4DX vs IMAX: Which One is Best Between IMAX and 4DX? (2023)

Time is changing, isn’t it? A few years back, people were stuck on 3D. Nowadays, new technology is taking over progressively. Hence, people are now less excited over 3D as more fabulous features like 4D and 5D are on the reign. In this article, we’ll discuss 4DX Vs. IMAX to give you a better insight into how new tech is expanding worldwide.

IMAX primarily offers 2D and 3D experiences. It’s a massive theater with a great sound system. Besides, you’ll feel like you’re part of the movie while watching a show on IMAX! Yes, this is how it is!

On the other side, 4DX possesses 4D motion seats, cutting-edge audiovisuals, and fantastic special effects. The action scenes are totally outstanding in 4DX. Although 4DX is better than IMAX, IMAX is more available worldwide.

4DX is inspired by top Hollywood directors and movie studios like Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros, Dreamworks, Disney, etc. Henceforth, if you want to taste a truly immersive movie experience, 4DX is undoubtedly the option you should select. But, if you choose superior sound quality and a lesser-priced option, IMAX is the best.

Now, let’s check the article thoroughly to learn more about them and see the comparison between these two giants.

4DX Vs. IMAX: Which One Will be the Best?

Here, we’ll talk about 4DX Vs. IMAX. When you watch a film, it’s essential to get the experience the director wants us to taste. Otherwise, an emptiness will indeed work after the show! Therefore, the format really plays a significant role while enjoying the show. Before entering the main discussion, we must need to know about 4DX and IMAX.

What is 4DX?

What is 4DX

4DX is a 4D film format and is a state-of-art cinematographic technology instigated for watching movies. It is owned and developed by the South Korean company CJ 4DPlex. Besides, they created it to prompt a new tech that could revolutionize the film industry. It delivers an enchanting multi-sensory film experience to the audience.

This new tech brings a superior on-screen experience no one experienced before. The type of environmental effects, such as fog, snow, scent, etc., are provided by it. Hence, you’ll feel like you’re inside the movie and a big part of it! Nevertheless, the synchronized motion chairs are the most exciting thing on the 4DX technology.

Overview of 4DX

4DX is a film technology that brings a new chapter to the movie-watching experience and has massively enhanced cinema tech since its inauguration. The viewers can taste out worldly vibes with 4DX due to its on-screen visuals and outstanding cinematic excellence.

South Korean company CJ 4DPLEX invented it back in 2018. Although it’s not well-known as IMAX, it has already made a considerable impact among moviegoers and is becoming popular among them. According to film critics and experts, if cinema halls didn’t close due to COVID-19 for two years, 4DX could now achieve much more popular status.

Further, 4DX movie halls consist of something you have never seen before. It has a moving chair along with different environmental effects like scent, water, fog, wind, etc. Another remarkable thing about 4DX is there is no break while you watch a film. You can watch the whole movie in one go.

It’s no surprise that 4DX theaters provide a 4D movie-watching experience. You’ll get an immersed experience you’ve tasted before. Here are some sophisticated effects you’ll find when you watch a movie in a 4DX theatre –

  • Fog
  • Heave
  • Water
  • Rain
  • Scent
  • Snow
  • Lightening
  • Snowstorm
  • Bubbles

It’s easy to guess that the type of film you’re watching greatly impacts the film’s immersion rate. As a result, some movies are perfect for 4DX. Now, the question can be raised about which types of film we should watch in a 4DX theatre.

Well, that’s a valid question. Take a look at below –

  • Animation Films – The likes of Disney, Dreamworks Animation, etc., work great in 4DX theatre. You can enjoy movies like Frozen, Hotel Transylvania, How to train your dragon, etc., on 4DX.
  • Live-Action Films – Live-action films are very enchanting. Thus, you could enjoy the action and intense scenes with utter happiness!
  • Action Films – When it comes to the matter of action films, 4DX is second to none. If you want to enjoy movies like Avengers, Batman, Top Gun, etc., you won’t find a better option than this.
  • Horror Films – Horror films like Friday the 13th, Chucky, etc., will completely immerse you in the movie.

