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Benq TK850i vs Benq TK700STi: Comparison
Hey everyone, It's Jim from Gagadget. Today, we're pitting two of BenQ's most popular 4K gaming projectors against each other: the TK850i and the newer TK700STi. Both offer low input lag, high refresh rates, and sharp images for immersive big-screen gaming. But there are some key differences that make each one better suited for different use cases.
In this in-depth comparison, we'll examine how the TK850i and TK700STi stack up in terms of gaming performance, image quality, features, and overall value. By the end, you'll know exactly which projector is right for your needs and budget.
BenQ TK850i vs TK700STi: Quick Overview
I respect your time and aim to provide only the essential information, skipping the fluff.
If you're in a hurry, here's the quick rundown: The BenQ TK700STi is a gaming powerhouse with ultra-low input lag, a 240Hz refresh rate, and snappy response times. It's ideal for competitive gamers who want a big-screen experience. The BenQ TK850i, while still a solid gaming projector, prioritizes image quality with higher native contrast, HDR support, and a more accurate color profile. It's the better choice for movie buffs and those who want an all-around home entertainment projector.
Ultimately, if gaming is your top priority, go for the TK700STi. But if you want the best possible picture quality for movies and TV shows, with gaming as a secondary concern, the TK850i is the way to go.
Table of Contents
- BenQ TK850i vs TK700STi: Full Comparison
- BenQ TK700STi vs TK850i: Design
- BenQ TK850i or TK700STi: User Reviews
- BenQ TK850i and TK700STi Alternatives
- The Bottom Line: Which is Better, BenQ TK850i or TK700STi?
BenQ TK850i vs TK700STi: Full Comparison
| Feature | BenQ TK850i | BenQ TK700STi |
| Image |
|
|
| Display Technology | DLP XPR (4K UHD) | DLP XPR (4K UHD) |
| Native Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 1920 x 1080 |
| HDR Compatibility | HDR10, HLG | HDR10, HLG |
| Brightness (ANSI Lumens) | 3000 | 3000 |
| Contrast Ratio (FOFO) | 3000:1 | 1000:1 |
| Input Lag (4K@60Hz) | ~16ms | ~16ms |
| Max Refresh Rate | 60Hz@4K, 120Hz@1080p | 60Hz@4K, 240Hz@1080p |
| Throw Ratio | 1.13-1.47:1 | 0.9-1.08:1 |
| Zoom | 1.2x (manual) | 1.2x (manual) |
| Keystone | Vertical: ±30° | Vertical: ±30° |
| Lens Shift | Vertical: +10% | Vertical: +10% |
| Lamp Life (normal mode) | 4,000 hours | 4,000 hours |
| Built-in Speakers | 10W x 2 | 5W |
| Connectivity | HDMI 2.0b x3, USB-A, RS-232, 12V trigger | HDMI 2.0b x3, USB-A, RS-232, 12V trigger |
| Smart Features | Android TV (via adapter), Google Assistant, Chromecast | Android TV dongle included |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 12.3 x 4.3 x 8.9 inches | 12.2 x 4.3 x 9.6 inches |
| Weight | 9.2 lbs | 6.8 lbs |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2022 |
When it comes to image quality, both the BenQ TK850i and TK700STi use DLP technology with XPR pixel shifting to deliver sharp 4K images. However, the TK850i has a native 4K resolution, while the TK700STi uses a 1080p DLP chip and relies more heavily on pixel shifting. In practice, the TK850i will have a slight edge in sharpness and detail, especially on larger screens.
The TK850i also has the advantage in contrast, with a rated 3000:1 native contrast ratio compared to the TK700STi's 1000:1. This means the TK850i can display deeper blacks and a wider range between the darkest and brightest parts of the image. Both projectors support HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range formats, but the TK850i's higher contrast will make HDR content pop a bit more.
In terms of color performance, both projectors cover the standard Rec.709 color space used for most content. However, the TK850i has a slight edge in color accuracy out of the box, with a factory calibration that ensures realistic and lifelike colors. The TK700STi is no slouch, but its colors may require more tweaking to achieve the same level of accuracy.
Brightness is similar between the two projectors, with both rated at 3,000 ANSI lumens. This is plenty of brightness for a home theater setup in a light-controlled room, and even allows for some ambient light in the room. The TK700STi may have a slight edge in perceived brightness due to its more aggressive pixel shifting and color processing, but the difference is minimal.
For gaming, the BenQ TK700STi pulls ahead with its support for a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p resolution. This means incredibly smooth motion in fast-paced games, with minimal blur or judder. The TK850i maxes out at 120Hz at 1080p, which is still great for gaming but not quite as buttery-smooth as the TK700STi.
Both projectors offer a low input lag of around 16ms at 60Hz 4K, which is fast enough for all but the most competitive gamers. At 1080p 120Hz, the input lag drops even lower, around 8ms. The TK700STi's 240Hz mode likely has even less lag, but it's overkill for all but the most demanding gamers.
In terms of installation flexibility, the two projectors are quite similar. Both offer a 1.2x manual zoom, vertical keystone correction, and a small amount of vertical lens shift. The TK700STi has a slightly shorter throw ratio, meaning it can project a larger image from a given distance. But both are relatively short-throw projectors that work well in smaller rooms.
The BenQ TK850i and TK700STi both use a lamp as their light source, with a rated lamp life of 4,000 hours in normal mode and up to 15,000 hours in SmartEco mode. Replacement lamps cost around $150-200, so factor that into your long-term cost considerations.
