Significant_Rate
New member
Catalogs Hide
- 1 First Impressions
- 2 Introduce
- 3 Display
- 4 Features
- 5 User Feedback
First Impressions
The BenQ X500i is a mid-size but relatively lightweight projector without an integrated battery, so you must plug it in. The projector has auto keystone correction, but only on the vertical axis, so you must center it horizontally. It also doesn't have autofocus, so you must manually adjust that to get the clearest image possible. Its feet are slightly adjustable, and it comes with a set of extra extender feet to increase the vertical angle of the projector. Finally, the projector has a 10W speaker system.The BenQ X500i uses an LED bulb as its light source, so you likely wont ever have to worry about replacing it; the manufacturer claims the bulb lasts anywhere from 20,000 to 30,000 hours, depending on the selected eco mode. Its not a true 4k projector, as it uses pixel shifting to create a higher-resolution image. This offers better quality than a pure 1080p projector but isn't as good as a native 4k projector. It has a 1.2x optical zoom, allowing you to adjust the projection distance without moving the projector.
Introduce
| Parameter | BenQ X500i |
|---|---|
Picture |  |
Reference Price | $1499 |
Recommended Uses | Education, Home Cinema, Gaming |
Built-In Media | User Manual, Power Cord, Remote |
Highlight | • Resolution: 4K • HDR Technology: HDR-PRO • Response Time: 4ms (1080p@240Hz) • Throw Ratio: 0.69~0.83 (short throw) • Digital Zoom: Yes • Operating System: Google-Certified Android TV • Casting Support: AirPlay & Chromecast • Audio Channels: 7.1-channel • Audio Technology: Dolby Atmos, eARC, S/PDF connectivity |
Display
| Parameter | BenQ X500i |
|---|---|
Screen Size | N/A - 300 Inches |
Throw Distance | 4.9 Feet - 10 Feet |
Contrast Ratio | 3000:1 |
Maximum Resolution | 3840 x 2160 Pixels |
Native Resolution | 3840 x 2160 |
Brightness | 2200 Lumen |
Display Type | LED |
Picture Enhancement | HDR-PRO |
Viewing Experience | The BenQ X500 projector offers a solid performance for viewing in darker environments, showcasing impressive native contrast that enhances deep blacks and provides an engaging experience for darker scenes. While its peak brightness is adequate for dimly lit rooms, it falls short in moderately lit settings, which may affect its overall versatility. The brightness uniformity is acceptable, though noticeable dimming in the corners can detract from the viewing experience. The color gamut is commendable, particularly when set to the FPS picture mode, allowing for vibrant colors and a pleasant SDR experience. However, the Cinema mode restricts the color gamut, limiting its potential. Overall, the X500 delivers a satisfying performance for dark room viewing, but its brightness limitations and color mode restrictions may hinder its effectiveness in brighter environments. |
Features
| Parameter | BenQ X500i |
|---|---|
Video Encoding | HEVC (H.265) |
LightSource Life | 20000 Hours |
Controller Type | Button Control |
Wattage | 5 watts |
Connectivity Technology | HDMI |
Hardware Connectivity | HDMI |
Compatible Devices | Gaming Console, Xbox, PS5, Switch |
Other Features | Built-In Speaker, Digital Keystone Correction, Lightweight, Auto Focus, Short Throw, Wi-Fi Ready, 3d-Ready |
L x W x H | 14.1"L x 9.6"W x 4.6"H |
System Experience | Overall Impression: This projector offers a robust and modern multimedia experience, powered by the Android TV 11 interface via the included QS02 dongle. Its compatibility with both Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay enhances its usability for streaming content, while the native support for Netflix adds significant convenience for users. The integration of Google Voice search and Google Assistant further enriches the interactive experience. With two HDMI 2.0 ports, including one with eARC support, the projector provides versatile connectivity options. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 ensures smooth wireless performance. The HDR10+ support enhances visual quality, making it suitable for high-definition content. The built-in 10W speaker system is a nice addition, though users seeking superior audio may still prefer external sound systems. The projector's USB capabilities, including a service port and USB-C port with DP Alt Mode, offer additional flexibility for connecting various devices. Overall, this projector stands out for its smart features, connectivity options, and user-friendly design, making it a solid choice for home entertainment. |
User Feedback
Pros:• Low input lag of 16ms in 4K mode and 4ms in Native 1080P
• Compact size and lightweight (under 10 pounds) for easy transport
• Bright and crisp image quality, even without a screen
• Versatile connectivity options including Optical Output, HDMI eArc, and 3.5mm
• Excellent performance for both movies and gaming
• Automatic adjustment for gaming consoles like PS5 and Nintendo Switch
• 4K HDR movies look incredible
• Long lifespan with 30,000 hours of use due to 4LED technology
• Straightforward setup process
Cons:
• Slightly less color accuracy in DCI-P3 Color Space compared to higher models
• Noticeable Rainbow Effect in some high contrast scenes, especially in 1080P mode
• Fans can be a bit loud on full brightness in pixel-shift 4K
• Built-in speakers are decent but can rattle with low bass notes; external audio system recommended
Overall Impression:
The BenQ x500i is an impressive compact 4K short throw projector that excels in both movie and gaming performance. Its low input lag and vibrant image quality make it a strong contender for home theater setups, especially in smaller spaces. While it does have minor drawbacks like the Rainbow Effect and fan noise at high settings, its portability, ease of setup, and long lifespan make it a highly recommendable option for anyone looking for a versatile projector without compromising on quality.