These types of movies will give you the most superior experience in a 4DX theatre. Nevertheless, the experience could vary upon the different films and individuals. Moreover, you won’t enjoy comedy, drama, or biographical films on 4DX.

Although 4DX supplies an out worldly experience, many people still express their concern regarding this format. For instance, some people complain that the 4DX feature isn’t utilized in the whole film. Moreover, many people find fogs and bubbles very cold and blocking the screen. It hampers their movie watching rhythm.

The wind noise makes movie watching so tricky. Some people are also not accustomed to deep scents. They have an allergy to it. So, it’s clear that some effects are distracting and don’t provide an excellent experience.

But one thing we want to make clear is that – these incidents are incoherent and it doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy 4DX films in the theater.

What is IMAX?

IMAX

We assume that you’ve already heard the name of IMAX. It is much more well-known than 4DX. Besides, IMAX has revolutionized the movie-watching experience by initiating massive screens, high-resolution images, and excellent sound quality systems. IMAX theaters’ screens are so large that there’s no scope for any distractions.

IMAX Corporation brought this technology. Before its introduction, they’ve acknowledged the importance of newer technology that could change the movie-watching experience. People used to watch films on standard screens with poor image quality and a regular sound system. Hence, the initiation of IMAX changed everything that ushered in a new era in the movie industry.

IMAX technology consists of different types of technological innovations. Those brand-new technologies include – digital audio systems, projectors, IMAX cameras, and magnificent theater designs. On top of that, people generally love to watch films on IMAX. It gives them a fantastic experience, unlike ordinary cinema halls.

Overview of IMAX

IMAX has become extremely popular among people who like to enjoy the film in a more sophisticated way. It is now branded as the “gold standard” in the movie world. Therefore, it’s no surprise that IMAX theaters’ tickets are much more expensive than regular ones.

Many hall owners keep regular and IMAX theaters side-by-side. However, people don’t mind buying IMAX tickets since they give a unique vibe. Due to the immersive experience, the ticket’s added price is worthwhile. Besides, IMAX 3D is the most immersive 3D technology in the world. Two different projectors are available for IMAX 3d – vertical and horizontal images.

Further, the screens of IMAX theaters are considerably larger than regular halls. For instance, they’re around 60 feet wide and about 20 feet tall. IMAX builds its own formats, cameras, projectors, etc. This is why IMAX films are so superb in quality-wise and fill the entire hall screen.

Moreover, the sound system of IMAX is much more high-quality than regular theaters. You will indeed listen to everything clearly with this one. The seats of the theater are placed marvelously. It doesn’t matter where you’re sitting; you can clearly enjoy the movie despite the giant curved screen.

According to IMAX, the theaters, cameras, and projectors of IMAX possess magnificent things like –

  • Re-mastering quality
  • Superb clearness
  • Perfect tuning
  • Pinpoint accuracy
  • Laser-aligned audio placement
  • Awesome brightness
  • Flawless execution of the director’s vision
  • Laser-aligned audio placement

IMAX remasters the film on a regular basis. As a result, moviegoers can have an immersive experience. Nowadays, many top Hollywood directors are making their films using IMAX cameras. Further, IMAX has a majestic level of 3D. You’ll have a unique 3D experience with IMAX. The 3D of IMAX is much more immersive in comparison to real 3D.

Nevertheless, IMAX 3D has its limits. It isn’t resistant to your head maneuvering. But what does that mean? It means if you tilt your head while enjoying an IMAX film, the screen could blur at any moment. During expanded screenings, your neck can get sore and you’ve to do some neck exercises in order to make yourself flexible.

