6 Best Gaming Projectors – Reviews for 2024 – Buying Guide
You’re on the right page if you need some help buying your first gaming projector. Or perhaps, you’re looking to replace an old or damaged projector that doesn’t provide the ultimate gaming experience you desire. Be you a casual gamer who does it for fun, or a professional player for sport, the products in this guide are some of the best gaming projectors money can buy.
Best Gaming Projectors On The Market
Before we proceed, we’d like to make sure you will check out the section at the bottom of this page. We’ve included a basic buying guide on gaming projectsors that’ll further inform your decision and explain some technical terms. Now let’s get to it.
1. Optoma HD39HDR Gaming Projector
Design-wise, this looks like the everyday projector. But in terms of gaming performance, low input lag, quick response time, and extensive connectivity options are the top-selling features of the Optoma HD39HDR projector.
This is a Standard throw projector that supports 4K gaming and is rated to operate at a decibel level of 26dB. For context, it produces an almost-soundless whisper that’s ignorable during gameplay — be rest assured that this will not, in any way, interfere with the audio produced by the projector’s built-in 10-Watt speaker. For a more submerged audio experience, you can hook the Optomo HD39HDR to your gaming headphones or soundbar via the HDMI or 3.5mm audio outputs.
Segueing to the more important features, the Optoma HD39HDR boasts 4,000 Lumens of brightness that guarantees amazing picture and video quality. Want a projector that you can use for gaming and movies during the day without having to close window blinds or curtains? This model of the Optoma HD39HDR would serve your needs. In addition to top-quality visuals, you also get a blistering refresh rate (120Hz) and impressive response time (8.4ms) for lightning-fast gaming.
You can toggle the projector between Bright, Eco, or Dynamic modes to finetune your gaming experience. Eco Mode consumes less power and provides longer lamp life — up to 10,000 hours at an average daily usage rate of 4 hours. In Dynamic mode, the lamp can be used for up to 15,000 hours. These figures translate to durability and longevity; you won’t be needing a new projector in at least 5-6 years. There’s a dedicated button for switching the projector’s mode on the full-size remote that ships with the device.
Price and Availability
Optoma is a top player in the projector industry, and they manufacture some of the best projectors in the market. The Optoma HD38HDR 4K projector is a great example. As expected, you’d have to shell out top dollar for a top-quality product, right? The device is quite pricey but packs features that justify its $799 selling price.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 4,000 ANSI Lumens
- Native Resolution: 1080p (1920 x 1080)
- Maximum Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Input Lag: 32ms
- Throw Distance: 10.5–13.9 feet
- Contrast ratio: 50, 000: 1
- Weight: 7.7 lbs
- Ports: 2 x HDMI (1.4a & 2.0), 2 x 3.5 mm ports (Audio in & Audio Out), 2 x VGA (In & Out), 1 x USB, 1 x RS232, 1 x AC power port, 1 x Kensington lock
Pros
- 4K Support
- Supports 3D content
- Extensive connectivity options
- High brightness and contrast ratio
Cons
- Quite pricey
2. BenQ TK800M 4K Gaming Projector
This is another high-end 4K-compatible projector that will serve your gaming needs. At 3,000 Lumens, gaming during the day with this projector shouldn’t be a problem, even in a moderately lit or illuminated room. The BenQ TK800M has an input lag of 42 milliseconds (42ms) which is a decent input lag for a gaming projector.
The BenQ TK800M boasts of a glossy teal-colored front covering. Used in a tabletop style, this would add some aesthetic touch to your home entertainment or gaming center. The grill on the front houses the projector’s 5-watt power built-in speaker. Sound quality is great, plus you’d also get reasonable bass production — don’t get your hopes too high, though. For a fully immersive and surround sound experience, you can connect the BenQ TK800M to a sound system.
There’s a diverse collection of ports for sending and receiving both audio and video signals. Asides gaming consoles, you can also project content from your streaming sticks, gaming laptop, TV box, smartphone, digital camera, and other compatible devices. The device’s 15,000: 1 contrast ratio means you can expect impressive image quality (deeper blacks and brighter whites) when gaming or watching videos.
