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Ricoh is an established manufacturer of business and classroom class projectors and they offer models using DLP and LCD technology.

We wish to thank Epson America for sponsoring this year’s Best Classroom Projectors Report

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Ricoh PJ WXL4540 Specs

Price$2279
TechnologyDLP
Native Resolution1280x800
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)3200
Contrast13000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio1:1
Lens ShiftNo
Lamp Lifeup to 20,000 hours
Weight12.2 lbs.
Warranty3 years

OVERVIEW

The Ricoh PJ WXL4540 projector reviewed here uses a single DLP micro-display panel and this projector features a short throw non-zoom lens and a laser light source rated at up to a 20,000 hour life.  This model offers WXGA resolution of 1280 x 800 with a 16 x 10 aspect ratio and is spec’ed for a reasonably bright 3200 lumens of light output.

Ricoh also offers a lower priced model PJ XL4540 that is similar but offering lower XGA resolution (i.e., 1024 x 768) with a 4 x 3 aspect ratio and 3000 lumen light output.

The PJ WXL4540 produces a sharp image that is rather bright, even with the recommended 100 inch max. screen size. The long life laser light engine is what sets this projector apart from the sub-$1000 projectors that offer similar resolution and brightness.  However, Ricoh has omitted a number of features that are frequently found on competing projectors and the potential buyer will need to decide if any of those omitted features are essential to their application.

The non-zoom short throw lens places very specific constraints on the placement of the projector relative to the screen or whiteboard.  While this short throw arrangement may be the ideal choice for certain specific installations, it may prove unsuitable for other cases.

Another notable missing feature is the lack of network support, either wired LAN or wireless.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Short throw lens (i.e., non-zoom) with a throw ratio of 0.521:1 meaning a 80 inch wide image requires a projector-to-screen throw distance of about 42 inches
  • Laser light source rated at up to 20,000 hours life
  • Fast power up and shutdown
  • Low maintenance
  • Wall color setting for when projecting onto a non-white wall
  • 3D support including from a Blu-ray 3D source

The BenQ MX631ST is a short throw projector intended for use in classrooms or conference rooms.  It is a single chip DLP XGA projector that in its brightest mode is specified to produce 3200 lumens and its lamp is rated to have an unsually long life of up to 10,000 hours, in SmartEco mode.  Even when operated in the full power (i.e, "normal") mode, the lamp is rated at a fairly long 4,500 hours life.

This is a XGA resolution projector (i.e., 1024 x 768) with a 4 x 3 aspect ratio as is typical for many entry-level business and classroom projectors.  However, since many classrooms and conference rooms are already equipped with 4 x 3 aspect ratio projection screens, the MX631ST is certainly a viable choice when replacing an existing XGA projector.

EPSON HOME CINEMA 2000 PROJECTOR:  This lower cost, online version, an almost identical twin to Epson's HC2030 sells for under $900.  It is a very bright projector with very good color, great warranty.  It's a great choice for the family room!

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