Projector Reviews Images

Best Gaming Projectors For 2024

Home » Best Gaming Projectors For 2024
Best gaming projectors post banner - Projector Reviews - Image

Are you still playing video games on a tiny tv or monitor? Below are a few major benefits of gaming on a projector, along with our list of the best gaming projectors for 2024. Video games have such stunning advances in rendering abilities that the size of the display, 4k resolution, and speed really does make or break a great game.

Playing on a projector screen 100" or larger is the only option to be fully immersed in a game. Whether you are playing in first-person shooter mode, third-person RPG (role-player games), or any other gaming style, there’s nothing like having your screen extend to the edge of your peripheral vision. Gaming on a projector is the best way to reach your gaming potential.

Looking for other projectors? View our list of the best projectors we have reviewed this year, broken out by category.

Best Gaming Projectors For 2023
Playing a game on a big screen is a much more immersive experience

What Makes a Projector Good For Gaming?

There are three main factors that make gaming on a projector a great option: input lag, High Dynamic Range, and the projector's audio capabilities.

Input Lag

The most important factor to consider when purchasing a gaming projector is input lag. Input lag is an important term in the world of projector gaming. It is a word that relates to the gaming speed performance on projectors – the time between when the gaming system sends out its signal, to the time it is received by the projector, and is measured in milliseconds. The range of acceptable input lag speeds are as high as 50ms to as low as 16ms and there are three categories these speeds fall into: Acceptable, Good, and Optimal.

Acceptable input lag the category of the casual gamer. These are the gamers who do it for fun, and do not compete. They’ll typically stay offline, and play games with their friends and family in person, or by themselves. These are your Nintendo Switch gamers, RPG players, and first-person shooter types who don’t spend much time playing against other gamers online.

Optoma UHD35 Gaming Projector
Optoma UHD35 Gaming Projector 4.2ms Input Lag

Good input lag is in the 33ms to 40ms range. Any projector that is within these speeds will be suitable for all but the most competitive gamers.

Good input lag at 33ms to 40ms, will put you behind just over 1 frame per second on a 30fps game, and 2 frames behind on a 60fps game. This isn’t enough to make a difference for most people – again, unless highly competitive, such as a career gamer type, or those who play a lot of online maps.

Anything below that 33ms mark can be considered “really good” or “great,” but truly excellent input lag is 16ms to 20ms, with 16ms being the aim for manufacturers who are positioning their model as a gaming projector.

Input Lag
BenQ Gaming offers an amazing picture

Resolution and 4K Gaming with HDR

HDR is a feature that appears on many 4K UHD projectors on the market. The acronym stands for “High Dynamic Range,” and refers to a type of image processing in 4K capable projectors and TVs that saturates the colors to become more vibrant, with more “pop and wow” factor. It does so by expanding the contrast and color, often significantly. On most projectors, HDR will considerably reduce the brightness of whatever color mode it is being used on.

The list of projectors that have the ability to handle 4K games with HDR gets significantly shorter than the list of projectors that have HDR. This has to do with the type of HDMI port that is used on projectors that can handle 4K gaming with HDR, and those that cannot. To project a game in 4K HDR at 60 fps, the projector requires an HDMI port that is 18 Ghz.

Audio Sound Wave

Audio Performance

Projectors aren’t necessarily considered the pinnacle of audio performance, and for good reason, they don’t match the power an AV sound system or a soundbar can offer in a small box, but that’s not to say that they can’t offer compelling audio performance.

For many projectors, the different gaming modes manipulate how audio is delivered from the projector. A great example of this in action is with role playing mode, which better amplifies deep bass from the projector, making monster roars and 50 caliber sniper rounds more guttural and impactful. Areas like voice are enhanced when using sports mode so the player can better understand what the announcer is saying in the game. Whereas surround effects are more accurately placed when users access first-person shooter mode, which helps you better locate where other players are in relation to you in the game, making you a more effective player.

