Today we are going to select some best projectors from three renowned brands Epson, Optoma and BenQ and review them side by side.
All of these three brands are great with their unique features. So you have to understand your needs. To make it easy for you we select projects from each brand for usage basis such as which model is best for hometheater and which is best for outdoor or which one suitable for office/hall-room as well for gaming.
First, have a look on each three brands.
About Epson vs Optoma vs BenQ
Epson is a big brand provides a lot of home, office gadgets to the consumers. And when it comes to projectors, they have a lot of options but they focus mostly on home theater projectors. Also, the price is bit expensive.
Optoma is excellent for serving its customers. They make projectors for professional use to home theater and cover a wide range of collections.
BenQ mainly concentrates on projectors and know the need of their consumers very well. They have a big collection of projectors for office, home theater, outdoor, or even for gaming. The price is also considerable.
So, without further talk let’s see Model By Model Comparison of Epson vs Optoma vs BenQ Projector.
Epson vs Optoma vs BenQ Projectors: At A Glance
Best Epson Projectors
Epson Home Cinema 2150 : Decent option for home theater.
Epson 3800 : Exceptional 4K home theater experience.
Epson 5050UB : Amazing picture quality with good gaming experience/.
Best Optoma Projectors
Optoma GT1080Darbee : Best for home theater.
Optoma Technology UHD50X : Give a tough competition to Epson 3800.
Optoma UHD60 : Best option under $2000.
Best BenQ Projectors
BenQ HT2050A : This can be a good choice for home theater but not as good as Epson and Optoma.
BenQ HT3550 : Latest technology for a great 4K movie experience.
BENQ HT5550 : Expensive and high quality
Main Features
Let’s start our comparison of Epson, Optoma, and BenQ by looking at what they all have in common. All of them offer a wide range of models that can be used in offices, home theaters, indoors, or outdoors. Most of their projectors come with built-in speakers to make sure they work well with other devices and are easy to use. All of the company’s projectors have a feature that turns them off automatically.
Most projectors can also be hung from the ceiling. Both companies make a number of models that work well with Blu-ray players and 3D games because they can be used with 3D.
Ben Q
BenQ gives its projectors a wide range of tools that are meant to make them work better. For example, the projectors have settings for Day and Night to make them work best in different lighting conditions. It has a SmartEco setting that can save energy and keep your lights on for a lot longer. In this mode, the projector works the same, but it saves up to 70% of the power it would have used. When the projector is set up at an angle, trapezoidal effects are cancelled out because of the unique ability of side projection to work at any angle. BenQ projectors are known for the many settings they have for specific types of content:
BenQ gives you a lot of ways to customize your gaming experience, all of which are meant to make it better. They are the best choice for competitive play because their input latency is less and they have a mode just for games. Movie fans can use features that improve the way things look. “Sport” mode is for people who want their games to be as clear as possible.
Most of this brand’s projectors have a 10W speaker and use advanced technology to improve the quality of both the voices and the surround sound. The latter helps create a more immersive experience, while the former gives the bass more power. Not only that, but they have different audio settings as well (Cinema, Game, Music, Sport, etc.). When these methods are used together, they make for a better audiovisual experience.
Several BenQ models have a special sensor that doesn’t like it when dust builds up. This is a physical trait. Because of this, the unit will last longer. Most BenQ products have a zoom of 1.3x.
Optoma
When it comes to extras, Optoma projectors don’t have anything to offer. But Optoma models are the most up-to-date when it comes to gaming. But the gaming monitors from Optoma are twice as good as those from BenQ. They have a response time of 8.4ms and a refresh rate of 120Hz, while BenQ’s are 16ms and 60Hz, respectively. Also, Optoma projectors have a mode called “Game” that lets you play smoothly.
Most Optoma models have a zoom ratio of 1.1x. The company uses Perfect Image Alignment from Texas Instruments, which makes alignment easy and quick. With Crestron RoomView, you can use a network to control up to 250 projectors from anywhere in the world. Like the BenQ projectors, the Optoma ones have an Eco setting. Almost every Optoma model has a 10W speaker that limits the sound quality and doesn’t have any kind of technology to improve the sound.
