The Benq GP500 4K 4LED Smart Projector delivers a great video and gaming experience on the go.
The BenQ GP100A is a Full HD (1920x18080) 4LED portable projector that retails for $899 MSRP. The GP100A is BenQ's best portable smart projector which is designed to transform any space into a personal cinema or gaming hub. The projector’s LED light source has a manufacturer’s rated brightness of 1000 ANSI Lumens. Its compact form factor, measuring approximately 7.60" x 6.70" x 8.40", and its relatively lightweight construction (about 6.4 lbs.) make it highly portable.
The GP100A includes several features that make set up effortless so it is easy to enjoy movies, shows, and games on the go. With its 1080p resolution, bright LED light source, impressive audio, and seamless Android TV integration, the GP100A delivers an immersive entertainment experience wherever you go.
BenQ GP100A Specs
Price
$899 MSRP
Technology
DLP
Displayed Resolution
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim
1000 ANSI Lumens
Light Source
RGB LED
Contrast
100,000:1 (Dynamic)
Zoom Lens Ratio
Fixed
Sound System
5W x2 + 10W
Dimensions (WxDxH)
7.6" x 6.7" x 8.4”
Weight
6.4 lbs.
Overview
Portable and lifestyle projectors are growing categories. People are increasingly seeking flexible entertainment options that can adapt to their on-the-go lifestyles and smaller living spaces.
Due to their compact size and lightweight design, portable projectors, like the BenQ GP100A, are easy to carry around and set up in various locations, offering great flexibility. This gives you the freedom to turn any space into a movie theater, gaming arena, or presentation venue.
Movies, TV shows, and sports come alive on the big screen, even in smaller rooms or outdoor spaces. Gaming a larger display is also more immersive, enhancing the experience significantly.
The GP100A LED light source can reproduce 90% of the DCI-P3 Color Gamut and 97% of the Rec. 709 Color Gamut
The GP100A is a 1080P DLP portable projector that has a rated to deliver 1,000 ANSI lumens of brightness and can reproduce 90% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 97% of the Rec. 709 color gamut.
In addition to high brightness and vibrant colors, the 4LED light source used in the GP100A offers a long lifespan and energy efficiency. This projector's LED light source provides up to 30,000 hours of use in its brightest setting while hitting up to 30,000 hours in Energy-Saving mode.
Use the projector's USB-C to project video from a mobile device while charging it. You can also power the projector using a USB-C power bank
While HDMI is the primary way you would connect the GP100A to most sources, the GP100A also includes a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort output along with power delivery.
The USB-C port can be used to connect the projector to a mobile device, laptop, or even a Nintendo® Switch. The BenQ GP100A can even charge the Nintendo Switch while projecting gaming content. This is also nice because you don’t need to carry the Switch’s docking station or AC power supply with you. While the BenQ GP100A is not classified as a gaming projector, when paired with a portable gaming console like a Nintendo, it delivers an amazing gaming experience nearly anywhere
The GP100A does not have a built-in battery but to maximize its portability, you can also connect the projector to a compatible USB battery bank to power the unit if you want to watch a movie on the go.
The GP100A is bundled with a QS01 Android TV dongle, which mounts in a dedicated compartment.
Many portable projectors now include built-in operating systems like Android TV and smart connectivity features like Chromecast and AirPlay. This gives you direct access to various streaming services and wireless screen mirroring options.
The GP500, like other BenQ i-series projectors, comes with a smart HDMI media stick BenQ calls the QS02. The QS02 plugs into a hidden HDMI input that can be accessed by removing the projector's top panel. Users can enjoy Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video and access all the latest compatible Android TV apps.
The QS02 also allows wireless casting from compatible Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, or Chromebook devices. You can also use the microphone built into the remote to access Google Assistant voice control.
The high quality 20watt 2.1 sound system can be used as a Bluetooth speaker
The GP100A includes a 20-watt 2.1 audio system that delivers better sound quality than most portable projectors. The GP100A’s audio performance enhances the overall entertainment experience whether you are watching a movie or playing a game.
The GP100A offers smart setup features like 2D Keystone to assist with setup and alignment. 2D Keystone eliminates trapezoid effects when projecting from various locations to help the user get a squared image. The projector can automatically correct the vertical sides of a distorted image by enabling the Auto Vertical Keystone on the Installation menu. A manual horizontal set of ±30 degrees is also available.
To ease setup, the GP100A automatically focuses and keystone corrects the image. Once the projector has finished autofocus, users can manually adjust the focus by pressing the left or right buttons on the remote control while the focus guide is still on the screen.
In addition to keystone correction the GP100A includes a Corner Fit feature that lets users adjust the four corners of the projected image to fix an image that can't manually be squared to the screen. Screen Fit adjusts the image when the projector is placed off-center and aligns the image to three borders of the screen, creating a proper fit.
