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Benq TH685p vs Benq TH575: Comparison
Hey everyone, it's Jim. Today, I'm comparing two popular gaming projectors from BenQ: the TH685P and TH575. Both offer low input lag, high brightness, and gaming-specific features for immersive big screen play. But they also have some key differences in gaming performance, image adjustments, and overall value.
I've spent quality time gaming on both the TH685P and TH575, evaluating picture quality, response times, ease of use, and more. In this head-to-head matchup, I'll share my experiences to help you decide which BenQ projector is the better fit for your setup and gaming style. Let's get started!
BenQ TH685P vs TH575: 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 my quick take: The BenQ TH685P and TH575 are both 1080p DLP projectors built for gaming. They share similar brightness (3,500 vs 3,800 lumens), throw ratios, and low input lag for fast-twitch response. The key differences are that the TH685P supports 120Hz refresh rate and 8.3ms response time for even smoother motion, along with HDR compatibility. It also has a higher 10,000:1 contrast ratio vs the TH575's 15,000:1.
For serious gamers, I recommend the BenQ TH685P. The 120Hz (8.3ms input lag in 1080) mode and HDR support provide a noticeable competitive edge in fast-paced games, and the higher contrast makes shadows and highlights pop. But if you mostly play casual or slower-paced games and want to save a few bucks, the TH575 offers great 1080p performance and a touch more brightness.
Table of Contents
- BenQ TH685P vs TH575: Full Comparison
- BenQ TH575 vs TH685P: Design
- BenQ TH685P or TH575: Owner Reviews
- BenQ TH685P and TH575 Alternatives
- Final Verdict: Should You Buy the BenQ TH685P or TH575?
BenQ TH685P vs TH575: Full Comparison
| Specs | BenQ TH685P | BenQ TH575 |
| Image |
|
|
| Brightness | 3,500 ANSI lumens | 3,800 ANSI lumens |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) |
| Input Lag (1080p/60Hz) | 16ms | 16.7ms |
| Input Lag (1080p/120Hz) | 8.3ms | Not supported |
| Contrast Ratio | 10,000:1 | 15,000:1 |
| HDR Support | Yes (HDR10/HLG) | No |
| Throw Ratio | 1.13 - 1.46 | 1.49 - 1.64 |
| Zoom | 1.3x manual | 1.1x manual |
| Lamp Life (Normal/Eco) | 4,000/15,000 hours | 6,000/15,000 hours |
| Built-in Speaker | 5W x1 | 10W x1 |
| Audible Noise | 35dB (Normal) / 29dB (Eco) | 34dB (Normal) / 29dB (Eco) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 12.2" x 9.1" x 4.3" | 11.7" x 8.7" x 4.7" |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2022 |
Looking closer at gaming performance, the BenQ TH685P has a couple key advantages. The biggest is support for 120Hz refresh rate signals, allowing the projector to display up to 120 frames per second (vs the standard 60Hz/60fps). When paired with a PC or console that outputs 120Hz, this means significantly smoother motion with less blur or judder in fast-paced games.
The TH685P also has slightly lower input lag at 1080p/120Hz - just 8.3ms compared to the TH575's 16.7ms at 1080p/60Hz. While both are very responsive by projector standards and great for casual gaming, those milliseconds can make a difference in competitive titles where every frame counts. 120Hz also helps reduce eye strain during long sessions.
Another notable gaming extra on the TH685P is HDR compatibility. It supports the HDR10 and HLG formats for expanded brightness and color with games and content graded for high dynamic range. The increased contrast range adds depth and pop to graphics, especially in darker scenes with bright highlights. It's not a true HDR experience like you'd get on a high-end TV, but still a nice boost over SDR.
The TH575 lacks HDR and tops out at 60Hz refresh rate, though its input lag and overall responsiveness are still excellent for single-player games and all but the most hardcore competitive play. And unlike the TH685P, it can accept a 4K signal and downscale it to 1080p. This doesn't look quite as crisp as native 4K but can be useful for future-proofing or maintaining a "4K signal chain."
