GROUP TEST PROJECTORS
Wall things bright and beautiful
If you want a really big telly, you don’t want a telly at all – just a large blank surface to point one of these fine projectors at
Words Matt Ng ], [ Words Dan Grabham ]
BenQ GP520
What’s the story?
On paper it’s a fantastic all-rounder. With 2600 lumens of brightness in a native 4K projector, the picture should hold up in any conditions. Three integrated sensors can read the environment based on ambient light, screen distance and even wall colour, optimising the image accordingly.
The GP520 also throws in autofocus, keystone correction, screen fit and obstacle avoidance, so moving and setting up between rooms is no faff. And for user-friendliness, there’s Google TV and its streaming apps.
Its audio specs aren’t too shoddy either, with twin 12W speakers powered by Dolby Atmos – plus a Bluetooth button for hooking up to a speaker or headphones.
Gamers are covered thanks to HDMI 2.1 ports and ALLM, which minimises lag for smoother gameplay, and there’s passthrough power for charging other devices via USB-C.
Is it any good?
The GP520 impresses right out of the gate. Whether dealing with 4K or Full HD video, it makes colours pop with vibrancy, and images have crystal clarity.
Colour accuracy is on the money, movement is handled well, and contrast is decent, though not quite class-leading.
There are a few minor niggles: the remote feels light and flimsy, while the projector itself is mostly scratchy plastic. Plus, unsurprisingly given its compact dimensions, the audio output lacks the thumping bass response of a bigger projector.
£1299
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go.stuff.tv/GP520
Key specs
● LED
● 4K
● 2600 lumens
● Google TV
● Up to 30,000hrs
● 241x225x151mm, 3.7kg
STUFF SAYS Powerful and versatile, the GP520 brings the cinema home ★★★★✩
THE THROW MUST GO ON: HOW TO CHOOSE
● Ultra-short-throw projectors are pricey, but ideal when space is tight; short-throwers suit tabletops; and long-throw types work for much bigger spaces.
● You’ll want at least 3000 lumens of output for a bright living room, but 1000 will be OK if the curtains are drawn.
● Lamp, LED or laser? Lamps are cheaper but need replacing every 5000hrs. LEDs offer better performance and last much longer, while spendy lasers give peak brightness.
● Sport addicts and gamers will want a high refresh rate (120Hz or more) for less motion blur and smoother images. Gamers should also look out for ALLM and low input lag.
● Many projectors have integrated smart TV interfaces such as Google TV, so there’s no need to connect an external source.