Epson
Epson is far and away the best when it comes to projectors that aren’t too expensive. Epson’s projectors have more mounting options than projectors from BenQ and Optoma because they use LCD panels instead of DLP panels. The main advantage of LCD over DLP is that there are more ways to mount it. With focus, shift, and zoom lenses, Epson projectors let you control the image very precisely. The most expensive ones have dials that move automatically and can remember the last lens setting for each of a number of aspect ratios.
All Epson projectors are made with 3-chip LCD technology, which gives them bright colors, sharp images, and rock-solid dependability. In contrast to single-chip technology, which shows each color one at a time, 3LCD’s 3-chip design uses a full chip for each primary color to be shown at the same time. The result is true-to-life color on a 3LCD screen, which lets pictures and videos have bright colors and smooth changes in tone.
Epson’s online tool takes picture size, projection distance, and room size into account to help you choose the best setup for your projection. The “Rainbow Effect” is an optical illusion caused by projectors with only one DLP chip that use a spinning color wheel to show colors in order. Because Epson’s 3LCD projectors can make red, green, and blue light all at the same time, the Rainbow Effect is almost impossible to happen.
BenQ is clearly the best in terms of how well it works and how well it can be changed.
Epson Home Cinema 2150 VS Optoma GT1080Darbee VS BenQ HT2050A
For home theater purposes three best projectors are Epson Home Cinema 2150 VS Optoma GT1080Darbee VS BenQ HT2050A. Each of them gives the most accurate color, great contrast, and has balanced lumens for a perfect home theater.
Epson HC 2150
Epson HC 2150 is a perfect choice for home theater as it contains balanced features such as aspect ratio, lumens, contrast, and so on.
2500 lumens make it suitable for bright rooms as well dark rooms. In daylight or at night every scene from a movie or other content is visible. This is ideal for bright rooms which you barely find in other projectors.
To ensure a high picture quality it featured with HD resolution. Though there are a lot of 4K projectors nowadays, still this HD projector can serve a better picture quality compared to others.
Then lens flexibility is good for an easy installation. Also, this is a portable projector so you can carry it easily.
But what this projector lack from its competitors is the input lag. 28ms input lag is actually not acceptable for gamers. Other than that, this project is one of the top choices for home theater.
Optoma GT1080Darbee
Optoma GT1080Darbee’s performance is slightly better than Epson because of its more lumens and good input lag. These two features make it perfect both for home theater and gaming.
3000 lumens make it bright enough so during the daytime you can still enjoy the good picture on the screen. The contrast ratio is also good and can produce realistic colors.
The shadow details and black color produced by the projector are amazing. This makes every movie night an exciting one.
The most advantage of this projector is the lens. It is capable of covering a 120-inch diagonal screen.
The lamp life is more than its other two competitors. This makes it more durable and can be your long-run friend in your home theater.
BenQ HT2050A
For a decent night or day viewing 2200 lumen is okay but we cannot say it is best. This BenQ HT2050A is offering this. But for a pleasing home theater experience, one really doesn’t do more than this.
Except for this, others features are as same as Epson 2050 and Optoma. A perfect HD resolution makes every content seem clear on the screen.
But what makes you more satisfied with this projector is the fan noise. Because it is only 27 dB, you hardly can hear the noise. This is why this projector just doesn’t distract its consumer a bit.
Also, if you are a gamer then you can use this projector for that too. 16 ms input lag makes it smooth and super responsive. You can have a super smooth gaming experience ever.
Winner: Optoma GT1080Darbee
Epson 3800 VS Optoma Technology UHD50X VS BenQ HT3550: Best 4K Projectors
For an exceptional 4K home theater experience, we have selected the three best projectors, which are Epson 3800 VS Optoma Technology UHD50X VS BenQ HT3550.
All three give a tough competition to each other. Through this comparison, it will be easier for you to choose the right one.
Epson 3800
For bringing the fantastic SDR or 4K UHD movie experience or for HDR gaming you won’t find a better projector than this Epson 3800. This is a high-quality projector, rich in outstanding features.
There is the 4K UHD Pro, latest high-quality glass lens, and HD resolution work together which ensure the most accurate color and detail in the picture. This lens shifts vertically +/-60% and horizontally +/-24%.
