The BenQ X3100i is the flagship 4K gaming projector that delivers an excellent big-screen gaming experience.
The BenQ X3100i is a 4LED, 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160p) 0.65" DLP short-throw flagship gaming projector. The X3100i offers a BenQ-rated 3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness, displays vibrant colors that cover 95% of the Rec.709 color gamut, 100% DCI-P3, and supports super low latency gaming with speeds as low as 4.2 ms (1080p 240Hz). The X3000i fully supports HDR for gaming, HDR10, and HLG content, all at an MSRP of $2,399.
The X3100i assumes the top spot in BenQ's X gaming projectors, directly above the award-winning X3000i gaming projector. BenQ has increased the X3000i's brightness, kept the high performance 0.65 inch DMD for improved contrast, and added a vertical lens shift in an X Series gaming projector for the first time.
The X3100i is a gaming-optimized home entertainment projector packing many powerhouse features. BenQ has added Cinematic Sound to accompany the company's audio and video preset modes and treVolo-tuned audio. Cinematic Sound is designed to help tune out the distractions and pull you deep into the game.
BenQ X3100i Specs
Price
$2399 MSRP
Technology
DLP
Low Lag Gaming
4.16ms 1080P@240Hz, 8ms 1440P@120Hz, 16ms 4K@60Hz
Displayed Resolution
4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim
3300 ANSI Lumens
Light Source
4LED
Contrast
600,000:1 (Dynamic)
Zoom Lens Ratio
1.3X
Sound System
5 Watt x2 Stereo
Dimensions
(WxHxD) 10.7 x 8.4 x 10.2 inch
Weight
15 lbs. (6.8 Kg)
Overview
BenQ produces three distinct projector series designed with gaming in mind: the X Series, TK Series, and TH Series.The X3100i is one of three new X Series projectors now part of BenQ's Console Gaming Projector Series. X Series projectors, such as the BenQ X3100i, are designed for cinematic immersion in gameplay with 4LED HDR-PRO for authentic colors with dynamic virtual 3D sound from various directions. The X Series projectors are designed with premium gaming consoles such as the PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch in mind. The new X3100i adds to all the best technology from previous projectors in the series, creating the most immersive gaming experience available on a BenQ gaming projector.
The X3100i is a 4K projector using Texas Instruments XPR Technology to display a 4K image. XPR technology achieves 4K by producing 8.3 million distinct pixels regardless of the DMD chip's number of native pixels. XPR shifts the 0.65-inch DMD chip's pixels to generate true 4K, 8.3 million pixels with lightning-fast pixel shifting speed. Projector Reviews has a glossary for additional details on 4K DLP with XPR Technology; be sure to check it out. DLP projectors are generally preferred for gaming because they have fast response times and smooth motion handling. This makes them a good choice for fast-paced gaming. DLP technology reduces the processing required to project an image, resulting in less lag and total input latency.
BenQ has upgraded the X3100i's light source from lamp-based technology to a modern 4LED light source. This new 4LED light engine produces 3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness, which is more than enough to create an excellent picture in a range of spaces, from light-controlled rooms to rooms where lights-on viewing is required.
LED light sources, especially BenQ's 4LED light engines, offer incredible perceived brightness. Because LEDs appear but don't measure brighter than other light sources, many manufacturers have developed a new LED lumens rating to avoid pre-judging an LED-powered projector based on its ANSI lumens rating. At Projector Reviews, we only calculate and report brightness in ANSI lumens. With the introduction of high-brightness projectors like this one, the performance gap between LED and laser light sources is rapidly closing.
LED light sources offer many advantages over lamps and even laser-based projector light sources.
LEDs offer ten to fifteen times the lifespan of a traditional projector's lamp.
LED-powered projectors don't have to warm up.
LEDs use less power than lamps and even equivalent laser light sources.
LEDs provide consistent color as they age throughout the projector's life.
