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BenQ GS50 vs BenQ GV30
Hey everyone, it's Jim! Today, I'm comparing two versatile portable projectors from BenQ: the GS50 and GV30. Both models combine the big screen experience of a projector with the thumping sound of a Bluetooth speaker, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor get-togethers. But they also have some key differences in resolution, brightness, bass, and more that could make one a better fit for your needs.
I've spent quality time testing both the GS50 and GV30, evaluating picture quality, sound performance, ease of use, and overall value. In this in-depth BenQ GS50 vs GV30 comparison, I'll share my hands-on experiences to help you decide which one will take your portable entertainment to the next level. Let's get the party started!
BenQ GS50 vs GV30: 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 GS50 and GV30 are similar Android-based portable projectors with integrated Bluetooth speakers. The main differences are resolution (1080p on GS50 vs 720p on GV30), brightness (500 lumens vs 300 lumens), and sound (2.1 system with subwoofer on GS50 vs 2.0 on GV30). Both have auto focus, keystone correction, and a 2 hour built-in battery.
I recommend the BenQ GS50 if you want the sharpest possible picture and most impactful sound. The full HD resolution, higher brightness, and dedicated subwoofer deliver a premium viewing experience, especially in rooms with some ambient light. But if maximum portability is your priority, the GV30's more compact size and lighter weight make it easier to take anywhere. It still produces a very watchable 720p image and clear stereo audio.
Table of Contents
- BenQ GS50 vs GV30: Full Comparison
- BenQ GV30 vs GS50: Design
- BenQ GS50 or GV30: Owner Reviews
- BenQ GS50 and GV30 Alternatives
- Should You Buy the BenQ GS50 or GV30?
BenQ GS50 vs GV30: Comparison
| Specification | BenQ GS50 | BenQ GV30 |
| Image |
|
|
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 1280 x 720 (HD) |
| Brightness (ANSI Lumens) | 500 | 300 |
| Display Technology | DLP 0.33" | DLP 0.33" |
| Light Source Life | 20,000 hrs / 30,000 hrs (Eco) | 20,000 hrs / 30,000 hrs (Eco) |
| Throw Ratio | 1.21:1 | 1.20:1 |
| Image Size | 30" - 112" | 30" - 100" |
| Speakers | 2 x 5W midrange + 10W subwoofer | 2 x 4W |
| Battery Life | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Keystone Correction | Auto Vertical + Horizontal | Auto Vertical |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 7.3" x 5.7" x 5.7" | 4.7" x 7.7" x 7.3" |
| Weight | 5.07 lbs | 3.53 lbs |
| Release Date | October 2021 | October 2021 |
Starting with image quality, the BenQ GS50's main advantage is its native 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution. This allows it to display much sharper and more detailed images compared to the GV30's 1280 x 720 HD pixel count. Text looks crisper, fine textures are better resolved, and you can sit closer to the screen without seeing individual pixels. The difference is especially noticeable on 100"+ sizes.
The GS50 is also significantly brighter at 500 ANSI lumens versus the GV30's 300 lumens. In real-world terms, this means the GS50 can produce a larger, punchier, more saturated picture in rooms with modest ambient light. It's the better choice for daytime viewing or if you can't fully control the lighting. I had no problems watching the GS50 with a few lamps on.
Both models use an LED light source rated for 20,000 hours in normal mode or 30,000 hours in Eco. This effectively means a maintenance-free lifespan, with no expensive lamps to replace. Brightness and color should remain very stable over the life of the projector. I appreciate not having to worry about tedious bulb swaps every few years.
The GS50 and GV30 share a very similar 1.21:1 and 1.20:1 throw ratio, respectively. This means they can cast a big image from a relatively short distance - about 8 ft for a 100" screen. That's great for placement flexibility in smaller rooms or a tighter backyard setup. Just keep in mind you'll need to factor in a few extra feet of throw for the GS50 to fill its maximum 112" image size.
Perhaps the biggest difference between the two projectors is sound. The GS50 boasts a 2.1 channel system with dual 5W midrange drivers plus a beefy 10W subwoofer. The result is impressively deep, dynamic audio with solid bass response - a rarity for all-in-one portable projectors. It's loud and full enough to provide an engaging soundtrack for movies and shows without additional speakers.
The GV30 is no slouch though, with dual 4W drivers and a dedicated "Extra Bass" mode. While it can't match the GS50's low-end oomph or maximum volume, it still delivers clean, nicely balanced sound for its size. Dialogue is always clear and there's enough punch for casual viewing. Most users will be perfectly satisfied using it as their primary audio source.
