OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Sony VPL VW790ES Review | 85 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£10,560
  • ANSI lumens: 2000
  • Native panel resolution: 4096x2160
  • Throw ratio: 1.38-2.83:1

Sony VPL VW790ES review. Compare 85 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among projectors and if it is worth buying.

6.6

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%

6.6

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.6

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%

7.7

Image Quality

22.0%

7.6

Projection & Lens

12.0%

6.3

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

1.9

Audio & Features

8.0%

3.4

Connectivity

6.0%

8.0

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

  • 7.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.1

    Input lag

    25.0%

    5.8

    Refresh rate

    20.0%

    9.7

    Output Resolution

    10.0%

    10

    HDR10 support

    10.0%

    ?

    Audio output power

  • 2.4
    Portable

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    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

  • 7.4
    Home theatre

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Output Resolution

    25.0%

    10

    HDR10 support

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dolby Vision support

    15.0%

    5.6

    ANSI lumens

    10.0%

    10

    Audible noise

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £10,560

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-VW790ES is a high-end native 4K (4096 x 2160) home cinema projector featuring a Z-Phosphor laser light source that delivers 2,000 lumens of brightness and a 20,000-hour lifespan. Powered by the X1 for Projector processor, it includes advanced technologies such as the Dynamic HDR Enhancer and Dual Contrast Control to achieve an 'infinite' dynamic contrast ratio and superior frame-by-frame HDR processing. Key pros include exceptional sharpness via the Digital Focus Optimiser, motorized lens controls with 2.06x optical zoom, and a whisper-quiet 24dB fan noise. However, it lacks support for modern gaming features like 4K/120Hz or Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and does not support Dolby Vision or HDR10+.

Technical Specifications of Sony VPL VW790ES

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

6.6
Sony VPL VW790ES has a technical score of 6.61 points, which is higher than 73.6% 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 VW790ES 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%

6.6

Overall score

40.0%

1.0

Price

4.9
Sony VPL VW790ES has a quality-to-price ratio of 4.9 points, which is lower than 85.2% 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

2000
Sony VPL VW790ES reaches 2000 ANSI lumens, dimmer than 54.5% of projectors and equal to 5.2% 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

Infinity:1 (dynamic)
Sony VPL VW790ES has a contrast ratio of Infinity:1 (dynamic), higher than 99.4% of projectors and equal to 0.6% of projectors.
Dynamic contrast is described as effectively infinite.
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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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

1.38-2.83:1
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

1.74 m
Sony VPL VW790ES needs a minimum throw distance of 1.74 m, longer than 91.7% of projectors and equal to 0.6% 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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

35.9 ms
Sony VPL VW790ES has input lag of 35.9 ms, higher than 62.9% 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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

18 Gbps
Sony VPL VW790ES supports HDMI bandwidth up to 18 Gbps, higher than 48.1% of projectors and equal to 40% 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES includes a remote control. 1.6% of projectors include a remote control.
Show more
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
Sony VPL VW790ES uses laser light source technology, more advanced than 74% of projectors and equal to 26% of projectors.
Z-Phosphor.
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

yes
Sony VPL VW790ES uses a laser light source. 72% of projectors use a laser light source.
Z-Phosphor 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

20,000 hours
Sony VPL VW790ES offers lamp life of 20000 hours, shorter than 34.3% of projectors and equal to 27.5% of projectors.
Laser light source life.
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

20,000 hours
Sony VPL VW790ES offers eco-mode lamp life of 20000 hours, shorter than 32.8% of projectors and equal to 19.5% of projectors.
Eco mode rating.
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

430 W
Sony VPL VW790ES uses 430 W of power, more than 93.5% of projectors and equal to 0.2% of projectors.
Show more

Sony VPL VW790ES vs the average projector

  • Higher output resolution
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES supports a higher output resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.4096x2160 vs 1920x1080
  • Higher contrast ratio
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (Infinity:1 (dynamic) vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.
    Dynamic contrast is described as effectively infinite.
    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 VW790ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (Infinity:1 (dynamic) vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.Infinity:1 (dynamic) vs 10,000:1
  • High native resolution
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
    Called Picture Position 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 VW790ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
  • 0.76 2x wider zoom range
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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
  • Has motorized zoom
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES has motorized zoom, while the average projector does not. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
  • Supports frame interpolation
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES supports frame interpolation, while the average projector does not. 39.9% of projectors support frame interpolation.
  • Uses laser light source
    Sony VPL VW790ES uses a laser light source, while the average projector does not. 28.1% of projectors use a laser light source.
    Z-Phosphor 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

