Correction @ 0:37: Capable of short throw. 100in from 1.5m away.
I haven't really considered buying a projector when I'm looking to replace my faithfully old TV. Heat issues, loud fans, blurry images, are just a few things that have kept me from seriously considering purchasing a projector. The BENQ HT2150ST has almost completely diminished all of the typical concerns. I am glad to see projectors making so much progress.
Specs and Special Features
- Digital Light Processing (DLP)
- Up to Native 1080p Resolution
- 15,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- 2,200 ASNI Lumens
- 6xSpeed RGBRGB Color Wheel
- 2x HDMI (1 MHL)
- 3D Full HD
- 1.2x Zoom
- 1.07 billion colors
- Up to 300in size
- Game Mode Options
Let's start with the specs. The HT2150ST provides a crisp native 1080p image, that is extremely easy to resize and focus. The viewing angle can be adjusted between 36-70 degrees. The image naturally points upward, so you will not likely need to use the kick stand. The setting screen is loaded with options.
You can change the settings to adjust to the color of the wall you are projecting on, adjust the angle of the image for slanted or uneven surfaces, setup energy saving modes and high altitude options (living in UT, this was a nice touch), etc. The color balance and controls are advanced and easy to use. I played around with the color profile for a while, but the default settings will work perfectly.
When it comes to gaming, BenQ delivered. The response time was fantastic! Definitely the lowest input lag I have ever experience with a projector. That is one of my biggest gripes with TV manufacturers these days. There needs to be a better focus on reducing input lag. Glad to see that wasn't an issue with the HT2150ST.
The Game Mode offers some additional gaming support, but mainly just a change with the image profile and input lag reduction. This projector has a very short throw. from just 2.5m, it will project 100in. If you plan on putting it much further back, you can, but you'll need more wall room. The 1.2x zoom definitely helps if you do need it to be further back.
The two 10w chamber speakers are no match for a decent sound bar, but they are far better than the competitors. The highs seem a bit flat at times, but the mids and lows are deep and crisp. This was impressive to hear, given that there is no sub-woofer. This is because they use Cinema Master Audio, which can use the same wave audio algorithms used by Hollywood studios.
Build & Aesthetics
The BenQ HT2150ST has a solid build quality. It is however, plastic, as usual. Though the body is made of plastic, the whole device feels very solid. I don't ever get the feeling that it would break easily. It is relatively thin for a device of this caliber too. It weights 7.27lbs and has a simplistic design.
The box includes a carrying case with a front pouch to hold the power cable, bag strap, remote control, and your 3D glasses. The case is made of a thick industrial material, which should keep your device from being damaged easily.
What Could It Do Better
For starters, projectors are not the quietest of devices. The HT2150ST's fan can get loud at times. It gets to about 29dBA. Fans have improved so much over the years, so I am surprised that projectors still have this issue. It has gotten better, but not good enough.
Gamers love to save a trip to the TV, and hate looking for the remote. A CEC option would have been nice to see on here as well. Just turn on the PS4 and BOOM, the projector turns on. Not everyone uses a receiver for their home theater, so more HDMI ports are always welcome too.
Verdict
If you are still looking for a 1080p display, the BenQ HT2150ST should definitely be on you list of options. It's not 4K, or a smart TV, but is does 3D and you could easily plug in a chromecast. At $999.99, you could go with a mid range 60in Sony TV, or you could "WOW" your friends and have an immersive experience gaming at much more than 60in. BenQ have absolutely made this projector with gamers in mind, and I love it.
