BenQ X3100i gaming projector with 4K, Android TV, and 240Hz

BenQ is preparing to launch the successor to last year’s projector, the X3000i. The arrival of the new gaming projector X3100i raises questions about whether it will replace or complement its predecessor.

This new 4K Android TV projector enhances its capabilities with an LED light source boasting 3300 ANSI lumens, a 600,000:1 contrast ratio, and a native Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Its standout features include a maximum refresh rate of 240 Hz and an impressively low input delay of just 4.2 ms.

While the X3100i allows the display of 4K content through upscaling, it operates at 60 Hz with an input lag of 16.7 ms. The projector is marketed with a range of specifications such as 95 percent Rec. 709, 100 percent DCI-P3, 3D, and HDR10 support.

Its LED lifespan extends to 20,000 hours in Normal mode and 30,000 hours in Eco/SmartEco modes. Users can also benefit from keystone correction (horizontal and vertical), lens shift (vertical), and an Android 11 dongle.

Regarding connectivity, the projector offers AirPlay, Bluetooth 5.0, HDMI 2.0b (with eARC), S/PDIF, USB-A, and dual-band Wi-Fi 5.

Price and availability

The new gaming projector X3100i is now available for purchase on Amazon.com, priced at $2,399, and comes bundled with a remote control.

Updated on December 19, 2023: the X3100i is now also available on Amazon.co.uk for £2,099.

BenQ X3100i specifications

• Projection technology: DLP
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Pixel (Full HD) (native) / 3840 x 2160 Pixel (4K) (via Upscaling)
• Refresh rate: 240 Hz (Full HD) / 60 Hz (4K)
• Color depth: 10-bit
• Light source: LED
• Brightness: 3300 ANSI-Lumen
• Contrast ratio: 600 000:1
• Operating volume: 28 dB (Eco) or 32 dB (Normal)
• Power consumption: 330 watts (in the 110-volt network)
• Features: Lens-Shift, 3D support, HDR10, AirPlay, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 5 (Dual-Band), Android 11 dongle, Remote control
• Ports: HDMI 2.0b (mit eARC), S/PDIF, USB-A
• Audio: 2x 5W speakers

Optoma has also unveiled its latest 4K laser theatre projector, the UHZ35ST, boasting an ultra-low latency 240Hz/1080p Gaming mode, versatile short-throw technology, and HDMI 2.0. Notably, this home theatre projector offers an incredibly low input lag of just 4 milliseconds (ms) but is priced higher at $3,299.