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Benq TK850i vs Benq TK860i: Comparison
Hey everyone, it's Jim from Gagadget. Today, we're comparing two of BenQ's latest 4K smart projectors: the TK850i and its successor, the TK860i. Both offer 4K resolution, HDR, Android TV smarts, and voice control for an all-in-one home entertainment experience. But the TK860i brings some notable upgrades in brightness, contrast, image processing, and more.
In this in-depth comparison, we'll examine how the TK850i and TK860i stack up in terms of picture quality, features, ease of use, and overall value. By the end, you'll know exactly which model is right for your needs and budget.
BenQ TK850i vs TK860i: At a Glance
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 TK860i is an upgrade to the TK850i, offering higher brightness at 3,300 ANSI lumens vs 3,000, improved contrast at 50,000:1 vs 30,000:1, and advanced image processing features like Local Contrast Enhancer and Enhanced Tone Mapping for more detailed HDR performance. Both have Android TV smarts and voice control, but the TK860i adds streaming apps and Google Assistant built-in.
For most users, the TK860i's superior brightness, contrast, and HDR enhancements are worth the extra cost over the TK850i. But if you're on a tighter budget, the TK850i still delivers excellent 4K picture quality and features for the price.
Table of Contents
- BenQ TK850i vs TK860i: Full Comparison
- BenQ TK850i or TK860i: Design
- BenQ TK860i vs TK850i: User Reviews
- BenQ TK850i and TK860i Alternatives
- The Final Words: Which is Better, BenQ TK850i or TK860i?
BenQ TK850i vs TK860i: Full Comparison
| Feature | BenQ TK850i | BenQ TK860i |
| Image |
|
|
| Display Technology | DLP XPR (0.47" DMD) | DLP XPR (0.47" DMD) |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Brightness (ANSI Lumens) | 3,000 | 3,300 |
| Contrast Ratio | 30,000:1 (full on/off) | 50,000:1 (full on/off) |
| HDR Support | HDR10, HLG | HDR10, HLG, Enhanced Tone Mapping |
| Color | Rec. 709, 96% DCI-P3 | 10-bit, Rec. 709, DCI-P3 |
| Local Contrast Enhancer | No | Yes, 1000+ zones |
| Lens Shift | Vertical +10% | Vertical +10% |
| Zoom | 1.3x manual | 1.3x manual |
| Throw Ratio | 1.13 - 1.47:1 | 1.13 - 1.47:1 |
| Image Size | 30" - 300" | 30" - 300" |
| Input Lag (4K/60Hz) | ~16ms | 17.9ms |
| Lamp Life (normal/eco) | 4,000 / 15,000 hours | 4,000 / 15,000 hours |
| Speaker | 10W x 2 | 5W x 2 treVolo |
| Connectivity | HDMI 2.0b x3, USB x3, RS-232, optical, AV out | HDMI 2.0 x3, USB x3, RS-232, optical, AV out |
| Smart Features | Android TV (via adapter), voice control | Android OS, streaming apps, Google Assistant |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 312 x 110 x 225 mm | 380 x 130 x 260 mm |
| Weight | 4.17 kg | 4.20 kg |
| Release Date | 2022 | 2023 |
In terms of picture quality, both the BenQ TK850i and TK860i deliver incredibly sharp, detailed 4K images thanks to TI's DLP XPR pixel-shifting technology. This uses a native 1080p DMD chip that flashes each pixel 4 times in quick succession to create an 8.3 million pixel 4K image on screen.
The TK860i takes this further with its higher 3,300 ANSI lumen brightness compared to the TK850i's 3,000 lumens. This means the TK860i can produce a brighter, punchier image that's easier to see in rooms with some ambient light. It's a noticeable step up, especially for sports, games, and HDR content.
Contrast is another area where the TK860i pulls ahead. Its 50,000:1 full on/off contrast ratio is a significant increase over the TK850i's 30,000:1, allowing for deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and an overall more dynamic image. This is especially apparent in dark movie scenes and shadow details.
While both projectors support the HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range formats, the TK860i adds BenQ's Enhanced Tone Mapping feature. This preserves more detail in the darkest and brightest parts of HDR images for a more impactful, true-to-life picture.
But the TK860i's flagship addition is Local Contrast Enhancer. This divides the picture into 1,000+ zones and optimizes the gamma curve of each zone independently. The result is incredibly rich shadow details, enhanced depth, and lifelike 4K images that really pop off the screen.
Both projectors cover the standard Rec. 709 color space used by most content, as well as 96% of the expanded DCI-P3 gamut commonly used in 4K Blu-rays and some streaming services. The TK860i 10-bit color processing allows for smoother gradients and tonal transitions compared to the TK850i's 8-bit color.
For installation flexibility, both offer 1.3x zoom, vertical lens shift of +10%, and identical throw ratios of 1.13 - 1.47:1. This means they can project 100" images from around 3.2 - 4.2 meters. Digital keystone correction is also available.
Input lag for gaming is excellent on both, with the TK850i measuring around 16ms and the TK860i at 17.9ms in 4K/60Hz mode. This is responsive enough for all but the most twitchy competitive gamers. In 1080p/120Hz mode, input lag drops to a blazing fast 8.7ms on the TK860i - great for fast-paced shooters and fighting games.
Lamp life is a strong 4,000 hours in normal mode and up to 15,000 hours in SmartEco mode for both projectors, keeping maintenance costs low. The lamps are also user-replaceable when the time comes.
The TK860i swaps out the TK850i's 10W stereo speakers for a pair of 5W treVolo chambers which use psychoacoustic processing to boost perceived bass and clarity. External speakers or a soundbar are still recommended for the best movie experience, but the onboard audio is decent.
