BenQ TK700STi vs Optoma UHD35: Overview of expert opinions

Both the BenQ TK700STi and Optoma UHD35 have a resolution of 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels). They both utilize a single DLP chip, with the BenQ TK700STi using a Texas Instruments (TI) DLP (. 47" DMD) chipset and the Optoma UHD35 using a 0.

47-inch DLP 4K chip with XPR technology.

Both projectors are capable of delivering high-quality, detailed images with sharpness and clarity.

In terms of light output and brightness, both the BenQ TK700STi and Optoma UHD35 offer decent performance.

The BenQ TK700STi has a rated brightness of 3,000 ANSI lumens, but actual testing showed a measurement of 2,584 lumens in Bright mode. This brightness level is suitable for various viewing environments, including dark rooms and family rooms with low to moderate ambient light.

However, in daytime with more ambient light, the image may appear washed out on smaller screens.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 has an advertised brightness of 3,600 lumens, but actual testing has shown varying results. One review reported a brightness of 2,306 lumens, which is approximately 36% less than the advertised brightness. Another review measured the brightness at 2,681 ANSI lumens, which is approximately 77.

3% of the published spec. Despite these variances, the UHD35 is still regarded as a bright projector that performs well in different lighting conditions, including ambient-light viewing.

Overall, both projectors offer suitable brightness for various viewing conditions. The BenQ TK700STi may be better suited for dark rooms and smaller screens, while the Optoma UHD35 offers versatility and performs well in both home theater setups and ambient-light viewing.

The BenQ TK700STi has a contrast ratio of 10,000:1, while the Optoma UHD35 has a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. This means that the UHD35 has a significantly higher contrast ratio compared to the TK700STi.

A higher contrast ratio generally indicates better differentiation between dark and light areas on the screen, resulting in more vibrant and detailed images.

However, it's important to consider that the actual performance of black levels may not be significantly different between these two projectors, as low-cost projectors like the UHD35 often have mediocre black levels despite their high contrast ratios.

If black levels are a priority for you, it may be necessary to consider higher-priced projectors for a noticeable improvement in this aspect.

Both the BenQ TK700STi and Optoma UHD35 perform well in terms of color accuracy. The BenQ TK700STi is highly regarded for its color accuracy, offering vibrant and accurate colors out of the box. It covers 96% of the Rec. 709 color gamut, ensuring precise color reproduction.

The TK700STi maintains accurate and realistic skin tones, while delivering vibrant greens and reds. However, the bright picture mode sacrifices some color accuracy.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 also offers good color accuracy, especially when compared to other similarly priced DLP projectors. Reviewers have mentioned that the UHD35's color performance is very good and that Optoma has improved the oversaturated colors that were present in the previous model.

However, there may be a slight green hue in bright yellows.

Overall, both projectors perform well in terms of color accuracy, with the BenQ TK700STi offering vibrant and accurate colors with its eight-segment color wheels and the Optoma UHD35 providing good color accuracy and improved color performance compared to its predecessor.

The throw ratio of the BenQ TK700STi is smaller than that of the Optoma UHD35. This means that the BenQ projector can project a larger image size at a shorter distance compared to the Optoma projector.

For example, if you want to project a 100" diagonal image, the BenQ TK700STi can do so at a throw distance of approximately 9.6 feet to 11.6 feet, while the Optoma UHD35 would require a throw distance of approximately 74.46" to 82.56".

In terms of flexibility, the BenQ TK700STi offers a wider range of throw distances, allowing for more placement options in different room sizes. On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 has a narrower range of throw distances, which may limit its placement options in certain environments.

Overall, the throw ratio is an important factor to consider when choosing a projector, as it determines the size of the image that can be projected at a given distance. The BenQ TK700STi has a more versatile throw ratio, while the Optoma UHD35 may be more suitable for specific room sizes or setups.

The BenQ TK700STi has a lumens rating of 3000 ANSI lumens, while the Optoma UHD35 is advertised to have a brightness rating of 3,600 lumens. However, in testing, the measured brightness of the Optoma UHD35 varies, with different reviewers reporting measurements ranging from 2,306 lumens to 3,670 lumens.

Based on the advertised specifications, the Optoma UHD35 has a higher lumens rating than the BenQ TK700STi. However, it is important to note that the actual brightness experienced may vary due to factors such as lamp hours and settings.

Both projectors are considered to be bright and capable of performing well in ambient light conditions.

The BenQ TK700STi does not specify its light source. On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 uses a 240 watt lamp. This indicates that the UHD35 utilizes traditional lamp technology. However, the light source of the TK700STi remains unknown.

