Why RGB pure laser projectors are the preferred choice for many cinema exhibitors

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Photo credit: Toronto International Film Festival^®

It’s been roughly a decade since the first RGB pure laser projectors appeared in cinemas, and in that time, the technology has become a trusted choice for exhibitors around the world. Known for delivering outstanding picture quality, long-lasting performance, and energy efficiency, RGB pure laser projection has quickly established itself as the benchmark for premium on-screen experiences.

While Xenon illuminated projection continues to play an important role in many theatres, RGB pure laser has emerged as the illumination technology of choice for exhibitors who want to raise presentation quality, reduce operating costs, and future-proof their cinemas.

Why do cinema exhibitors choose RGB pure laser projection?

Exhibitors are adopting RGB pure laser projectors for several compelling reasons:

Unmatched image quality

RGB pure laser cinema projectors deliver the widest color gamut of any projection technology. With the ability to reach more than 95% of the Rec. 2020 color space, films come alive with deep, saturated colors and realistic tones that draw audiences into the story. Combined with higher contrast ratios and greater brightness, RGB pure laser projection provides a sharpness and clarity that reflects the creative intent of filmmakers.

Long-lasting stability

Unlike lamp-based projectors that gradually lose brightness, RGB pure laser cinema projectors maintain stable DCI-specified on-screen brightness for more than 50,000 hours. With solid-state light sources and sealed optical paths, exhibitors can rely on day-one quality year after year with minimal recalibration.

Lower total cost of ownership

While the initial investment in RGB pure laser projection is higher than Xenon, exhibitors benefit from reduced operating costs over time. Laser modules typically last more than 50,000 hours of standard use, eliminating the expense and labor of frequent lamp replacements. Add in higher energy efficiency, and the total cost of ownership becomes highly attractive.

Energy efficiency and sustainability

Energy costs are a growing concern for theatres worldwide. RGB pure laser projectors convert more lumens per watt, meaning they use less power to produce more brightness. Many models also remove the need for external chillers, further reducing electricity consumption and simplifying booth installation. For exhibitors, that means both lower bills and a smaller environmental footprint.

Why RealLaser is the right option for your cinema

RGB projection re-imagined

Christie^® RealLaser^™ technology takes these advantages even further, combining innovative engineering with a wide range of projector options for cinemas of every size. Real|Laser projectors feature:

Multi-Laser Pack Devices (MPDs): robust solid-state laser banks designed for accurate DCI content reproduction, including 3D exhibition on high-gain silver screens.
LiteLOC^™ technology: automatic white-point tracking that maintains color balance over the projector’s entire operational life.
Expanded color spectrum: greater than 95% of Rec. 2020 for vivid, true-to-life visuals.
High contrast ratios: delivering richer blacks, brighter highlights, and more detailed images.
Energy efficiency: up to 32% more efficient than competing RGB pure laser systems.

From boutique arthouse theatres to Premium Large Format (PLF) auditoriums, Christie RealLaser projectors are designed to provide exceptional on-screen experiences while keeping operations reliable and cost-effective.

Christie CP4455-RGB pure laser cinema projector

Known for delivering outstanding picture quality, long-lasting performance, and energy efficiency, RGB pure laser cinema projectors, like the CP4455-RGB above, have quickly established themselves as the benchmark for premium on-screen experiences.

A proven illumination platform

Just as Xenon remains a trusted choice for certain applications, RGB pure laser projection has proven itself as the illumination platform of choice for cinemas seeking higher quality and operational efficiency. More exhibitors are making the move each year, confident in the stability and performance RGB pure laser brings to their theatres.

At Christie, decades of experience in cinema projection technology have led to the development of a full portfolio of RealLaser projectors, giving exhibitors options that align with their budgets, screen sizes, and operational needs.

Looking ahead

Cinema is an evolving industry, and presentation technology plays a central role in keeping audiences engaged. With RGB pure laser cinema projection, exhibitors can deliver the brightness, contrast, and color that today’s moviegoers expect, while also benefiting from reliable operation and lower lifetime costs.

Christie RealLaser projectors represent the best of both worlds: cutting-edge performance with practical advantages that support long-term cinema success.