company news about In-depth comparison of 3LCD and DLP projector technologies

The essence of a projector is to convert light source energy into image signals. The core difference between 3LCD and DLP lies in how they split and reassemble light. This underlying logic determines all performance differences between the two.

3LCD (Three Liquid Crystal Display) technology is based on the "color separation - processing - synthesis" process. Its core components include a UHP lamp (or LED light source), a dichroic prism, three LCD panels (one for the three primary colors of red, green, and blue), and a combining lens.

The specific workflow is as follows:

White light from the light source is split by the dichroic prism into three monochromatic beams of red, green, and blue.

These three beams are then projected onto corresponding LCD panels. The panels control the transmittance of the pixels to generate three independent monochromatic images.

Finally, the three monochromatic images are superimposed through a combining lens to form a complete color image, which is then projected. Because 3LCD technology utilizes independent processing of the three primary colors and physical overlay, it eliminates the need for "color time-sharing," a key advantage in color performance.

DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology is based on the principle of micromirror reflection. Its core component is the DMD chip (digital micromirror device)—a semiconductor chip covered in millions of microscopic mirrors, each corresponding to a pixel. The DMD chip controls the direction of light reflection by rapidly switching (thousands of times per second). The specific workflow is as follows:
White light from a light source passes through a rapidly rotating color wheel (composed of red, green, and blue filters), breaking it down into time-sharing monochromatic light (red, green, and blue appearing alternately).
The monochromatic light then strikes the DMD chip, where micromirrors flip according to the image signal, reflecting the corresponding pixel's light either into the lens (displaying a bright pixel) or out of the chip (displaying a dark pixel).
Due to the human eye's "persistence of vision," the time-sharing red, green, and blue images are superimposed in the brain, forming a complete color image.
DLP technology's core principle is "time-sharing color display + visual synthesis." Its advantages lie in its compact structure and fast response speed, but it is also limited by the color wheel's operating method, resulting in some unique phenomena (such as the rainbow effect).

The technical differences between 3LCD and DLP are directly reflected in user-perceivable dimensions such as image quality, brightness, lifespan, and noise. The advantages and disadvantages are particularly evident in different scenarios.

3LCD technology utilizes "independent processing of the three primary colors + physical overlay" to achieve color reproduction closer to the original signal and higher color accuracy. This is especially true when displaying scenes requiring delicate transitions, such as skin tones and natural scenery, resulting in more natural, seamless colors. Furthermore, because the three primary colors are present throughout the entire process, color saturation is more stable, preventing color deviations due to color wheel speed or light source degradation.

DLP technology relies on the time-sharing color wheel. If the color wheel speed is slow (such as a 6-segment color wheel), color transitions may be inconsistent. Furthermore, some DLP projectors add a white filter (changing the color wheel to red, green, blue, and white) to increase brightness, which reduces color saturation, resulting in a whiter image and a lack of depth. Motion Response and Smear:

DLP technology's DMD chip's micromirrors flip extremely quickly (response time is typically under 1ms), resulting in motion-free smearing. This makes it particularly suitable for playing action movies, sports, or games (such as those on consoles like the PS5 and Xbox), with far superior visual smoothness compared to 3LCD.
3LCD's liquid crystal panels exhibit "liquid crystal molecule deflection delay," resulting in a typical response time of 8-15ms. This can cause slight smearing in fast-moving scenes (such as high-speed scenes in racing games). While some high-end 3LCD models use "overdrive acceleration technology" to optimize this, it still struggles to match DLP's dynamic performance.

DLP technology's "time-sharing color display" may cause some users to experience a "rainbow effect." This effect involves brief red, green, and blue streaks when moving quickly or viewing high-contrast images. This effect is particularly noticeable in low-light scenarios (such as watching a movie with the lights off) or on models with a slow color wheel speed (<120Hz). Approximately 10%-15% of the population is sensitive to this effect.
3LCD technology, with its simultaneous use of all three primary colors, eliminates the rainbow effect and offers greater image stability, making it suitable for extended viewing (such as educational projections and conference presentations) without causing visual fatigue.

The key factor affecting brightness is "light source utilization." DLP technology's DMD chip boasts high reflectivity (approximately 90% of light is reflected to the lens), a compact design, and a short optical path, resulting in higher brightness utilization. For the same light source power, the nominal brightness (ANSI lumens) of a DLP projector is typically 10%-20% higher than that of a 3LCD projector.

3LCD technology's color separation prism and LCD panel absorb some light (approximately 30% is filtered), resulting in lower light source utilization. To achieve the same brightness as DLP, a higher-power light source is required, resulting in increased power consumption.

Contrast ratio (the ratio of the brightest to darkest areas of an image) determines the depth of the image. DLP technology's micromirrors can be completely deactivated (reflecting light out of the chip), resulting in a higher native contrast ratio (typically between 2000:1 and 10,000:1) and better dark field performance, making it suitable for watching films with rich dark details (such as science fiction and suspense films).