The BenQ X3100i's 4LED light source and BenQ's exclusive CinematicColor technology can natively reproduce 100% of DCI-P3 and 95% of the Rec.709 color spaces. BenQ CinematicColor technology can perfectly balance the projector's brightness and colors, ensuring that even with ambient light present, images will display properly saturated colors.
The X3100i comes witht the BenQ QS-02 which provides users with Android TV 11.
The X3100i uses BenQ's newest QS-02 streaming media stick. The QS-02 is powered by Android 11. The QS-02 is BenQ's most powerful streaming media stick, offering the largest media library ever found on a BenQ projector. In addition, BenQ has added support for all the major streaming platforms, including full support for Netflix using the official Android TV application. This is a significant step up compared to previous BenQ projectors that either required a complicated custom launcher outside of Android to run a limited version of Netflix or, worse, had no Netflix support. With the BenQ QS-02, you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows in 4K on today's most popular and easy-to-use streaming media OS available today.
Experiment with a variety of gaming picture setting (.sxc files) created by others
Create and download custom picture adjustments to maximize your gaming experience
Configure parameters under different Picture Modes to simultaneously manage settings for multiple favorite games.
BenQ gaming projectors have pushed the envelope when creating tailored experiences for gamers based on genres. The X1300i and X3000i featured dedicated RPG, FPS, and SPG preset modes. The X3100i adds two new customized setting features with the addition of a fourth preset mode called RCG mode. RCG is designed for driving games and provides realistic, fast motion with highlighted engine and road sounds.
The other new feature from BenQ is called SettingXchange. Exclusive to the new X Series projectors, SettingXchange allows users to download expert projector image settings for the most popular games. This feature benefits gamers by providing a streamlined process for achieving the best possible color and image quality for their gaming content, enhancing the overall gaming experience on their projector.
With this easy yet powerful software tool, anyone can quickly download game-specific settings (.sxc files) created by professional gamers and experience gameplay like a pro using ready-made celebrity profiles. The SettingXchange platform also lets you share your projector image settings with fellow gamers to help them level up their gaming experience using your own.
Another notable feature of the X3100i is the projector's AGM (Auto Game Mode), which enables the projector to easily identify the gaming console used at any given time. Auto Game Mode identifies Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch console inputs, instantly recalling your previous game mode settings for a tailor-made gaming experience.
BenQ has also included a very convenient feature called FPS Crosshair. The FPS Crosshair feature projects a targeting reticle onto the screen, empowering players to swiftly and accurately lock onto adversaries in ever-challenging battles. This feature helps improve first-person shooters' accuracy should the game not provide a crosshair option.
The BenQ X3100i is the most recent addition to the company's growing family of LED-powered projectors offering gamers a high speed low input lag gaming experience with a range of speeds ranging from 4.16ms input lag in 1080P@240Hz, 8ms in 1440P@120Hz, 16ms in 4K@60Hz.
Since the introduction of the X1300i, BenQ has focused on providing users with an excellent audio experience to go with the big-screen gaming experience that the X Series projectors offer. BenQ did this by maximizing the chassis and speakers to provide an audio experience designed to draw you into the game with immersive sound. BenQ achieves this by focusing on projector-fit speaker design, which considers various elements, including sound hole design, projector housing, the speaker cabinet/enclosure, and the TreVolo speakers being used. The X3100i's speakers feature a 270° sound field design for their sound holes, multi-point suspension within a dedicated housing to keep resonance and static from the chassis in check, and a custom bass reflex port coupled with a Conex damper for rich and heavy bass resulting in smooth and natural sound.
BenQ's new X Series gaming projectors have a big immersive sound that matches the displayed content. BenQ refers to this as Spatial Audio, which focuses on creating the right sound for the content being played and factors in the environment where the projector is used.