The size of the screen certainly helps a lot, but so does the ability to intelligently adjust the projector’s video and audio output to best match each game’s performance. Previously there were many obstacles that made projectors not as ideally suited to gaming as monitors or TVs, we’re pleased to see many—dare we say all—of these barriers adequately removed.

Our Picks for the Best Gaming Projectors In 2024

Below is the list of projectors we at Projector Reviews would work best for gaming. We will continue to add to this list as more projectors become available that we think would enhance your gaming experience.

BenQ X3000i

BenQ-X3000i-Highly-Recommended-Award-1

The BenQ X3000i is a 4K HDR capable 4LED Gaming Projector which retails for $1,999. With 3000 ANSI lumens, dedicated gaming picture and sound modes along with dual 5-watt chamber speakers, the BenQ X3000i was designed for immersive open-world gaming on the latest gaming consoles.

The X3000i is part of BenQ’s Console Gaming Projector Series which includes the X Series, TK Series, and TH Series. BenQ states X Series projectors like the BenQ X3000i projector are designed for cinematic immersion in gameplay with 4LED HDR-PRO for grand scenery in authentic colors with dynamic virtual 3D sound from various directions. BenQ also states the X3000i was made for use with PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch.

To see all the differences between this BenQ X3000i 4LED gaming projector and the BenQ X1300i 4LED gaming projector (below) and to learn more about the X3000i, please read the full review here.

BenQ X3000i Specs 
Price$1,999
TechnologyDLP w/ XPR (Single-Chip DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840x2160
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)3000
Contrast500,000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio1.3x
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life20,000 hours (Normal)
30,000 hours (ECO)
Weight14.1
Warranty3 Year Limited Warranty
Resolution / Frame RateMeasured Input Lag
1080p/60Hz16.67ms
1080p/120Hz8.33ms
1080p/240Hz4ms
4K/60Hz16.67ms
4K/30Hz33ms

One of a few important items to us gamers is input lag. As far as input lag goes, BenQ states 0-20ms is a high speed, 20-40ms is fast, 40-62ms is slow, and anything lower than 63ms is very slow. The X3000i has a BenQ rated input lag of 4K/60Hz @ 16.67ms, 1080p/240Hz @ 4.16ms, 1080p/120Hz @ 8.33ms, and 1080p/60Hz @ 16.67ms.

Check out the full review of the BenQ X3000i.

BenQ X1300i

BenQ-X3000i-Highly-Recommended-Award-1

The X1300i is a gaming-optimized home entertainment projector packed with a ton of powerhouse features. This beautiful little projector features a square compact design that is becoming associated with gaming projectors (and we think it’s a great design). The X1300i is a 120Hz 4 LED projector with a 3000 ANSI lumens rating, according to BenQ, and a 5,000,000:1 published contrast ratio.

What really stands out to us is BenQ’s GameMaestro audio and video presets and the built-in sound system tuned by treVolo. Also, this projector has an incredibly rated low input lag at 8.3ms for 1080P at 120 frames per second.

We measured the input lag of the X1300i at various resolutions and frame rates using our Murideo Seven Generator. We selected the projector's GAME mode and engaged the Fast Mode setting under the Gaming submenu. Measurements are rounded off to the nearest millisecond.

Resolution /Frame RateInput Lag (Game Fast Mode)
1080/60P17ms
1080/120P9ms
4K/60P17ms
4K/120PNot Supported
BenQ X1300i Specs 
Price$1299
TechnologyDLP (.047" DMD)
Native Resolution1920x1080
Input Lag8.3 ms
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)3000
Contrast5,000,000:1 (Dynamic Black)
Zoom Lens Ratio1.2
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life20,000 hours (Normal mode)
Weight14.1 lbs
Warranty3 years (PJ), 1 year/2000 Hrs (Lamp)

The X1300i also includes smart features via its Android TV OS. This projector makes for an amazing gaming experience for both your eyes and ears.