Supports all the popular streaming Apps including Netflix
Includes HDMI ARC, USB-A, Audio out, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
USB-C port supports DisplayPort output (DP Alt Mode) and power delivery (PD inputs and outputs)
Autofocus, 4 corner picture adjustment, and horizontal and vertical keystone adjustment
HARDWARE
CHASSIS
The BenQ GP100A boasts a sleek and stylish design that blends seamlessly into various settings. Its compact form factor, measuring approximately 7.60" x 6.70" x 8.40", and its relatively lightweight construction (about 6.4 lbs) make it highly portable.
The GP100A includes a leather hand strap so you can easily move the GP100A from room to room or carry it to your buddy’s house. It is compact enough to fit in a standard backpack and BenQ even offers an optional carrying case for $89.
The GP100A cube shape is similar to other lifestyle focused projectors. It is basically a bright projector sitting atop a good sound system. The lens is located on the front of the chassis along with the IR sensor and the ToF (Time of Flight) sensor. This sensor is responsible for auto focus, auto keystone and eye protection functions. The button for the projector’s adjustable kickstand in also located on the front. The maximum angle of adjustment is 12 degrees.
The BenQ GP100A features automatic vertical keystone correction and autofocus, taking the hassle out of image adjustments. The automatic 2D keystone correction ensures a properly proportioned image even when the projector is placed at an angle, making setup more flexible. The GP100A compact size combined with its auto setup features make setting up the projector effortless, so it easy to enjoy movies, shows, and games on the go.
The control panel is located on top, and there is a compartment to house the QS02 Android TV dongle. You must loosen two screws to access the component, which has a dedicated HDMI input and USB power output to connect the QS02 Android TV Dongle bundled with the GP100A.
There are speaker and intake/exhaust vents located on the sides and rear of the chassis. There is a tripod screw hole on the bottom of the unit.
The projector inputs and connections are on the lower left side of the unit. There is a single HDMI ARC (HDCP 2.3) input for connecting gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and other video sources. There is a USB-A that can be used to play content directly from a USB drive. The 3.5 mm Audio Out jack can be used to connect headphones or an external speaker system if desired. There is a power adaptor port as well. While the GP100A is compact, be advised that it ships with a large external power supply.
There are speaker and intake/exhaust vents located on the sides and rear of the chassis. There is a tripod screw hole on the bottom of the unit.
The control panel is located at the top, and there is a compartment to house the QS02 Android TV dongle. You must loosen two screws to access the component, which has a dedicated HDMI input and USB power output to connect the QS02 Android TV Dongle bundled with the GP100A.
The most notable connection is the USB-C port. The connection supports DisplayPort along with power input/output. It can be used to connect the projector to a mobile device, laptop, or even a Nintendo® Switch. It can even charge a connection device while projecting content from it. Using a USB-IF-certified cable, the GP100A is able to supply power to a connected USB-IF-certified device. Supported USB-C power delivery output:
5V/1.5A
9V/1.5A
12V/1.5A
15V/1.2A
This is also nice because you don’t need to carry your mobile devices docking station or AC power supply with you. While the GP100A does not have a built-in battery you can also use the USB-C port connect the projector to a compatible USB battery bank to power the unit if you want to watch a movie on the go.
The remote control for the BenQ GP500 is lightweight and white, making it easy to see even in a darkened room. It's a combination remote that controls the projector's functions and the dedicated Android TV OS in the included QS02 HDMI Streaming Stick.
There are separate buttons for activating the GP500 projector menus and the BenQ QS01 Android TV menus. The remote features quick access buttons for Focus, Geometry correction, Sound Modes, Picture modes, wireless speaker modes and voice search
THE LENS
The GP100 has a motorized fixed lens with a 1.2:1 throw ratio. While the projector does a good job of focusing automatically, you can fine-tune it using the remote control. If you press the focus button on the remote control, the projector will automatically refocus. To manually adjust the focus of the unit, press the left or right buttons on the remote control. When the focus is completed, press the back button to finish. The projector can project a 100-inch image from about 104 inches away. The image below shows the throw distances for several size sizes.
BENQ QS02 HDMI STREAMING DEVICE
The QS02 has a hidden HDMI connection and power under the top of the projector
The BenQ GP100A is bundled with a QS02 streaming dongle. Since it is powered by the Android TV 10 operating system, it provides access to a vast library of apps, games, and streaming services from the Google Play Store via a smooth and intuitive interface. Unlike the older QS01, the QS02 is officially certified by Netflix, ensuring seamless playback of all your favorite Netflix content.
