Epson PowerLite 99W 3LCD Projector Review - Summary

Posted on March 20, 2014 by Art Feierman

The Epson PowerLite 99w provides a bright, sharp image with good color accuracy (in some of the available color modes). It is easy to set up with its 1.2:1 zoom lens plus vertical and horizontal keystone correction adjustments. It offers some very bright modes that will allow it to used in a classroom with moderately bright lighting. The projector can be either table mounted or ceiling mounted and is small enough to be considered a portable projector that could easily be moved between classrooms or conference rooms.

Pros

very sharp display with good focus over the entire image
only minor color fringing visible on displayed text, even when viewed up close, indicating good alignment of LCD panels and also good optics with a low level of chromatic aberration
excellent readability of text and presentation graphics
excellent scaling from higher resolution inputs down to the native display resolution
can display photos or slide shows directly from a USB flash drive
high light output (~2000 lumens) possible even in modes with good color accuracy and even brighter modes available with greater than 3000 lumens of light output
multiple Epson projectors can be controlled and managed from a central PC using the supplied software
moderator software allows classroom collaboration with the display of the content from up to 4 devices (e.g., laptops or mobile devices) using a split screen display (requires optional wireless network adapter to enable use with of mobile devices)
presentations can be controlled via a mobile Android or iOS device (requires optional wireless network adapter)
content from mobile devices can be directly displayed by the PowerLite 99W (requires optional wireless network adapter)
very good reception coverage of the IR signals from the supplied remote control enabled by the projector having IR receivers on both the front and rear panels
built-in 16 watt speaker, with better than average sound quality, and a microphone input provide good audio capabilities for use in a moderate size class room or conference room
has both automatic/manual vertical and manual horizontal keystone correction adjustments for when the projector cannot be positioned at the ideal location relative to the screen.
long lamp life with up to 5000 hours in normal mode and 6000 hours in eco mode

Cons

remote can be difficult to operate in a dark room, since it has no backlight
dust filter that must be maintained
a relatively high black level and a modest contrast ratio means this projector is not the ideal choice for critical video viewing (such as might be desired for a film arts class) in a darkened room with good light control.
moderately high fan noise level when operated in normal mode

-

This projector review is included in our 2014-2015 Best Classroom Projectors Report, which is sponsored by Epson America.