Optoma H190X vs ViewSonic PA503W: A Comparison of Projectors Under $500

[Bellmeister]

Introduce​

Parameter	Optoma H190X​	ViewSonic PA503W​
Picture​	​	​
Price​	$478​	$399.99​
Recommended Uses​	Gaming​	Business​
Highlight​	Brightness: 3,900 lumens Resolution: 720p (1080p input) Image Size: Up to 300" Color Gamut: Rec.709 Lamp Life: Up to 15,000 hours Viewing Time: Average of 4 hours daily for 10+ years Throw Distance: 120" image from ~14 feet Use Cases: Indoor and outdoor applications Connectivity: HDMI for various devices (laptops, Blu-ray players, streaming devices)​	Brightness: 4000 Lumens Resolution: WXGA Optical Zoom: 1.1x Vertical Keystone Adjustment: 40 degrees Input Latency: 16ms Lamp Life: Up to 15,000 hours in SuperEco Mode Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, mini USB, supports various media players, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices​

Side-by-Side Comparison​

Display​

Parameter	Optoma H190X​	ViewSonic PA503W​
Screen Size​	29.7 Inches - 300.7 Inches​	30 Inches - 300 Inches​
Throw Distance​	3.9 Feet - 45.9 Feet​	3.28 Feet - 38.02 Feet​
Contrast Ratio​	30000:1​	22000:1​
Display Resolution​	720p Pixels​	800 Pixels​
Native Resolution​	1280 x 720​	1280 x 800​
Brightness​	3,900 Lumen​	4000 Lumen​
Display Type​	Laser​	DLP​
Picture Quality Enhancement​	DLP​	SuperColor​

Features​

Parameter	Optoma H190X​	ViewSonic PA503W​
Video Encoding​	AVC​	AVC​
Lamp Wattage​	203 Watts​	200 Watts​
Light Source Life​	15000 Hours​	5000 Hours​
Controller Type​	Remote Control​	Remote Control​
Control Method​	Remote​	Remote​
Mount Type​	Tabletop Mount​	Ceiling Mount​
Noteworthy Features​	Built-In Speaker​	Lightweight​

Connectivity​

Parameter	Optoma H190X​	ViewSonic PA503W​
Connectivity Technology​	Instantly stream Full 1080p and 3D content from a Blu-ray player, set-top box, games console or AV receiver to your projector wirelessly; eliminating the hassle and extra cost of installing long cables using the WHD200 (sold separately).​	VGA, USB, HDMI​
Hardware Connectivity​	VGA​	USB​
Compatible Devices​	Laptop, Gaming Console, Speaker, Blu-ray Player​	Personal Computer​

Measurements​

Parameter	Optoma H190X​	ViewSonic PA503W​
Dimensions L x W x H​	-​	11.6"L x 8.6"W x 4.3"H​
Item Weight​	6.72 Pounds​	2.2 Kilograms​

Conclusion​

Product	PROS AND CONS​
Optoma H190X​	Pros • Very bright display • Affordable replacement bulbs • Much quieter operation compared to previous models • Vivid color contrast, with bright whites and deep blacks • Compatible with generic DLP 3D glasses Cons • Zoom dial does not connect with the internal zoom mechanism • Dust spots on the internal lens are inaccessible for cleaning • Standard settings for brightness, color, tint, sharpness, and gamma correction are subpar • Skin tones appear too orange and blotchy • Different throw length compared to previous models, requiring repositioning • Eco+ mode has annoying auto-brightness adjustments Overall Impression This projector has its merits, particularly in brightness and quiet operation, making it a solid choice for casual users who prioritize these features over pixel-perfect performance. However, it does have significant drawbacks, including lens issues and color inaccuracies, that may frustrate more discerning viewers. Overall, it can be a decent option for those not overly concerned with perfection, but potential buyers should be aware of its limitations.
ViewSonic PA503W​	Pros • Solid image quality with sharp visuals • Affordable alternative for 3D Blu-ray viewing • Can connect to various devices (PS3, PS4, PS5, DVDs) • Large projection size (up to 100") • Good brightness and color depth in Super Eco Mode • Sturdy packaging and easy setup Cons • Requires compatible DLP shutter glasses for 3D viewing • No option to switch from 3D to 2D mode • Built-in speaker lacks bass and distorts at high volumes • Menu and remote programming issues cause frequent mode switching • Limited and confusing instructions provided Overall Impression The ViewSonic projector offers an impressive solution for those looking to enjoy 3D movies at home without breaking the bank. With solid image quality, ease of connection to gaming consoles and other media, and a large projection size, it creates a cinematic experience. However, the frustrating menu design, subpar built-in audio, and reliance on specific glasses for 3D viewing detract from an otherwise positive experience. If you're willing to invest in external audio solutions and navigate some quirks, this projector could be a great addition to your home entertainment setup.