With the integrated Google Assistant, you can search for shows, adjust playback, and even get information or control smart home devices. Thanks to built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay support, you can also cast content directly from your smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
I did notice that the QS02 upconverted everything, including older movies and streaming content, to 4K HDR. It have been better if the QS02 displayed content in its native format because SDR to HDR up-conversion often results in lower picture quality.
MENUS
The BenQ GP100A utilizes a hybrid menu system which includes different menus for different functions. One menu system is utilized to adjust the projector’s picture and sound settings. The button on the remote labeled “Projector Menu” takes the user directly to the projector's On-Screen Display (OSD) menu. The video adjustments are not as elaborate as the ones offered on the Home Theater projector; they include several Picture presets and basic picture settings like Brightness, Contrast, Color, and Sharpness.
The BenQ GP100A picture and audio setting menus
The projector's entertainment services and apps are accessed using the Home button. You can download and access apps from this section, and the interface looks similar to most Android TV-equipped devices. Hundreds of popular entertainment apps are available, including Disney+, Max, Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Apple TV. As I mentioned earlier the new QS02 dongle included with the BenQ GP100A supports natively support Netflix.
The QS02 dongle’s settings menu can be accessed by pressing the button with the cog symbol. This is where you would log in/out of your Google account, pair accessories, or make changes to things like your wireless network. While you do have to get used to accessing different menus using different buttons, once you select the proper menu, the system is smooth and responsive.
Pressing the Home button on the remote control accesses the QS02 dongle's Android TV menus
PERFORMANCE
COLOR REPRODUCTION
I have always been impressed by the color reproduction of BenQ projectors. While the colors produced by the GP100A are not as accurate as those of a BenQ Home Theater projector, they are better than those of most portable projectors that I have reviewed.
The GP100A includes several preset picture modes, including three dedicated to HDR playback. CINEMA is the most accurate, followed by LIVING ROOM, USER, and GAME, which have a cooler color temperature. While BRIGHT mode delivers the highest light output, it was the least accurate, so I would use it unless maximum brightness is absolutely critical.
There are three dedicated HDR picture modes, and HDR CINEMA is the most accurate. While the GP100A supports High Dynamic Range, the projector did a better job reproducing SDR colors than HDR.
While the GP100A doesn’t offer advanced color adjustments like White Balance and Color Temperature, you can make quick BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, and SHARPNESS adjustments to improve the picture quality of the GP100A in your room. Several free test patterns are available on the Murideo website and their YouTube channel. Murideo also has written instructions in the resource section of its website. Also, check out our YouTube video on utilizing several test patterns called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns
Overall, most users looking for a portable projector will be satisfied with the out-of-the-box picture quality of the GP100A.
BRIGHTNESS
The BenQ GP100A has a rated brightness of 1000 lumens. To get an approximate measurement of the projector's brightness, I set its light source mode to NORMAL and its picture mode to BRIGHT. I then took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the lens.
At wide zoom for maximum brightness and in BRIGHT mode, the GP100A measured 1131 lumens, which is more than BenQ's published ANSI lumens specification. I measured all ten SDR and HDR picture modes, and my measurements are below.
BenQ GP100A Preset Picture Mode Brightness
Picture Modes
Brightness Measured
BRIGHT
1131 Lumens
LIVING ROOM
899 Lumens
GAME
863 Lumens
SPORTS
858 Lumens
CINEMA
869 Lumens
DAYTIME
739 Lumens
USER
899 Lumens
HDR CINEMA
880 Lumens
HDR LIVING ROOM
888 Lumens
HDR GAME
869 Lumens
LED light sources like BenQ used GP100A and higher perceived brightness then there ANSI lumens measurement indicates. At 1,000 lumens, this isn't the brightest portable projector you can buy at this price point but the GP100A is bright enough to utilize on 100” screen in a room with low ambient light.
BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL
The black levels appeared more gray than black; you can still see some shadow details in the darker areas. The GP100A struggled to deliver deep blacks but this shouldn’t bother most customers looking for a portable projector. Portable projectors are often utilized in environments with low to moderate ambient light so the ability to deliver deeper black would not produce many visual benefits.
GAMING
While it is classified as a portable projector, the BenQ GP100A's gaming performance is quite good. The projector includes a dedicated video game mode designed to enhance details in dark scenes and a Gaming sound mode.
The GP100A can also detect when it is connected to a gaming source and will automatically switch to its game mode. It features a low input lag of just 26.2 milliseconds when gaming at 1080p60, which is responsive enough for a casual gamer playing a fast-paced game.
For someone looking for a portable gaming solution, I suggest pairing the GP100A with a Nintendo Switch. The GP100A includes a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort output from a Nintendo® Switch, mobile device, or laptop. The BenQ GP100A can even charge a Nintendo Switch or mobile device while projecting gaming content from it. While the GP100A does not have a built-in battery, you can also connect the projector to a compatible USB battery bank to power the unit if you want to enjoy content on the go.
