What we liked
- The compact, unobtrusive format
- The precise 4K image with vivid colors
- The smooth picture thanks to MEMC
- The smooth, comprehensive Vidaa interface
- The good value for money
We would have liked
- Deeper contrast
- Higher brightness for daytime use
- Faster, more accurate keystone correction
- Slightly more punchy sound
Our expert’s opinion
I really appreciate the Hisense C2's compact, practical format. The picture is precise, colors rich, and the interface very responsive. For a 4K projector in this price range, the result is more than convincing. What it lacks, however, is stronger contrast, better brightness management in daylight, and a faster keystone correction to be perfect.
The Hisense C2 projector is a simplified version of the C2 Ultra model that still has the essentials: a high-quality 4K laser picture, a compact design and a full Smart TV interface. With its 2,000 lumens and TriChroma laser technology, it promises an immersive home theater experience at a more affordable price by dispensing with the optical zoom, HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced licenses, as well as the woofer of its elder sibling. Designed for family entertainment and movie nights, the Hisense C2 focuses on ease of installation, versatility and compactness. It remains to be seen whether the compromises made in relation to the C2 Ultra will have a significant impact on the cinema experience.
Presentation
The Hisense C2 is a long-throw projector that uses a compact format and advanced imaging technology to appeal to a wide audience. It features a DLP chip with 4K XPR emulation combined with a TriChroma triple laser light source to deliver an Ultra HD 4K image (3840 x 2160 pixels), with an image diagonal ranging from 65 to 300 inches (1.65 to 7.6m).
Its brightness of 2,000 ANSI lumens and native contrast of 1,700:1 ensure a bright, detailed picture, even when projecting in a dark room. The Hisense C2 supports today’s leading HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG, for a dynamic image with realistic hues. However, HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced are reserved for the C2 Pro and C2 Ultra.
The projector also features a 2 x 10 watt JBL stereo audio system, without a subwoofer, that is powerful enough for use in a medium-sized living room. Note that it supports Dolby Audio, but omits Dolby Atmos and DTS, two functions available on the C2 and C2 Ultra.
It also differs from the C2 Ultra in that it has no optical zoom, making do with a digital zoom, but retains a tilt and swivel base as well as automatic image adjustments to facilitate installation. It also features 3D compatibility, as well as most of the intelligent functions for which the brand is renowned.
Running under Vidaa U7, Hisense’s in-house Smart TV interface, this projector provides access to the most popular streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV+ and YouTube.
Thus equipped, the Hisense C2 projector is great value for money and is an excellent way to access 4K laser projection.
Key specifications
- Ultra HD 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Picture size: 65″ to 300”
- Projection ratio: 0.9-1.5:1
- Brightness: 2,000 ANSI lumens
- Native contrast: 1700:1
- Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Audio JBL: 2 x 10W
- Vidaa U7 system + Alexa voice assistant
- WiFi 6E, Bluetooth, HDMI 2.1 (x2), USB 3.0 (x2)
- 3D compatible
- 240Hz gaming in FHD
Included accessories
The Hisense C2 is supplied with a remote control (two AAA batteries included) that’s compatible with voice control and a power supply unit, as well as a user manual and warranty card. The manufacturer adds a fabric pouch to protect it from scratches and dust, when on the move or not in use. The remote control is the same as that of the other C2 range projectors, with direct access buttons for the main apps.
Quick and easy installation
Installing the Hisense C2 is quick and easy. Just set it up, plug it in, switch it on and point it at the wall or projection screen: the projector automatically adjusts the image size, focuses and applies keystone correction.
However, I found this correction a little slow compared with other projectors. It’s not a big problem on a day-to-day basis, but there’s still room for improvement compared to the competition. Note also that the zoom is digital only, which may have a slight impact on picture quality if you need to use it. On the other hand, this projector is very quiet, and fades completely into the background as film and video game soundtracks play.
📝 Expert advice
To get the most out of the Hisense C2 projector, I recommend installing it in a dark room to compensate for its moderate brightness. Avoid projecting during the day or near direct light sources. Ideally, draw the curtains or close the shutters and dim, or better still, switch off the lights in the room. It will then be possible to project onto a white wall, or onto a white screen with a gain of 1.