Now, the question is, which type of movies are perfect for watching in IMAX? Let’s check –

  • Action Films

Are you a fan of Avengers, Justice League, or Batman? The Infinity War, Captain America: Civil War, The Dark Knight Rises, etc., were shot in IMAX cameras. Due to the IMAX camera, the picture quality of those films gets enhanced.

  • Live-Action Films

Live-action films like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Mary Poppins, etc., were more enjoyable with IMAX cameras.

  • Fantasy and Sci-fi Films

The fantasy, disaster, and sci-fi films will give you a magnificent vibe if you watch those films on IMAX. For example, movies like Godzilla Vs. Kong, Jurassic World, The Tomorrow War, Star Wars, etc., will give you an immersive experience you’ve ever tasted before.

Many IMAX theaters provide food service during the show. Therefore, movie lovers don’t have to move an inch while enjoying it. However, not all theaters have such advantages. It will vary. The special effect, majestic brightness, and eye-popping colors will give you a new experience that an ordinary theater is incapable of.

Movies I Experienced in 4DX and IMAX

I want to give you some movie lists I’ve enjoyed in both 4DX and IMAX theaters. Let’s check the names and see what matches with you!

4DX Theater

Here is the list of films I’ve enjoyed in 4DX –

  • Shazam!
  • Jurassic World: Dominion
  • Batman Vs. Superman – Dawn of Justice
  • Venom
  • Captain America: Civil War
  • Batman
  • Uncharted

IMAX Theater

Here is the list of movies I’ve enjoyed in IMAX –

  • The Dark Knight Rises
  • Avengers – Infinity War
  • Avengers – Endgame
  • Gravity
  • Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol
  • Wonder Woman 1984
  • Frozen 2
  • Spiderman: Homecoming

However, we recommend you watch the films in IMAX that are shot through the IMAX cameras. The reason is the shots and effects can be perfectly executed through this process. As a result, you could feel the original rhythm of the film. However, if you’ve got the option between the two, 4DX will be good.

Here, we are giving a comparison table that could help to differentiate between 4DX and IMAX –

Parameters4DXIMAX
Display Size4DX screens are significant. But, not as big as IMAX.IMAX screen size is enormous. It is around 60 feet wide and 20 feet tall
Projector4DX uses a 4DX screen technology system. It is generally cited as 4DX with Screen X.IMAX has its own projectors. The patented projector of IMAX is known as “Rolling Loop Technology“. It involves digital and laser projection.
Film Effect21 signature film effectsImmersive 3D film
Integrated Technology4DX integrates techs like environmental, motion seats, and sound effects.IMAX has unique IMAX cameras, projectors, and even theaters.
AvailabilityIt is available across the US, Brazil, Canada, Japan, China, and a few other countries.Available in the US, Europe, and multiple countries. There are almost 2000 IMAX theaters worldwide.
Application4D films3D films
OwnershipSouth Korean company CJ 4DPlex is the developer and owner of 4DX.IMAX is a Canadian company.
Ticket PriceThe ticket price is around $24-$30.The ticket price is around $16-$20.

4DX and IMAX: How Can We Make a Comparison between Them

We can mention plenty of things to seek a difference between 4DX Vs. IMAX. Let’s check –

Display Size and Image Quality

This is the foremost thing when we make a comparison between two movie theater giants. When it comes to the matter of screen size, IMAX is IMAX. Nothing comes even close to it. Besides, the IMAX theaters run from wall to floor. The screen is dome-shaped and it is 60 feet wide. Sometimes, watching a film on an advanced IMAX screen could be 117 feet tall.

Due to the curved screen, anybody can conveniently enjoy the film despite sitting anywhere in the auditorium. Moreover, the images move around toward the audience. It gives them a real-time action and heavenly vibe during the show.

The brightness is superb and balanced in IMAX shows. The IMAX 3D is fabulous and gives extraordinary feelings to the audience.

