IMAX VS RPX: A Detailed Comparison
By Robert Jones · 2021-11-28
Right, you're off to the flicks, but what's all this IMAX and RPX malarkey? I've put both through their paces to tell you which premium cinema format is worth your hard-earned cash.
Right, so you're off to the flicks, aren't ya? Decent. But then you're hit with all these fancy letters – IMAX, RPX, D-Box, 4DX, bloody VIP seats with reclining armchairs. It's enough to make your head spin, especially when all you want to do is see the latest Bond film or a Marvel romp without selling a kidney for a ticket. For years, cinema was cinema, eh? Popcorn, sticky floors, big screen, job done. Now it’s a minefield of "premium" experiences, all promising to blow your socks off. But which ones are actually worth your hard-earned quid? That's what I'm here to sort out. Today, we're diving headfirst into the big debate between IMAX and RPX. Two of the most common "enhanced" cinema experiences you'll find dotted around the UK. I've dragged my missus, and sometimes even the grandkids, to enough of these screens to tell you a thing or two. And trust me, not all of them deliver on the hype. Some are brilliant, some are a bit of a rip-off. Let's get stuck in and see if we can save you a few quid and a bad night out. **Quick Verdict: For sheer scale and immersive sound, IMAX usually wins the day, but RPX offers a cracking all-rounder for a bit less cash.** ### Who it's for: * **IMAX:** Serious film buffs, anyone wanting the absolute biggest picture and most enveloping sound, fans of epic blockbusters, people who don't mind paying a premium for a truly grand cinematic event. * **RPX:** Folks who want a step up from standard cinema without breaking the bank, those who appreciate comfortable seats and a slightly larger, brighter picture, people who enjoy action films but aren't overly fussed about the absolute largest screen. ### Who should skip it: * **IMAX:** Budget-conscious viewers, anyone who gets motion sickness easily (some scenes can be intense), people primarily watching comedies or dramas where a massive screen isn't essential. * **RPX:** Hardcore videophiles seeking the ultimate resolution, those who demand the very largest screen possible, anyone who finds slightly louder audio fatiguing.  *IMAX VS RPX: A Detailed Comparison — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## IMAX: The Big Dog, Literally So, IMAX. This is probably the one most people have heard of, eh? It's been around in various forms for decades, evolving from those massive documentary domes to what we see in multiplexes today. When people talk about IMAX, they're generally talking about two things: the massive screen size and the bespoke sound system. And when they say massive, they mean *massive*. We're talking screens that stretch from floor to ceiling, wall to wall, filling your entire field of vision. It's proper impressive, I won't lie. The original idea was all about absolute immersion, making you feel like you're right there in the film. They did this by using special cameras that capture higher resolution images than standard film, and then projecting them onto these enormous screens with incredibly powerful projectors. For years, this meant physical 70mm film stock, which was a nightmare to handle but delivered unbelievable clarity. Nowadays, most mainstream IMAX cinemas use digital projection, which is easier to manage but occasionally doesn't quite hit the same heights as true 70mm. Still, it's leagues ahead of your standard cinema screen. ### Screen Size: A Wall of Picture The most striking thing about IMAX is always the screen. It's just enormous. I've been in some, like the Odeon Greenwich or the BFI IMAX, where the screen practically wraps around you. It's not just bigger; it's shaped differently, often slightly curved, to pull you into the action. Standard cinema screens are usually 1.85:1 or 2.39:1 aspect ratios, but IMAX can go up to 1.90:1 or even 1.43:1 for films specifically shot with IMAX cameras, filling that entire tall screen. When you get a film that was *made* for IMAX, like a Christopher Nolan epic or a proper documentary, you notice the extra detail and the expanded picture. It's not just a blown-up image; it's literally *more* picture. I remember seeing 'Dunkirk' at the BFI IMAX, and honestly, the sheer scale of it was breathtaking. You could feel the grit on the beach, the vastness of the sky. It wasn't just watching a film; it was an experience. But here's the rub: not all IMAX screens are created equal. You've got "LieMAX" or "faux-IMAX" as some enthusiasts call it, which are basically