For gamers seeking large-screen immersion without sacrificing smoothness, projectors with 120 Hz refresh rates are becoming essential. The ViewSonic PX701 stands out for its stunning 4K resolution and high refresh rate, making it a prime choice for those prioritizing visual fidelity and fluid gameplay. Meanwhile, the BenQ TH685P offers a bright, portable option with excellent low latency, perfect for gaming in daylight or multi-purpose setups. Both models bring unique strengths, but they also carry tradeoffs—such as room requirements or brightness limitations—which are important to consider before making a decision.
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Key Takeaways
- The ViewSonic PX701 offers 4K resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate, ideal for gamers who want stunning visuals and smooth gameplay, but it needs a dark room for best image quality.
- The BenQ TH685P provides 1080p resolution with 120Hz support and bright 3500 lumens, making it better suited for daylight gaming and portable setups.
- Both projectors have low input lag, but the PX701’s 4.2ms lag outperforms the 8.3ms of the BenQ, benefiting competitive gamers.
- Size and setup flexibility vary: the ViewSonic is bulkier with more advanced adjustments, while the BenQ is compact and easy to position in smaller spaces.
- Tradeoffs include brightness, room conditions, and resolution; choose based on whether visual fidelity or portability and brightness matter more for your setup.
| ViewSonic PX701 4K UHD Projector, 3200 Lumens, 240Hz HDR, Auto Keystone |  | Best Overall for Visual Fidelity and High Refresh Rate | Resolution: 3840x2160p (4K UHD) | Lumens: 3200 ANSI | Refresh Rate: 240Hz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BenQ TH685P 1080p Gaming Projector with HDMI, 4K Supported, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 3500 Lumens, Low Latency, Built-in Speaker, 3-Year Warranty |  | Best for Bright Environments and Portability | Native Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Display Resolution Max: 1920×1200 pixels | Brightness: 3500 lumens | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| gaming projectors with 120 hz | Resolution | Lumens | Refresh Rate | Input Lag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ViewSonic PX701 4K UHD Project | 3840x2160p (4K UHD) | 3200 ANSI | 240Hz | 4.2ms |
| BenQ TH685P 1080p Gaming Proje | — | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
ViewSonic PX701 4K UHD Projector, 3200 Lumens, 240Hz HDR, Auto Keystone
The ViewSonic PX701 shines with its 4K resolution and 240Hz refresh rate, making it a standout for gamers who demand crisp images combined with ultra-smooth motion. Its low input lag of 4.2ms supports fast-paced gameplay, rivaling dedicated gaming monitors. Compared to the BenQ, it offers higher resolution and more vibrant color support, but it also requires a darker environment to prevent washed-out images. Its flexible setup options, like auto-keystone and multiple mounting points, make it adaptable for various spaces. However, its brightness of 3200 lumens may fall short in well-lit rooms, and its larger size can be less suitable for small spaces.
Pros:- Stunning 4K resolution with HDR support
- High refresh rate (240Hz) with low input lag
- Flexible setup with auto-keystone and mounting options
- Vibrant color reproduction
Cons:- Requires a dark environment for optimal image quality
- Bulky design may be inconvenient for small spaces
- Limited brightness at 3200 lumens
Best for: Gamers who prioritize high resolution, color accuracy, and ultra-smooth gameplay in a dedicated dark room.
Not ideal for: Players who need a portable projector or intend to game in daylight conditions frequently.
- Resolution:3840x2160p (4K UHD)
- Lumens:3200 ANSI
- Refresh Rate:240Hz
- Input Lag:4.2ms
- Screen Size:up to 150 inches
- Connectivity:Dual HDMI, USB-A
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated gaming rooms where visual fidelity and smoothness are priorities.”
BenQ TH685P 1080p Gaming Projector with HDMI, 4K Supported, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 3500 Lumens, Low Latency, Built-in Speaker, 3-Year Warranty
The BenQ TH685P offers a compelling balance of brightness, low latency, and portability. Its 3500 lumens make it suitable for gaming in daylight or well-lit rooms, unlike the ViewSonic which needs darker conditions. Its 1080p resolution with 4K support ensures decent visual clarity, complemented by HDR technology for enhanced contrast. The 8.3ms latency, while slightly higher than the ViewSonic, remains excellent for most gamers, especially in casual or competitive settings. Its built-in 5W speaker and auto keystone correction simplify setup and reduce additional equipment needs. However, the projector’s limited lamp life of 3 years could mean replacement costs, and its relatively close throw distance might limit placement options in tight spaces.
Pros:- Bright 3500 lumens suitable for daylight conditions
- Supports 4K input and HDR for improved visuals
- Low latency at 8.3ms for smooth gameplay
- Portable and easy to set up
Cons:- Limited to 3 years of lamp life
- No VGA-in or monitor-out ports
- Requires close throw distance for large screens
Best for: Gamers seeking a bright, portable projector for daylight gaming and versatile placement.
Not ideal for: Those who prioritize 4K resolution or need the lowest possible latency for competitive eSports.