Price and Availability
Support for 4K gaming is one of the highlight features of the BenQ TK800M. And its for the same reason (plus other advanced gaming features) that the projector costs $1,199 (on Amazon). Both gamers and non-gamers have commended the picture quality, brightness level, and other features. So yeah, this is a gaming projector that’s worth its price.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 3,000 ANSI Lumens
- Native Resolution: 1080p (1920 x 1080)
- Maximum Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2160)
- Input Lag: 42ms
- Throw Distance: 15 feet
- Contrast ratio: 10, 000: 1
- Weight: 9.2 lbs
- Ports: 2 x HDMI, 2 x 3.5 mm ports (Audio in & Audio out), 1 x VGA (In & Out), 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1 x RS232, 1 x AC power port.
Pros
- 4K Support
- Decent Input Lag
- Impressive design
- Remote control support
Cons
- A little heavy and produces a humming noise during usage. It’s nothing your headphones or sound system won’t block out, though.
3. ViewSonic PX700HD Projector
This is the best projector for gaming to buy if you have a $450 – $500 budget. It’s way cheaper than the above-mentioned products but you’d miss out on futuristic features like 4K support. The built-in 2W speaker, although decent, might not produce loud and optimal audio output sufficient to fill a small room. This wouldn’t be a problem if you’d be gaming with headphones or a soundbar.
On the bright side, however, the ViewSonic PX700HD still manages to pack diverse connectivity options coupled with an impressive contrast ratio and brightness rating.
This projector’s lamp projects images and videos at 3,500 Lumens. If used in SuperEco mode, the ViewSonic PX700HD lamp can last up to 15,000 hours of usage without a decline in brightness quality. Sport Mode, on the other hand, enhances image and color quality to provide a detailed viewing experience when watching your favorite football or baseball team play. There’s a remote control in the box for switching between display modes, adjusting volume, and navigating the projector’s menu, among other things.
For gaming, expect lag-free performance from the ViewSonic PX700HD; its input latency measure 16ms. For a <$500 gaming projector, this ultra-low input lag is pretty remarkable. There’s 3D compatibility for both gaming and video content, so you can step your gameplay up a notch. This projector also takes advantage of a unique SuperColor technology to offer cinema-quality visuals in any environment.
Price and Availability
You’d find the ViewSonic PX700HD projector on Amazon for $449 via this link. About 75% of buyers have rated the product 5-Stars, with many greatly commending the picture quality, input latency, and ambient light performance.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 3,500 Lumens
- Native Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Input Lag: 16ms
- Throw Distance: 4.2 – 46.9 ft
- Contrast ratio: 12,000:1
- Weight: 7.94 lbs
- Connectivity: 2 x HDMI, 2 x Audio (In & Out) ports, 1 x VGA, 1 x USB Type A, 1 x Mini-USB (Type-B), 1 x RS232, 1 x Monitor out, 1 x Kensingtion lock
Pros
- Low input lag.
- Numerous connectivity options.
- High lumen count and contrast ratio.
Cons
- No 4K support.
4. Optoma UHD50X 4K Projector
The UHD50X 4K Projector is one of Optoma’s flagship projectors, and equally one of the best in the market for gaming.
Being a top-of-the-line product, you get the best features designed to smoothen your gaming experience. It banks on a Dynamic Black technology to add depth to images, thereby achieving a massive 500,000:1 aspect ratio. With the Optoma UHD50X, you’re getting nothing short of brilliant image quality and distinct colors. Mind you, this is a “Standard Throw” project with an optimum distance of 10.5–13.9 feet. This makes it suitable for use in large spaces as well as homes/offices with enough room space. For small rooms, ensure that the projector is at least 10 feet away from the wall/screen for optimum image picture quality.
