Epson has combined performance and convenience with its line of EpiqVision short-throw mini projectors. You get a home cinema projector that’s easy to install and use. It’s also portable and ready to start streaming content out of the box.
Two home theater projectors in the EpiqVision line are the Epson EF11 and EF12. Both are mini short-throw projectors that produce bright images with realistic colors. You won’t have any problems setting either one up or moving it to another location.
At first glance the projectors seem the same, but there are slight differences. While the EF11 is easier to move around, the EF12 has better streaming options. The Epson EF12 also has better sound quality and connectivity (>>> Check on Amazon).
Epson EF11 vs EF12 Specifications:
| Epson EF11 | Epson EF12 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 |
| Contrast Ratio | 200,000:1 | 200,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 1,000 ANSI | 1,000 ANSI |
| Input Lag | No data | 120ms |
| Throw Distance | 2.2' - 10.9' | 2.2' - 10.9' |
| Screen size | 30" - 150" | 30" - 150" |
| Internal Speakers | 10.0 Watts × 2 | 5.0 Watts × 2 |
| Price | Find on Amazon Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon Bhphotovideo.com |
At a glance, at these two Epson projectors isn’t enough. They’re too similar to make an informed decision. Instead, you need to take a closer look at what both offer before bringing one home.
Image Quality
You won’t notice a difference in image quality between either home theater projector. Their specs are identical. You get full-HD resolution, combined with a 200,000:1 contrast ratio. Along with a 1,000 lumens light source. The EF12 does have an advantage over the EF11, it is compatible with 4K content.
There are downsides to image quality. Ambient light can be a problem with the low lumens rating. The contrast ratio is also a little low, but you still get crisp whites and deep blacks. You won’t confuse grey colors with inky blacks.
Better Image Quality: Epson EF12
Ease of Installation and Set-Up
Both projectors are lightweight and boast a flexible installation. The EF11 is lighter and smaller, making it easier to move around. It’s small enough to fit in a briefcase or school bag. Since you only need 2-inches to throw 100” images, the EF11 is ideal for work and school presentations.
When it comes to image alignment, the EF12 makes it easy. Along with autofocus, compared to manual correction with the EF11, the projector automatically brings images into sharp focus. Digital vertical and horizontal keystone correction ensures you won’t waste time with the EF12 trying to align onscreen images.
Easier Installation: Epson EF12
Audio Quality
While the EF11 only comes with 2-way built-in speakers. You get acceptable audio, but it’s still only mono. In comparison, the EF12 from Epson comes with stereo sound powered by Yamaha. Combined with Dolby support, you get a balanced sound across low, mid, and high frequencies. It’s not surround sound but it’s close to what you hear from low-priced soundbars and small Bluetooth speakers.
Better Audio Quality: Epson EF12
Connectivity and Streaming
Streaming your favorite content is easier with the EF12, thanks to the Android interface. Unlike the EF11 where you need to use a streaming stick, you can instantly download your favorite content apps with the EpiqVision Ef12.
The EF12 beats the Epson EF11 with the number of ports. Along with multiple HDMI ports, you’ll also find a USB input. The EF12 also works with Chromecast for wireless casting options.
Better Connectivity and Streaming: Epson EF12
Epson EF11
Lightweight and compact, the EF11 is easily portable. Stuff it in your backpack for a school presentation or briefcase for one at work. It boasts a rugged casing that can handle bumps without damaging the internal components.
You only need two inches to throw 100” images. Full-HD resolution, along with 3LCD color technology and a bright light source ensure clear, crisp images without any rainbow effects. You’ll also appreciate how easy it is to center and focus images. The EF11 comes with manual focus. On-screen colors are also automatically adjusted frame-by-frame with Epson’s Adaptive Color Correction technology. Click here fror our more detailed review of the EF11
Pros
- Easily portable
- Bright colors
- Full-HD resolution
- Short-throw distance
- Compatible with most streaming devices
Cons
- The projector does not come with built-in streaming capabilities. You need to use a streaming stick to access your content.
- Connectivity is limited on the projector, you may not be able to connect all your relevant devices.
Epson EF12
The EF12 is a lightweight short-throw projector. It is a little larger than other models in the Epson EpiqVision line. It’s a little harder to stuff it in your school bag or briefcase, but weighing slightly over 4lbs, you can easily move the projector around.
HD resolution along with a 200,000:1 contrast ratio gives you rich, detailed images. Adaptive Color Correction automatically fine-tunes each frame. You enjoy accurate colors, without fading or bleeding. The combination of the 1,000 lumens light and 3LCD technology gives you bright images in dimly and dark rooms.
A built-in Yamaha sound system produces more than adequate audio. You’ll hear all ranges from deep bass to high treble. You won’t have any problems connecting your devices, there are HDMI and USB ports. The projector also has an input for 4K content. Add in the Android interface with popular streaming apps pre-installed, along with Google Chromecast support, and you’ll have a hard time finding content that isn’t compatible with the projector. For our more detailed review of this projector click here.
Pros
- Built-in Yamaha speakers
- HD resolution
- Short-throw distance
- Multiple ports
- Chromecast support
Cons
- The low lumens light source can’t compete with bright lights. Onscreen images will appear washed out
Conclusion
It’s not easy deciding between the Epson EF11 and the EF12. Both produce the same HD pictures, with identical resolution, lumens, and color processing technology. When you’re trying to choose between the two, it often comes down to what you need. The EF11 is more portable, while the Epson EF12 produces better audio, has more streaming options, and connectivity.
If you want a projector for home, school, and even home, the Epson EF11 is best suited for you. Anyone that wants an all-in-one home entertainment projector will be happy with the EF12 from Epson (>>> Check on Bhphotovideo).