When it comes to value and performance, it’s hard to beat Optoma’s UHD series of home cinema projectors. They produce crisp images, boast a flexible installation, and have a fast latency speed. Two projectors with this in common are the UHD38 and UHD50X, and the two models come with features gamers and movie buffs will love.
When you compare the Optoma UHD38 vs the UHD50X, the two projectors are similar. Both are true 4K projectors, but you get brighter images with the UHD38. It also has a lower input lag for serious gamers. The UHD50X is easier to install. You have more options on where you place the projector (>>> Find on Amazon).
If you’re still not sure which one is right for you, it helps to take a closer look at their specifications.
Optoma UHD38 VS UHD50X Specifications:
| Optoma UHD38 | Optoma UHD50X | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 3840x2160 | 3840x2160 |
| Contrast Ratio | 1,000,000:1 | 500,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 4,000 ANSI | 3,400 ANSI |
| Input lag | 4.2ms | 25ms |
| Throw Distance | 4.0' - 32.7' | 4.0' - 26.6' |
| Screen size | 33" - 300" | 34" - 303" |
| Internal Speakers | 10.0 Watts Mono | 5.0 Watts Mono |
| Price | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com |
Either model is a good option, but one may be better suited to meet your entertainment needs.
Image Quality
You get 4K resolution with both projectors. With 8.3 million pixels per frame, images are amazingly crisp and clear. HDR and HGL support produce bright whites and deep blacks. The UHD38 boasts a higher dynamic contrast ratio, but it’s not noticeable with HDR technology. However, the UHD50X boasts DCI-P3 color support. You get bright, accurate colors across the spectrum.
You will get a brighter picture with the UHD38, compared to the 3,400 lumens output from the UHD50X. A 4,000 lumens rating may not seem like a big difference until you watch a movie during the day. Images are brighter and crisper with the UHD38.
Better Image Quality: Optoma UHD38
Gaming Quality
A home theater projector with a fast input lag and refresh rate is something every gamer needs. Either of these projectors will make gamers ecstatic, whether they’re playing GTA or Fortnite. A 240Hz ensures smooth frame-by-frame action in fast-paced games. You also get Enhanced Gaming mode with either model.
The UHD38 is the best choice for serious gamers. In gaming mode, latency speeds drop to 4.2ms. If you want to keep a 4K resolution, input lag is a fast 16ms. The UHD50X is a little slower, even when you’re in gaming mode.
Better Gaming Quality: Optoma UHD38
Ease of Installation
You won’t have any trouble installing these projectors. Both 4K projectors are lightweight and compact. You’ll appreciate this if you are mounting the projector on the ceiling. The UHD50X is a little lighter at 8.6lbs. Throw distance is also similar. These are standard-throw projectors. If you live in a small space it will be difficult to find enough room to cast 100” pictures. You need at least 9 feet.
Digital keystone correction is standard on both components, but you’ll have an easier time installing the UHD50X. Along with a 15% vertical lens shift, you can also focus and zoom in on the images.
Easier Installation: Optoma UHD50X
Optoma UHD38
The UHD38 produces immersive onscreen pictures. The colors are vivid and accurate. 4K resolution, combined with a 100,000,000:1 dynamic contrast produces crisp images with sharp details. UltraDetail technology optimizes the picture, along with HDR10 and HLG support. An 8-segmented color wheel ensures colors are accurate. A 4,000 lumens light source means you don’t have to worry about ambient light.
It is a standard throw projector, and it limits where you can use it. You need around 9’ for 100” images. Horizontal and vertical keystone correction gives you a little flexibility with installation, but you are limited. Without lens shift, it takes longer to install the projector.
Gamers have everything they want in a 4K home theater projector. A fast refresh rate and low input lag ensure smooth gameplay. If you don’t want to lose image clarity in Enhanced Gaming Mode, input lag is still a low 16ms. Latency speed is fast enough to keep up with most high-action games. Add in the onboard 10-watt speakers, and you get an immersive gaming experience. For our more detailed review of the Optoma UHD38 click here.
Pros
- 3D support
- Crisp details
- Portable
- Dynamic picture
- Fast refresh rate
Cons
- Rainbowing may be a problem on darker parts of the screen
Optoma UHD50X
The Optoma UHD50X is a multi-use projector. It produces crisp, dynamic images, and has an acceptable input lag. At 16ms in Enhanced Gaming Mode, and 26ms in 4K resolution, it’s fast enough for action and first-person shooter games.
DCI-P3 color spectrum support, UltraDetail technology, and HDR tone mapping produce stunningly realistic colors. A 3,600 lumens lamp ensures images aren’t washed out in ambient light. The light source is bright enough to handle most light, but rooms with several windows may be a problem.
Lightweight and compact, the UHD50X is also easy to install. It’s a standard throw projector, so you may want to think about a ceiling mount. With digital keystone correction, 1.3x zoom, and a 15% vertical lens shift, fining tuning images is a breeze.
Pros
- 4K resolution
- Easy installation
- Gaming mode
- Realistic colors
- HDR support
Cons
- The projector is not compatible with all 3D content
Conclusion
You get a great value with either projector. Both are designed for movies and games. The prices are also similar, but each stands out in different ways. The UHD50X is easier to install and produces better colors. However, you get a brighter picture with the UHD38. Input lag is also low enough for avid gamers (>>> Check on ProjectorScreen).
When it comes to the Optoma UHD38 vs the UHD50X, it comes down to what you need in a 4k projector.