    Sony VPL VW790ES uses a laser light source, while the average projector does not. 28.1% of projectors use a laser light source.
  • Higher output resolution
    Sony VPL VW790ES supports a higher output resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.
  • Higher contrast ratio
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher contrast ratio than the average projector (Infinity:1 (dynamic) vs 10000:1). The average projector has 10000:1 of contrast ratio.
  • High native resolution
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher native panel resolution than the average projector (4096x2160 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.
  • Supports HLG
    Sony VPL VW790ES supports HLG, while the average projector does not. 42.7% of projectors support HLG.
  • 6.05 ms faster response time
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a lower response time than the average projector (2.5 ms vs 8.55 ms). The average projector has 8.55 ms of response time.
  • Supports lens memory
    Sony VPL VW790ES supports lens memory, while the average projector does not. 8.3% of projectors support lens memory.
  • 0.76 2x wider zoom range
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES has motorized zoom, while the average projector does not. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
  • 25 % more vertical lens shift
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES 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 VW790ES supports motorized focus, while the average projector does not. 47.2% of projectors support motorized focus.
  • 1 degrees greater horizontal keystone correction
    Sony VPL VW790ES offers more horizontal keystone correction than the average projector (31 degrees degrees vs 30 degrees degrees). The average projector offers 30 degrees degrees of horizontal keystone correction.
  • Supports frame interpolation
    Sony VPL VW790ES supports frame interpolation, while the average projector does not. 39.9% of projectors support frame interpolation.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    Sony VPL VW790ES has more RJ45 ports than the average projector (1 vs 0). The average projector has 0 RJ45 ports.
  • Uses laser light source
    Sony VPL VW790ES uses a laser light source, while the average projector does not. 28.1% of projectors use a laser light source.
  • 6 dB quieter operation
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a lower audible noise than the average projector (24 dB vs 30 dB). The average projector has 30 dB of audible noise.
  • 4 dB quieter eco mode
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a lower audible noise in eco mode than the average projector (24 dB vs 28 dB). The average projector has 28 dB of audible noise in eco mode.

Total
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
HDMI & Gaming
Connectivity
Design & Power
  • 9.1% dimmer image
    Sony VPL VW790ES has lower ANSI lumens than the average projector (2,000 vs 2,200). The average projector has 2,200 ANSI lumens.
  • 0.68 m longer throw distance
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.7 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.
  • Limited HDMI format
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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.
  • 8.9 ms higher input lag
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher input lag than the average projector (35.9 ms vs 27 ms). The average projector has 27 ms of input lag.
    In Game Mode.
  • No Wi-Fi support
    Sony VPL VW790ES does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES drawback: no built-in speaker. 85.3% of projectors have a built-in speaker.
  • No sleep timer
    Sony VPL VW790ES does not have a sleep timer, while the average projector does. 80.8% of projectors have a sleep timer.
  • 6.45x heavier weight
    Sony VPL VW790ES is heavier than the average projector (20 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.
  • 196.1 W higher power use
    Sony VPL VW790ES uses more power than the average projector (430 W vs 233.9 W). The average projector uses 233.9 W of power.
  • 260.5 mm wider body
    Sony VPL VW790ES is wider than the average projector (560 mm vs 299.5 mm). The average projector has a width of 299.5 mm.
  • 96 mm taller body
    Sony VPL VW790ES is taller than the average projector (223 mm vs 127 mm). The average projector has a height of 127 mm.
  • 0.5 W higher standby power
    Sony VPL VW790ES uses more standby power than the average projector (1 W vs 0.5 W). The average projector uses 0.5 W of standby power.
  • 78 mm thicker body
    Sony VPL VW790ES is thicker than the average projector (223 mm vs 145 mm). The average projector has a thickness of 145 mm.
  • No Wi-Fi support
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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 VW790ES does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
  • 0.68 m longer throw distance
    Sony VPL VW790ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.7 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 VW790ES has a higher throw distance than the average projector (1.7 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.1.74 m vs 1.06 m
  • Limited HDMI format
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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.
    What it is: Highest HDMI input format supported by the projector.
    When it matters: When you want to confirm the exact signal format the projector can accept from high-end modern sources.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony VPL VW790ES 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.4K/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz
  • No built-in speaker
    Sony VPL VW790ES drawback: no built-in speaker. 85.3% of projectors have a built-in speaker.
    What it is: Whether the projector includes a built-in speaker for basic sound output.
    When it matters: When you want basic sound without carrying extra speakers for quick setups, travel use, or casual viewing.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW790ES drawback: no built-in speaker. 85.3% of projectors have a built-in speaker.
  • No sleep timer
    Sony VPL VW790ES does not have a sleep timer, while the average projector does. 80.8% of projectors have a sleep timer.
    What it is: Feature that automatically turns off the projector after a set time.
    When it matters: When you want the projector to shut itself down automatically after a viewing session instead of staying on unnecessarily.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW790ES does not have a sleep timer, while the average projector does. 80.8% of projectors have a sleep timer.
  • 6.45x heavier weight
    Sony VPL VW790ES is heavier than the average projector (20 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.
    What it is: Total weight of the projector including lamp and lens.
    When it matters: When you move the projector between rooms or setups, lower weight matters.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW790ES is heavier than the average projector (20 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.20 kg vs 3.1 kg
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Sony VPL VW790ES 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.
    What it is: Presence of a 3.5 mm analog audio output jack.
    When it matters: When you use a soundbar, receiver, or speakers, audio output options matter.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony VPL VW790ES 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.
  • 13.71x more expensive
    Sony VPL VW790ES is more expensive than the average projector (£10,560 vs £770).
    Sony VPL VW790ES is more expensive than the average projector (£10,560 vs £770).£10,560 vs £770
Total
Overall
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
HDMI & Gaming
Connectivity
Audio & Features
Design & Power