If you can't or don't want to project in the dark, then use an ALR projection screen specifically designed for long-throw projectors. A model from the Lumene Extra Bright LT range will enhance color vibrancy and image contrast.
My impressions of the Hisense C2
Design and ergonomics
The Hisense C2’s compact format is practical, and its swivel and tilt base makes it extremely easy to set up. It can be installed on a coffee table to project a video game on a living room wall, or on a bedside table in the bedroom for a movie night, projecting the image onto the ceiling. It’s light and maneuverable enough to be moved effortlessly, and I liked its discreet, modern look. The chassis is well assembled, the materials seem solid, the front panel’s fabric trim is very attractive, and the connection interface on the back is easy to access.
Connectors
All the Hisense C2’s connectors are grouped together on the rear panel, making it easy to connect all peripherals. There are two HDMI 2.1 ports (one of which is eARC compatible), two USB 3.0 ports, an optical audio output, a mini-jack output and an Ethernet port. The device also supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth to easily connect a pair of headphones, a controller or a keyboard.
Remote control
This projector has no physical controls on the chassis, so it is operated solely via its voice-activated remote control. The latter adopts an elegant brushed-metal design and features all the essential buttons for menu navigation, with shortcuts to streaming platforms. It’s a shame, however, that it’s neither backlit nor rechargeable, like the remote control of the Hisense 65U8Q TV (USB-C and solar sensor).
Picture quality
Despite a lower brightness than the C2 Ultra, the images projected by the Hisense C2 impressed me with their precision and colors. Hues are rich, vivid and natural, as long as you pay attention to the projection conditions.
In the dark home theater room of the Nantes Son-Vidéo.com store, I thoroughly enjoyed watching Formula 1 documentaries and series on Prime Video, as well as Top Gun: Maverick. I found the Filmmaker mode to be the most appropriate for films and series, with accurate, realistic colors.
Fluidity is good, thanks to MEMC motion compensation technology that effectively limits judder in film mode, without generating a soap opera effect. HDR formats are well handled, with good detail legibility in both light and dark areas of the picture.
That said, the contrast could be improved, as blacks lack depth and intensity. Finally, when projecting in a bright environment, the picture clearly lacks punch.
Convincing 3D effects
The Hisense C2 supports 3D content, whether it’s 3D Blu-rays or 3D SBS (Side by Side) and TAB (Top and Bottom) formats. Detection of 3D content on Blu-ray discs is automatic, making it easy to use. DLP-Link 3D glasses (sold separately) are required to view this content. 3D rendering is convincing, with good depth and effects that seem to jump out of the screen.
My recommended picture settings
Here are the settings I’ve found to be the most appropriate for dark rooms, so that you can enjoy your films and TV series that remain as true to the filmmakers’ intentions as possible. Of course, they can be fine-tuned according to the projection conditions and your preferences.
| Picture mode | Filmmaker |
Picture mode settings
| Laser brightness level | 10 |
| Brightness | 50 |
| Contrast | 80 |
| Color saturation | 50 |
| Sharpness | 0 |
Advanced settings
| Brightness | disable all |
| Colors | Temperature: warm Colorimetry (gamut): native |
| Clarity | Noise reduction: off Digital noise reduction: off Color gradation: low Super resolution: on |
| Movement | Motion compensation: film |
| Intelligent mode | Off |
Smart TV features
The Vidaa interface is responsive and intuitive, and offers quick access to most streaming services (Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, etc.). The Alexa voice assistant works well, and most video file formats can be played by the integrated media player via USB or LAN. Admittedly, the app catalog is less extensive than the Google Play Store, but the vast majority of streaming and TV replay services are present.
Audio quality
The sound provided by the 2 x 10 watt drivers is quite good for a compact projector. Dialogue is clear and effects are nicely rendered. It doesn’t achieve the deep, intense bass of the C2 Ultra, but the JBL signature is still audible, with low frequencies that are present and convincing enough for a medium-sized room. However, for full immersion with spatialized sound all around you,, a soundbar or a separate system is essential.
Gaming
The Hisense C2 supports 4K gaming at 60Hz and Full HD at up to 240Hz, guaranteeing smooth images. Latency is around 30ms in 1080p 120/240Hz, and almost 40 ms in 60Hz 4K. This is quite respectable for occasional use, and enabled me to enjoy Gran Turismo 7 with good responsiveness and smoothness, even though it’s a far cry from the 12ms achieved by the C2 Ultra in DLP Turbo mode. The latter remains the only model in the range to benefit from the Xbox certification, offering optimal gameplay with the Microsoft console. However, I did appreciate the presence of a dedicated game menu, enabling you to quickly adjust essential settings during the game.
Comparison: Hisense C2 vs Xgimi Horizon S Pro
The Xgimi Horizon S Pro stands out for its more powerful Harman/Kardon audio system, smooth Android TV 11 platform, faster automatic keystone and better gaming responsiveness (20ms). On the other hand, the Hisense C2 has the edge when it comes to brightness (2,000 lumens vs. 1,800 ISO lumens for the Xgimi), enabling it to better handle rooms with some lighting. In terms of colorimetry, both projectors cover 110% of the BT.2020 space, delivering rich, vivid colors. Both are Dolby Vision compatible, but only the Hisense C2 benefits from an official Netflix certification, a real plus for streaming enthusiasts. The Hisense is also the winner when it comes to maximum picture size (300″, versus 200” for the Xgimi).
Comparison: Hisense C2 vs Dangbei Mars Pro 2
On paper, the Dangbei Mars Pro 2 seems superior in terms of brightness, with 2,450 ISO lumens versus 2,000 ANSI lumens for the Hisense C2. However, these two measurements are not directly comparable, as the ANSI standard is more rigorous, which complicates the comparison of these figures. Regarding Smart TV features, the Dangbei projector embraces Google TV, but with an official Netflix certification, and offers slightly more extensive compatibility with streaming platforms than the Hisense. As for HDR formats, while they both support Dolby Vision, the Dangbei also manages HDR10+, while the C2 stops at HDR10.
Who is the Hisense C2 designed for?
The Hisense C2 is for those looking for an easy-to-install, compact and well-equipped 4K projector. It’s ideal for film and TV enthusiasts who want to watch movies and series in the evening, in a moderately lit or dark room. Gamers will be able to use it in Full HD at 240Hz, even if it’s slightly less responsive than the C2 Pro and C2 Ultra in this field.
The Hisense C2 offers an Ultra HD 4K image (3840 x 2160 pixels) thanks to a DLP chip with XPR processing, for precise, detailed rendering.
It uses a TriChroma triple laser light source, guaranteeing rich, intense colors, with 110% coverage of the BT.2020 space.
This projector delivers a brightness of 2,000 ANSI lumens. For optimum image quality, we recommend using it in a dark room.
Yes, it supports Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG HDR formats. HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced are reserved for the more high-end models.
It can be used during the day with an ALR technical screen, but it will offer the best picture in a dark or dimly lit room.
The Hisense C2 can project an image from 65 to 300 inches (1.65 to 7.6 meters across), with a projection ratio of 0.9-1.5:1.
Yes. Once it is positioned and plugged in, it automatically adjusts image size, focus and keystone correction. Note that the zoom is digital only.
Yes, it supports 3D Blu-ray as well as 3D SBS and TAB formats. Disc detection is automatic. DLP-Link glasses (sold separately) are required.
It features a 2 x 10W JBL stereo audio system. The sound is convincing for a living room, but the addition of a soundbar is recommended for optimal immersion.
Two HDMI 2.1 (including an eARC), two USB 3.0, an optical output, a mini-jack port and an Ethernet port. WiFi 6E and Bluetooth are also included.
Yes, it supports 4K games at 60Hz and Full HD up to 240Hz, with an input lag of around 30-40ms. A dedicated gaming menu lets you adjust settings while gaming.
The projector runs under Vidaa U7, with fast access to the main streaming and SVOD platforms: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, YouTube, Canal+, TF1+, France TV, Arte, M6+, RMC Sport, UEFA TV, FIFA+, SFR TV, Molotov TV, Rakuten TV, etc.
Yes, the Hisense C2 offers a 4K picture, good sound and a smooth interface in a compact format, for a more affordable price than the C2 Pro and C2 Ultra.
