Epson 5030 vs 6030: Which One is Better?

Ever since the release of these popular home theater projectors by Epson, experts have been comparing the two models. There are not many hard-core differences, only a few changes.

Keeping aside all the differences, both models are known for their stellar image quality and good light output. They can very well operate in a light-controlled home theater environment.

Have a look at some of the features that make them different from each other.

Epson 5030 vs 6030

The main difference between Epson 5030 and 6030 is most probably going to be the price and availability of the anamorphic support.

These two models are similar to each other in numerous ways, resolution, adjustable light output, 3D compatibility, to name a few.

Have a look at some of the differences that set these two home theater projectors apart.

Anamorphic Stretch Mode

Mostly, Epson 5030UB is differentiated from the other model because of the lack of anamorphic stretch mode.

In 6030UB, this function is present, however, somewhat restrictive. It is capable of anamorphic stretch for people interested in ultra-wide 2.39:1 anamorphic cinema.

Pro Cinema Package

The 5030UB projector does not include any noticeable accessories besides 3D glasses, dual HDMI clamps, 3D charging cable, and a few others.

The ‘Pro Cinema’ Package for 6030UB includes important accessories like a chief ceiling mount, a spare lamp, a cable cover, and a three-year repair/exchange warranty plan.

Price

The MSRP of the 5030UB is $2599, a bit less than the other model.

However, considering the additional accessories that 6030 comes with, the price difference is not really significant.

The MSRP of 6030UB is $3499, including all the accessories and an additional lamp. On its face, this model is a bit expensive.

ISF Certification

The 5030 model is not ISF certified, this certification ensures independent projector controls.

The 6030 model has ISF certification meaning it does not have any additional calibration controls.

Epson 5030 Review

This Edition by Epson is the upgraded version of Home Cinema 5020UB and features many incremental improvements than its predecessor.

This projector was released alongside other two notable home projector models including Pro Cinema 4030 and Pro Cinema 6030UB.

The UB in 5030UB stands for Ultra Black, the projector does not disappoint in this regard, once properly configured.

Tailored to deliver the best image quality in both 2D and 3D. It is primarily manufactured for home theaters with ambient lighting.

Besides the sharp picture quality and 3D support, it has many key features to look forward to.

Features

Resolution – The native resolution or, as Epson likes to put it, Super Resolution is 1920 x 1080 with a 600,000:1 to improve the appearance of fine details.

2D Quality – The 2D picture displayed by 5030UB has high contrast, spot-on accurate color, and the best black level performance for the price. With reduced artifacts, the picture looks similar to the original.

3D Quality – For a compelling 3D experience, 5030UB offers no noticeable flicker, nearly zero crosstalk, and ample brightness.

Brightness – The projector allows multiple adjustments when it comes to light output.

The overall color and white lumen rating are 2400 lumens. In different modes, the lumen rating is different.

Dynamic Mode – 2230 lumens
Living Room Mode – 1735 lumens
Natural & Cinema Mode – 871 and 805 lumens

Color – The color performance of this projector is commendable, even if you find some problem, adjust the color temperature using the slider and make the picture look better.

Input Lag – Switch from Fine to Fast setting to get the least input lag, only 37 milliseconds. The default or Fine Image Processing has 91 milliseconds of input lag.

Connectivity – This projector model has dual HDMI ports, 3-RCA component input, a 12V trigger, and an RS-232C port.

Limitations

The projector has no flaw of consequence, however, the buyer needs to be aware of the following limitations.

Manual Lens Adjustment – The lens controls are not powered but manually operated. Getting the precise focus would require time and effort.

No Anamorphic Lens – Due to the lack of support, it cannot be used with an anamorphic lens without adding an external video processor.

Epson 6030 Review

It is one of the best projectors of Epson’s home theater projector line. It is nearly identical to the 5030UB but only a few small changes.

Like the aforementioned model, the real draw of this excellent projector is its exceptional image quality in 2D and 3D.

It is slightly more expensive but compensates for the high price with an extra few goodies. Some of the key features of this Epson model are as follows.

Features

Resolution – It projects images in Full HD 1080p combined with adjustable light output and a high contrast ratio up to 600000:1.

2D Quality – The 2D image projected by the 6030UB is natural and smooth with true-to-life quality. Finer shadow details and overall dynamic range makes the image stand out.

3D Quality – It allows a large screen 3D display without compromising quality and light output.

Brightness – It has a balanced white and color brightness of 2400 lumens which can be adjusted as per the selected mode.

Dynamic – 2211 lumens
Living Room Mode – 1561 lumens
Natural & Cinema Mode – 863 and 796 lumens

Color – It features a full-color management system that gives users the ability to fine-tune until it looks better. Color adjustment is available for each model.

Input Lag – Fine and Fast Image Processing Controls have different input lag settings.

The input lag in Fine and Fast measures at 91 milliseconds and 37 milliseconds respectively.

Connectivity – This projector has a similar input interface as the 5030 with options like two HDMI ports, 3-RCA component input, a 12V trigger, and an RS-232C port.

Limitations

Manual Lens Controls – It is difficult initially to adjust the projector’s focus as the lens adjustments are manually operated.

Shared Grayscale Adjustments – Any changes made in the RGB Gain/Bias get automatically shared among all image modes.

Conclusion

Hopefully, it would be easier for you to decide between the hottest projectors available for home theater setup. Consider all the differences and the individual features as well as the budget to get to the final decision.

Read also: RCA Home Theater Projector

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