Both projectors offer a good selection of connectivity options, including three HDMI 2.0b ports (one with ARC), a USB-A port for powering streaming devices, an RS-232 port for integration with automation systems, and a 12V trigger for controlling motorized screens. The TK850i also has an optional wireless adapter for streaming, while the TK700STi includes an Android TV dongle out of the box.
The BenQ TK850i has a slight edge in audio with its dual 10W chamber speakers, compared to the TK700STi's single 5W speaker. However, for the best audio experience, you'll want to use external speakers or a soundbar with either projector.
Physically, the two projectors are very similar in size and design. The TK700STi is slightly lighter at 6.8 pounds vs the TK850i's 9.2 pounds, making it a bit more portable for those who want to take their projector on the go for gaming parties or outdoor movie nights.
BenQ TK700STi vs TK850i: Design
Now, let's take a closer look at the design and build quality of the BenQ TK850i and TK700STi projectors.
BenQ TK850i Design:
BenQ TK700STi Design:
The BenQ TK850i and TK700STi share a similar sleek, white design with rounded edges and a centrally-placed lens. The TK850i is slightly larger and heavier at 9.2 lbs and 12.3 x 4.3 x 8.9 inches, while the TK700STi is more compact at 6.8 lbs and 12.2 x 4.3 x 9.6 inches.
Both have manual zoom and focus dials, as well as a lens cover to protect against dust. The top panel features backlit buttons for power, menu navigation, and source selection. Ventilation grilles on the sides keep the internals cool.
On the back, you'll find an identical selection of ports, including 3 HDMI, USB, audio out, RS-232, and a 12V trigger. The build quality is excellent on both, with sturdy plastic housings and smooth lens controls.
A key difference is that the TK700STi includes an Android TV dongle for streaming apps, while it's an optional accessory for the TK850i. Both come with a high-quality backlit remote.
Overall, the TK850i and TK700STi are well-designed and built, with the main difference being the TK700STi's slightly smaller, more portable form factor.
BenQ TK850i or TK700STi: User Reviews
Let's see what real users have to say about their experiences with the BenQ TK850i and TK700STi projectors.
BenQ TK850i User Reviews
Praises: "The TK850i's picture quality is stunning - the 4K resolution and HDR really make movies and games pop. The setup was a breeze with the zoom, lens shift, and keystone adjustments. The Android TV dongle works well for streaming, and the fan noise is quiet even on high lamp mode."
Drawbacks: "It's a bit pricey compared to some other 4K projectors, and the Android TV dongle can be glitchy at times. The black levels could also be a bit deeper in a completely dark room. But overall, I'm very happy with my purchase."
BenQ TK700STi User Reviews
Praises: "The TK700STi is an absolute beast for gaming. The input lag is virtually nonexistent and the 240Hz mode is so smooth, it's like playing on a high-end gaming monitor. The image is bright and punchy, even with some lights on. And the compact size is great for portability."
Drawbacks: "The native 1080p resolution is a bit of a letdown, and the contrast and colors aren't quite as good as some other projectors I've used. The built-in speaker is also pretty weak, so definitely plan on using external audio. But for pure gaming performance, this thing is hard to beat."
Overall, users are very impressed with the BenQ TK850i's 4K HDR image quality, ease of setup, and quiet operation. Some find it expensive, and there are occasional hiccups with the Android TV dongle, but most feel it's worth the price for the cinematic experience it provides.
The BenQ TK700STi receives high praise for its excellent gaming performance, especially the low input lag and 240Hz refresh rate. Users love the bright, vibrant image and portable design. The main complaints are the lower native resolution and weaker contrast compared to some competitors, as well as the lackluster built-in audio. But for dedicated gamers, the TK700STi is a top choice.
BenQ TK850i and TK700STi Alternatives
While the BenQ TK850i and TK700STi are both excellent 4K gaming projectors, they may not be the right fit for every user or budget. Here are a few alternative projectors to consider:
- Epson Home Cinema 2350: A 4K PRO-UHD projector with 3LCD technology, which means no rainbow effect and more accurate colors out of the box. It has slightly higher input lag than the BenQ models, but offers great value for the price and is a good choice for mixed use with gaming and movies;
- Optoma GT1080HDR: A 1080p short-throw gaming projector with very low input lag, high brightness, and support for HDR10. It's a great choice for smaller rooms or setups where you want a big screen from a short distance. It lacks the 4K resolution of the BenQ models, but is also much more affordable.
The Bottom Line: Which is Better, BenQ TK850i or TK700STi?
Choosing between the BenQ TK850i vs BenQ TK700STi ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you want the absolute best 4K HDR image quality for movies and TV shows, and gaming is a secondary concern, the TK850i is the way to go. Its native 4K resolution, higher contrast ratio, and factory color calibration deliver a truly cinematic experience that's hard to beat in this price range.
On the other hand, if gaming is your top priority and you want the smoothest, most responsive experience possible, the TK700STi is the clear choice. Its 240Hz refresh rate, ultra-low input lag, and gaming-specific features like the genre-optimized picture modes make it a dream for competitive gamers and esports enthusiasts. The included Android TV dongle is also a nice bonus for streaming your favorite games and content.
Both projectors offer excellent overall performance and value for their respective prices. They're well-built, easy to set up and use, and deliver bright, detailed images that look great on screens up to 150 inches or more. The TK850i has a slight edge in contrast and color accuracy, while the TK700STi is a bit brighter and more portable.
Ultimately, you can't go wrong with either projector. It just depends on whether you prioritize absolute image quality or gaming performance. If you're a movie buff who games occasionally, go for the BenQ TK850i. If you're a hardcore gamer who wants the best possible big-screen experience, choose the BenQ TK700STi. Either way, you're getting one of the best 4K gaming projectors on the market today.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