Check out the full review here: BenQ X1300i Review

Optoma UHD50X

Optoma UHD50X

The UHD50X is a $1,599.99 DLP projector, designed for gaming. The UHD50X has a manufacturer lumens rating of 3,400 ANSI lumens and a contrast rating of 500,000:1.

Optoma classifies the UHD50X as the world’s first 240Hz Cinema Gaming Projector. Optoma is focusing heavily on both the input lag rating of the UHD50X when it comes to gaming, listing an input lag of 15.7 milliseconds in Enhanced Gaming mode at 1080P at 240 frames per second.

While we couldn't measure the unit's input lag at 240hz we did measure the input lag at various resolutions and frame rates using our Murideo Seven Generator. Measurements are rounded off to the nearest millisecond.

The projector is suitable for your living room, family room, media room, or bedroom, where there’s at least some control over ambient light. 

Optoma UHD50X Specs
Price$1599 MSRP
TechnologyDLP with XPR (0.47” DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840 x 2160
Claimed Input Lag15.7 ms (1080P/240P)
Brightness 3400 lumens
Contrast500,000:1 (Dynamic)
Zoom Lens Ratio1.3X
Lens ShiftYes
Lamp Life4000 Hours (Bright)/10,000 (ECO)/15,000 (Dynamic)
Weight8.6lbs
Warranty1 Year Parts and Labor/90 Day Lamp
Resolution / Frame RateMeasured Input Lag
1080/60P26ms
1080/120P18ms
1080/240PCouldn't Measure
4K/60P26ms
4K/120PNot Supported

The bottom line is that the Optoma UHD50X is a projector powerhouse that allows you to enjoy high-quality cinema and Gaming content.

To read the full review of the Optoma UHD50X, click here: Optoma UHD50X review

Optoma UHD35

Optoma UHD35 Special Interest Award

As a gaming projector, the Optoma UHD35 core components operate at much higher levels of performance than a standard projector. Some of the key differences include the projector’s refresh rate, low input lag, and the ability to produce superior contrast.

The UHD35X input lag is listed at just 4.2 milliseconds in Enhanced Gaming mode at 1080P at 240 frames per second. This one of the lowest response times available on a projector. With the exception of a dedicated gaming monitor, it is also far superior to most flat panel displays.

While we couldn't measure the unit's input lag at 240hz we did measure the input lag at various resolutions and frame rates using our Murideo Seven Generator. Measurements are rounded off to the nearest millisecond.

Optoma UHD35 Specs 
Price$1,299
TechnologyDLP with XPR (0.47” DMD)
Displayed Resolution3840 x 2160
Input Lag4.2ms (1080/240P)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)3600
Contrast1,000,000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio1:1
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life4000/10,000/15,000 (Bright/ECO/Dynamic)
Weight8.6lbs.
Warranty1 Year (Parts & Labor), 90 Days (Lamp)
Resolution / Frame RateInput Lag (Enhanced Game Mode)
1080/60P18ms
1080/120P9ms
1080/240PCouldn't Measure
4K/60P18ms
4K/120PNot Supported

The UHD35X supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) with provides the gamer with the ability to identify objects in the extreme bright and dark areas on the screen to keep from getting killed by another player. Projectors like the UHD35 are optimized to work better with gaming consoles and high-performance gaming computers. The unit's excellent gaming performance results from displaying a higher dynamic range of colors, higher resolution, and much faster refresh rates.

To read the full review, click here: Optoma UHD35 review

BenQ TK700STi

BenQ-TK700STi Hero 2 with award

The $1,699 price tag makes the TK700STi perfect for the gaming enthusiast and anyone else who wants an all-in-one portable, full HD 3D-ready smart projector which requires only a flat viewing surface or projector screen and a power outlet to get the entertainment started with audio provided by its built-in 5-watt speaker.

