% less native contrast than the VW1000 due to its smaller chassis and less aggressive iris programming. Its dark grey, textured finish also makes it visually prominent when mounted on white living room ceilings. Hardware reductions mean it lacks the high-quality lens engineering of its older sibling and strips out the dedicated DCI color filter, restricting its...

hifitest.de

12/10/2014

Summary of the review

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 aberrations. It is highly praised for its flexible, user-friendly installation, featuring a front-venting cooling system that prevents heat build-up when placed against a wall, as well as whisper-quiet operation under 30 dB. While setting up its predecessor required professional assistance, the VW500ES introduces an efficient, intuitive menu for advanced color management, which yields major performance leaps when switching to the BT.709 standard color space. Additionally, it features a unique 120Hz Motionflow processing system combined with frame-blanking that ensures incredibly fluid motion and sharp image separation during fast-paced scenes. Pros & Cons

heimkinoraum.de

05/05/2014

Summary of the review

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. However, its early performance suffered from minor cross-talk and ghosting artifacts—visible double contours—during challenging, high-contrast 3D scenes. The firmware update sought to optimize signal separation to resolve these flaws without introducing massive display compromises. The update successfully resolved the primary 3D drawback by significantly reducing visible ghosting to the point where double contours are no longer noticeable during active viewing. This improved image separation was achieved by increasing the shutter glasses' dark phase duration per eye. However, a notable con resulting from this technical tweak is a measured loss of roughly 8% in overall light output, though reviewers noted this slight dimming is barely perceivable in a dedicated dark room environment. Additionally, installing the software presented a minor hurdle, as it failed to load via...

4kfilme.de

09/10/2013

Summary of the review

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 significant point of praise is Sony’s proprietary "Reality Creation" upscaling engine, which flawlessly enhances standard 1080p Full-HD and SD content into spectacular, near-4K sharpness without introducing visual distortion. Furthermore, it features a more affordable replacement bulb costing roughly €500, making ongoing maintenance significantly cheaper than its ultra-premium predecessor, the VPL-VW1000. Despite its exceptional 2D visual prowess, the review notes a couple of compromises that keep it just a step below reference status. It does not achieve a formal numeric review score, but broader expert testing identifies that its 3D performance is somewhat mediocre, suffering from occasional crosstalk and ghosting artifacts. Additionally, while it delivers spectacular brightness at 1,700 ANSI lumens, its deep black levels slightly trail behind competing D-ILA projection systems on the market. Overall, the...

connect-living.de

02/06/2014

Summary of the review

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. Prominent strengths (pros) highlighted in the review include its impressive real-world brightness, deep contrast levels, and the highly effective "Reality Creation" algorithm that significantly sharpens scaled Full HD and DVD content. Additionally, it features a highly flexible lens with an extensive zoom and shift range, built-in wireless RF 3D sync, and an automated internal color correction system to compensate for lamp aging. On the downside (cons), the reviewer noted that the factory gamma tracking is slightly imperfect and lacks user adjustment options, while the optical sharpness of the scaled image falls visibly short of Sony's higher-end VPL-VW1000ES flagship model. The device also generates slight ghosting artifacts during 3D playback. Furthermore, it stands as Sony's loudest projector model to date, although it remains quieter...

cine4home.de

15/08/2026

Summary of the review

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 advantages include an highly accurate BT.709 color space right out of the box, an integrated full Color Management System (CMS) for precision manual tuning, and an innovative built-in auto-calibration feature that uses internal photodiodes to self-correct color drifting over time. Furthermore, its adaptive iris system is highly effective, enabling a deep dynamic contrast range that handles transitions smoothly. However, the cost reduction introduces notable trade-offs compared to higher-end models. The lens has been simplified with plastic elements, resulting in more pronounced chromatic aberrations (color fringing) that rely heavily on electronic convergence correction, which slightly softens fine image details. The unit also requires approximately 20 minutes of operational warm-up time before its convergence stabilizes and blue fringing disappears. Additionally, to lower power consumption, the native contrast is...

avcesar.com

13/12/2013

Summary of the review

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 colorimetry. The projector features dual HDMI 2.0 inputs capable of handling 4K/60p signals, motorized lens controls for easy installation, and an efficient auto-calibration feature. Furthermore, its 3D performance is highly praised as a spectacular, ghost-free experience, running quietly when set to the sufficiently bright Eco (low lamp) mode.