Besides, for all color modes, you will get 10 memory positions and can customize them according to your wish. These color modes are available for both 2D and 3D contents.
It shows an incredible performance for the black level, color contrast and accuracy also 1080p SDR with 4K HDR. A sharp and high-defined picture can enhance the home theater experience beautifully.
Also, the low input lag both for 4K resolution and 1080p gives the gamers smooth dedicated gameplay. Compared to BenQ and Optoma, this Epson projector is not an inch behind.
Optoma UHD50X
In contrast, Optoma UHD50X is another masterpiece of this decade. This is a terrific projector that takes both the gaming and home theater experience to the next level. That’s why the consumers often become confused about what purpose this projector can serve the best!
This is probably the first projector that comes with a 240Hz refresh rate. The input lag is 25ms. Smooth buttery gaming is a must with this projector.
With a gaming console such as the Xbox or PS5, this projector works at 120Hz at 1080p resolution. You may get a bit confused at this point because previously we mentioned the 240Hz.
This rate is accessible only with computers. After hearing this no gamers can hold their tempt to have this projector.
Now talking about how this projector can work in home theater, only one word you need to know is that; this projector is just brilliant.
With 3400 lumens and as a 4K supporter projector be sure that every day with your home theater you would feel like you sitting live in a movie theater.
BenQ HT3550
BenQ HT3550 is also a decent competitor of Epson and Optoma, but honestly, it could not beat them. The price is a bit high than the other two but the overall performance is not what we expected.
This is also a 4K projector that produces a clear and beautiful image on the screen. Featured with a .47-inch DLP XPR Chip which provides 3840X2160p resolution at the same time minimizes the dark shadow around the image.
This makes the image quality high thus making it suitable for movies or home theater. A realistic movie experience on a big screen is no more a dream with these high-quality projectors.
If you have a good budget then you can go for this BenQ projector. You won’t regret the performance. But if you want a bit more than just count Epson or Optoma in this case.
Tie: Epson 3800 VS Optoma UHD50X
Epson 5050UB VS Optoma UHD60 VS BENQ HT5550
Now a time has come that people are wanting to spend time with their family and friends outside of their home by enjoying some movie or shows. This is why most of them prefer a bigger screen.
Regarding this, the three most debated projectors of this era are Epson 5050UB VS Optoma UHD60 VS BENQ HT5550. For an outstanding view in the daytime or at night, all three of them perform a spectacular performance.
Epson 5050UB
At first, we have Epson 5050UB. The most noticeable point about this projector is the great clarity and detail in the picture. Most projectors seem to provide a picture that is not even clear and many shadowy problems.
But Epson makes sure its viewer doesn’t face such irritating problems. You will get the exact same that you are paying for. Epson used the 3 LCD chip and gifted a seamless picture in front of you. If you are concerned about the color accuracy then just know about the 10-bit HDR it is featured with. This is recommended for outdoor use, but low input lag makes it a suitable choice for gamers too.
As a 4K projector video games, you can play with pure quality. You won’t need to do struggle even to watch the little objects in the content. The bigger screen with higher clarity makes sure each pixel emits enough light.
So, the content on the screen never blurs nor lag. Even if you partying in day time 2600 lumens is enough for this projector to be bright.
Optoma UHD60
Then we have Optoma UHD60 another impressive projector. Excellent color accuracy, contrast, flexible installment, and higher lumens bring all the praise for this projector.
Compared to Epson, Optoma UHD60 is more suitable for the outdoor as it provides 3000 lumens. This is actually the key feature of this projector. Because not all projectors can work well during the day.
In a full-lit room or under the sun projectors need to be much bright so the picture appears clear. Otherwise, you won’t be able to watch properly. But Optoma resolves this problem by featuring 3000 lumens.
However, you will be astonished by other features it is equipped with. It uses a 0.66’’ DLP chipset that is under $2000. As an ordinary person, you won’t feel the difference but actually, it produces a slightly better picture.
Both Epson and Optoma is offering almost the same features and performance. So, it can be a tough decision for you to choose one.