The projector utilizes a DLP (Texas Instruments 0.47” DMD) chip. Its lamp light source is rated to deliver at 3000 ANSI lumens for up to 15,000 hours.

BenQ proudly states the TK700STi is the “World’s First 4K HDR Gaming Projector; 4K @ 60Hz” and “Game with 16ms Lowest Input Lag Ever Paired with 4K Resolution.”

In addition, it should be noted that this gaming projector comes with unique game modes for FPS (First-Person Shooter), RPG (Role-Playing Game), and SPG (Sports Game) gaming modes with audio, visual, and optimized latency settings for each type of game.

BenQ TK850i is targeted directly at the gaming crowd with a lag time of 16.7ms for 4K 60Hz: and just 4.16ms for 1080p 240Hz: 4.16ms which great for hardcore gamers where response times matter. Not only does the TK700STi have a dedicated video picture mode for gaming, there are also multiple game-focused audio modes.

The BenQ TK700STi is a 4K HDR Gaming Projector that is bundled with the QS0I Android TV dongle which provides access to over 5,000 Android TV apps including YouTube and Amazon Prime Video. The smart features are integrated seamlessly, and the menus are easy to navigate.

BenQ TK700STi Specs
Price$1699
TechnologyDLP with XPR (0.47” DMD)
Native Resolution1920x1080x4
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)3000
Contrast10,000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio1.2x
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life4,000 hours / 15,000 hours (Eco)
Weight6.83
Warranty3 years
Resolution / Frame RateInput Lag (Enhanced Game Mode)
4K 60Hz16.67ms (4K output)
4K 30Hz33ms
1080p 60Hz16.67ms
1080p 120Hz8.33ms
1080p 240Hz4.16ms

We believe the BenQ TK700STi is a great value. It is bright, delivers an accurate image and its lightning-fast response time makes it a joy to game on. We also appreciated the simple plug-and-play capability of a smart projector. We liked the projector so much that we have awarded the BenQ TK700STi, Projector Reviews, “Highly Recommended” award.

To read the full review, click here: BenQ TK700Sti

BENQ TH690ST

BenQ-TH690ST-Highly Recommended Award

The BenQ TH690ST 4LED 1080p HDR Short Throw Projector for Console Gaming that retails for $1,099 and can deliver 2,300 ANSI lumens of brightness.

With a retail price of only $1,099 for the TH690ST, BenQ has in mind the end-user who wants to get into gaming with a projector but doesn’t want to pay the price tag for a 4K gaming projector but at the same time doesn’t want a 1080p lamp-based gaming projector.

The BenQ TH690ST 4LED gaming projector fits nicely between those two types of gaming projectors and is the perfect gateway to get into gaming with a projector.

The TH690ST is an excellent option for a potential buyer who doesn’t want to pay the price tag for a 4K capable gaming projector and doesn’t want a lamp-based projector. With the BenQ TH690ST, you get a console gaming projector for your immersive open-world games and fast-paced gaming needs. The TH690ST’s rated input lag of 1080p@120Hz: 8.3ms, 1080p@60Hz: 16.7ms, and 4K@60Hz (downscaling to 1080p).

BenQ TH690ST Specs
Price$1,099
TechnologyDLP with LED light source
Native Resolution1080p (1920x1080)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)2,300 ANSI Lumens
Contrast500,000:1 (Full On / Full Off Standard)
Zoom Lens Ratio1.2x
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Life20,000 hours (Normal) / 30,000 hours (Eco)
Weight7.9 Lbs.
Warranty3-Year Limited Warranty

I highly recommend the BenQ TH690ST 4LED Console Gaming Projector for anybody looking to get into gaming with a projector. As such, I easily decided to give the BenQ TH690ST Projector Reviews “Highly Recommended” award.

To read the full review, click here: BENQ TH690ST LED

© 2023 Projector Reviews

crossmenu linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram