Buying guide for best BenQ projectors
As the quality of projectors continues to improve, they’re becoming more and more popular home electronic devices, not just supplementing high-end TVs but supplanting them altogether. While most smart TVs now max out at around 85 inches, a projector can create a much bigger image of 100 inches or more. BenQ is one of the leading electronics companies offering impressive yet affordable projectors for home theater enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Projectors are very versatile, serving as effective tools in the classroom or boardroom. They have value when you’re away from the TV as well, especially if you want to watch your favorite content outdoors or on the road. BenQ has several options for those looking for theater-like quality, as well as options for more budget-conscious consumers who want something easy to use or portable.
Our buying guide provides everything you need to know about BenQ projectors, including when to save and when to splurge when shopping. They are a significant investment, but the right choice will revolutionize your home theater experience. We’ve included some of our favorite BenQ projectors too.
Key considerations
Type
BenQ offers a variety of projectors designed for home use. Here are the main product lines, each of which includes several models.
CinePro: This is the highest-quality home projector series BenQ offers, designed for those seeking authentic re-creation of the theater experience. These expensive options faithfully project theater-quality films as the director intended, with DCI-P3 color space for vibrant detail and stunning images. These 4K projectors feature HDR for added brightness and depth and are carefully calibrated and ready to use as soon as you open the box. You’ll want a dedicated space and quality sound system to maximize this investment.
CinePrime: This is the series for those who want a more affordable projector that still offers high-end quality for their home theater. These projectors are offered in both 4K and HD versions, with the former featuring HDR for bright, vibrant colors. While these don’t produce the same quality as watching films in the theater, they are comparable to quality 4K smart TVs. It’s recommended that you have a dedicated theater space and quality speakers for this projector.
Home theater series: These, the most affordable options, mainly include HD projectors that are reliable and effective. They boast vibrant colors, though the detail on the HD options isn’t the same as on the higher-quality 4K options. Still, these are sufficient for budget-conscious shoppers who enjoy their content and don’t require the very best picture. In particular, these may be enjoyed by kids and offer an alternative to a TV in their room.
Gaming: These projectors best support watching live sports and playing video games. They focus on reducing any lag, a necessary feature when it comes to action in the game and quick response in the virtual world. These also adapt to various lighting conditions, understanding that the important match can happen at any time of day or night.
Portable: BenQ offers a line of portable projectors for those who want to take their content on the move. These durable, compact projectors can be used outdoors, whether for a movie night in the backyard or at a campsite. Some options are also battery-powered to save you from having to hook up cords. When investing in a portable projector, keep in mind that you’ll likely need a projector screen and portable speakers too.
Lumens
The brightness of projectors is measured in lumens, and the more light that seeps into the room where the projector is being used, the more lumens you need. If the projector is used in a dark room where there is no ambient light, 2,000 lumens should suffice. However, if some light may enter the area, such as through a window, you want a projector with at least 3,000 lumens.
Location
Where you plan to put your projector and how much space is available will influence your decision. BenQ projectors include any number of features to accommodate different positions, including zoom, keystone correction, and lens shift. These all help make minor tweaks to the projection so that you can set up the device where it best suits the environment. Some projectors have feet that can be individually calibrated for any minor adjustments in order to achieve the perfect picture.
BenQ projectors feature SmartEco technology: the projector automatically adjusts its energy output based on the environment and content.
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Features
Installation projectors
BenQ offers a few specialty projectors, including options for installations and works of art. These expensive models boast impressive detail, longevity, and a variety of options to control them, making them ideal projectors for large-scale events or conferences. These BlueCore Laser projectors also boast impressive brightness, making them a quality option for day and nighttime use. They are also durable, designed to withstand dust and long-term use.
Business projectors
BenQ also offers projectors for the workplace. These models are ideal for conference rooms as well as smaller spaces and are easy to set up and move if necessary. The smaller ones allow for quick adjustments and are designed to work effectively in bright rooms where lights are turned on. Larger business models may incorporate features that allow for the ideal image regardless of placement, with enough detail and contrast to satisfy any size audience.
