Optoma TW610ST DLP Projector - Review Summary
A summary of the Optoma TW610ST projector's pros, cons.
The Optoma TW610ST projector earned our Runner-Up Best In Classroom Award in this year's 2011 Classroom Projector Report: The Best School Projectors for K-12 Education!
3-29-11 -Mike Rollett
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Optoma TW610ST Projector: Bottom Line
The Optoma TW610ST pretty much ticks all the boxes when making a list of the desired features in a short throw, multimedia projector. It has a sharp image across the screen with all resolutions, very good color rendition in most of the picture modes, very high brightness and does it all at a very reasonable price. While its brightest mode didn’t have the greatest color accuracy, this is typical of much of the competition in the TW610ST’s price range. Also, with the ability to produce accurate colors in other picture modes and still deliver over 2500 lumens, it’s not going to have a problem presenting in most lighting conditions. Initial setup may take more time than other multimedia projectors, but that’s to be expected in any short throw projector. Also, the advanced menu adjustments available allow the user to tailor the TW610ST’s color balance to their taste. Noise level in either lamp mode was never objectionable and the built-in 10 watt speaker system provides adequate sound levels without external, powered speakers.
Last year, the Optoma TX542 tied for Best in Classroom in our annual report. The Optoma TW610ST shares many of the features and performance of the TX542, but does it a short throw format. While the TX542 had better color in its Bright mode, the TW610ST equals the TX542 in Presentation or Movie mode, both of which have a higher lumen output than the TX542 in Bright mode. The TW610ST also provides a widescreen format at a lower price than the TX542.
The TW610ST also compares well to another short throw projector that was one of last year’s runners up for Best in Classroom, the BenQ MP772 ST. Both projectors use the same technology (DLP) and the same type of short throw projection (via a convex lens). They are priced with $100 of each other but the TW610ST offers a widescreen format (the BenQ is XGA) and is rated at 600 lumens higher than the BenQ. Color rendition is similar, but the Optoma can provide very good color in its Movie mode, while still putting out over 2500 lumens. To achieve picture quality that is close to that with the BenQ, you have to drop down to Presentation mode, which is just over 2200 lumens. Both projectors have very good warranties, with Optoma’s Express Replacement service tipping the balance in its favor.
Overall, the TW610ST should be seriously considered for anyone looking for a bright, low priced, short throw projector. Whether you’re performing a presentation with or without sound, or playing videos, the TW610ST displays a sharp image with very good color reproduction. One of Optoma’s best selling points is its very good lamp warranty and support, when you combine that with excellent performance and a great price, you can’t go wrong with the Optoma TW610ST.
Optoma TW610ST Projector: Pros, Cons, and Typical Capabilities
Optoma TW610ST Projector: Pros
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Runs quieter than many projectors in its class
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Very good image with native resolution or higher and good color accuracy with all but the brightest mode
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No dust filter to keep clean
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Short throw allows projector to be in front of the presenter
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Good warranty and support with one year warranty on lamp and Express Replacement service
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Good audio output capability with built-in 5W stereo speakers
Optoma TW610ST Projector: Cons
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Short throw and lack of zooming ability makes for slow setup
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Brightness uniformity is not as good as normal throw projectors
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No network display capability or wireless networking
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