Epson’s line of home theater projectors is consistent favorites with consumers. The projectors produce crisp, vivid images, boast the latest in video technology, and even have an input lag that doesn’t frustrate gamers.
In 2019, the company introduced two new models that come with pixel-shifting technology. Comparing the Epson 5050UB vs the 5050UBe seems pointless. They have the same exceptional image quality, and both are lacking onboard speakers. However, the 5050UBe is a step ahead of the 5050UB when it comes to connectivity and latency speeds (>>> Check on Amazon).
If you’re still undecided over which projector is right for you, it helps to take a closer look at what each model has to offer..
Epson 5050UB vs 5050UBe Specifications:
| Epson 5050UB | Epson 5050UBe | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 1920x1080 4K w/pixel shifting | 1920x1080 4K w/pixel shifting |
| Contrast Ratio | 1,000,000:1 | 1,000,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 2,600 ANSI | 2,600 ANSI |
| Input lag | 23ms | 23ms |
| Throw Distance | 10.3' - 29.4' | 10.3' - 29.4' |
| Screen size | 50" - 300" | 50" - 300" |
| Internal Speakers | No | No |
| Price | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com Bhphotovideo.com |
While these home cinema projectors have similar features, there are also a few differences you should know.
Image Quality
With a 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and 4K pixel-shifting technology, you get images with crisp details and vibrant colors. The Epson projectors also boast HLG and HDR technology for accurate colors across the spectrum.
The 2,600 lumens light source is more than enough to counteract most ambient light. Bright sunlight can be a problem. Onscreen images may appear faded or washed out. It’s also the same if you take either projector outside. A full moon can interfere with movie nights.
Better Image Quality: Epson 5050UBe
Gaming Quality
Gamers look for two things on a home theater projector, input lag and refresh rate. Both Epson projectors have a fast refresh rate at 240Hz. Frames play smoothly without any hesitancy. You won’t have any problems keeping up with fast-paced action games.
Where the 5050UBe comes out ahead is with input lag. It drops to 22ms, compared to a little over 25ms with the 5050UB. A few seconds may not seem like a big deal until your character dies due to slow commands from the controller.
Better Gaming Quality: Epson 5050UBe
Ease of Installation
You won’t have a problem setting up the projectors. Both come with image alignment technology giving you a flexible installation. You don’t have to center the lens with the screen. They do have a long throw ratio. You need around 10’ to cast 100” images. Neither of these projectors is designed for use in small areas.
The 5050UB is a little lighter, but not enough to make a difference. Both weigh over 24 lbs. and aren’t intended to be portable.
Easier Installation: Epson 5050UB
Connectivity
The 5050UBe is the clear winner. Both models come with the standard HDMI in and outputs, along with USB ports. With the 5050UBe, you also get wireless connectivity. The WirelessHD transmitter lets you connect up to 4 more HDMI components. Whether it’s external speakers, a soundbar, A/V receiver, or another gaming console, the projector has the connectivity you need.
Better Connectivity: Epson 5050UBe
Epson 5050UB Review
A true 3LCD chip, 4K pixel-shifting technology, along with HLG and 10-bit HDR support ensures accurate colors without fading or rainbowing. Add in real-time 16-step HDR adjustment, and you’ll be amazed at how realistic colors appear. You get 100% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum.
A 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio produces deep blacks and crisp whites. You won’t mistake greys for blacks. The 2,600 lumens rating is a little low, but you don’t have to close the blinds to use the projector during the day.
The 5050UB is a compact and sturdy projector, with a long throw distance. It’s not the best choice for smaller areas, but its flexible installation makes it a good choice for larger rooms. With vertical and horizontal lens shift, it’s not hard to align images on the screen. The main downside is its connectivity. It’s not wireless, but you do get plenty of inputs on the control panel.
Pros
- Dynamic contrast
- 4K pixel-shifting technology
- HDR/HLG support
- Adequate input lag
- Flexible installation
Cons
- The projector does not come with onboard speakers, you have to connect external ones
Epson 5050UBe Review
The 5050UBe produces impressive onscreen images. Along with the 3LCD chip, it also comes with HDR and HLG technology. The colors are crisp and accurate. It’s also one of the few home cinema projectors that display the entire DCI-P3 color spectrum. Images at home are as immersive as what you see in the theater.
A 22ms input lag, combined with a 240Hz refresh rate keeps gamers happy. Frames play smoothly without any latency between the controller and the game’s action. You can keep up with action games, though avid players may be a little frustrated. First-person shooter and other past-paced games may require a lower input lag.
Setting up the 5050UBe is a breeze once you get past its 25lb weight. It’s not overly heavy, but it’s not a projector you want to move around. What sets this model apart from others in the Epson series is its wireless connectivity. The projector comes with a wireless transmitter that gives you an additional 4 HDMI ports. It makes installation a little easier and ensures you can connect all of your external devices.
Pros
- 4K pixel-shifting technology
- Dynamic black contrast
- Flexible installation
- Wireless connectivity
- Precision lens
Cons
- The long throw ratio limits where you can use the projector
Conclusion
You won’t be disappointed with either projector. Both have the same impressive image quality, along with a flexible installation. The differences are with connectivity and gaming performance. The Epson 5050UBe is the better choice, but it also comes with a higher price tag (>>> Find on ProjectorScreen).
It comes down to what you need and want in a home cinema projector. Wireless connectivity is great, but it’s not something everyone needs. The same is true for gaming, and latency speeds are still acceptable with the 5050UB.
Both are versatile projectors and come with the features that have made Epson’s line of home cinema projectors popular with consumers. Hopefully, you have a better idea of which one is right for you.