Just like smart TVs, the world of smart projectors has made great strides in the last many years. There are numerous mid-range and high-end quality models that can act as both a supplement and replacement for smart TVs. LG is among those electronics forging ahead with versatile smart projectors made for the modern entertainment consumer.
LG CineBeam S
- Brand
- LG
- Native Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- ANSI Lumens
- 500
- Projection Technology
- Laser (RBG)
This ultra short throw projector allows images up to 100-inches with 4K resolution and HDR10. Backed by webOS, you can stream movies, play games, and connect to Bluetooth and WiFi with this versatile projector.
- 4K resolution and HDR10
- Portable with sizing up to 100 inches
- Smart system capabilities
- Audible fan
- Manual sizing is tedious
Price, availability, and specs
The CineBeam S is a 4K ultra short throw smart projector. Its small size allows it to be moved around the home, while its stable structure and design also allow it to be stationary and mounted. It boasts 500 ANSI lumens as well as 4K resolution and HDR10, so it's well-suited to the needs of those who enjoy high-quality images through streaming services and physical media players. Its ultra short throw design means the projector can produce a larger image despite being relatively close to a surface. It can support screen sizes from 40 inches up to 100 inches in ideal circumstances without losing quality.
As it is an LG product, it features the webOS smart system, with access to various entertainment, lifestyle, and productivity apps. The projector retails for $1,300.
LG CineBeam S
- Brand
- LG
- Native Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- ANSI Lumens
- 500
- Projection Technology
- Laser (RBG)
- Connectivity
- HDMI, USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- HDR
- HDR 10, HLG
What I liked about the LG Cinebeam S projector
Portable and versatile with a terrific image
There is plenty to love about this quality projector, especially when it comes to the image. It can definitely replace a smart TV in your home; I found in general the color, detail, and motion to be of high quality. I tried out a variety of titles, taking in some darker media to witness the contrast, some Marvel movies to see color and action, and Avatar to see how lifelike the projector can make the world feel. I took in some older films to see how they held up in higher quality and some animated fare to test out color and brightness.
The projector produces a great image to be sure; you just need to make sure you have a suitable surface to project the image onto. You'll want a flat surface that is either gray or white depending on whether you want to emphasize contrast or vibrancy.
What I was most impressed by was the brightness. While it's only 500 ANSI lumens, I did set up the projector during the daytime with ambient light coming through nearby windows. While the image certainly wasn't as bright as when in total darkness, I could still enjoy certain types of shows that are designed for general audiences, namely reality TV and sports. I wouldn't recommend checking out some dark HBO shows or horror films during the daytime, but there is still plenty you can watch.
The size and design make it versatile. I moved it around my home, setting it up in different spots with ease, adjusting it to project different sizes; I also see that appeal of having it set up in a single place as well. The unit features a mounting hole so that you can use it with a tripod or permanently affix it into a single place.
I do quite enjoy many things about webOS as well; the OS is generally easy to navigate, and settings are laid out easily enough to play around with what you need. The inclusion of Filmmaker Mode is a huge plus for those seeking cinematic fidelity. The sturdy, small remote includes several quick-hit buttons so you can get to your favorite streaming services easily.
What I didn't like about the LG Cinebeam S projector?
Some tedious operations and sensitive adjustments
There are some issues to be mindful of, although they come down to simply setting proper expectations. Most of these issues are less about what the projector does poorly and more about what you need to do well as a viewer.
Firstly, the unit does make a bit of noise when in use; the fan is audible and, depending on what you're watching and how close you are to it, may be a tad disruptive. I do think it falls into the white noise category, however, so that what you hear mostly fades into the background.
Secondly, because of the fan, you'll want to be mindful about care and maintenance. Follow LG's recommendations; you'll want to operate it in a cool, dry place and be mindful of dust accumulation over time. This is true for most quality projectors, anyway.
One thing I noted is that the projector is almost too sensitive at times, which doesn't feel like a fair knock against it. It was readily apparent using the projector that some of the surfaces I thought were flat and smooth were, in fact, not. Maybe a coat of paint was uneven, a wall wasn't perfectly straight, the floor wasn't perfectly level, or a projector screen wasn't fully taut. That's because you could see, even if it was fairly minute, that some projected images weren't perfect rectangles. I played K-pop Demon Hunters on a white projector sheet that had a couple noticeable wrinkles, and Alien Earth on a wall that had some paint swirls that stood out. On my large gray projector screen, I could see, based on the projected image, that the screen wasn't entirely flush against the wall. The CineBeam is incredibly perceptive in that way, which is both great and potentially a nuisance.
For the most part, the sensor did a great job automatically setting up the image. There is an installation wizard subsection within settings that allows you to make various adjustments to the projector screen, moving around corners and edges so that the image appears to your liking. While these are welcome options for viewers, there are some strict limitations to just how much can be done. You'll need to do a lot with the physical set up of the projector first, and then you can make minor adjustments to the height, width, or placement afterward.
Lastly, a note on webOS and the remote, which aren't entirely exclusive to this projector. While I like a lot about the OS, the default settings are annoying; namely the sponsored content that pops up on the home page. Turn that off instantly. The remote is generally an improvement except for one minor thing; the buttons are sticky and the sensor on the projector isn't always the easiest to locate. Again, these are minor issues, but worth managing expectations.
Should you buy the LG Cinebeam S projector?
An impressive addition to your home entertainment system
I really enjoyed watching everything on this projector, and for me, it served as a great complement to a smart TV. Its size allows for versatile use around the home, while the wide-range of size options means you can have both low-key, casual watches as well as large theater-like movie nights. With 4K resolution and HDR10, the image quality is superb. Just make sure you have a quality screen and the right environment when you really want something immersive.
I do think the price is right for those looking for both a smart TV companion or a replacement all together. You won't get the same pop of a QLED TV or the same contrast of an OLED model, but there still might be more fun to be had with the LG CineBeam S.
LG CineBeam S
- Brand
- LG
- Native Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- ANSI Lumens
- 500
- Projection Technology
- Laser (RBG)
This ultra short throw projector allows images up to 100-inches with 4K resolution and HDR10. Backed by webOS, you can stream movies, play games, and connect to Bluetooth and WiFi with this versatile projector.