Graphic comparison of Sony VPL VW790ES and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony VPL VW790ES?

  • Native 4K resolution provides astonishing picture sharpness and detail.
  • Long-life laser light source (20,000 hours) ensures stable brightness over time.
  • Excellent HDR performance with vibrant colors and high dynamic range.
  • Fully motorised lens controls (zoom, focus, and shift) make setup very easy.
  • Low input lag (around 36ms) makes it a strong choice for big-screen gaming.
  • Quiet operation, especially when laser power is adjusted below 80%.
  • Instant on/off capability compared to traditional lamp-based projectors.
  • Exceptional 3D performance with virtually no crosstalk.

What customers dislike about Sony VPL VW790ES?

  • High price point makes it a significant investment.
  • Lacks dynamic tone mapping, requiring manual adjustment for different HDR titles.
  • HDMI ports are limited to 18Gbps, missing support for 4K/120Hz and VRR.
  • Black levels, while good, are not as deep as some competing JVC models.
  • Motorised lens memory can sometimes be inaccurate when returning to saved positions.
  • Fan noise can become noticeable and change pitch during high-brightness HDR scenes.
  • Physical footprint is quite large and heavy (20kg), requiring substantial mounting.
  • Does not include 3D glasses or built-in speakers.

Expert reviews

A
avforums.com
18/01/2021
Sony VPL-VW790ES 4K Laser Projector Review - AVForums

The AVForums review of the Sony VPL-VW790ES praises it as a premium native 4K laser projector, highlighting exceptional out-of-the-box color accuracy, superb SDR performance, and deep black levels enabled by its 20,000-hour Z-Phosphor light engine. Pros include a fully motorized lens, immersive 3D, and low 36ms input lag, making it a strong performer for both cinema and gaming...Read more

H
homecinemachoice.com
06/01/2021
Sony VPL-VW790ES 4K HDR laser projector review - Home Cinema Choice

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a high-performance native 4K laser projector utilizing an X1 processing chip, delivering exceptional sharpness, brightness, and HDR performance. It features an efficient Z-Phosphor laser light engine, 2.06x motorised zoom for easy setup, and operates with low fan noise, along with a 35.9ms input lag for gaming. However, the projector has limitations,...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
11/12/2020
Sony VPL-VW790ES review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews review of the Sony VPL-VW790ES praises it as a class-leading, reference-grade projector, awarding it a 5/5 score for its native 4K SXRD resolution and 2,000-lumen laser light source. Key strengths include the Dynamic HDR Enhancer for superior, frame-by-frame processing, exceptionally quiet operation, a 20,000-hour light source lifespan, and motorized lens...Read more

W
whathifi.com
08/12/2021
Sony VPL-VW790ES review - What Hi-Fi?