standard cinemas retrofitted with a slightly larger screen and IMAX branding, but without the true scale or bespoke projection system of a full-fat IMAX theatre. It's a bit cheeky, really, so always check the specific cinema's dimensions if you're chasing the proper experience. ### Sound: Loud and Proud Then there's the sound. IMAX uses a proprietary sound system, often 12-channel, sometimes with extra overhead speakers. It's designed to be incredibly precise and powerful. The bass is usually phenomenal, really hitting you in the chest when it needs to. Dialogue is usually crystal clear, even amidst explosions and chaos. They tune each individual auditorium to ensure the sound is optimised for that specific space. This isn't just throwing a few more speakers in; it's a proper engineered setup. I've had some amazing experiences with IMAX sound. 'Mad Max: Fury Road' springs to mind; the rumble of those engines, the crunch of metal – it was visceral. It can be loud, mind, sometimes almost uncomfortably so if you're sensitive. But for an action film or anything with a big, orchestral score, it's usually top-notch. It truly adds another layer of immersion, placing sounds all around you, above you, making the whole world of the film feel more real. ### The Cost of Immersion Right, let's talk brass tacks: the price. IMAX tickets are almost always the most expensive option. You're easily looking at £15-£20 a pop, sometimes more in central London. Is it worth it? For certain films, absolutely. For others, maybe not so much. If you're going to see a rom-com, you'd be a bit daft paying the IMAX premium. But for a big Hollywood spectacle, a sci-fi epic, or a nature documentary, it often justifies the extra cost. You're paying for that "wow" factor, that sensory overload you don't get at home. ## RPX: Reclining Seats and a Bit More Punch Now, RPX. This is Cineworld's answer to the premium cinema experience. RPX stands for "Regal Premium Experience," which makes sense as Regal is Cineworld's American counterpart. It's not as ubiquitous as IMAX, but you'll find them in a fair few Cineworlds around the country. Where IMAX goes for sheer unadulterated scale, RPX aims for a more comfortable, slightly enhanced overall experience without necessarily reaching the absolute extremes. ### Screen and Projection: A Step Up RPX screens are definitely bigger than your standard cinema screen, typically around 40 feet wide, which is a good size. They're also usually brighter, thanks to improved digital projectors, often with 4K resolution. This means a clearer, punchier picture with better contrast and more vibrant colours than a regular screen. You won't get the same floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall engulfment of a true IMAX, but it's a noticeable improvement over the bog-standard screen 7 down the corridor. I've seen a few films in RPX, and the picture quality is always decent. It's crisp, colours pop a bit more, and it feels more premium. For films that weren't specifically shot for IMAX, the difference between RPX and some of the "LieMAX" screens can be negligible, sometimes even favouring the RPX for its consistent quality. It's a reliable upgrade, put it that way. ### Sound System: Dolby Atmos or Similar Sound in RPX auditoriums is generally handled by Dolby Atmos or a comparable immersive sound system. Now, Dolby Atmos is brilliant. It's not just about more speakers; it's about placing sounds in a 3D space, including overhead effects. This means a helicopter doesn't just fly across the screen; it flies *over* you. Rain feels like it's falling from the ceiling. It's incredibly effective for creating a sense of environment and movement. While IMAX has its own bespoke sound, Atmos is a widely adopted and highly effective competitor. The RPX sound tends to be robust, clear, and capable of significant impact. The bass isn't quite as chest-thumping as some of the best IMAX systems, but it's certainly no slouch. Dialogue is always clear, and the spatial effects are impressive. For most people, the difference between a good Dolby Atmos setup in RPX and an IMAX sound system will be marginal, and both offer a far superior experience to standard cinema sound. ### Comfort and Cost: A Balanced Approach One area where RPX often shines is comfort. Many RPX screens come with bigger, more comfortable seats – often proper high-backed recliners with more legroom. This makes a huge difference if you're settling in for a two-and-a-half-hour epic. I mean, who wants a numb bum halfway through the climactic battle, eh? Some even have dedicated armrests and little