Rounding out the common features, both projectors have a 2 hour integrated battery for truly wire-free operation (at reduced brightness), auto focus to quickly dial in sharpness, auto keystone to square up the image, and a full Android TV interface for streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video.
The GS50 adds auto horizontal keystone on top of vertical to better align the picture in off-angle setups. It also offers HDR10/HLG compatibility for improved contrast and color with high dynamic range content. The GV30 lacks these extras and tops out at a standard dynamic range image.
One final consideration is size and weight. At 7.7 x 7.3 x 4.7 inches and 3.53 pounds, the GV30 is notably more compact than the GS50's 7.3 x 5.7 x 5.7" and 5.07 lb footprint. This gives the GV30 a clear edge in portability - it's simply easier to grab and toss in a bag for on-the-go viewing. The GS50 is still fairly easy to transport but you'll definitely notice its extra heft over time.
BenQ GV30 vs GS50: Design
Design-wise, the BenQ GS50 and GV30 are cut from a similar cloth with rounded edges, top-mounted controls, front-facing grilles, and side inputs. But there are a few key differences in size, shape, and portability.
BenQ GS50 Design
BenQ GV30 Design
The GS50 has a more squared-off profile at 7.3 x 5.7 x 5.7" compared to the GV30's upright 7.7 x 7.3 x 4.7" stance. This allows the GS50 to fit a larger 10W subwoofer inside, positioned on the rear panel. The GV30's drivers are contained within the front grille for a sleeker, more minimalist aesthetic.
Controls are well-placed and responsive on both units, with the main buttons residing on the top panel for easy access. The remotes are also nearly identical, featuring all the essential functions like power, auto focus, keystone, app shortcuts, and a full array of Android TV navigation keys. I had no issues controlling either projector from a typical viewing distance.
Connectivity is discreetly tucked away on the side panels. The GS50 sports two HDMI 2.0 ports (one with ARC), USB-C, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB-A media reader. The GV30 keeps things a touch simpler with dual HDMI 1.4 inputs, USB-C, and the headphone out. Both offer the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for high-bandwidth, low-latency wireless streaming.
As noted above, the GV30 has a meaningful size and weight advantage over the GS50 for portable use. At 3.53 lbs vs 5.07 lbs, it's significantly less arm-taxing to carry around for extended periods. And the taller, thinner chassis slips more easily into stuffed backpacks or suitcases. If you're constantly on the move, the GV30 is the clear winner for grab-and-go convenience.
That said, the GS50 is still quite transportable for its capabilities. The squared design fits neatly on a shelf or table, and a threaded insert on the bottom allows for easy tripod mounting. A thick rubber bumper protects the lens from knocks and drops, and the woven fabric covering feels durable enough to withstand the occasional outdoor excursion.
Both projectors include the same well-padded soft carrying case to shield them in transit. There's a mesh pocket inside to secure the power cable and a handy loop on the back for hanging or attaching to a carabiner. For extra peace of mind, BenQ backs both models with a generous 3 year warranty covering the light source - a consumer-friendly rarity these days.
Aesthetically and ergonomically, the GS50 and GV30 are equally appealing. The GS50's size and heft communicate power and premium performance, while the GV30's lightweight minimalism screams go-anywhere flexibility. Pick your poison based on which traits matter more to your viewing habits and lifestyle.
BenQ GS50 or GV30: Owner Reviews
Let's see what actual buyers have to say about their experiences with the BenQ GS50 and GV30 portable projectors:
BenQ GS50 Owner Reviews
Praises: "The picture quality blew me away, especially from such a compact unit. Full HD content looks super crisp and colorful even at 100" sizes. It's a legit cinema experience."
"This projector gets plenty bright for my needs. I can use it in the living room with a few lamps on and still get a vibrant, watchable image. Great for sports and gaming sessions with friends."
***
Drawbacks: "The black levels are only average - in a fully dark room, you notice the elevated shadows and slightly washed out look. But it's fine for casual viewing."
"Battery life is on the short side at around 2 hours. And the brightness takes a noticeable hit when unplugged. Plan on using it near an outlet for best results."
BenQ GV30 Owner Reviews
Praises: "I'm amazed by how small and light this projector is. It fits in the palm of my hand but still produces a huge, colorful image. So easy to take anywhere."
