Earlier this year, BenQ launched a trio of Full HD 1080p projectors, the HT2050, HT3050, and HT4050. The HT3050 fell in the middle pricewise, starting at $999, and it offers a range of benefits compared to the low-end HT2050. In reality, the HT3050 is unique portable projector, especially for the price.
You get all the benefits you would from similarly priced 1080p projectors: Excellent image quality, high brightness, and long-lasting performance. But the HT3050 does two things especially well: It delivers impressive audio quality. Equipped with two 10W speakers, the HT3050 is one of the best – if not the best – projectors in terms of built-in audio for the price range. Secondly, the HT3050 is built with a range of 21st Century connections including 2 HDMI ports, one of which is MHL-enabled. That makes the projector compatible with Chromecast, Roku and other streaming devices, as well as smartphones and tablets.
For the price, the BenQ HT3050 offers plenty of benefits: High-definition images, awesome color performance and great audio. Compared to similarly priced projectors, the HT3050 is certainly a leader in the class and it should warrant consideration from those shopping for a home entertainment projector.
BenQ HT3050: Key Features
Compared to other similarly priced projectors, the HT3050 does two things better than the competition: Audio performance and MHL connectivity. Here’s a more in-depth look at those two features:
- Impressive Built-In Audio: Many sub-$1,000 projectors are equipped with built-in audio. But generally, the audio from these projectors has many limitations. Smaller 5W options, for example, aren’t great for noisy environments and the sound is scratchy at maximum output. Additionally, single 10W speakers aren’t great at reproducing sounds from video, live TV and video games. But the HT3050 offers a solution. With dual built-in 10W speakers, the projector’s audio performance is well above-average; audio is crisp and clear. The built-in speakers completely eliminate the need for external audio in home theaters, living rooms and small spaces – especially for TV, gaming and home entertainment. The performance isn’t quite on par with full surround sound, as it lacks the depth and bass of dedicated audio systems. But the dual speakers deliver audio performance that works well in most cases.
- MHL Connectivity: One key difference between the HT2050 and the 3050 is the addition of an MHL-enabled HDMI port. The 3050 has two HDMI ports, and one offers compatibility with MHL-enabled devices. This makes it possible to stream live TV from Chromecast and Roku, as well as connectivity with other devices like smartphones and tablets. Although MHL compatibility is quickly becoming a must-have feature, many projectors priced below $1,000 do not have it yet. The HT3050 is an exception, making it ideal for cord cutters.
What Else the BenQ HT3050 Does Right
Aside from MHL and audio, the HT3050 delivers performance similar to what you can expect from budget-friendly Full HD projectors. For starters, BenQ is well-known for delivering high-quality imaging, and that’s certainly true of the HT3050. Compared to the HT2050, the 3050 has been calibrated in Cinema mode, providing more robust colors and details. But that’s just one of many standard features. Here’s a look at the quick specs:
- Brightness: 2,000 lumens
- Contrast: 15,000:1
- Lamp Life: 3,500-6,000 hours
- Connections: RS232, USB, 3-RCA, VGA, Composite Video, mini-USB, audio in/audio out
- Other Features: Vertical lens shift, Full HD 3D, 1.3X manual zoom,
If you’re considering Full HD home entertainment projectors, you have a range of options to choose from. But the BenQ HT3050 is certainly well positioned in the class, especially with a starting price around $999. It delivers key connectivity, useable audio, plus all the features you’d expect from similarly priced HD projectors. In other words, this projector should be on your short list.
Looking for low-cost OEM-quality replacement projector lamps? MyProjectorLamps is your source. With a massive selection, fast shipping, and the best prices, we are the Web’s premier projector lamp shop.