Built-in apps
Some BenQ projectors come with a service marketplace already installed, with popular apps like Netflix and YouTube accessible directly from the projector. With apps already built in, you won’t need a bulky setup involving a laptop and cables, which saves time, energy, and convenience. Just be sure that you have the right subscription for the services.
Short throws
Some BenQ projectors allow for a short throw, and in some cases, even an ultra-short throw. These are ideal for smaller spaces, so that you can install a projector close to the screen, either on the ground or the ceiling. These models aren’t just for small rooms either. In particular, they’re useful for classrooms or business meetings where users may need to stand closer to the screen. With an ultra-short throw projector installed on the ceiling, the user won’t be blinded by the light or cast shadows the way they would with a normal throw projector.
DID YOU KNOW?
Your BenQ projector likely comes with a remote control to allow for easy use, but there are several models that can accommodate a universal remote when properly programmed.
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Accessories
Projector mount: VIVO Universal Adjustable Ceiling Projector Mount
For the ideal home theater setup, you need a projector mount for the ceiling. We recommend this inexpensive option from VIVO that caters to most devices and is easy to install.
In-ceiling speaker: Yamaha 140-Watt 2-way Speaker
Enhance your home theater setup with some powerful and convenient in-ceiling speakers. We love this two-speaker set from Yamaha boasting immersive, high-quality sound.
Portable speaker: Ultimate Ears Boom 3
For those opting for a portable projector, you want a portable Bluetooth speaker to go with it to improve the sound. We love the newest model from Ultimate Ears because the Boom 3 offers powerful audio with rugged, durable construction.
BenQ projector prices
Inexpensive: BenQ offers a range of quality projectors for the home for under $1,000. Most offer HD resolution, though some 4K options are available. Portable options also fall in this range.
Mid-range: The CinePrime series features projectors that cost between $1,000 and $2,500. This range also includes a majority of business-oriented projectors.
Expensive: The top-tier CinePro line of projectors costs well over $2,500, including some that top $7,000. Installation projectors are also fairly pricey.
Most BenQ home entertainment projectors offer quality audio, but in most cases you'll want to upgrade to external speakers, especially if you’re investing in a home theater setup.
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Tips
- Consider BenQ’s InstaShow for sharing content. For the business-oriented, BenQ’s InstaShow technology allows various users to easily and securely access the projector. It’s ideal for collaboration and sharing of content and ideas.
- Check your content resolution. BenQ 4K projectors are terrific for providing incredible detail, but they’re only worthwhile if you have 4K content to play. You need a subscription service that provides 4K content or a 4K Blu-ray player or console to properly use the investment.
- Calculate the viewing distance. For the most comfortable and enjoyable experience, you need to know the optimal viewing distance. It’s recommended that the screen fill up at least 30° to 40° of your field of vision. The BenQ website offers a guide to figure out what’s ideal for any space in your home.
- Check your ports. BenQ projectors offer a variety of ports with which to connect your devices, from HDMI to USB to mini USB. Strong connections provide better quality than streaming content.
FAQ
Q. How long does a projector last?
A. Higher-quality projectors will last longer than the budget-friendly options, but even those you can expect to last for quite a while. While bulbs do die, you can expect a few years of regular use. Depending on the model of the projector and the mode used, BenQ mid-range models may run anywhere from 3,000 hours up to 10,000 of use. BenQ projectors also come with warranties to protect your investment.
Q. What kind of maintenance is required?
A. Most BenQ projectors are durably constructed and require little maintenance over time. Eventually the lamp will need to be replaced, but your projector will still function at a high quality. You might need to clean the lens once in a while. Do not use any common cleaners or products on the lens. Get rid of dust by using a gentle blower, and wipe away any marks on the lens with a specifically made lens pen.
Q. How important is a projector screen?
A. For those using the projector for business or for casual entertainment, a screen isn’t necessary if you have a flat, white wall. In some cases, that will suffice provided there are no bumps or irregularities on the surface. For businesses in particular, BenQ offers projectors with Wall Color Mode, which adjusts to any walls that aren’t painted white in order to have a seamless experience.
However, a projector screen is useful when using a portable projector. It is also essential for those investing in a high-end projector and a quality home theater setup. Screens may feature a variety of materials to enhance the quality of not only images but sound too.