Both the BenQ TK700STi and the Optoma UHD35 offer impressive lamp life options. The BenQ TK700STi has a range of lamp life options, with the shortest being 4,000 hours in Normal mode and the longest being 15,000 hours in LampSave mode.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 has a consistent lamp life of up to 15,000 hours. In terms of average lifespan, it's difficult to determine an exact figure as it depends on individual usage patterns and settings.

However, with regular usage of 3 to 4 hours per day, the BenQ TK700STi's lamp replacement is typically required after around 3 years. As for the Optoma UHD35, with the same usage pattern, the lamp can last for more than 10 years.

Overall, both projectors offer long lamp life options, with the Optoma UHD35 potentially lasting slightly longer due to its consistent 15,000-hour lamp life. However, it's important to consider other factors such as image quality, features, and pricing when comparing these projectors.

Both the BenQ TK700STi and the Optoma UHD35 projectors offer the convenience of replaceable lamps. However, there is a notable difference in the pricing of their replacement lamps. The replacement lamp for the BenQ TK700STi is priced at $159, while the replacement lamp for the Optoma UHD35 is priced at $249.

This price difference indicates that the replacement lamp for the Optoma UHD35 is more expensive compared to the BenQ TK700STi. This is an important factor to consider for those who may need to replace the lamp in the future, as it can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership for the projector.

In terms of lamp maintenance requirements, both the BenQ TK700STi and the Optoma UHD35 projectors require periodic lamp replacements. However, there are some differences in terms of cost and specific guidelines.

The BenQ TK700STi has a lamp lifespan of around 4,000 to 10,000 hours, and a replacement lamp (model number 5J. JNL05. 001) costs $159. The replacement process involves turning off the projector, allowing it to cool down, removing the lamp cover, replacing the old lamp module with a new one, and then turning on the projector.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 has a lamp life of 15,000 hours in Dynamic mode and 4,000 hours in Bright mode, according to one source. The replacement cost for the lamp is $249. To maintain the lamp, it is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, which may include avoiding excessive use, ensuring proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and following the recommended power-down procedure.

Overall, both projectors require periodic lamp replacements, but the specific maintenance requirements and costs differ slightly. The BenQ TK700STi has a lower replacement cost but a potentially shorter lamp lifespan, while the Optoma UHD35 has a higher replacement cost but a potentially longer lamp lifespan.

In terms of input options, both the BenQ TK700STi and Optoma UHD35 offer multiple options to connect external devices.

The BenQ TK700STi has two HDMI 2. 0b inputs with HDCP 2. 2, allowing you to connect devices like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, or streaming devices. It also has a dedicated HDMI port for the included 4K Android TV dongle, which provides access to the Google Play store and various streaming, music, and gaming apps.

Additionally, the projector comes with a Bluetooth remote for convenient control and eliminates line-of-sight issues.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 offers two HDMI 2. 0 ports for connecting devices like laptops, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. It also has a VGA input for older devices that use VGA connectors. The projector has 3. 5mm audio input and output ports for connecting external speakers or audio devices.

It has a USB input for playing media files directly from thumb drives and an RS232 port for home automation control. The optical out port allows you to connect an external audio system for better sound quality.

It's worth noting that the BenQ TK700STi includes a 4K Android TV dongle and offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the Optoma UHD35 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.

Both the BenQ TK700STi and the Optoma UHD35 have audio output ports. They both feature a 3.5mm analog stereo output, which allows you to connect external audio devices such as speakers or a soundbar.

This is beneficial if you want to enhance the audio quality while using the projector. By connecting external speakers or a soundbar, you can enjoy a more immersive and powerful sound experience. This is especially useful when watching movies or playing games, as it can greatly enhance the overall viewing experience.

Having an audio output port also provides flexibility in terms of audio setup. You can choose to use the built-in speakers of the projector for casual use, and then connect external speakers for a more robust audio experience when needed.

Overall, the presence of audio output ports in both the BenQ TK700STi and the Optoma UHD35 allows users to customize their audio setup according to their preferences and requirements, ensuring an enjoyable and immersive viewing experience.

In terms of wireless capabilities, the BenQ TK700STi clearly has an advantage over the Optoma UHD35. The TK700STi supports Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to connect to your home network and access online content. It also includes a QS01 Android TV dongle, which enables you to use Bluetooth accessories like speakers, headphones, and gamepads.

This means you can wirelessly connect and use compatible Bluetooth devices with the projector.

On the other hand, the Optoma UHD35 does not come with built-in wireless capabilities. It lacks both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, according to the product reviews. This means you won't be able to use screen mirroring, voice control, or direct streaming features. However, if you already have gaming systems or other content sources that you plan to use, this may not be a deal-breaker for you.

Overall, if wireless capabilities are important to you, the BenQ TK700STi would be the better choice between the two projectors.