Sony has added a new model to its 4K SXRD Home Theater projector lineup: the BRAVIA Projector 7 (VPL-XW5100ES). The other projectors in Sony’s lineup include the BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES), BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES), and the entry-level VPL-XW5000ES. The new model is a step up from the award-winning VPL-XW5000ES and offers several notable improvements.
The BRAVIA Projector 7 utilizes the same “XR Processor for Projector” found in Sony’s higher-end models like the BRAVIA Projector 9. This video processor replaces the older X1 Ultimate chip used in the VPL-XW5000ES. The BRAVIA Projector 7 adds several advanced features with the XR Processor, including XR Dynamic Tone Mapping, XR Deep Black, XR Triluminos Pro, and XR Clear Image. These enhancements result in better real-time image processing, contrast, and accurate color reproduction.
XR Dynamic Tone Mapping adjusts the brightness and color of each frame in real-time, providing a more vibrant-looking HDR image. This feature elevates HDR content by delivering a brighter overall image with better highlight and shadow detail. This dynamic HDR tone mapping delivers visual improvement in HDR playback compared to the VPL-XW5000ES.
XR Deep Black precisely controls laser dimming to bring out deep, inky blacks without compromising the clarity of surrounding details. The improvement in black levels is immediately noticeable when viewing darker scenes compared to older models.
The XR TRILUMINOS Pro feature, which delivers over a billion colors, creating a vivid and realistic viewing experience. The XR Clear Image technology further enhances this by upscaling content to near 4K resolution, even when the original source material is of lower quality, making older films and shows look better than ever.
Brightness has also been increased. The BRAVIA Projector 7 delivers 2,200 lumens of light output, compared to the 2,000 lumens of its predecessor. Combined with the XR Dynamic Tone Mapping, the extra brightness allows for better detail in highlights and shadows, making the HDR experience more consistent and engaging.
Another area where the BRAVIA Projector 7 shows a clear improvement over the XW5000ES is in gaming performance. The BRAVIA Projector 7 supports 4K at 120Hz with an input lag of around 12 milliseconds. This is a significant upgrade over the XW5000ES, which maxed out at 4K 60Hz with a higher input lag of around 21 milliseconds. The newer model also includes HDMI 2.1 and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), features that are essential for modern gaming consoles and high-performance PCs. The result is smoother, more responsive gameplay.
Installation and usability have also seen some upgrades. Both models maintain a compact and lightweight design, weighing approximately 28 pounds. The Sony BRAVIA Projector 7 uses the same lens as the XW5000ES. However, the BRAVIA Projector 7 introduces corner keystone correction in addition to lens shift, making it easier to achieve a properly aligned image even in challenging room layouts.
Key Specification Comparison |
|---|
| Feature | BRAVIA Projector 7 (VPL-XW5100ES) | VPL-XW5000ES |
| Brightness | 2200 lumens | 2000 lumens |
| Video Processor | XR Processor for Projector | X1 Processor For Projector |
| Input Lag | 12ms @ 4K/120Hz | 21ms @ 4K/60Hz |
| HDMI 2.1 Support | Yes | No |
| Aspect Ratio Scaling Mode | Yes | No |
| Corner Keystone Correction | Yes | No |
The new Aspect Ratio Scaling Mode in the BRAVIA Projector 7 allows users to switch between 2.35:1 and 16:9 content on Cinemascope screens without the need to manually adjust the lens.
Home automation support remains consistent across both models. Like the XW5000ES, the BRAVIA Projector 7 is compatible with major control systems, including Control4, Crestron, Savant, and AMX. However, the newer model places more emphasis on remote management features with support for OvrC and Domotz, which can simplify maintenance and troubleshooting, particularly for custom installers.
In short, the Sony BRAVIA Projector 7 (VPL-XW5100ES) builds meaningfully on the foundation laid by the VPL-XW5000ES. It offers a brighter image, faster gaming response, and enhanced processing power thanks to the new XR Processor. These changes make a noticeable difference in everyday use, particularly for users looking to maximize HDR performance or reduce latency in gaming.
Pricing has not been announced, but the BRAVIA Projector 7 (VPL-XW5100ES) will be available in spring 2025. For more information and full specifications, visit Sony’s official product page at https://electronics.sony.com/tv-video/projectors/all-projectors/p/vplxw5100b