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a premium, large-scale home theatre projector featuring native 4K resolution (4096 × 2160 pixels) using Sony’s SXRD reflective silicon panels and a 20,000-hour Z-Phosphor laser light source. Delivering 2000 lumens of brightness and an infinite dynamic contrast ratio, it excels at scaling lower-resolution content—such as 576p and 1080i—into sharp, detailed...Read more

P
pressreader.com
19/04/2021
SONY VPL-VW790ES 4K projector - Sound+Image via PressReader Would you like a comparison of how this model’s HDR performance specifically measures up a...

The reviewed product is the Sony VPL-VW790ES 4K projector, which serves as the brand's premium consumer model just below their massive flagship tier. A major pro highlighted in the Sound+Image review is its implementation of Sony’s SXRD (Silicon X-tal Reflective Display) technology, which delivers highly sophisticated native 4K picture quality and exceptional color processing....Read more

A
audiovision.de
23/02/2022
Sony VPL-VW790ES (Review) - audiovision

The Sony VPL-VW790ES home theater projector offers a massive leap in sharpness and image clarity over its predecessor, utilizing three 0.74-inch SXRD 4K panels combined with the powerful "X1 FOR PROJECTOR" processing chip. Tested at a precise 2,001 lumens out of the box, it delivers 1,650 calibrated lumens for SDR content and 1,750 lumens for HDR, making it capable of vividly...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hifi.de
12/05/2021
Sony VPL-VW790ES review: True 4K laser projector tested

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a high-end home cinema projector featuring a native 4K resolution (4096 x 2160) and a long-lasting laser light source. Driven by an adapted X1 image processor, the projector delivers outstanding brightness, color management, and high-precision detail. Key advantages include its native 4K clarity—which avoids the pixel-shifting interpolation tricks of cheaper...Read more

(Translated)Show original
R
rehders.de
04/04/2021
REVIEW: SONY VPL-VW790 – 4K Laser Projector with Premium Picture Quality

Sony VPL-VW790 The Sony VPL-VW790 is a premium, whisper-quiet 4K native home cinema projector featuring a long-lasting Z-Phosphor laser light source rated for 20,000 hours of maintenance-free use. In testing, it delivers an excellent performance by precisely hitting its advertised 2,000-lumen peak brightness, outputting a calibrated 1,650 lumens in SDR mode and an impressive 1,750...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hifitest.de
20/12/2020
Sony VPL-VW790ES projector in a new review - hifitest.de

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a high-end home cinema laser projector equipped with a native 4K resolution and an adapted X1 "for projector" image processor, delivering an exceptional visual experience priced around €11,600. The review highlights its remarkable performance boost in handling UHD content, upscaling lower resolutions, and managing advanced picture features like Motionflow...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
takeoffmedia.de
Late 2020
Review: Sony VPL-VW590/790ES - Takeoff Media

The Takeoff Media review highlights Sony's 90-model generation—specifically the Sony VPL-VW590ES and VPL-VW790ES—as a significant upgrade for home cinema enthusiasts, focusing on massive improvements in HDR playback. Both projectors feature native 4K SXRD panel technology and inherit the powerful "X1 for Projectors" processor derived from Sony's high-end Bravia TVs. The review...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
mondoprojos.fr
06/11/2020
Sony VPL-VW790ES Review: Grégory's Verdict", "HCFR Review: Sony VPL-VW790ES, 4K UHD Laser Projector", "Sony VPL-VW790ES Review: The Bar Is Set Very Hi...

