The BenQ GV50 projector is a unique addition to the GV series, but is it a worthy upgrade? A bold departure from its LED-based siblings, the GV50 trades LEDs for a laser light source, sparking curiosity and debate among projector enthusiasts.
Aesthetics and Portability:
The GV50 maintains the distinctive 'small wheel of cheese' design, but its larger size (8.3 x 5.1 x 7.5 inches) compared to the GV31 makes it less portable. The magnetic stand and finger loop are handy, but the 4.5-pound weight might be a strain for some. And while it's not as bright or lightweight as the Xgimi Halo+, it has its advantages.
Laser Power and Image Quality:
The laser-phosphor light source boasts an impressive 20,000 hours of life in full power and 30,000 hours in Eco mode. However, the brightness drops when switching from AC to battery power, affecting image quality. The projector offers various picture modes, but the Custom mode stands out, allowing adjustments for contrast, saturation, and color gain. Interestingly, the traditional brightness setting for black level adjustment is absent.
Performance:
In SDR mode, the GV50 delivers a watchable picture with saturated neutral colors for midtone and bright scenes. However, dark scenes suffer from significant shadow detail loss. When it comes to HDR, the projector shines, with brighter dark scenes and improved shadow detail, making it a better choice for HDR content.
Features and Connectivity:
The GV50 lacks 3D support but has low input lag, pleasing casual gamers. Setup is a breeze with preinstalled Google TV for streaming. It offers HDMI, USB Type-A, and Type-C ports, enabling wired and wireless mirroring for mobile devices. The lens lacks optical zoom, but the projector's small size allows easy adjustment of image size by moving it closer or farther from the screen.
Controversial Aspects:
The GV50's price point of $799 is higher than its predecessors, and its brightness might not impress everyone. But here's where it gets controversial: the projector's ability to handle HDR content is a significant upgrade, making it a compelling choice for HDR enthusiasts. And this is the part most people miss—the laser light source could offer a longer-lasting, more consistent image quality over time compared to LEDs.
Conclusion:
The BenQ GV50 is a projector that divides opinions. While it may not be the brightest or most portable, its HDR capabilities and laser technology make it a compelling choice for specific use cases. What's your take? Is the GV50 a worthy upgrade, or do its drawbacks outweigh its benefits? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