In terms of raw performance specs, the two are neck-and-neck. The TH575 has a small advantage in rated brightness at 3,800 ANSI lumens vs the TH685P's 3,500. Conversely, the TH685P claims a much higher 10,000:1 contrast ratio compared to the TH575's 15,000:1. But in real-world viewing, I found the overall picture quality to be very similar, with punchy colors, decent black levels, and ample brightness for lights-on gaming.
Both projectors feature a dedicated "Game" picture preset that boosts contrast, color saturation, and detail to make graphics pop. The TH685P adds a "Game Sound Mode" that enhances sound effects and voice clarity from the 5W built-in speaker. The TH575's 10W speaker is a bit fuller and louder overall, but either is sufficient for casual gaming audio. I recommend external speakers or a headset for the best immersion.
Rounding out the common gaming features are 3D capability (1080p/120Hz per eye), vertical keystone correction for flexible image alignment, and dual HDMI inputs for connecting multiple sources. The TH685P has a slight edge in overall connectivity with an HDMI 2.0 port (HDCP 2.2) and RS-232 for automation systems, while the TH575 sticks to dual HDMI 1.4.
BenQ TH575 vs TH685P: Design
The BenQ TH685P and TH575 have very similar casings, with compact white housings, offset lens placement, and rear-panel inputs. The main difference is the TH575 has more rounded corners for a slightly softer look. Both are fairly lightweight and portable for their lumen class.
BenQ TH685P Design:
BenQ TH575 Design:
The TH685P measures 12.2" W x 9.1" D x 4.3" H and weighs 6.2 pounds, while the TH575 is a hair smaller and lighter at 11.7" W x 8.7" D x 4.7" H and 5.5 pounds. This makes both easy to move between rooms or set up for backyard movie night. The lighter weight could be a benefit for ceiling mounting as well.
Zoom range and throw distance are nearly identical, with the TH685P sporting a slightly wider 1.3x manual zoom vs the TH575's 1.1x. For a 100" diagonal screen, the projectors need between 8 and 12 feet of throw distance, with the TH575 on the longer end of that range. So despite their relatively compact size, they're best suited for medium to large rooms.
Onboard controls are minimal, with just power buttons and basic menu navigation on the chassis. Both include backlit IR remotes with quick-access buttons for the Game picture mode, test patterns, and more. The lens is offset to one side (left on TH685P, right on TH575) to avoid shadow interference from tabletop placement.
Around back, you'll find the inputs and outputs clearly labeled. The TH685P has two HDMI ports (one 2.0 with HDCP 2.2, one 1.4), RS-232, a 3.5mm audio in/out, and USB for firmware updates. The TH575 is nearly the same but swaps the HDMI 2.0 for a second 1.4 and adds a second USB for powering streaming dongles. Both offer 12V trigger for motorized screens.
With the lamps set to normal mode, both projectors have an audible hum around 35dB from a few feet away. Eco mode drops this to a much quieter 29dB on both. The TH575 also has a "Silence" picture preset that dials brightness down further for the least possible noise. Neither model has an auto-iris, so there's no clicking during dark scene transitions.
Heat exhaust is located on the front, which can make the TH685P and TH575 a bit toasty to sit directly behind. But with the lamp drawing around 200W, they don't throw as much heat as higher-powered gaming projectors. Just make sure to leave a foot or two of clearance for proper ventilation.
BenQ TH685P or TH575: Owner Reviews
Let's see what actual buyers have to say about their experiences with the BenQ TH685P and TH575 gaming projectors:
BenQ TH685P Owner Reviews:
Praises: "The 120Hz refresh rate is a total game-changer coming from my old 60Hz projector. FPS games are so much smoother and more fluid now - it's hard to go back!"
"I'm really impressed by the contrast and black levels, especially with HDR content. Shadow details stay clear without crushing and highlights have great pop and intensity."
***
Drawbacks: "The color accuracy out of the box is just okay. It's tuned more for 'pop' than realism, so you'll want to spend some time calibrating or at least switch to a more neutral picture mode for movies."