tables for your snacks and drinks. It's a nice touch and genuinely enhances the experience. Price-wise, RPX sits between a standard ticket and an IMAX one. You're usually looking at something like £12-£16, which is a decent compromise. You get a noticeable upgrade in picture, sound, and comfort without quite the financial sting of an IMAX ticket. For a regular cinema-goer who wants a bit extra without splurging, RPX hits a real sweet spot. ## Head-to-Head: IMAX vs. RPX – The SpeakersMag Showdown Alright, let's pit these two against each other properly. I've seen films in both, often the same film if I'm doing my "research" properly (and if the missus will let me go twice). There are definite differences, and your preference will depend on what you value most in a cinema trip. | Feature | IMAX (True IMAX) | RPX (Regal Premium Experience) | | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------ | | **Screen Size** | Massive, floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall (up to 1.43:1) | Large, brighter, typically 40ft+ wide (standard cinema aspect ratios) | | **Projection** | Dual 4K Laser (best) or Dual 2K Xenon (digital) | High-quality 4K Digital | | **Resolution** | Up to 12K equivalent (70mm film) / 8K effective (Laser) | 4K (Digital) | | **Aspect Ratio** | Variable, often expanded 1.90:1 or 1.43:1 for IMAX content | Standard cinematic (e.g., 2.39:1, 1.85:1) | | **Sound System** | Proprietary 12-channel, bespoke tuned for auditorium | Dolby Atmos or similar immersive object-based audio | | **Loudness/Impact** | Often extremely loud, powerful LFE (low-frequency effects) | Loud and immersive, excellent spatial effects | | **Seating** | Standard cinema seats, sometimes slightly improved | Larger, more comfortable high-backed seats, often recliners | | **Overall Comfort** | Good, but focus is on immersion, not seat luxury | Excellent, prioritises viewer comfort | | **Price (approx)** | £15-£25 | £12-£18 | | **Availability** | Fewer true IMAX screens, more "LieMAX" versions | Found in many Cineworld locations | ### Picture Quality: Who Comes Out on Top? If we're talking about true, full-fat IMAX, especially with laser projection, it's difficult to beat. The sheer scale, the expanded aspect ratio for compatible films, and the clarity are just something else. When a film is specifically shot to take advantage of the IMAX format, the difference is stark. You see more of the picture, and it fills your vision entirely. It's an event. RPX, on the other hand, offers a fantastic upgrade from standard. The 4K projection is sharp, bright, and the colours are punchy. For the vast majority of films that aren't shot on IMAX cameras or don't have expanded aspect ratios, RPX offers a consistently excellent picture. You won't get that jaw-dropping "wall of image" feeling of a true IMAX, but you'll still get a very impressive visual experience. **Verdict on Picture:** True IMAX wins for sheer grandeur and unique aspect ratio. RPX is a very strong runner-up, often better than many "LieMAX" screens. ### Sound Quality: A Battle of Giants This is a tougher one, as both are excellent. IMAX's proprietary sound system is incredibly powerful, with immense bass and precise channel separation. It's engineered to envelop you, often with higher sound pressure levels than other formats. For films where explosions and deep rumbles are key, IMAX often delivers that extra gut punch. Dolby Atmos, which RPX often uses, is also a phenomenal system. Its object-based audio allows for incredibly precise placement of sounds in a 3D space, including overhead. This can create a more believable and dynamic soundscape. I've been in Atmos screens where rain literally sounds like it's dripping from the ceiling above you. It's clever stuff. **Verdict on Sound:** Both are brilliant. IMAX often has the edge on raw power and LFE. Atmos (RPX) can offer more intricate and dynamic spatial sound. It really depends on the film and personal preference. Neither will disappoint you compared to a standard cinema. ### Comfort: The Unsung Hero This is where RPX often pulls ahead for me, especially on longer films. Those bigger, comfier seats, often with recline, make a huge difference. You can properly sink in, stretch your legs a bit. After a long day, that's sometimes worth more than an extra foot of screen real estate. IMAX seating tends to be good, but generally standard cinema fare. No fancy recliners, just good, solid seats. The focus is purely on getting you as close to that massive screen as possible. So, if comfort is a high priority, RPX often wins out. **Verdict on