The display of 4DX is nowhere near its counterpart. It is almost the same as the regular cinema halls. Further, the brightness is also not that notable. But, you can enjoy the film perfectly by sitting anywhere in the auditorium without tilting your neck.

Audio Quality

IMAX has its own patented audio technology. This tech can comprehensively enhance the sound clearness. Furthermore, it uses sound signals, amplifiers, and loudspeaker systems. But, 4DX generally made a sound from different perspectives.

For instance, the sounds of 4DX have been in sync with the various effects on the scenes of a film. The crashes, raining, fighting, etc., have their own sound effects.

Film Format

IMAX shows films in 2D and 3D formats. Meanwhile, it doesn’t matter whether you’ll see the movie in 2D, 3D, or 70mm; the file format is the highest for any motion pictures till now. There is still no competition and the IMAX film format is much larger than usual theaters.

On the other side, 4DX uses a 4D view file format for the audience. It shows 2D, monoscopic film format and 3D stereoscopic film format. Further, it provides various environmental effects during the show.

Theater Design

4DX theaters consist of various sophisticated designs. There are 21 signature effects available for 4DX. The effects such as lightning, crushing, scents, rain, fog bubbles, etc., are available in this format. You’ll feel like you’re also a part of the film.

IMAX theaters don’t possess such effects at all. But, you can enjoy the film on a giant screen and it will also give you utter pleasure. Additionally, the brightness and color saturation of IMAX are beyond words.

Comfort

While watching the film in a movie theater, comfort is a significant matter. There is no specialty in IMAX. Thus, seats are padded and adjusted. You’ll feel comfortable. But, oversized people could face bit of a problem. The seat doesn’t move and it stands still. One problem is that you can’t move too much and must place your body in a particular space.

Things are pretty much different for 4DX halls. It features motion chairs. Hence, they move during the show. When something moves, you’ll feel you’re also cruising with that. The special effects are so natural and high-end. Due to the random motions, you can’t eat while enjoying the show.

Availability

IMAX is exceptionally suitable for both 2D and 3D movies. The display is gigantic and also possesses sheer brightness. Further, there are nearly 2000 IMAX movie theaters all around the globe. More than 80 countries have IMAX theaters.

With such an extensive number, it is safe to say that IMAX is much more conveniently accessible to moviegoers. Apart from the US, IMAX theaters are available in Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Brazil, a selected number of European countries, etc.

Contrariwise, things are pretty different for IMAX’s counterpart. 4DX is not that available to date. 4DX is actually the best option for superhero and action flicks. Additionally, the environmental effects can have a negative impact sometimes. They might not be so attractive for the whole movie.

Around 750 4DX cinema halls are available worldwide in nearly 50 countries.

Ticket Price

The prices of IMAX tickets mainly depend on the movie format. Additionally, the price of 2D and 3D formats won’t be the same. However, the IMAX ticket costs you around $16 to $20. You’ll get gigantic screens, high-quality sound systems, incredible brightness, and you also can enjoy various foods while watching the show.

On the other hand, the ticket price is a bit expensive for 4DX halls. You’ve to pay around $24 to $30 to watch films there. On top of that, you’ll get 21 multisensory surrounding effects while enjoying the show. The vibe and environment are simply extraordinary and you’ll feel one of the film crew while watching movies in 4DX halls.

IMAX Vs. 4DX– Which One is better and Recommendable?

IMAX Vs. 4DX

It’s too difficult to choose. But, if you ask me what to select from these two – I will happily pick IMAX ahead of its counterpart. For instance, 4DX halls are primarily suitable for action flicks. If you go there to watch biographical, drama, or comedy films, you won’t enjoy it without a doubt. There will be no effect at all and the chair will move hard.

Hence, the moving chair is the main feature of this format and if it doesn’t move, you will be disappointed. Besides, the larger the screens are, the more you’ll enjoy them. The 4DX screens are not that massive-sized like IMAX, which bothered me.

