The Hisense C2 laid a solid foundation in the affordable 4K laser projector segment. Its successor, the Hisense C3, arrives with a number of targeted upgrades to an already highly accomplished base. With increased brightness, an optical zoom and new features, Hisense has refined its formula without a full overhaul. Available now to pre-order at €1,790, is this new version a real step forward or just an update?
Hisense C3 vs C2 comparison table
| Hisense C2 | Hisense C3 | |
| Luminosité | 2 000 lumens | 2 500 lumens (+25 %) |
| Contraste natif | 1 700:1 | 2 000:1 |
| Zoom | Numérique | Optique (meilleure qualité) |
| IMAX Enhanced | Non | Oui |
| Formats HDR | Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR 10, HLG |
| Taux de rafraîchissement | 4K 60 Hz / 2K 240 Hz | 4K 60 Hz / 2K 240 Hz / 120 Hz |
| Système Smart TV | VIDAA U7 | VIDAA U9 (plus récent) |
| Weight | 5.3 kg | 6.2 kg |
A clear improvement in brightness
The first striking change concerns brightness. The Hisense C3 reaches 2,500 lumens, compared with 2,000 lumens for the C2. This 25% increase means it can be used more comfortably in bright environments, while maintaining good clarity with HDR content.
The technical foundations remain similar, with 4K UHD projection via triple-laser DLP technology, capable of covering a wide color space (110% BT.2020 on both models). Contrast has also improved, rising from 1,700:1 to 2,000:1, helping to enhance the depth of blacks and the image as a whole.
Finally, the C3 adds IMAX Enhanced compatibility and HDR10+ support, absent from the C2, to complement existing HDR formats such as Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG.
A more flexible, controlled image
The Hisense C3 introduces several improvements in image processing and adjustment. One of the most concrete evolutions concerns the zoom, now optical on the C3, whereas the C2 is limited to a digital zoom. This change enables constant image quality to be maintained when adjusting projection size.
The projection range remains the same, from 65 to 300 inches, but the projection ratio has changed slightly (1.0–1.3:1 on the C3 versus 0.9–1.5:1 on the C2). The C3 therefore offers a narrower range, which often means better optical performance.
Installation assistance functions remain comprehensive on both models: automatic correction, 9-point adjustment and obstacle avoidance.
A more modern connected experience
The Smart TV system has also evolved. The C3 features VIDAA U9, compared to VIDAA U7 on the C2. This update brings a more up-to-date interface and greater compatibility with services and apps.
Connectivity is improved slightly with the integration of Bluetooth 5.3 on the C3, while the C2 offers more generic Bluetooth compatibility. WiFi 6E remains present on both models, as do AirPlay and screen-sharing functions.
As far as audio is concerned, both projectors retain a similar configuration: a 2 x 10 W system from JBL with Dolby Audio compatibility. The sound experience therefore remains similar, with an integrated solution designed for use without external equipment.
A similar design, but a different approach
Visually and in terms of size, the two models remain very similar, with identical dimensions (246 x 246 x 252 mm). However, the C3 weighs slightly more (6.2 kg vs. 5.3 kg), which may be explained by different optical and cooling components.
The sound level remains contained at 28 dB, allowing discreet use in home theater environments.
With a launch price of €1,790, the C3 is positioned as a direct evolution of the C2, bringing targeted improvements without radically changing the overall architecture.
Summary
The Hisense C3 clearly follows in the footsteps of the C2, with a progressive evolutionary approach. Increased brightness, the addition of an optical zoom and IMAX Enhanced compatibility are the main advances. The latest Smart TV system and extended gaming capabilities complete the package.
This new model retains the fundamentals of the C2, such as triple laser technology and the integrated audio system, while improving on key points related to everyday use. The C3 is therefore a more accomplished version, designed for versatile use, from home theater to video games.