BenQ HT5550
When both Epson 5050UB and Optoma UHD60 prices are under $2000, you have to spend a bit more if you choose BenQ HT5550. There is a mixed review about this projector as some think the price is worthy while others assume that is much expensive.
4K resolution with HDR, SDR compatibility this projector achieved P3 color. A dynamic, and bold picture quality like the movie theater you can now have in your home. Because in theaters they use P3 for the more vibrant color accuracy. This is what BenQ tries to achieve and become successful.
Undoubtedly, BenQ tries hard to gift its consumer a newer experience. 4K UHD resolution, 100% DCI-P3 can complement any home theater experience. Then comes the other criteria that make it worth the price. DLP Chip used in this projector gives the pure black level and minimizes the black shadow problem besides the image.
This is actually a good competitor of Epson 5050UB and Optoma HT5550. If you can afford then must go for this projector. Otherwise, the rest of the two projectors also perform like a monster
Winner: BenQ
Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ Best Projector For Different Purpose
In this section are going to see some of the best projectors for different use; outdoor, gaming, office, or home theater. So, you can easily pick one for your specific usage.
Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ Projector Review: For Outdoor
Epson EX5260 XGA
This portable, wireless Epson projector is an ideal choice not only for outdoor but also for offices. Several impressive features made this projector capable of delivering great pictures on the screen; which can be helpful for giving a presentation as well for enjoying a movie.
For outdoor use during the daytime, projectors need to be bright enough so the image can be seen bold and clear. 3600 lumens are perfect for this projector to produce enough light and detailed images.
But what made its user a bit disappointed is the resolution of 1024x768p. Today’s modern projectors contain 4K or even 8K resolution. Compared to that this projector could be a little bit updated.
Another advantage of this projector is the wireless connectivity. This is the main reason we choose this projector for outdoor use. Easily connect your laptop phone or tab.
Overall, this is a good enough projector within budget.
Optoma H190X
If you are out of money but need a projector then this Optoma H190X under $500 is the best option for you. The specialty of this projector is that you can use it in the daytime and still can enjoy a clear, bright image on the screen.
With the 720p resolution and 3900 lumens, it is our second-best choice for outdoor. Don’t wait for the sun to set because it can be bright enough to give you some perfect picture as you get at night.
Arrange a party in your backyard and let your family and friend enjoy a 120’’ big-screen movie or TV show.
This is also suitable for indoors since it has built-in speakers you don’t need to buy extra. In the case of outdoor a pair of speakers may be needed for a better experience.
BenQ GS50
For outdoor a projector should be water-resistant so, it can handle any unwanted situation such as sudden rain. But there are very few options are available that have water-resistant features.
This is why our in this list of outdoor projectors BenQ GS50 is the Winner.
This is a wireless Bluetooth compatible, IPX2 splash and drops resistant projector a perfect solution for your outdoor party. Any sudden rain or poolside party won’t be problematic anymore.
The resolution is 1920x1080p which means a vibrant, clear, and realistic scene in every movie or other content is for sure. One thing this projector lack is the lumens because only 500 lumens it is featured with.
Ignoring this only fact this is a mind-blowing projector in all aspects. It can work with Android TV, also support Airplay, Chromecast. All the modern features you can as a combination in it. In one word, this is a full package most suited for outdoor.
Winner: BenQ GS50
Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ Projector Review: For Gaming
Epson EpiqVision Ultra Short Throw LS300
For an immersive gaming or movie experience, this Epson LS300 comes with an Ultra Short Throw design.
Unique multi-array laser diode technology enhances the brightness level. Also, the 3600 lumens add more brightness so your projector can produce every single detail on the screen and it feels close to a realistic image.
It accepts 4K content that is good for a realistic gaming experience. A balanced input lag, aspect ratio, and amazing picture quality make it versatile for the gaming experience for hours.
Except for gaming, it contains an Android TV interface with multiple features such as Hulu, HBO, Disney+, YouTube. Moreover, a built-in Chromecast lets you stream thousands of contents.
The next thing saves your money is the built-in Yamaha 2.1 set up speaker. You really don’t need to buy another speaker pair and still can enjoy a good gaming experience.
Optoma HD143X
If you are on a tight budget and want a gaming projector under $1000 then you can check out this Optoma HD143X.