HIGHLIGHTS
$2,399 MSRP
Single Chip 0.65" DLP Texas Instruments DMD with XPR
4LED light source rated for up to 30,000 hours (10+ years) LED light source life
high speed low lag gaming (4.16ms input lag in 1080P@240Hz, 8ms in 1440P@120Hz, 16ms in 4K@60Hz)
CinematicColor allows the projector to display 100% DCI-P3 and 95% of the Rec.709 color space
4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160p) displayed resolution
Advanced color temperature tuning with various levels of white balance controls
3,300 ANSI lumens manufacturer-rated brightness
600,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio with light source dimming
Dynamic Black technology (Enhanced Tone Mapping) preserves dark area details
HDR10 and HLG support
Supports 24P playback of HD sources without judder in HDR mode
Dedicated FILMMAKER mode displays content as the director intended
HDMI 2.0b (HDCP 2.2)
1.3X optical zoom
Manual vertical lens shift (Vertical: +10%)
RS-232 control port
Dimensions (WxHxD) 10.7 x 8.4 x 10.2 inch (272 x 213 x 259 mm)
Weight 15.0 lbs (6.8 kg)
HARDWARE
CHASSIS
The BenQ X3100i almost completely reflects the design of the X1300i and the X3000i with only a small amount of change, like the addition of the vertical lens shift knob at the top of the projector. The X3100i measures (WxHxD) 10.7 x 8.4 x 10.2 inches (w/o adjustment feet). In addition, the X3100i gains just under a pound compared to the X3000i, weighing 15 pounds. The X3100i continues the portable nature of the previous models in the series, making it a great on-the-go projector for LAN parties or just in the backyard for movie night on an outdoor projection screen or other available surface.
All the connections and inputs are located on the rear of the X3100i. The rear of the chassis has dual HDMI 2.0b ports with High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) 2.2. HDCP is designed to protect 4K content from being pirated. HDCP 2.2 creates an encrypted system that ensures a secure connection between the source and the display. In addition, the X3100i provides even more HDMI-related features that make using the projector easier and more intuitive, including the ability to power on and off each connected device (via the CEC protocol) as well as control the volume, all directly from the X3100i.
In addition, the X3100i has an RS-232 serial control port, an audio output jack, a USB Type-A port (Power supply, 5V/2.5A), and an AC power jack.
The vertical adjustment knob is located on the top of the projector.
The right side of the chassis (as viewed from the projector's rear) has a handy push-button control panel. The control panel has a Power Off/On button, an Input button, and a D-pad with an "OK" button that allows easy directional control. In addition, there is a Back button and a Menu button. Lastly, there is an Eco-blank button to turn off the 4LED light source momentarily.
The BenQ X3100i remote is identical to the company's remote control on the recently reviewed BenQ W4000i. I like this remote control, which significantly improves the previous X Series remote controls. BenQ has increased the size of the remote. It is similar to their more traditional candy bar remotes found on models like the HT2060 but with a curvier and more comfortable grip. BenQ has also added a backlight to the remote.
The BenQ X3100i remote control is well laid out. The top section has power controls. It also features shortcut buttons for Autofocus, which does not work with this projector, and a shortcut button for the 2D Keystone feature. The next row has the Source, Mic, and Projector Menu buttons.
The remote control has the typical D-pad with an "OK" button, a Back button, a Settings Menu button, Volume Up/Down buttons, and a Mute button. In addition, the X3100i remote control also has a dedicated shortcut button for Game Settings, Picture Modes, and Sound Modes.
This great remote is functional and very comfortable to hold, with the ability to control every menu-driven projector feature. Features like focus, zoom, and vertical lens shift can only be manually adjusted on the projector.
THE LENS
The BenQ X3100i lens is high-precision and designed to ensure a sharp image from corner to corner. As is typical for projectors with both a focus and zoom wheel in the same space, manually adjusting the zoom to match the focus is simple by using the controls directly above the lens housing. The image looks great once the focus is dialed in.
