Does It Suck?: BenQ X500i "Gaming Projector"

Summary

Kade from Beyond the Box reviews the BenQ X500i gaming projector, highlighting its 4K resolution, immersive 100"–150" screen, and Android 11 TV features. He explores its versatile connectivity, dual 5W speakers, HDR Pro visuals, and short-throw portability, providing personal insights from gaming and movie experiences. While HDMI 2.0 limits 4K 120Hz gaming for consoles, the projector excels in casual gaming, story-driven games, and streaming. Kade emphasizes easy setup, adjustable keystone, and the projector's compact design. Overall, he recommends it for gamers and movie enthusiasts seeking a cinematic experience in limited space, praising its clarity, audio, and interactive features.

Takeaways

• 🎮 The BenQ X500i is a 4K gaming projector designed for immersive gaming and movie experiences.
• 🖥️ It supports screen sizes from 100 to 150 inches, making it ideal for small spaces or dorm rooms.
• 🔌 The projector has multiple connectivity options, including 2x HDMI 2.0, USB, USB-C, optical audio, and audio out.
• 🔊 Built-in 2x 5W stereo speakers provide loud, clear sound, with the option to connect external speakers or soundbars.
• ⚡ Input lag varies by resolution and refresh rate: 16.7 ms @ 60Hz, 8.3 ms @ 120Hz, and 4.3 ms @ 240Hz, making it less ideal for highly competitive FPS gaming.
• 🌈 HDR Pro and 84% DCI-P3 color accuracy deliver vibrant visuals, though blacks are not as deep as OLED displays.
• 📱 Runs Android 11 TV with Google Play Store access and Bluetooth 5.0, allowing controller and game downloads.
• 🛠️ Setup is easy with 2D Keystone correction (automatic and manual) and adjustable feet for optimal alignment.
• 💡 The projector is portable at ~8 lbs and offers features like a zoom dial for large screens with minimal space.
• 💸 While expensive, it’s perfect for casual gamers, movie enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a large-screen experience in a compact space.
• 👍 Kade emphasizes the immersive experience, easy setup, and fun factor, making it a great family or dorm room device.
• 📢 YouTube engagement and giveaways (Meta Quest 2 and PS5) are highlighted as incentives to subscribe and interact with the channel.

Q & A

Who isQ&A generation from script presenting the review in the video?

The review is presented by Kade from the YouTube channel 'Beyond the Box.'

What products are being given away on Kade's channel?

Kade is giving away a Meta Quest 2 at 20,000 subscribers and a PS5 at 30,000 subscribers.

What product is being reviewed in this video?

The video reviews the BenQ X500i gaming projector.

What is the resolution and aspect ratio of the BenQ X500i projector?

The BenQ X500i offers a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 at a 16:9 aspect ratio.

What is the maximum screen size the projector can achieve and how much space does it need?

The projector can display up to 150 inches and requires minimal space due to its short throw design, achieving 100 inches from just 4–5 feet away.

What are some of the connectivity options available on the BenQ X500i?

It includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, a USB-C port, an optical audio port, standard audio out, and a USB port for reading data from hard drives.

What are the input lagQ&A on BenQ X500i specifications of the projector?

At 4K 60Hz, the input lag is 16.7 milliseconds; at 1080p/2K 120Hz, it is 8.3 milliseconds; and at 1080p 240Hz, it is 4.3 milliseconds. HDMI 2.1 is not supported, so 120Hz at 4K for consoles is not possible.

How does the BenQ X500i perform in terms of color and brightness?

It supports HDR Pro, is 25% brighter than lamp projectors, and offers around 84% DCI-P3 color accuracy.

What features enhance the gaming and media experience on this projector?

The projector includes built-in 5W stereo speakers, Bluetooth 5.0 support for controllers, Android 11 TV OS with access to Google Play Store, 2D keystone correction, and adjustable zoom from 100 to 150 inches.

What are Kade's final thoughts on the BenQ X500i gaming projector?

Kade considers it an excellent option for those seeking a large-screen gaming and movie experience in limited space. It's portable, has great speakers, and offers a unique experience compared to traditional monitors, though it's relatively expensive and lacks HDMI 2.1 support.

Who would benefit most from using the BenQ X500i?

Gamers who enjoy story-driven games, people with limited space such as dorm rooms or bedrooms, and anyone seeking an immersive movie and gaming experience would benefit the most.

How long is the projected lamp life for the BenQ X500i?

The projector has a life expectancy of 20,000 to 30,000 hours when using eco mode.