Epson 3800 vs Epson 5050UB
The Most-Asked Epson Question: 3800 or 5050UB?
Quick Verdict
Jump to Final VerdictChoose the Epson 3800:
- • Slightly brighter — holds up in living rooms
- • Far cheaper for the same 4K PRO-UHD core
- • Compact enough for shelf placement
Choose the Epson 5050UB:
- • UB filter: dramatically better blacks in a dark room
- • Motorized lens, big shift range — flexible mounting
- • The reference pick for serious movie watching
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Specification | Epson 3800 | Epson 5050UB |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,600 | $3,000 |
| Resolution | 4K | 4K |
| Brightness | 3,000 lumens | 2,600 lumens |
| Contrast Ratio | 56,000:1 | 20,000:1 |
| Technology | LCD | LCD |
| Throw Type | Standard | Standard |
| Weight | 15.2 lbs | 24.7 lbs |
| Owner Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Reviews | 96 | 49 |
Bold marks the better value per row. Prices and ratings update from Amazon automatically; blank cells mean the spec isn't verified for that model.
Final Verdict
The 5050UB’s premium buys contrast: its UB (Ultra Black) filter delivers visibly deeper blacks in a dark room, plus a motorized lens with wide shift range. The 3800 is a little brighter and vastly cheaper, and in a living room with any ambient light the UB advantage mostly evaporates. Dedicated dark theater: 5050UB, no question. Multi-purpose bright room: the 3800 and pocket the difference.
Popular Projector Comparisons
View all 35 comparisons →Epson 5050UB vs Epson 4010
Is the 5050UB worth the premium over the 4010?
Epson 3800 vs Epson 4010
Brightness vs contrast: which Epson fits your room?
Epson 5050UB vs BenQ TK710
3LCD lamp vs DLP laser for serious home theater
Epson 5050UB vs Sony VW295ES
Enhanced 4K vs native 4K at twice the price
Epson 5050UB vs Sony VW325ES
Premium home theater: value pick vs native 4K
Epson vs BenQ
Which brand should you buy? 3LCD vs DLP explained