Epson EF11 Vs. EF12: A Detailed Comparison

Home theater enthusiasts looking to upgrade to a big screen experience often turn to projectors to deliver an immersive viewing experience at an affordable price point. Two popular home theater projectors that provide excellent performance without breaking the bank are the Epson EF11 and EF12.

But with similar features and price points, it can be tricky to figure out which model better suits your needs. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences between Epson’s EF11 and EF12 projectors across critical categories like image quality, portability, connectivity, and more.

A Brief Comparison Table

Spec	Epson EF11	Epson EF12
Resolution	1280 x 800 (WXGA)	1920 x 1080 (1080p)
Brightness	2300 lumens	2700 lumens
Contrast Ratio	15,000:1	50,000:1
Color Gamut	80% Rec. 709	95% DCI-P3
Throw Ratio	1.48 – 1.77	1.04 – 1.47
Portability	5.3 lbs with battery	5.29 lbs with battery
Warranty	1 year limited	1 year limited
Price	$700	$800

Image Quality

A projector’s image quality makes all the difference in bringing movies, TV shows, games, and more to life. Both the EF11 and EF12 deliver above-average picture quality for their class thanks to Epson’s proprietary 3LCD technology. However, there are some notable differences:

• Resolution – The Epson EF12 sports full native 1080p resolution. With 1920 x 1080 pixels, it can display every detail in full high definition content without any downscaling or loss of quality. In contrast, the EF11 maxes out at WXGA resolution (1280 x 800 pixels). While still decent, it lacks the crispness and clarity of full 1080p.
• Brightness – With a brightness rating of 2700 lumens, the EF12 throws a distinctly brighter image compared to the EF11’s 2300 lumens. This gives it an advantage for rooms with some ambient light.
• Contrast Ratio – Contrast ratio measures a projector’s ability to distinguish light and dark areas of an image. The higher the ratio, the greater the detail in shadows and highlights. Here the EF12 pulls ahead significantly with its 50,000:1 contrast ratio over the EF11’s 15,000:1.
• Color Performance – Both projectors cover the Rec. 709 color space well for accurate hues. However, the EF12’s wider DCI-P3 coverage (95% Vs. 80%) produces richer, more saturated colors.
• Sharpness – The EF11 and EF12 have similar projection lenses, but the EF12’s higher resolution gives it a slight sharpness advantage. Fast action and text look cleaner with less fuzziness.
• Throw Distance – A shorter throw ratio allows positioning the projector closer to the screen. The EF12’s throw ratio is 1.04 – 1.47 versus 1.48 – 1.77 for the EF11.

Overall, while both deliver solid image quality, the Epson EF12 leverages higher resolution, brightness, contrast, color, and sharpness to provide a clearly superior visual experience.

Portability

One of the Epson EF series’ claims to fame is their compact, lightweight builds for easy portability. Here’s how the EF11 and EF12 models stack up:

• Dimensions – The projectors share a nearly identical chassis, with the EF11 measuring 11.5 x 9.0 x 4.7 inches and the EF12 at 11.5 x 9.0 x 4.6 inches. Neither model will take up much shelf space.
• Weight – At just 5.3 and 5.29 pounds, both models live up to their billing as ultra portable projectors. The minimal weight difference gives them equal portability.
• Built-In Battery – A key feature for portable use is the inclusion of a built-in battery. Both models include a battery with a 2-hour runtime off of AC power
• Carrying Case – Epson thoughtfully includes a protective soft carry case with both models. The case has a handle and shoulder strap for easy transport.
• Automatic Keystone Correction – Setting up in different locations is easier thanks to automatic keystone correction to square off the image. Both models include this adjustment feature.
• Manual Zoom/Focus – While focus and zoom are both manual, the simple dials make sharpness and size adjustments quick and easy.

Overall, the EF11 and EF12 are virtually identical when it comes to portable convenience. Their compact size, minimal weight, built-in batteries, carry cases and automatic keystone make them equally easy to pack up and use anywhere.

Connectivity

In terms of input and output options, the Epson EF11 and EF12 offer comparable standard connectivity suites:

• Video Inputs – Both have 2 HDMI ports and USB-A for media playback from external storage devices. The EF12 adds an extra USB-B port for computer connections.
• Audio – A single 3.5mm audio out jack provides sound output on both models. Neither has built-in speakers, so external ones are required.
• Wireless – Built-in Wi-Fi allows streaming over a home network, while Bluetooth handles audio playback from mobile devices. Miracast is also supported.
• Screen Mirroring – Both EF11 and EF12 offer screen mirroring to let users project from laptops, tablets and smartphones. Apps like Epson iProjection facilitate easy set up.
• Cables – HDMI and power cables are included in the box for both projector models.

Overall connectivity is very similar between the two. The EF12 gains an edge with its extra USB-B port for easy laptop hookups, but otherwise the available ports and wireless options are evenly matched. Both offer the essentials for home theater use.