Similarly, the 3,400 Lumen brightness rating also makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor usage. Response time for the UHD50X when gaming at High Definition (HD) is 16 milliseconds. You’d enjoy improved visual quality for 4K content but input lag will snowball to 26ms — a brilliant response time for 4K gaming nonetheless.
The projector’s lamp is expected to provide up to 15,000 hours of operation if used on average for 2 hours daily. At this rate, you wouldn’t be needing a replacement projector in 10 years or more. You’ll find all the required connectivity options necessary for audio and video input (or output) on board.
Price and Availability
The Optoma UHD50X is an all-around projector. It possesses features that make it suitable for home entertainment, gaming, and even office usage. For $1,599, the product is a good buy. You can check availability details on the Optoma UDH50X Amazon page.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 3,400 Lumens
- Native Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080) and 4K UHD
- Input Lag: 16ms (26ms for 4K)
- Throw Distance: 10.5–13.9 feet
- Contrast ratio: 500,000:1
- Weight: 11.13 lbs
- Connectivity: 2 x HDMI (v1.4a & v2.0), 2 x 3.5mm Audio (In & Out) ports, 1 x VGA, 1 x USB Type A, 1 x Mini-USB (Type-B), 1 x RS-232C, 1 x S/PDIF.
Pros
- Brilliant contrast ratio.
- 4K Support.
- Low input lag / Fast response time.
Cons
- At 11.13 pounds, the Optoma UHD50X is large and bulky. It’s the heaviest projector on this list.
5. Sony HW45ES Projector
Renowned to be the best manufacturer of gaming consoles, you can expect to experience an absolutely impressive performance from this Sony projector.
First off, the design is fascinating; it’s something you’d love right off the bat. The projector almost looks like a console, and partly, a giant smart home camera. Overall, the aesthetic and form factor are visually appealing. If there was a Grammy or Oscars for projectors, the Sony HW45ES would be a strong contender for the ‘Best-designed gaming projector.’
The lamp is flanked on both sides by two front-facing fan grills for balanced heat dissipation during usage. The position of the fan exhausts also optimizes the projector for maximum throw distance. The lamp’s brightness maxes out at 1,800 Lumens and is rated to provide up to 6,000 hours of screen time. There are nine (9) picture calibration modes on the Sony HW45ES to allow users to personalize their experience.
For optimal gaming performance, use the dedicated Game Mode. Other pre-set calibration modes include Two Cinema Film, Cinema Digital, Reference, TV, Phone mode, Bright Cinema, and Bright TV mode.
One downside, however, is the lack of flexible connectivity/input options. All you get is one USB input, one 3.5mm headphone jack, a remote RS-232C, and two(2) HDMI inputs. The modern connectivity input options.
Price and Availability
Sony’s products are synonymous with expensive, and understandably so. Purchasing the Sony HW45ES will set you back by about $2,000 (see prices on Amazon). It offers a combination of crisp Full-HD image quality and a fast response rate for an amazing gaming experience.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 1,800 Lumens
- Native Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Input Lag: 22ms
- Throw Distance: 6.2 —29.7 Feet
- Contrast ratio: 60,000:1
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Connectivity: 2 x HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm Audio, 1 x USB (Type-A), 1 x RS-232C.
Pros
- Great design.
- 3D Support.
- Quiet operation (22db level).
Cons
- Limited connectivity options.
6. LG CineBeam HU70LA 4K Projector
The LG CineBeam HU70LA 4K Projector is a much cheaper and better alternative to the Sony HW45ES. It is powered by LG’s native webOS smart operating system with streaming apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime built-in. As a cherry on top, the LG ThinQ AI technology also lets you navigate the projector via voice control. More specifically, you get both the Google Assistant and Alexa virtual assistants at your disposal.
The combination of TruMotion video processor and Wheel-less LED technology helps to prevent the ‘Rainbow Effect’ (also known as Color Breakup) and LCD discoloration by making animations and colors appear fluid, deeper, and ‘original’. Maximum projection size and brightness level are pegged at 150-inch and 1,500 Lumens respectively.
