Optoma TX542 DLP Projector - Review Summary

A summary of the Optoma TX542 projector's pros, cons.

4-26-10 -Mike Rollett


Optoma TX542 Projector: Bottom Line

The Optoma TX542 provides a lot of value for the money.  It’s image quality, color rendition and scaling/resizing of higher resolutions is very solid and for the most part, equal to or better than other projectors in its class.  While it didn’t achieve its rated lumen output (see the Performance section for details), it still provided plenty of brightness and should be more than adequate for its intended market.  In Bright mode, the TX542 displays the dark reds and mustardy yellows normally associated with DLP projectors, but in other modes (particularly Movie mode), colors were well-saturated and accurate.  Setup was simple and the adjustments available in the User modes allow the user to tailor the TX542’s display to their taste.  Noise level in Bright lamp mode was quite low for a projector in this class and combines with the built-in stereo speaker system to provide adequate sound levels without an add-on sound system.
The Optoma TX542 compares well with other projectors in its class.  The recently reviewed Sharp PG-D3510X offers more brightness, but the Optoma matches it in most of the other performance categories.  As the TX542 routinely sells for half the price of the Sharp, it’s a great choice where the extra lumens of the Sharp are not needed.  

Overall, the TX542 should find its way into a number of classrooms.  Whether you’re doing a standard PowerPoint presentation or playing videos, the TX542 displays a consistently sharp picture with solid color reproduction.  Add in Optoma’s one year lamp warranty, Express replacement service and low street price, and you’ve got a winner.

 

Optoma TX542 Projector: Pros, Cons, and Typical Capabilities

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Optoma TX542 Projector: Pros

  • Runs quieter than many projectors in its class

  • Very good image with native resolution or higher and good color accuracy

  • No dust filter to keep clean

  • Very good lamp life – 5000 hours in Standard mode

  • Lightweight – 6.2 lbs.

  • Good warranty and support with one year warranty on lamp and Express Replacement service

  • Good audio output capability with built-in 5W stereo speakers

  • Ability to adjust almost all projector functions via a networked computer

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Optoma TX542 Projector: Cons

  • Not as bright as some of the competition

  • Limited zoom range

  • No network display capability or wireless networking

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