- Native Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Display Resolution Max:1920×1200 pixels
- Brightness:3500 lumens
- Contrast Ratio:10000:1
- Maximum Image Size:300 inches
- HDR Support:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for gamers who want portability and brightness in a versatile setup, with acceptable resolution and latency.”
How We Picked
My selection process involved comparing specifications like refresh rate, resolution, brightness, and latency, focusing on models explicitly supporting 120 Hz refresh rates suitable for gaming. I prioritized low input lag and image quality, considering whether the projectors excelled in dark or daylight conditions. I also evaluated setup flexibility, portability, and additional features like HDR support or built-in speakers, to ensure each picks addresses different gaming scenarios and user needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming Projectors With 120 Hz
Choosing a gaming projector with 120 Hz support involves balancing several factors. Resolution impacts visual clarity, while brightness and room conditions determine image quality. Input lag is crucial for responsive gameplay, especially in fast-paced games. Portability and setup flexibility also matter, depending on your gaming environment. Understanding these elements helps match a projector to your specific needs, whether you’re gaming in a dedicated room or in a multi-purpose space.Resolution and Refresh Rate
For smooth, detailed images, a 120 Hz refresh rate is essential. When paired with 4K resolution, it offers stunning visuals and ultra-smooth gameplay, ideal for immersive experiences. However, many 120 Hz projectors support 1080p or 4K at lower refresh rates, so verify the specifications for your gaming needs. Higher resolution models tend to be larger and more expensive but deliver better picture quality, especially for games with detailed graphics.
Brightness and Room Conditions
Brightness, measured in lumens, determines whether a projector can perform well in daylight or only in dark rooms. The ViewSonic PX701’s 3200 lumens suits dark environments, while the BenQ TH685P’s 3500 lumens can handle daylight gaming better. Consider your environment; brighter projectors provide more flexibility, but often at a higher cost and potentially larger size. If you plan to game during the day, prioritize higher lumen output.
Input Lag and Response Time
Low input lag is vital for competitive gaming. The ViewSonic offers an incredible 4.2ms lag, making it a top choice for fast-paced genres. The BenQ’s 8.3ms lag remains acceptable for most casual or enthusiast players but might be noticeable in high-speed FPS games. Always check the latency specifications, especially if you’re aiming for a responsive experience in competitive settings.
Setup, Portability, and Additional Features
Setup flexibility varies: auto-keystone correction and multiple mounting options simplify positioning. The ViewSonic’s size and advanced adjustments suit dedicated gaming rooms, while the BenQ’s portable design allows for quick placement in different spaces. Additional features like HDR support, built-in speakers, and connectivity options further influence convenience and image quality. Decide if portability or advanced setup features are more important for your gaming space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a gaming projector in daylight?
Yes, but your choice of projector matters. Higher brightness levels, like the 3500 lumens of the BenQ TH685P, enable better visibility in daylight or bright rooms. The ViewSonic PX701, with 3200 lumens, performs well in darker environments but may struggle in well-lit spaces. Bright projectors are more versatile, though they often come with higher costs and larger sizes.
Is 120 Hz refresh rate important for gaming?
Absolutely. A 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smoother motion, reducing motion blur and tearing, which enhances gameplay fluidity. This is especially noticeable in fast-paced games like shooters or racing titles. Models supporting 120 Hz with low latency provide a more responsive and immersive experience, making them preferable for gamers who prioritize performance.
What is the impact of resolution on gaming projectors?
Higher resolution, such as 4K, delivers sharper, more detailed images, which enriches visual fidelity. However, 4K projectors tend to be more expensive and larger, and may require more powerful hardware for optimal performance. For casual gaming or smaller screens, 1080p with 120 Hz support can still provide a satisfying experience with less investment.
How important is input lag for gaming projectors?
Input lag directly affects how quickly your commands are reflected on-screen. For competitive gaming, a lag below 5ms is ideal. Both projectors here offer low latency, but the ViewSonic’s 4.2ms lag is more suited to fast reactions, while the BenQ’s 8.3ms remains acceptable for most non-competitive gaming. Always check and compare input lag to match your gaming style.
Are portable projectors suitable for gaming?
Portable projectors like the BenQ TH685P are convenient for gaming in different locations and quick setups. They typically have bright outputs and auto-keystone correction, making them versatile. However, they might have limitations in resolution or size compared to larger, dedicated gaming projectors like the ViewSonic PX701. Consider your need for mobility versus image quality and features.
Conclusion
Gamers with dedicated gaming rooms or those prioritizing ultra-high resolution and the best image quality should lean toward the ViewSonic PX701. Its 4K support and 240Hz refresh rate make it ideal for immersive, high-fidelity experiences. Conversely, the BenQ TH685P makes a compelling choice for users who want a bright, portable projector capable of daylight gaming, with decent resolution and low latency. For casual or daylight gaming, the BenQ’s flexibility and brightness outweigh its slightly higher latency, whereas enthusiasts seeking cinematic quality and ultra-smooth motion should prefer the ViewSonic.
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