NothingProjector Black Series vs. Vividstorm: The Ultimate ALR Screen Showdown

In today’s world of high-end home theater setups, the projector screen has become just as crucial as the projector itself. And if you're diving into the ultra-short-throw (UST) laser projector market, chances are you've come across two heavyweight contenders: the NothingProjector Black Series and Vividstorm S PRO. Both are ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens, but which one truly reigns supreme?

Let’s take a deep dive into this epic battle of screen supremacy, analyzing everything from design to performance, installation, user experience, and overall value. This is more than just a comparison—it's your ultimate buying guide.

Chapter 1: Why ALR Screens Matter (A Quick Refresher)

Before we pit the two giants against each other, let’s clarify why ALR screens are such a big deal.

Traditional white projector screens (or worse, blank walls) are notorious for washing out colors and contrast in rooms with any amount of ambient light. ALR screens, on the other hand, are engineered with optical layers that reflect light from the projector while rejecting light from other sources. The result? Crisp contrast, rich colors, and deeper blacks even in rooms that aren’t pitch dark.

In other words: ALR screens = real cinema vibes without the blackout curtains.

Chapter 2: Meet the Contenders

NothingProjector Black Series:

Launched by NothingProjector—a brand that’s built a cult following for its focus on minimalist, high-performance home theater products—the Black Series is their flagship screen. Known for its futuristic look and uncompromising specs, it’s aimed at serious home cinema fans.

Vividstorm S PRO:

Vividstorm is no stranger to the game. Known for their motorized floor-rising ALR screens, the S PRO is one of their top offerings, often praised for its solid build and compatibility with a wide range of UST projectors.

Both of these screens are marketed as premium solutions, but their philosophies differ. Let’s break them down.

Chapter 3: Design and Aesthetics

When it comes to aesthetics, the NothingProjector Black Series takes a clear lead for the design-conscious crowd.

The screen features an ultra-thin bezel that nearly disappears once installed. It has a seamless surface with zero visible hardware, perfect for modern interiors. It's available in both wall-mount and motorized formats, but even the manual versions exude elegance.

In contrast, Vividstorm S PRO emphasizes function over form. Its casing is bulkier due to the floor-rising mechanism. While it's practical for setups where wall-mounting isn’t feasible, it doesn’t quite match the sleek minimalism of the Black Series.

Chapter 4: Material and Image Performance

Let’s talk picture quality—because that’s what truly matters.

The NothingProjector Black Series uses a proprietary lenticular ALR fabric with PET Crystal technology. This means:

• Exceptional ambient light rejection (up to 95%)

• 0.6 gain for accurate color reproduction

• 170-degree wide viewing angle

• Deep, rich contrast

In simple terms: the image pops off the screen, even with the lights on.

The Vividstorm S PRO also performs well, but its ALR material isn't as aggressive in light rejection. It offers decent gain and wide viewing angles, but blacks appear slightly lighter in rooms with uncontrolled lighting.

If your viewing space has windows or ambient lighting you can’t eliminate, the Black Series will likely offer the better experience.

Chapter 5: Setup and Installation

Installation is where these two start to diverge in terms of audience.

NothingProjector Black Series:

• Comes with all the mounting hardware you need

• Detailed guide makes DIY installation simple

• Lightweight frame helps with handling

Vividstorm S PRO:

• Arrives fully assembled in its motorized base

• No wall mounting required

• Just place it down, plug it in, and watch it rise

While the Black Series requires some manual labor, it rewards you with a more polished and permanent look. The S PRO, on the other hand, is ideal for renters or users who frequently move their setup.

Chapter 6: Compatibility with Projectors

Both screens are optimized for ultra-short-throw projectors, but their performance can vary slightly depending on the projector model.

Black Series:

• Tested with Formovie Theater, AWOL LTV-3500, Dangbei Mars Pro

• Great light absorption, even with high-lumen projectors

S PRO:

• Compatible with most major UST brands

• Works well with laser projectors but might need calibration for best performance

Again, the Black Series seems to be more forgiving and adaptive, especially for first-time users.

Chapter 7: Real User Feedback

Digging into user reviews from forums like AVSForum, Reddit, and YouTube reveals consistent themes.

NothingProjector Black Series:

• "Transformed my living room into a true theater experience."

• "Better than Vividstorm in terms of color and contrast."

• "Solid investment for serious movie lovers."

Vividstorm S PRO:

• "Love the motorized feature."

• "Great for temporary setups."

• "Image looks great, but wish it handled light better."

While both get love, the Black Series edges out in performance satisfaction.

Chapter 8: Pricing and Value

Premium performance usually comes with a premium price tag.

The NothingProjector Black Series is priced competitively for its segment, often undercutting other high-end ALR screens while delivering flagship features.

The Vividstorm S PRO tends to be more expensive, especially for the motorized versions. If the floor-rising feature isn’t a must-have, it might not justify the price for everyone.

Chapter 9: Pros and Cons Summary

NothingProjector Black Series Pros:

• Best-in-class ambient light rejection

• Sleek, modern design

• Wide compatibility

• Excellent value for money

Cons:

• Manual setup might be a hurdle for some

Vividstorm S PRO Pros:

• Motorized floor-rising feature

• Portable and renter-friendly

• Solid build quality

Cons:

• Slightly less ALR performance

• Bulky base design

Chapter 10: The Final Verdict

So, which screen should you choose?

If you're looking for the most cinematic experience in a bright room, the NothingProjector Black Series is hands-down the winner. It balances design, performance, and value in a way that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re watching blockbuster movies, sports, or gaming, this screen makes everything look better.

However, if you’re in a space where wall-mounting isn’t an option, or you want a flexible, plug-and-play setup, the Vividstorm S PRO holds its own as a practical and well-built alternative.

In the end, it comes down to your space, your needs, and how far you’re willing to go for that true cinematic experience.

Want to explore more about the NothingProjector Black Series and their full lineup of cutting-edge home cinema gear? Head to their official website: https://nothingprojector.com