Epson 980 vs Optoma HD28HDR
The Entry 1080p Question: Epson 3LCD or Optoma DLP?
Epson 980
Optoma HD28HDR
Quick Verdict
Jump to Final VerdictChoose the Epson 980:
- • 3LCD: equal color and white brightness, no rainbows
- • Richer-looking color in rooms with ambient light
- • Strong owner rating for a budget projector
Choose the Optoma HD28HDR:
- • Accepts HDR10 signals from consoles and 4K sticks
- • Fast Enhanced Gaming mode (~8.4ms at 1080p/120)
- • Large, well-established review base
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Specification | Epson 980 | Optoma HD28HDR |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $800 | $1,030 |
| Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| Brightness | 4,000 lumens | 3,600 lumens |
| Input Lag | — | 8.4ms |
| Max Refresh Rate | — | 120Hz |
| Contrast Ratio | 16,000:1 | 50,000:1 |
| Technology | LCD | DLP |
| Throw Type | Standard | Standard |
| Light Source Life | 6,000 hrs | 4,000 hrs |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| Owner Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
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
This is the classic technology split at the entry level. The Epson 980’s 3LCD engine puts out equal white and color brightness, so colors stay rich in living rooms with the lights on — and there are no rainbow artifacts. The Optoma HD28HDR counters with HDR10 input support and a fast enhanced gaming mode (~8.4ms), making it the better console companion. Movie and sports nights in a lived-in room: Epson. A console under the projector: Optoma.
Get the Epson 980 — $800
Get the Optoma HD28HDR — $1,030
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