Comfort:** RPX, hands down. Those recliners are a blessing. ### The Overall Experience and Value IMAX, at its best, is about an *event*. It's about being utterly overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the picture and sound. It's an all-encompassing, sensory experience that sticks with you. You pay a premium for that, and when it's done right, it's worth every penny. For the big, visually spectacular blockbusters, it's often the ultimate way to see them. RPX offers a more refined, comfortable premium experience. It's a significant step up from a regular screen in every aspect – picture, sound, and critically, comfort – but without aiming for the absolute maximalist approach of IMAX. It's excellent value for money for what it provides, and for many films, it's arguably a more enjoyable overall experience because of the enhanced comfort. ## FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered ### What's the real difference between "true" IMAX and "LieMAX"? "True" IMAX refers to auditoriums with massive screens (often 70ft+ wide, or those tall 1.43:1 screens) and bespoke 70mm film or dual 4K laser projectors. These are built from the ground up for IMAX. "LieMAX" (or "digital IMAX") are usually standard auditoriums retrofitted with a slightly larger screen and digital 2K projectors, which don't offer the same resolution, brightness, or scale as the premium setups. Always check the specific cinema's specs if you're chasing the full experience. ### Is IMAX 3D worth the extra cost? Honestly, it depends on the film. Some films are shot with 3D in mind and can look fantastic, adding genuine depth. Others are converted in post-production and can look a bit murky, dim, and might cause eye strain. Personally, I'm not a massive fan of 3D – give me a bright, crisp 2D picture any day. The glasses always feel a bit clunky, and they cut down on light. If you love 3D, go for it, but don't feel obliged if you're on the fence. ### Can I use my Cineworld Unlimited card for RPX or IMAX? Yes, you can, but there's usually an uplift fee. It varies by cinema and location, but expect to pay an extra few quid on top of your Unlimited subscription for both IMAX and RPX screenings. It's still a saving compared to buying a full-price ticket, so it's worth it if you go regularly. ### Which films benefit most from these premium formats? Big-budget action films, sci-fi epics, superhero movies, and nature documentaries are generally the best choices. Anything with stunning visuals, massive soundscapes, or scenes shot specifically for IMAX will shine. Dramas, comedies, and intimate character pieces usually don't gain much from the premium price tag. Save your pennies for those. ### What about other premium formats like 4DX or D-Box? These are a whole different kettle of fish! 4DX involves moving seats, wind, water sprays, and even scents – a real theme park ride. D-Box is similar but usually just focuses on moving seats. They can be fun for a novelty experience, but I find them distracting if I'm trying to concentrate on the film. If you want to *feel* the action, they're worth a go, but they're not for everyone, and certainly not for critical viewing. They're more about the gimmick than picture or sound fidelity. ## Final Word So there you have it. IMAX and RPX both offer a step above your regular cinema trip, but they cater to slightly different desires. If you're after the absolute biggest, most overwhelming picture and sound, and you're willing to pay top dollar, then a true IMAX experience is probably what you're after. For those epic blockbusters that demand to be seen on the largest possible canvas, it's often unrivalled. Just make sure you're getting a *proper* IMAX, not one of the smaller, digitally enhanced ones. If you're looking for a consistently excellent, comfortable, and significantly upgraded cinema experience without quite the eye-watering price tag of the absolute best IMAX, then RPX is a fantastic choice. The comfy seats alone make a massive difference for longer films, and the picture and Dolby Atmos sound are genuinely impressive. It's a brilliant all-rounder, offering superb value for money. My advice? If it's a truly monumental film – 'Dune', 'Oppenheimer', a big Marvel spectacle – and you've got a genuine IMAX nearby (check the screen size!), go for that. Otherwise, for most other big releases, RPX will give you a wonderfully immersive and comfortable experience that's a substantial upgrade over a standard screen. Either way, you're in for a treat – just make sure you pick the right one for your film and your wallet. Happy viewing, folks!