3LCD's liquid crystal panel cannot completely block light (exists as light leakage), resulting in a lower native contrast ratio (typically between 1000:1 and 3000:1). While this value can be increased using "dynamic contrast technology" (automatically adjusting the light source brightness), actual dark field detail is still less natural than DLP.

The light source lifespans of both are similar (UHP lamps: approximately 5,000-8,000 hours, LED lamps: approximately 20,000-30,000 hours), but other core components differ significantly:
3LCD's LCD panel may experience "pixel droop" (individual pixels become brighter or darker) if exposed to high temperatures for extended periods (e.g., due to poor heat dissipation from the light source). Furthermore, the coating on the color separation prism may degrade over time, affecting color reproduction.
DLP's DMD chip has an extremely long lifespan (typically exceeding 100,000 hours), a simple structure, and a low failure rate. The only component susceptible to wear is the color wheel. The color wheel motor can wear out from prolonged high-speed rotation and requires periodic replacement (although replacement costs are relatively low, approximately 200-500 yuan).

3LCD projectors have a more complex internal structure (requiring maintenance of three LCD panels and a color separation prism). If pixel fading or color deviation occurs, repair costs are higher (the LCD panel may need to be replaced, costing approximately 1,000-3,000 yuan).
DLP projectors are compact (the core components are only the DMD chip and color wheel), and maintenance is simple, requiring only daily cleaning of the lens and filter, resulting in lower long-term operating costs.

DLP technology offers a short optical path and high component integration (for example, pico DLP projectors can be palm-sized), resulting in a more compact size and suitable for portable use (such as business trips and outdoor projection).
3LCD technology requires components such as a color separation prism and three LCD panels, making it typically 30%-50% larger than DLP models of the same brightness, making it more suitable for fixed installations (such as home theaters and classrooms).

Noise primarily comes from the cooling fan. 3LCD has low light source utilization. For high brightness, a higher-power light source is required, resulting in higher cooling fan speeds and a typical noise level of 35-45dB (equivalent to a normal conversation).

DLP offers high light source utilization, reduced heat dissipation pressure, and lower fan speeds. Its noise level is typically 25-35dB (equivalent to the ambient sound of a library), making it more suitable for scenarios requiring minimal noise (such as bedroom projection or late-night movie viewing).

When choosing between 3LCD and DLP, the key is to prioritize the scenario. Different scenarios require different image quality, brightness, and portability, and the advantages and disadvantages of each technology will be affected accordingly.

If you enjoy watching feature films and documentaries and seek detailed color reproduction (e.g., reproducing the director's intended color palette), 3LCD's color accuracy is more suitable. Especially when paired with a light-resistant screen, its color performance rivals that of mid-range and high-end TVs.

For classrooms or conference rooms requiring extended projection (4-8 hours per day), 3LCD offers no rainbow artifacts, minimizing visual fatigue for teachers, students, and attendees. Its stable color is ideal for presenting content requiring clear color distinction, such as PowerPoint presentations and charts.

If you or your family notice noticeable rainbow fringes when viewing DLP projection, 3LCD is the only choice to avoid visual discomfort and a negative impact on the user experience.

If you frequently play console games (such as "Racing" and "Action-Adventure") or watch sports, DLP's high dynamic response eliminates ghosting, resulting in smoother images far superior to 3LCD.

If you need to carry a projector on business trips or project outdoors while camping, DLP's compact size (e.g., weight < 1kg) and high brightness efficiency make it a better choice. Some micro DLP models also support battery operation.

If you prefer watching movies with the lights off, DLP's high native contrast ratio allows for richer dark details (such as starry skies and night scenes), a stronger sense of depth, and avoids the "gray" effect caused by light leakage in dark scenes with 3LCD.

Some manufacturers will list "light source lumens" (raw brightness before the lens). The actual projected brightness on the screen should be based on "ANSI lumens" (the industry standard). For home use, we recommend 1500-3000 ANSI lumens, and for business/education use, 3000 ANSI lumens or higher.

Avoid color wheels with fewer than 6 segments or those with a white filter. Prioritize 12-segment color wheels (which rotate faster and have less rainbow artifacts), which offer color performance closer to 3LCDs.
For 3LCD projectors, pay attention to "pixel droop": Choose models with comprehensive after-sales service and confirm whether they have a "pixel warranty policy" to avoid pixel failures after 1-2 years of use.

The debate between 3LCD and DLP technology isn't about "which is better," but rather "which is more suitable." 3LCD prioritizes color, suitable for scenes requiring detailed colors and long viewing times; DLP prioritizes efficiency, suitable for scenes requiring smooth motion, portability, and high contrast.

With technological advancements, the gap between the two is narrowing: high-end 3LCD models improve response speed through "Dynamic Boost Technology," while high-end DLP models optimize color performance through "Multi-segment Color Wheel + Color Calibration." When making your final decision, consider your specific scenario (home/business/gaming) and budget (entry-level/mid-range/high-end), and prioritize visiting a test store to see the picture in person to find the projector that's best for you.