For gaming, the LG CineBeam HU70LA projector performs averagely. With input lag ranging between 40-50ms, this isn’t the projector for heavy gamers and gaming aficionados. However, it offers a perfect balance for people who occasionally juggle between movie streaming and light gaming.
There are multiple input and output ports on the rear for wired connections; there are a USB Type-C port and a LAN port for ethernet connection. If you’d rather go cordless, you can pair your devices to the projector via Bluetooth or the webOS’ Wireless Content Share technology. Wi-Fi connection is also supported.
Price and Availability
Not only is this projector suitable for gaming, but it is also feature-packed enough to replace your TV as a stand-alone entertainment system. If you’re thinking of shelling top-dollar on a new smart TV, the LG CineBeam HU70LA projector can suffice as a reasonable replacement. You can purchase the projector on Amazon for $1,799.
Other Key Features
- Brightness: 1,500 ANSI Lumens
- Native Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Speaker: 3W + 3W Built-in Stereo speakers
- Lamp Life: 30,000 hours
- Input Lag: 40 — 50 ms
- Throw Distance: 8.9 –11.2 feet
- Contrast ratio: 150,000:1
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
- Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C (Display, Power : 5V/1A Out), 1 x RJ45, 1 x 3.5mm Audio out, 1 x Kensington lock
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Built-in Virtual Assistant.
- Flexible (wired and wireless) connectivity options.
- 4K support.
- Built-in streaming apps.
Cons
- No 3D support.
Buying a Gaming Projector: Major Touchstones
So, now that you know some of the best gaming projectors to buy, what exactly are the major specifications to look out for before making a purchase? We highlight some of them below.
1. Input Lag and Response Time
Although these two terms are wrongly used interchangeably, they mean entirely different things. For starters, input lag simply refers to the time it takes your projector to display the signal received from the connected console or other devices. Response time, on the other hand, is used to describe the time taken by a projector to switch pixel colors, say for red to blue, blue to green, etc.
Both metrics are measured in milliseconds (ms) and are generally used to assess the speed and performance of a gaming projector. The lower the input lag and response time, the better the gaming performance. Therefore, when you’re faced with multiple options, you should consider the product with the lowest input lag/response time.
An input lag range of 40 – 50ms is considered decent and acceptable. With projectors that sport an input lag of 25ms or below, expect nothing but an ultra-smooth and lag-free experience during competitive gaming.
2. Brightness Level
This is another important criterion to factor into your gaming projector search. A projector’s brightness level is measured in Lumen. A projector’s picture quality and accuracy, to a great extent, depending on the lighting conditions of the usage environment. If you’d mostly be gaming in the dark or a poorly-lit room, a 500 – 800 Lumens-rated projector should suffice. For rooms with a lot of refractory ambient light, a projector with a minimum Lumens rating of 1,500 is recommended.
3. Contrast Ratio
Be it your favorite FPS game or soccer, you want a projector that displays characters in vibrant, crisp, and true colors. Whites should appear as whites and blacks should just be as distinct. That’s where the aspect ratio comes in. This simply highlights the level of distinction between light and dark colors on the screen. For context, an 8,000:1 aspect ratio means that the white color on the projector is 8,000 times brighter than black. The higher the contrast ratio, the better.
4. Resolution
Whatever you do, don’t buy a projector with a resolution lower than HD (or 1080p) — for gaming, that is. Full HD projectors provide an incredible level of detail required for optimum gaming and cinema-like movie experience. There are also 4K-capable projectors that offer even greater picture quality, but they are generally more expensive.
5. Connectivity
Finally, ensure you also carefully peruse the available connection options. A gaming projector should have multiple and versatile input and output ports. Wireless connectivity is also a plus. You never know what you might need to hook up to the projector. The more the merrier.
Conclusion
And there it is; the basic guide to buying a gaming projector. The projectors in this guide have been carefully examined and selected. These projectors possess an ideal combination of the above-mentioned features. They are some of the best gaming projectors (from trusted and reliable brands) available in the market. Do let us know if you have any questions, queries, or suggestions.