Looking for the best projector with HDMI ARC? It is not going to be easy to find these specific projectors from hundreds of options. Only a handful of projectors have this function as HDMI ARC port is not yet commonplace.
Seeing the increasing demands, some projector manufacturers have integrated this port into a few models. Saving you hours of work, we compiled a list of the best projectors with HDMI ARC. However, first, know what it is.
What is HDMI ARC?
HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) is one of the best ways of connecting sound systems to projectors or TVs.
The port reduces the number of cables employed to transfer the audiovisual signals.
This port transfers audio signals in two directions, working as audio input and output at the same time.
One of the most underrated features of HDMI, it simplifies the connection between audio devices and projectors.
HDMI ARC is compatible with most AV receivers and soundbars. It works by receiving media from the source devices and sending media to the display devices (TVs or projectors) and external speakers.
Best Projector With HDMI ARC
This function is recently found in high-end projectors from renowned brands. The following projectors are equipped with an HDMI Arc port
- Best Overall: Epson Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Laser Projector
- Low Latency: XGIMI MoGo Pro Portable Projector
- Elegant Design: Epson EpiqVision Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector
- Affordable: LG Ultra Short Throw 4K UHD Laser Projector
- Ultra Show: Epson Ultra Laser Ultra Short Throw Projector
- Wireless Screen: LG HF65LA Ultra Short Throw LED Home Projector
Want to pick up a projector without going through all the details of each projector? Go through this awesome comparison table to figure out which one suits you best-
| Features | Epson Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Laser Projector | XGIMI MoGo Pro Portable Projector | Epson EpiqVision Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector | LG Ultra Short Throw 4K UHD Laser Projector | Epson Ultra Laser Ultra Short Throw Projector | LG HF65LA Ultra Short Throw LED Home Projector |
| Display Resolution | 1080P | 1080P | 4K | 4K | 4K | |
| Brightness | 1000 lumens | 300 ANSI Lumens | 4000 Lumens | 2700 ANSI Lumens | 4000 Lumens | 1000 ANSI Lumens |
| Max Screen Size | 150″ | 120” | 150″ | 120″ | 150″ | 100″ |
| Speaker | Stereo (Sound by Yamaha) | Dual 3W Speakers | Yamaha DSP technology speakers | Dual 5W stereo speakers | Yamaha DSP technology speakers | Built-In Speaker |
1. Epson Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Laser Projector
If you really want the best projector with the latest technologies, then this projector by Epson should be your go-to choice. Not only it has great connectivity but it adds more advanced features like a full RGB color gamut, a widescreen, and much more.
Resolution – The native resolution is Full HD 1080P and supports content up to 4K to project an amazing Full-HD HDR picture.
The multi-array laser diode technology produces high brightness to enhance picture quality.
Advanced Scene Adaptive Color Correction – No matter what type of content is being played, automatic scene-based color correction produces clear, vivid, and natural pictures.
True 3 Chip Design – The Advanced 3LCD technology reproduces 100% of the RGB color signal. Without rainbowing or color brightness, it will allow outstanding color accuracy while maintaining exceptional brightness.
Focus Correction – The geometry and focus of the image will be corrected automatically for a better viewing experience with 8Auto Picture Skew and Focus Correction.
Pros
- Micro-laser Array Technology
- Chromecast Built-in
- Award-winning services
- True 3-Chip projection technology
- Powered by Android TV
Cons
- Limited contrast and lumens
- Lacks optical zoom function
2. XGIMI MoGo Pro Portable Projector
While XGIMI MoGo Projector has the tag “Pro” in it, don’t think it’s actually meant for only the professionals. Anyone with an adequate budget can pick this project up if you want the best HDMI ARC support.
With just a single HDMI cable, the audio is enhanced quite considerably. It is a portable device and packs everything that users ask for.
Resolution – This 1080P projector projects a true 1080p image with immersive details. The FHD resolution combined with 300 ANSI lumens projects an image with the utmost clarity.
Android TV – Integrated Android lets the user download apps from Google Play Store like YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney +, HBO Max, and more (not Netflix app).
Speaker – Get phenomenal audio quality with dual integrated 3W Harman Kardon speakers. Audio devices can also be wirelessly connected via Bluetooth.
Keystone Correction – Autofocus and 40° Keystone Correction ensure a perfectly square image from all angles.
Pros
- 3D compatibility
- Built-in battery
- Low latency
- Autofocus and manual 4-point keystone correction
- 30000 hours of operational lamp life
Cons
- No official Netflix support
3. Epson EpiqVision Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector
The Epson LS300 is equipped with an HDMI ARC port to provide noticeable enhancement in the video and audio quality.
It is Amazon’s Choice of “Epson provision ultra ls300” that speaks for its quality. This projector comes with an expensive price tag of $1999, invest in this quality device if the budget allows.
Resolution – This device accepts 4K content and processes HDR for stunning picture quality. The projected image is bright and immersive with 3600 lumens.