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a high-end, native 4K SXRD front projector featuring a Z-phosphor laser light source that delivers up to 2,000 lumens and a 20,000-hour lifespan. Priced around €11,999, this model significantly improves upon its predecessors primarily through software enhancements powered by the X1 processor. It introduces a semi-automatic "Dynamic HDR Enhancer" that...Read more

(Translated)Show original
K
kazcorporation.com
26/11/2020
Sony VW790ES Review - KazCorporation

The Sony VPL-VW790ES laser projector represents a noticeable technological step up from its predecessor (the VW760ES), delivering exceptional native contrast (between 10,350:1 and 11,500:1) and impressive peak brightness, making it one of the brightest high-contrast projectors tested on the market. Tested in a dedicated home cinema room on a massive 3.90-metre screen with an Oppo...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
mondoprojos.fr
03/08/2020
Sony VPL-VW790ES and VPL-VW590ES: New Laser and HDR Features

The Sony VPL-VW590ES, VPL-VW790ES, and the flagship VPL-GTZ380 ("Raptor") are 4K native projectors featuring the "X1 for Projector" chip, which leverages Sony’s extensive filmmaking expertise to greatly improve HDR rendering via the Dynamic HDR Enhancer and enhance image clarity through Super Resolution. The entry-level, lamp-based VPL-VW590ES delivers 1,800 lumens and comes in both...Read more

(Translated)Show original
S
son-video.com
13/04/2022
Sony VPL-VW790ES: Overview and Technical Review

The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a high-end native 4K laser home cinema projector that delivers an exceptional, theater-like viewing experience with immersive detail. Reviewers consistently praise its outstanding HDR performance, driven by the "X1 for Projector" processor and Dynamic HDR Enhancer, which combine to produce profound black levels, spectacular peak light highlights, and...Read more

(Translated)Show original
A
avmagazine.it
30/09/2020
First look: Sony VPL-VW790ES - AV Magazine

Overview and Performance The Sony VPL-VW790ES is a 4K home cinema projector featuring a hybrid laser-phosphor illumination system. In hands-on testing and calibration, the projector's colorimetry, native contrast ratio, luminous flux, and color gamut were found to be identical to its more expensive predecessor, the VPL-VW760ES. This performance continuity is paired with a welcome...Read more

(Translated)Show original
A
avmagazine.it
21/10/2020
First Look: Sony VPL-VW590ES + 790ES", "Sony VPL-VW590ES + 790ES: A First Look

The Sony VPL-VW590ES and VPL-VW790ES are native 4K (4096x2160) home cinema projectors that utilize Sony's SXRD (LCoS) reflective LCD technology. The primary distinction between the two models lies in their light sources: the VW590ES uses a traditional high-pressure lamp, while the premium VW790ES utilizes a solid-state laser-phosphor system. Testing on a 2.75-metre 16:9 surface...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
digitalvideoht.it
23/11/2022
Sony VPL-XW5000ES (Technical Comparison with VPL-VW790ES): Sony Pros +5

The Sony VPL-XW5000ES is a high-end, compact laser projector that replaces traditional lamp models with a blue laser and yellow phosphor light source, delivering native 4K resolution via new 0.61-inch SXRD panels. It is exceptionally compact and efficient, reducing its physical footprint by 30%, its weight by 35%, and its power consumption by a third compared to older laser chassis....Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
htforum.nl
26/04/2021
Sony VW790 review - Htforum.nl Would you like to see a comparison of the technical specifications between this model and its successor?

Sony VW790 Review Summary The Sony VW790 is a high-end laser projector praised for its exceptional motion processing, pristine 4K upscaling, and sharp "3D-like" image depth, making it an excellent choice for action films and black-and-white material. Evaluated by an ISF-certified calibrator against the JVC N7, this model utilizes a long-lasting phosphor laser engine rated for 20,000...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

sony-vpl-xw6000es
Sony VPL XW6000ES

Projectors

6.7
No image
Optoma ZU860

Projectors

6.3
sony-vpl-vw600es
Sony VPL VW600ES

Projectors

6.3
No image
Sony VPL XW7000ES

Projectors

6.7
No image
Optoma ZU1050

Projectors

5.7
No image
JVC DLA NZ700

Projectors

6.4
sony-vpl-vw570es
Sony VPL VW570ES

Projectors

6.4
No image
Optoma ZU720tST

Projectors

6.8
No image
Epson EH LS10000

Projectors

6.5
sony-vpl-vw590es
Sony VPL VW590ES

Projectors

6.3
sony-vpl-vw715es
Sony VPL VW715ES

Projectors

6.2
No image
JVC DLA NX9

Projectors

6.7

Compare Sony VPL VW790ES with

VS
VS

Compare