Though this is an inexpensive projector, still as a competitor gaming projector of Epson LS300; it can satisfy you more.
This has the lowest input lag that the gamers like so much. This is why every video game you can play so smoothly without facing any lag.
Moreover, with 1080p resolution, 3000 lumens with a great contrast ratio this projector is capable of producing stunning pictures on the screen. Every color that seems accurate and detailed makes the gaming or movie experience an exciting one.
Another noted point about this projector is the audible noise that is only 27dB. While gaming most projectors produce a lot of noise which hamper a good gaming experience.
But with this projector, you won’t face any noise problems at all.
BenQ X1300i 4LED
For those who are in search of a traditional gaming projector, this BenQ X1300i is for them. It is not cheap but one thing for sure you won’t regret having this projector.
This projector has been designed especially for gaming purposes. For your Xbox, PS5, or other gaming consoles you won’t find any other projector better than this.
The measured input lag is 8.3ms@1080p/120Hz. Enjoy this low input lag with these three Game Modes FPS, RPG, SPG. BenQ featured this fantastic feature in this projector that can make every single gaming experience thrilling.
Apart from the gaming features, this projector gives a nice, vibrant, impressive picture quality. It supports 4K resolution and has HDMI inputs. There is the auto color calibration feature that turns every color so detailed and defined that every scene is exchanged like the real one. For home theater, this projector is compatible with HDR, SDR, HLG. It means you can enjoy both home theater and gaming with a single projector.
Winner: BenQ X1300i 4
Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ Projector Review: For Office
Epson PowerLite 2255U
To impress your boss or colleague with a good presentation a great quality projector is a must. Or for the whole office, you can also have this Epson PowerLite 2255U as the price is a bit high.
This is the most praise-worthy projector you ever can have for your office. Whether in a conference room or in a boardroom nothing can replace this high featured projector.
This can cover up to 300’’ screen which is robust. Also, there are 5000 lumens you hardly can find in any projector. The brightness and details in the picture quality can bring a huge clap for each of your presentations.
Full HD resolution, great color contrast makes every present so beautiful. Then there is the tremendous lamp hour. Use it for hours every day without being worried about the lifetime of your projector. Connect your device with HDMI or MHL connections or even stream from your smartphone or laptop. Use this projector with efficiency and how you need to work.
You never would feel any hassle while using it as it ensures a super easy installation process.
Epson VS260: Winner
If you want an Epson projector but cannot count PowerLite 2255U for the high price, then you can check this super budget-friendly model.
This projector is superb in every aspect and can be your best companion to hold the attention of your office colleagues. Because each word and image in this project appear so sharp, crisp, and clear.
This also has an HDMI port for you to attend the zoom conference call on a big screen. Also supports 4K content so you present any type of content easily.
This can be bright enough and can produce great black color contrast. Every image of different color will see so beautiful. You can also connect Apple TV, Chromecast, or other streaming devices for a newer experience. This projector contains a built-in speaker so the process of installation becomes much easier. Just connect your devices to what you need and immediately start your presentation.
No more delay and your client won’t need to wait for your projector to start. What more does one really need?
Optoma DH351
The last model in our list for office projectors is Optoma DH351. This is another incredible projector fit for office use, presentation, or giving training, lectures at an affordable price.
The picture quality is impressive with super accuracy of image or text. For any kind of graphical representation or text files, this projector can satisfy you fully. You as well your guest can fully, please with the rich format of your work shown on the screen.
Whether you are presenting in a lit room, or bright room, or in dark; 3600 lumens are there to help you with a clearer image. The contrast ratio of 22,000:1 has surprised its consumer a lot. There will be a 5-watt mono speaker so, you don’t need to buy a separate one. Another good part is the noise it produces is hardly heard. So, there is no chance to disturb your important meetings.
Lastly, the vertical keystone correction helps a lot to install the projector without facing many problems. It can cover up to a 300-inch screen. That’s why this projector can cover a big meeting room efficiently.
Winner: Epson VS260
Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ Projector Review: For Home Theater
Epson Home Cinema 2200
All the projector of the Home Cinema Series comes with great picture quality and additional feature. We have chosen Epson HC 2200 for home theater, but it can be a good choice for gaming or streaming too.