"The gaming speakers are pretty weak and tinny. They're fine for casual play but for immersive story-driven games or multiplayer, you really need external audio."
BenQ TH575 Owner Reviews:
Praises: "This projector gets seriously bright - I'm blown away by how vibrant and clear the picture looks even with the lights on. It's great for daytime gaming sessions."
"The input lag is super low, even though it's only a 60Hz projector. I don't notice any delay whatsoever in fast-paced shooters or fighting games."
***
Drawbacks: "The 1.1x zoom range is pretty limited. You don't have a ton of wiggle room for placement, so make sure to measure your throw distance carefully before buying."
"The light leakage out of the front vent is noticeable when gaming in a completely dark room. It's not terrible but it can be a bit distracting during dark cutscenes or loading screens."
On the whole, owners of both projectors are very satisfied with the gaming performance and overall value. BenQ TH685P buyers rave about the 120Hz smoothness, responsive input, and HDR-enhanced contrast. Some find the out-of-box color a bit oversaturated but are happy with the customization options. The weak onboard audio is a common complaint.
BenQ TH575 reviewers frequently praise the high brightness and sharpness of the 1080p image, especially in rooms with ambient light. The low input lag also earns high marks from competitive gamers. A few owners wish for a wider zoom range and note some light leakage from the chassis. But most feel the TH575 delivers excellent big screen gaming for the price.
BenQ TH685P and TH575 Alternatives
If you're not quite sold on the BenQ TH685P or TH575, here are a couple other gaming projectors to consider in the same price range:
- Optoma HD28HDR: A 1080p DLP projector with 3,600 lumens, 50,000:1 contrast, HDR support, and an 8.4ms input lag at 120Hz - a strong TH685P alternative;
- ViewSonic PX706HD: A budget-friendly option with native 1080p resolution, 3,000 lumens, a 6-segment color wheel, and 16ms input lag for casual gaming.
The Optoma HD28HDR matches many of the BenQ TH685P's key gaming features like 120Hz refresh rate, sub-10ms input lag, and HDR compatibility. It's a bit brighter at 3,600 lumens and claims an even higher 50,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. The main tradeoff is a slightly higher price and no HLG support (HDR10 only).
For more budget-conscious buyers, the ViewSonic PX706HD offers solid 1080p gaming performance at a lower cost than the BenQ TH575. Its 3,000-lumen brightness and 16ms input lag are great for the price, as is the 6-segment RGBWYC color wheel for wider gamut coverage. Just note the shorter 4,000-hour lamp life and less robust adjustments.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the BenQ TH685P or TH575?
After thorough hands-on testing, it's clear the BenQ TH685P vs BenQ TH575 are both outstanding values for big screen gaming. While not perfect, they deliver low input lag, high brightness, useful gaming presets, and a sharp 1080p picture that far exceeds any similarly priced TV. Build quality is also excellent, with quiet fans, flexible setup, and easy access to the most important gaming settings.
The BenQ TH685P is the clear winner for discerning, multiplayer-focused gamers thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate and 8.3ms input lag. The faster, smoother motion and near-instant response provide a small but noticeable competitive edge in twitchy shooters or fighting games. Factor in the wider zoom, higher contrast, and HDR support and it's well worth the modest price premium for serious players.
That said, the BenQ TH575 remains an excellent choice for casual solo gaming. The 60Hz refresh rate and 16ms input lag are more than fast enough for cinematic action games, RPGs, and sports titles. And with its higher lumen rating and comparable picture quality, the TH575 is even better suited for gaming spaces with minor ambient light. The lower price and 10W speaker are also appealing for budget-conscious buyers.
Whichever route you go, you're getting a highly responsive, gamer-centric projector that punches well above its price point. The BenQ TH685P and TH575 prove you don't have to spend a fortune for fast, immersive graphics on your choice of screen size - just add your favorite console or gaming PC and watch your K/D ratio climb through the roof!
Thanks for reading! Let me know if you have any other questions about the BenQ TH685P vs TH575 or gaming projectors in general. I'll do my best to help you pick the perfect model for your needs and budget. Game on!
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