True 3-Chip Projector Technology – Unlike other projection technologies, it displays 100% of the RGB color signals. Details are not lost thanks to the exceptional color accuracy.
Laser Array Technology – This new technology produces a high level of brightness while enhancing black density. It also ensures a stunning display just a few inches from the wall.
Connectivity – Watch content from your smartphone, tablet, computer, and other popular Android and Apple devices.
Pros
- Custom-designed audiophile 2.1 speaker system
- Built-in Android TV
- Elegant design
- Multiple image optimization technologies
Cons
- Loud fan
4. LG Ultra Short Throw 4K UHD Laser Projector
LG is no stranger to advanced features and the laser-based projector market. Purchasing this projector might burn a hole in the pocket but it really performs very well.
If you are interested in quality and futuristic features, then opt for this LG laser projector. The price tag is over $4000 but the features compensate for this purchase price.
Resolution – This projector projects a big, vivid picture in 4K resolution and leverages XPR* technology.
HDR10 & TruMotion – HDR10 with dynamic tone mapping delivers an identical and optimized picture quality for each frame. TruMotion makes the animation look more smooth and more fluid.
Color Accuracy – With color reproduction performances up to 12-bit, the projector supports wider color coverage.
3-Channel Laser – This technology makes sure that no color loss has happened virtually while projecting a picture.
Pros
- Get a 120″ image from 7.2 inches away
- Realistic 4K image quality
- Minimalist design
- Simple screen adjustment
- HDR10 & TruMotion
Cons
- Expensive
5. Epson Ultra Laser Ultra Short Throw Projector
This Epson projector is giving tough competition to all its counterparts with HDMI ARC and ALR screens.
The rear side of the projector has several connections including three full-bandwidth HDMI 2.0 ports (one is ARC compliant), a 3.5 mm audio output, an Ethernet port, and two USB ports. It supports 3D and can handle bright rooms as well.
Resolution – The projector ensures a 4K HDR viewing experience, and combines an ambient-light-rejecting screen to produce brighter, clear pictures with vivid colors.
True 3-Chip Projector Design – The advanced 3-Chip 3LCD Technology is capable of displaying the entire Rec.709 color space with outstanding color accuracy.
Android TV – Powered by the Android TV operating system and Google Assistant for streaming live TV through popular apps.
Scene Adaptive Color Correction – This technology automatically corrects color for a more detailed and vivid picture regardless of the content playing.
Pros
- 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio
- 5,000 lumens of brightness in color
- Advanced HDR processing
- Integrated Android TV
- Ultra short throw
Cons
- Difficult to use user interface
- Overpriced
6. LG HF65LA Ultra Short Throw LED Home Projector
This LG projector is not only responsible for projecting larger images in smaller rooms but supports a wide range of wired and wireless connections including Bluetooth, HDMI input, and an HDMI ARC port.
Resolutions – It has a native resolution of Full HD 1080P resolution combined with 1000 lumens of brightness and many image optimization technologies.
Short Throw – Put it on a nearby tabletop and get to project on a huge screen. Place it 4.3 to 5 inches away to get 60 inches of wide viewing or go farther to 100 inches of image from just 15 inches away.
Image Alignment – Adjust all four corners of the image with 4-corner keystone technology.
Sound – Pair home audio speakers, headphones, or portable speakers to the projector with Bluetooth or HDMI Arc.
Pros
- TruMotion technology for smooth display
- Wireless screen share
- Short throw distance (4.3 to 15 inches)
- Supports LG Smart TV
Cons
- Low brightness
How to Pick the Right Projector with HDMI ARC
Besides the HDMI ARC, there are many notable features having a huge impact on the viewing experience. Having an HDMI ARC port is important but not as much as some other key elements.
HDMI ARC
Since you are specifically looking for a projector with HDMI ARC, check whether the projector has this option or not. If the in-built speaker does not produce enough sound, an ARC-compliant HDMI port will help you connect audio devices easily.
Resolution
If the budget allows, we suggest you invest in a 1080P or 4K projector. In case of a limited budget, a 720p would do the job adequately. However, the possibility of the presence of an HDMI ARC port is limited in 720p projectors.
Brightness
The user should not compromise on this feature as it has a significant impact on the overall picture quality.
Choose a projector with specific lumens ratings depending on the lighting conditions of where the projector would be installed. However, it is wise to invest in a projector with over 2000 lumens. Especially if you are picking up projectors for your bedroom!
Contrast Ratio
High contrast ratio ensures that no details are lost while projecting an image on the screen. A contrast ratio over 5000:1 will provide a clear image with ample details.
Connectivity
The projector should be able to support wired and wireless connections. Today, projectors support Bluetooth, WiFi, and multiple ports like HDMI, USB, and others.
Conclusion
To sum up, these were some of the projectors that come with an HDMI port, now, it is easy for you to select between any of them according to your personal preferences and budget
