BenQ's W5850 is a game-changer for home cinema enthusiasts, but it's not for everyone. This projector is a bold statement in an era of ultra-short-throw convenience.
BenQ has chosen to focus on the purists, those who crave the ultimate movie-watching experience in a dedicated home theater. The W5850 is a 4K UHD laser projector, but it's not about shrinking the device or making it blend into your living room. It's designed for the serious cinephile who demands large screens, dark rooms, and impeccable image accuracy.
Building upon the W5800, this projector boasts a laser-phosphor light engine, DLP imaging, and a 16-element lens system. It can project a massive 200-inch image from just over 4 meters away, and with its zoom capabilities, it can adapt to various room sizes. But here's the twist: it uses a 1080p DLP chip and pixel-shifting technology to achieve 4K resolution, a technique that might spark debate among resolution purists.
With a brightness of 2,600 ANSI lumens, it's perfect for large screens in controlled environments. The laser system ensures consistent color and brightness over time, addressing the common issue of lamp-based projectors fading over use. And for installation, it offers both table and ceiling mounting, front and rear projection, and four-way motorized lens shift, though it lacks Lens Memory for automatic aspect ratio adjustments.
Color accuracy is a standout feature. BenQ promises 100% coverage of DCI-P3 and Rec. 709 color standards, with each projector factory-calibrated and individually certified. This level of precision is rare, especially without the need for immediate professional calibration.
HDR support is extensive, including HDR10, HDR10+, and Hybrid Log Gamma, but Dolby Vision is notably absent. BenQ's HDR-Pro system, however, enhances contrast and scene-by-scene gamma, and Filmmaker Mode preserves cinematic motion. And while it lacks built-in speakers, it includes HDMI eARC and digital optical output for seamless integration with external audio systems.
3D support and gaming features are present but not the main attraction. The W5850 is priced competitively against Epson and Sony alternatives, offering a unique blend of features for its target audience. But it's not for those seeking a versatile, all-in-one projector. This is a specialist tool for the home cinema connoisseur.
Do you think BenQ has made the right choice by catering to this niche market? Or should they have focused on more versatile, lifestyle-oriented projectors?