Ease Of Use

When setting up a home theater, you want the projector to be simple and intuitive in operation. Here’s how the Epson EF11 and EF12 compare in usability:

• Setup – From unboxing to displaying an image, both models involve quick and straightforward setup. Simply plug in the HDMI and power cables and adjust the manual zoom and focus.
• Lamp Life – Relamping is one of the primary maintenance concerns for projectors. The EF11 and EF12 are evenly matched here with lamp life ratings of 6000 hours in normal mode.
• Filters – Both utilize dust filters to cut down on maintenance by preventing buildup on internal optics. The filters can be easily accessed and cleaned as needed.
• Manual Focus/Zoom – As mentioned earlier, focus and zoom rings allow quick, easy image adjustments during setup or after moving the projector location.
• Automatic Keystone – This auto-keystone feature on both models automatically corrects for any distorted quadrilateral images from angled projection.
• Remote control – While functional and backlit, the included remotes use small buttons that may prove frustrating. Opting for a universal remote is recommended.

Overall, there are minimal differences between the two models when it comes to simplicity of use and maintenance. First time users should find either model easy to integrate into their home theater.

Also Read: Is Epson EF-100W Better Than EF-12?

Noise Level

Projector noise can detract from immersive viewing experiences. Here’s how the Epson EF11 and EF12 compare:

• Fan Noise – Both utilize internal fans for cooling while running. Under normal conditions, they operate around 37dB for the EF11 and 39dB for the EF12. The 2dB difference is negligible.
• Eco Modes – Switching to ECO projection mode throttles down the brightness to lower fan speeds and noise. In ECO the EF11 drops to an ultra-quiet 26dB, while the EF12 reaches 29dB.
• Audible Buzzing – A small percentage of units have exhibited an audible buzzing sound thought to be from a bad internal fan bearing. But this is not widespread.

Overall, there is little separating the two models when it comes to operational noise. Both are relatively quiet for normal viewing. The EF11 has a slight edge in eco mode, but the difference is minor.

Special Features

Beyond core projection capabilities, each model offers a handful of bonus features:

• 2D Keystone – While both models feature auto keystone for rectangular correction, the EF12 adds 2D keystone for adjusting any quadrilateral shape. This allows more flexible positioning.
• Built-in Chromecast – Only the EF12 includes built-in Chromecast support for direct streaming from Chrome web browsers and Android devices.
• HDR10 Support – The Epson EF12 accepts HDR10 high dynamic range content from Blu-ray and streaming sources. This improves contrast and color for compatible material.
• Gaming Modes – With a low input lag of 32ms, the EF12 is better equipped for gaming with specific display modes for smoothing fast motion.

So when it comes to extra features, the Epson EF12 certainly packs in a few nice upgrades over the EF11, namely 2D keystone, Chromecast, HDR10, and gaming modes. For buyers looking to maximize functionality, these bonuses help provide additional value.

Pricing And Warranty

As Epson’s newer release, the EF12 carries a slightly higher MSRP than the EF11. Current retail pricing shakes out as follows:

Epson EF11 – $700

Epson EF12 – $800

The $100 difference between the two models is fairly proportional to the upgrade in resolution, brightness, contrast, color, and extra features noted above.

Both projectors carry a 1-year limited warranty from Epson to protect against defects and malfunctions. Extended protection plans are also available from third parties if desired.

Overall, the EF12 delivers upgraded performance and extras at a reasonable bump in street price over the EF11. Unless budget-limited, most buyers would be wise to invest the extra $100 in the EF12.

Also Read: Comparison Between Xgimi Horizon And Horizon Pro.

EF11 And EF12 – Pros And Cons

Now that we’ve compared the Epson EF11 and EF12 models across major categories, let’s summarize the relative pros and cons of each projector:

Epson EF11

Pros:

• Compact, ultra portable chassis
• Built-in battery for cord-free use
• Automatic vertical keystone correction
• Quiet operation in eco mode
• Very affordable pricing

Cons:

• Lacks full 1080p high definition resolution
• Lower brightness than EF12
• Weaker contrast ratio performance
• Fewer features than EF12

Epson EF12

Pros:

• Full native 1080p resolution
• Higher brightness rating at 2700 lumens
• Excellent 50,000:1 contrast ratio
• Wide DCI-P3 color gamut coverage
• Lower input lag benefits gaming
• 2D keystone, HDR10, and Chromecast
• Great mix of portability and performance

Cons:

• Slightly larger and heavier than EF11
• Higher price tag, although justified by upgrades

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Choose Between XGIMI Horizon And Halo Plus.

Conclusion

Overall, while both models have their merits, the Epson EF12 delivers better all-around performance and extras for a very reasonable step up in investment over the EF11. With superior imaging and bonus features lacking in the EF11, the EF12 is our recommended pick for most buyers unless strictly budget-limited.