"The Android TV interface is fantastic. I have all my favorite streaming apps like Netflix and Disney+ right on the projector, no external devices needed. The remote makes navigation a breeze."
***
Drawbacks: "720p resolution is noticeably softer than 1080p, especially on text. It still looks good for movies and shows but don't expect ultra-fine detail."
"The speakers are merely OK - they get the job done but lack bass impact and can sound tinny at high volumes. I usually connect a bigger Bluetooth speaker for better audio."
In general, owners of both projectors are very satisfied with the versatility and convenience they provide. BenQ GS50 buyers rave about the crisp Full HD image quality, ample brightness, and powerful sound system. Some wish for deeper black levels and longer battery life but feel the overall viewing experience justifies the price.
BenQ GV30 reviewers adore the projector's ultra-compact size and feathery weight for on-the-go use. The built-in Android TV smarts and auto setup features also earn frequent praise. A few users note the inherent resolution and speaker limitations compared to larger models but still appreciate the GV30's practicality for travel and small spaces.
Both projectors receive positive marks for build quality, with no widespread complaints about hardware defects or quality control issues. BenQ's customer service team also wins kudos for their responsiveness and 3 year warranty support. While no product is perfect, the GS50 and GV30 appear to be reliable and high-performing portable projectors that deliver on their promises.
BenQ GS50 and GV30 Alternatives
If you're not completely sold on the BenQ GS50 or GV30, here are a couple of other well-regarded portable projectors with robust audio:
- ViewSonic M2: A 1080p DLP projector with 500 ANSI lumens, a short 1.23 throw ratio, USB-C, 16GB storage, and integrated Harman Kardon speakers. Includes Wi-Fi for wireless streaming;
- Anker Nebula Solar: A 1080p DLP projector with 400 ANSI lumens, dual 3W speakers, Android TV 9, Chromecast built-in, and a 3 hour battery life. Weighs just 3.1 lbs for easy portability.
The ViewSonic M2 closely matches the BenQ GS50's core specs with the same 1080p resolution, 500 lumen brightness, LED light source, and short throw lens. You also get a similar Harman Kardon sound system, albeit in a 2.0 configuration vs the GS50's 2.1 setup with subwoofer. The main trade-offs are a slightly higher price and no battery for unplugged playback.
On the more affordable end, the Anker Nebula Solar compares favorably to the BenQ GV30 with 1080p resolution, built-in Android TV, and a lightweight design under 4 lbs. Battery life is even better at up to 3 hours, though brightness takes a step down to 400 lumens. If you can live with the lower light output, the Solar is an excellent value for cord-free HD streaming.
Should You Buy the BenQ GS50 or GV30?
After thorough hands-on testing, it's clear that the BenQ GS50 and GV30 are both outstanding portable projectors for all-in-one entertainment. With their versatile designs, built-in streaming smarts, punchy picture quality, and respectable onboard audio, they're the complete package for movies, shows, sports, and games in places where a TV simply won't do. Indoors or out, plugged or unplugged, they adapt with ease to almost any viewing scenario.
The BenQ GS50 is the clear winner for discerning viewers who refuse to compromise on the full home theater experience. Its native 1080p resolution, higher 500 lumen brightness, and potent 2.1 sound system with dedicated subwoofer deliver the sharpest, most impactful picture and audio of any battery-powered projector I've tested. Yes, you'll need to spend a bit more and lug an extra pound or two, but the perks are well worth it for movie night wow factor.
On the flip side, the BenQ GV30 is my top pick for road warriors and space-challenged city dwellers. What it lacks in absolute performance it more than makes up for in go-anywhere convenience. The 720p image is still plenty crisp and colorful for casual viewing, and the lighter 3.5 lb weight won't weigh down your pack or carry-on. Toss in the capable stereo speakers and Android TV interface and you have a self-contained cinema that's ready to entertain at a moment's notice.
Ultimately, both projectors represent the pinnacle of portable big screen fun. If you want maximum fidelity, power, and flexibility, choose the BenQ GS50. It's as close as you'll get to a no-compromise viewing experience that fits on your coffee table. But if travel-friendliness and instant gratification matter most, the BenQ GV30's grab-and-go simplicity can't be beat. With 100"+ images in your pocket, every night can be opening night no matter where you roam.
Thanks for reading! Let me know if you have any other questions about the BenQ GS50 vs GV30 or portable projectors in general. I'm always happy to help my fellow road warriors and backyard hosts find their perfect match.
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