Home Cinema 2200 comes in three different versions and three different price ranges. Actually, there are not many dissimilarities among them so, you can choose any one of them according to your budget.
The first thing that snatched away the attention is the advanced 3LCD display technology. This projector could have managed the color accuracy and lowest rainbow effect and brightness issue because of this tech.
Also, the 35000:1 contrast ratio makes a huge difference from its competitors because no one is offering this. This projector tried every possible way to make it fit for home theater. It supports 4K content so you can get the similar home theater experience that you were getting through your high-end TV. Talking about the smart features that are it has an interface of Android TV. So, easy to control all the settings and streaming for Android users. Also, you will get a built-in google assistant with the speaker.
In all aspects, for the Epson lovers, this is a good quality projector.
Optoma HD28HDR
There is no denying the fact that only Optima has made it possible to offer the best-featured projectors at a cheap price. If you have a tight budget, then this HD28HDR is the exact projector you may be looking for. Under $1000 you can get the features that the expensive projectors are offering. For games as well as for movie or home theater this is one of the best projectors.
Starting with the gaming features, it is giving a 120 Hz refresh rate at 16 ms. Turning on the gaming mode you can get a response time of 8.4ms. A fast-moving gaming experience without any lag also on a big screen is like a dream for many gamers. To take this experience to the next level 1080p resolution and support of 4K content, high contrast ratio with high defined picture quality works together.
To enhance the picture quality HDR 10 compatibility with 4000 lumens makes sure the deepest black with the brightest white. All these make it perfect for movies or home theater too. If you are looking for some smart features then there is the HDMI input is there to make it easier for you to connect your consoles, Fire Tv, or other what you wish for.
Winner: Optoma HD28HDR
How To Choose The Suitable Projector?
Choosing a projector for yourself is not a tough task if you have the proper knowledge. Just a few points you need to consider before buying and there you go.
Lumens
When choosing a projector, the first and foremost thing is the brightness. And this is measured by lumens.
There is a range of 2500 to 4000 lumens, between these projectors can bright decently. Less or more than this range won’t do any good to you.
So, while buying try to have lumens 3000 orbits more or less.
Resolution:
There is a wide range of collections of 4K projectors. But not every time only a 4K projector can give you the amazing picture quality. You can also go for 1080p resolution with HDR or SDR compatibility.
Input Lag:
If you want a projector mainly for gaming then 16ms, 25ms, or sometimes 29ms would be the best input lag to consider. More than this won’t make your gaming experience go
Can Cover Big Scree
For office use, school or for training or other working purposes you will need a projector that can work with a big screen size such as 300’’.
Price
Well, if you are planning to have a projector then you must be prepared to spend a good amount of money. You can get cheap projectors but there is no guarantee that you can get the good one.
Final Verdict
Spending long hours, we have reviewed some best projectors from Epson VS Optoma VS BenQ. Also, we have categorized them according to different usage, for you to select one easily.
All you just need to know what type you need and see the difference with the review. Then here you go with the premium quality projector.
However, one thing may still hunt your mind that which brand is best? Honestly speaking all three brands we have reviewed is the most renowned.
None of them compromise with product quality. So, you can stay tension-free and go anyone of the projector according to your budget and need. Because the next-level big screen experience is waiting for you.
FAQ
This FAQ is here to solve some of your problems, that might arise while walking in the pavement of these projectors.
What input lag in projectors is good for gaming?
Traditionally 16ms is a perfect input lag for smooth gaming. But most projectors could not afford this. So, 25ms or a bit more also can ensure a good gaming experience.
What lumen can make projectors bright?
Ranging from 2500 to 4000 lumen is ideal for any projector to become bright so the picture seems clear. If your projector has a lumen in this range then nothing to worry about.
All the projectors in our list have lumen in this range. So, while choosing between them you don’t need to take extra stress.
Are projectors good for home theater?
Through projectors, you can enjoy a movie or other content on a bigger screen. If you have a home theater set up with a high-quality sounding system, then a projector can give you an experience like a movie theater in your home.
That’s why projectors are good for home theaters.
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