lesnumeriques.com

17/03/2014

Summary of the review

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 ratio that creates deep blacks, and exceptional color fidelity with a low Delta E of 1.9. Setup is highly convenient due to a fully motorized lens-shift, zoom, and focus configuration that can be controlled entirely from the backlit remote control. Furthermore, it is exceptionally quiet during operation, registering at just 26 dB in low lamp mode, and it features dual HDMI 2.0 inputs capable of supporting 4K playback at up to 60 frames per second. However, the projector comes with several notable drawbacks, including a massive and heavy physical chassis. Despite the high initial cost, Sony does not bundle 3D glasses with the unit, forcing buyers to spend an extra €60 per pair; trying to save money...

homecinema-fr.com

08/09/2014

Summary of the review

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 frame. Performance consistency is another prominent issue, as testing across two different units revealed highly variable hardware bugs, ranging from non-uniform focus and shifting panel convergences to radical contrast discrepancies between the HDMI inputs and unstable color source recognition. Furthermore, deep technical analysis indicates that the projector's internal electronic signal processing heavily degrades raw 4K feeds and 1080p upscaling, leading to a loss of high-frequency details and making it difficult to fully utilise its native resolution or evaluate the optics accurately. Despite these flaws, the projector delivers outstanding visual results under the right conditions, particularly with high-resolution gaming and 3D content. Among its top benefits are an exceptional "Motion Flow" frame interpolation system—which provides seamless, lifelike fluid motion in 1080p—and a...

01net.com

17/09/2013

Summary of the review

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 by an eco-mode lamp life that extends up to 4,000 hours. Pros & Cons Summary Pros: Outstanding true 4K projection quality, highly effective 4K upscaling for standard HD and 3D video content, a convenient auto-calibration feature, and quiet operation down to 22 dB in eco mode. It also provides high usability via its motorized zoom and lens focus controls. Cons: A highly restrictive and premium retail price tag of €9,990.00, making it a very expensive proposition for everyday consumers.

xataka.com

10/01/2014

Summary of the review

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, it features Sony's proprietary Reality Creation image engine, which provides prodigious upscaling capabilities that effortlessly enhance standard 1080p Blu-ray content to near-4K quality. Setting up the projector is highly flexible and intuitive, thanks to user-friendly configuration menus, a motorized 2.06x optical zoom, and a well-engineered front cooling ventilation system that allows the device to be positioned close to back walls without overheating. Despite its stellar performance, the projector has notable cons. The most significant drawback is its high retail price of approximately 9,000 euros, which firmly places it out of reach for average consumers. Performance-wise, its black level response underperforms compared to some of its close competitors, often presenting dark scenes with a subtle greyish tint rather than true, deep blacks. While it utilizes...

xatakahome.com

30/12/2013

Summary of the review

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 to 300 inches. Users will also appreciate its intelligent Reality Creation feature that upscales 1080p Full HD content beautifully, the "True Cinema" mode that retains standard 24 frames-per-second playback, and the convenience of fully motorised lens adjustments controlled directly through the remote. Additionally, its design incorporates an efficient front-facing fan system that allows the unit to run quietly at 26dB and be placed right against a wall without overheating risks. However, the reviewer notes a few drawbacks to keep in mind before purchase. The most prominent con is the exorbitant price tag of nearly 9,000 euros, which severely limits its accessibility to premium consumer budgets. Physically, the projector is quite bulky and heavy, weighing approximately 14kg and extending roughly 50cm in both...

digitalvideoht.it

19/04/2015

Summary of the review

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 metres wide. The projector excels at upscaling Full HD content through its "Reality Creation" video DSP, resulting in exceptional image detail and highly accurate, reference-close colour rendering right out of the box. Additionally, it features a powerful and fully functional colour calibration menu—a tool missing from the more expensive flagship model—alongside an integrated optical colorimeter designed to maintain playback quality automatically over time. Despite its strong value, the VPL-VW500ES has notable limitations in its optical and hardware engineering compared to higher-end models. Its motorized lens is built with a simpler 18-lens structure that incorporates a polycarbonate element instead of a full-glass assembly, which limits absolute clarity to native resolution material only. Furthermore, it lacks the specialized color filter found in the VW1100ES, restricting its colour space to...

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