Connectivity is comprehensive, with 3 HDMI 2.0 ports, 3 USB ports, RS-232, optical audio out, and AV out. The USB ports can power streaming sticks, and one of the HDMI ports supports ARC/eARC for sending audio back to a connected receiver or soundbar.
Smart features are where the TK860i takes a big leap forward. While the TK850i requires an optional Android TV adapter, the TK860i has Android OS and streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube built right in. It also supports direct voice control via Google Assistant - just hold the mic button and speak your query.
Physically, the TK860i is slightly larger and heavier than the TK850i, but maintains a similar rounded white design. The included remote adds shortcut buttons for key streaming apps.
BenQ TK850i or TK860i: Design
Now, let's take a closer look at the design and build of the BenQ TK850i and TK860i projectors.
BenQ TK850i Design:
BenQ TK860i Design:
The BenQ TK850i and TK860i share a similar sleek, rounded design in a pearlescent white finish. The lens is centered on the front, flanked by cooling vents in a gray grille. The TK860i is slightly larger and heavier overall, measuring 380 x 130 x 260 mm and 4.2 kg vs the TK850i's 312 x 110 x 225 mm and 4.17 kg.
On top, you'll find manual dials for 1.3x zoom and focus, along with a sliding lens cover. The button controls are neatly arranged, including power, menu navigation, and input selection. The TK860i adds a dedicated Prime Video button.
Around back, both projectors offer an identical selection of ports, including 3 HDMI 2.0, 3 USB, RS-232, optical audio out, and AV out. The included remote controls are backlit for easy use in the dark, with the TK860i adding shortcut buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.
Build quality is excellent, with sturdy plastic housings and smooth, precise lens adjustments. The understated design and white finish should blend well with most home decor, whether ceiling mounted or on a shelf.
BenQ TK860i vs TK850i: User Reviews
Let's see what actual owners have to say about their experiences with the BenQ TK850i and TK860i projectors.
BenQ TK850i User Reviews
Praises: "The TK850i's 4K picture is incredibly sharp and detailed, even in my living room with some ambient light. The HDR really makes movies pop. Setup was easy with the Android TV stick and voice commands work great. I'm blown away by the image quality for the price."
Drawbacks: "The built-in speakers are a bit weak, so I definitely recommend using external audio. Fan noise is noticeable in quiet scenes when in the highest lamp mode, but not terrible. The plastic remote feels a little cheap for a projector in this class."
BenQ TK860i User Reviews
Praises: "I upgraded from the TK850i and the difference is remarkable. The extra brightness and contrast make HDR content absolutely sing, with inky blacks and vibrant highlights. The local contrast feature is a game-changer for shadow details. Android TV is snappy and I love having Google Assistant onboard."
Drawbacks: "The TK860i gets quite hot after extended use - make sure it has plenty of ventilation. The Dynamic Tone Mapping setting is a bit aggressive for my tastes, but can be adjusted. I wish there was a lens shift option for easier placement, but the zoom and keystone correction help."
Overall, users are thrilled with the BenQ TK850i's sharp 4K resolution, vivid colors, easy setup, and convenient smart features. Some wish for better onboard audio and a more premium remote, but agree that it delivers excellent value and performance for the price.
Owners of the new TK860i praise its impressive HDR performance, enhanced brightness and contrast, useful Android TV interface, and Google Assistant integration. The local contrast feature receives special mention for greatly improving shadow detail and depth. Minor complaints include noticeable heat output and the lack of lens shift, but the overwhelming sentiment is highly positive, with many feeling it's a worthwhile step up from the TK850i.
BenQ TK850i and TK860i Alternatives
While the BenQ TK850i and TK860i are both excellent 4K smart projectors, they may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Here are a couple alternative projectors to consider:
- Optoma UHD35: A 4K DLP projector with 3,600 lumens, 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast, and an ultra-low 4ms input lag for gaming - but no dynamic HDR tone mapping or Android OS;
- Epson Home Cinema 5050UB: A 4K PRO-UHD projector with 2,600 lumens, motorized lens, and 3LCD technology for zero rainbow effect - but much higher input lag and no smart features.
The Final Words: Which is Better, BenQ TK850i or TK860i?
After comparing the BenQ TK850i vs BenQ TK860i, it's clear that both are highly capable 4K smart projectors that deliver sharp, vibrant images with HDR, low input lag for gaming, and convenient voice control. But the TK860i offers several key upgrades that make it the superior choice for discerning home theater enthusiasts.
The TK860i's higher 3,300 lumen brightness and 50,000:1 contrast ratio allow it to produce a noticeably punchier, more dynamic picture than the TK850i, especially in rooms with some ambient light. The advanced Local Contrast Enhancer and Enhanced Tone Mapping features further improve depth, detail, and realism when displaying HDR content.
The TK860i's integrated Android OS and built-in streaming apps also provide a more seamless, all-in-one experience compared to the TK850i's optional Android TV adapter. And the direct access to Google Assistant voice commands is a handy bonus.
Ultimately, if you want the absolute best 4K HDR picture quality and most fully-featured smart projector, the BenQ TK860i is worth the extra investment over the TK850i. Its superior brightness, contrast, HDR performance, and integrated Android TV smarts make it the top choice for dedicated home theaters and living rooms.
However, if you're on a tighter budget or don't need the absolute latest features, the BenQ TK850i remains an excellent 4K projector that offers outstanding image quality, low input lag, and voice control via the optional Android TV dongle. It's still a great choice for movie nights, gaming sessions, and sports viewing.
I hope this in-depth BenQ TK850i vs TK860i comparison has helped you decide which projector is right for your needs and expectations. Happy viewing!
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.