The brightness and saturation are also not up to the mark for 4DX displays. I want to say it clearly that I didn’t like the scents, winds, or rain too much. They kind of distracted me while watching the show. Thus, when the seats are on the move, I feel like I need a seatbelt to keep my balance!

The last film I watched in 4DX was “Jurassic World: Dominion” in New Jersey with my girlfriend. Perhaps, this is the last show I’ve watched in 4DX. I don’t have any more interest in watching films in this format. Henceforth, the wind, and scary-type effects were so annoying.

Nevertheless, IMAX has been on the ground since the ’60s. The company invested and perfected this format for an extended period. Moreover, IMAX can feature any type of film, unlike 4DX. 4DX halls seemed to me for limited movies.

Another problem with 4DX is that you can’t take popcorn or drinks inside the theater. If you can, there’s a chance that the food can slip up from your hands and spill onto the floor. As a result, the movie watching could turn into a nightmare! So, you have to fill your belly before entering the hall.

But there’s no such problem with IMAX theaters. You can effortlessly take food and beverages with you and enjoy the show while eating the snacks.

The truth is that both 4DX and IMAX have been created to provide an immersive movie experience to moviegoers. Different people have different perceptions. The bigger screen, superior sound quality, high-quality pictures, snack eating facilities, etc., draws me closer to IMAX rather than 4DX.

However, 4DX is only four years old. So, it’s assumable that it is still in the improvement stage. Who knows, things could get different for 4DX in a few years? After all, technology changes always and it is a highly competitive market.

I’ve learned one thing. The thing is, which theater you will choose solely depends on how you love your movies. For me, I love to watch films on my Google Nexus phone! I lay on my bed or sofa with a drink bottle and enjoy the movie to the fullest!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQs

Which one should I choose between 4DX and IMAX?

Both are superb. 4DX and IMAX will give you a new way of experiencing movies that an ordinary movie theater can’t ever offer. On top of that, you’ll get an immersive movie experience with superior sound quality and eye-popping visuals.
However, if you don’t like more vigorous and intensifying motion, you should skip 4DX. Moreover, if you have any heart problems or are pregnant, then I will advise you to stay away from 4DX. IMAX is also a splendid format with curved screens and great sound systems.

What do IMAX 3D and 4DX 3D have in common?

IMAX 3D and 4DX 3D can deliver a complete immersion experience to moviegoers. In order to feel the vibe of 3D, you have to wear 3D glasses in your eyes. Without the glass, you’ll see all images are a blur and you can’t understand anything.

Is it possible to switch the moving chairs in the middle of the 4DX movie?

No, you can’t. The reason is a specific 4DX technology controls it. So, it’s impossible to switch the chair during the show. When the movie starts, all people’s chairs will begin to move and there’s no chance of switching off.

What is the remarkable thing about IMAX?

IMAX has been created to give movie lovers a uniquely immersive experience. It is one of the leading movie technologies in the world. Hence, this is attached to its large screens, superior audio quality, and 4K resolution images. Furthermore, you can also enjoy both 2D and 3D movies in this format.

Wrapping Up – We’re at the End!

It’s too hard to make a judgment on the 4DX Vs. IMAX debate. Our guide is to give you a proper idea on what you should expect while visiting to watch films in any of this format. On top of that, 4DX possesses the most advanced technology.

But, the constant moving chair and too many special effects could be disgusting. In such a case, you can select IMAX. It won’t disappoint you. But, you can also pay the price for a ticket and judge everything by yourself.

If you have any more questions regarding it, feel free to ask in the box below. And, share the article to the friends and relatives who are in doubt which format they should choose.

Happy cinematic experience to all!

Lance Ulanoff is a renowned tech journalist, commentator, and on-air expert with over 36 years of experience. He has held esteemed positions including Editor in Chief of Lifewire and Mashable, where he delved into the impact of technology on daily life. Lance's expertise has been featured on major news programs globally, and he has made appearances on Fox News, CNBC, and the BBC.