Since the input also supports power delivery, the BenQ GP100A can charge the Nintendo Switch while projecting gaming content from it. This is also nice because you don’t need to carry the Switch’s docking station or AC power supply with you. This ease of setup means that Switch users can quickly transition from handheld play to enjoying their games on a large screen.
The BenQ GP100A projector complements the console’s portability and versatility making it an appealing option for anyone looking to elevate their Nintendo Switch gaming sessions. To learn more check out our article entitled Gaming On A Projector: Portable Gaming on a Nintendo Switch.
SOUND QUALITY
The BenQ GP100A sound quality is very good. The projector is equipped with a 20-watt sound system and includes several preset sound modes. The GP100A can be used as a wireless speaker because you can cast audio from a mobile device. The projector’s remote control even includes a dedicated button, which makes accessing this feature easy. You can switch off the projected image while listening to music by placing the projector into its Audio-Only mode.
The GP100A sound system is one of the best-sounding portable projectors I have reviewed. It is powerful enough to deliver a good audio experience in a medium-sized room. The projector’s 2.1-channel speaker configuration delivers clear sound and good bass. The speakers project audio at 270 degrees, so the sound quality is good whether you are sitting beside or behind the projector.
The fan noise produced by GP500 was about on par with many other BenQ projectors I've reviewed. BenQ lists the noise between 26 and 28dBA. We don't measure the projector's noise levels, but in my opinion, the fan noise was not loud enough to be distracting.
SUMMARY
The BenQ GP100A is a 1080P LED projector with a rated brightness of 1000 lumens. The GP100A is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at just under 3 pounds and dimensions that make it easy to transport in a backpack or a briefcase. Its compact form factor does not compromise functionality or performance.
The GP100A features an intuitive user interface, quick setup, and easy adjustments, so you can start viewing or gaming in no time. The projector is bundled with BenQ's latest Android TV dongle (QS02), so you can easily access the most popular streaming entertainment apps, including Netflix.
The GP100A features a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort output, making it compatible with a Nintendo® Switch, mobile devices, or laptops. Additionally, the BenQ GP100A can charge a Nintendo Switch or mobile device while simultaneously projecting content from these devices. Although the GP100A lacks an internal battery, it can be powered using a compatible USB battery bank, allowing users to project content anywhere, making it perfect for mobile entertainment.
The GP100A's built-in speakers offer a powerful and immersive audio experience. The unit’s high sound quality is not only beneficial when watching video, it also enhances the overall gaming experience especially when playing in a group. You even utilize the projector as a Bluetooth music speaker.
The GP100A’s blend of portability, impressive image quality, and user-friendly design, coupled with its connectivity options, makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy big-screen entertainment anywhere.
PROS
Compact and Lightweight enough to take anywhere
1000 ANSI Lumen LED light source deliver good brightness and long life.
90% DCI-P3 & 97% REC.709 color gamut coverage
HDR10
Dedicate audio and video game modes
Low input lag (26.5ms @ 1080/60p)
Powerful 20-watt 2.1 channel sound system
Bundled with a QS02 smart media stick
Android TV 10
Native Netflix Support
AirPlay, Chromecast Built-in
USB-C port with DisplayPort output (DP Alt Mode) and power delivery
The projector can be powered by an external USB battery bank.
Precise Autofocus and keystone correction.
CONS
No remote control backlight.
No built-in battery
Mediocre black-level performance
BenQ GP100A– SPECIFICATIONS
BenQ GP100A Full Specifications
Projector Model
GP100A
Price
$899 MSRP
Imager Type
DLP
Displayed Resolution
1920 X 1080 pixels (Full HD)
Native Resolution
1920 X 1080
Brightness
1000 ANSI Lumens
Light Source Type
RGB LED
Light Source Life
30,000 hours (Normal)
Contrast Ratio
3,000,000:1 (Dynamic Iris)
Zoom Lens Ratio
Fixed
Power Zoom/Focus
Yes - Focus
Lens Shift
No
Interchangeable Lens
No
Ultra-Short Throw
No
Native Aspect Ratio
16:9
Built-in Rechargeable Battery
No
DVI or HDMI
HDMI
3D
No
Blu-Ray 3D
No
Sound System
2.1 Channel (2 x 5watt + 10watt x 1)
Noise Level (-dB)
28dBA (26dBA ECO mode)
Low Lag Gaming
Yes
Smart Functionality
Yes
Business
No
Classroom
No
Portable
Yes
Special Features
Wireless Projection, Google Assistant, Andriod TV 11.0, USB-C
