The BenQ GV50 projector is a unique addition to the market, but is it a worthy upgrade? A bold departure from its predecessors, this projector ditches LEDs for laser light, but is it a bright idea?
The GV50 is a compact projector with a distinctive wheel-like design, measuring 8.3 inches in diameter and 5.1 inches thick, excluding the lens bump. Its magnetic base ensures stability, and a finger loop aids portability, despite its 4.5-pound weight. The projector boasts a native resolution of 1,920 by 1,080 and a brightness rating of 500 ANSI lumens, but its actual brightness is closer to 350-375 lumens, which may be underwhelming for some.
But here's where it gets interesting: The GV50 uses a laser-phosphor light source, promising a longer lifespan of up to 30,000 hours in Eco mode. This laser technology sets it apart from other GV models, which typically use LEDs. However, this innovation comes at a cost, with a higher list price of $799. And while it lacks the drop-resistance of earlier models, it still offers some impressive features.
Setup is a breeze, thanks to its integrated Google TV OS and streaming capabilities. It provides various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB Type-A, and Type-C ports, allowing for easy file reading and mobile device mirroring. The projector's lens lacks optical zoom, but its compact size enables easy image size adjustments by moving it closer or farther from the screen. Additionally, the GV50 offers vertical image adjustment and tilt functionality, ensuring flexibility in various projection scenarios.
The projector includes a full set of auto-setup features, including keystone correction, which can be beneficial for quick setup. However, these digital adjustments may reduce brightness and introduce artifacts. The control panel is somewhat limited, requiring the remote or the SmartRemote app for full control. The audio system is surprisingly powerful, with an 18-watt output and a 10-watt chamber woofer, making it suitable for casual viewing or Bluetooth speaker mode.
When it comes to image quality, the GV50 shines in HDR mode. It offers predefined picture modes for SDR and HDR inputs, but the Custom mode is where you can fine-tune the settings. While SDR performance is passable, HDR content displays significantly better brightness and shadow detail, making it a standout feature. The projector also produces fewer rainbow artifacts compared to many DLP models, which is a plus for sensitive viewers.
And this is the part most people miss: The GV50 is not just about visuals. It caters to gamers with a low input lag of 22.3 milliseconds, making it suitable for casual gaming. However, 3D enthusiasts will be disappointed as the projector lacks 3D support.
In summary, the BenQ GV50 is a projector that trades some traditional features for a unique laser light source and improved HDR performance. Its design, portability, and image quality make it a compelling choice for those seeking a lightweight projector with a built-in battery. But is the laser upgrade worth the price hike? That's a question that sparks debate among projector enthusiasts. What do you think? Is the GV50's laser innovation a game-changer, or would you stick with the LED models?