The lens on this projector is an F = 2.6 to 2.78, f = 10.2 to 12.24 mm, and provides a vertical lens shift of +10%. Vertical lens shift offers a significant advantage for users, providing them with more installation flexibility, either for mounting on a ceiling or placing the projector on a table. Images can be shifted up and down without sacrificing image quality.
Along with the new vertical lens shift, BenQ has carried over the 1.3x optical zoom, allowing users to customize screen sizes to fit various spaces effortlessly and project a captivating 100" screen from just 2.5m for expansive entertainment viewing. All without the hassles of complicated installation.
For even more customization, the X3100i features digital zoom allowing users to easily resize the projected image digitally.
This projector is great for small spaces because it can project a big picture even if you don't have much room. For example, you can project a 100-inch image from only 8.3 feet away. You can use the lens shift feature to adjust the picture to align perfectly with the screen. It lets you move the image up and down without losing quality.
MENUS
BenQ projectors have menus that are easy to understand and navigate. The menus are organized in a way that makes sense, so you can find what you're looking for without any trouble. They offer quick access to important functions, so you can easily switch inputs or change the picture mode. With BenQ projectors, the menus are designed to be user-friendly and make getting the best performance from your projector a breeze.
Like other BenQ projectors of its class, this unit works on three different menu interfaces. The first is the BenQ basic menu, allowing users to control the most common projector features. The second is the advanced menu, allowing full access to every projector feature and adjustment. The third is the Android TV 11 menu system that runs the included BenQ QS-02 smart media device I talked about in the introduction section.
My only real complaint is that the menu speed could be faster. There is a noticeable delay between pressing a button on the remote and the corresponding menu response, which is unfortunately common for BenQ projectors, especially in this price range.
PERFORMANCE
COLOR REPRODUCTION
The X3100i's out-of-the-box color reproduction is excellent. It includes four gaming-focused picture modes designed to optimize the gaming experience based on the game type. While the X3100i is a gaming-focused projector, movies and TV shows also look great. Since the projector is precalibrated at the factory, the CINEMA and USER delivered very good color reproduction out of the box.
As with previous X Series projectors, BenQ has tuned the X3100i factory presets so well that I don't think most users will need to adjust the colors manually. BenQ has included multiple presets matched to the general types of movies, TV shows, games, etc, that will be played on this projector.
BenQ states the X3100i covers 100% of the DCI-P3 (Digital Cinema Initiatives – Protocol 3) color gamut. DCI-P3 is a color gamut commonly used in digital cinema and the color standard for the film industry. DCI-P3 has a much wider color space than Rec.709, so you get more shades of colors with it.
The images below provide an overall idea of color accuracy. However, when viewing in person, the colors look much better than on the display of the device you are using to read this review.
Like most BenQ home entertainment projectors I’ve tested in my lab, the BenQ X3100i offers excellent factory calibration out-of-the-box. It's not perfect—what is? But it is so good that most users will square the projector, focus it, and be done with it. Measurements were taken using Portrait Displays Calman color calibration software.
Since your room and screen material significantly impact the overall picture, we don't recommend using someone else's calibration adjustments. If your room is brighter/darker or your walls are a different color, your settings would probably be different. Also, the color characteristics of different individual projectors can vary. Therefore, copying someone else's results can be detrimental to the picture quality rather than improving it. However, I am including my specific room before and after calibration results.
If you want to make quick BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, and SHARPNESS adjustments to improve the picture quality of your projector in your room, several free test patterns are available on the Murideo website and their YouTube channel. Murideo also has written instructions located under the resource section of its website.
While the CINEMA mode is slightly more accurate, we choose to measure and calibrate the USER mode. In this mode, skin tones and color reproduction were better than average.
The color temperature was close to our target of 6500K, but measuring the projector RGB balance showed that the image needed more Red, making the content look slightly cooler than desired. The X3100i also did an excellent job tracking colors in SDR content. The color sweep measurements before calibration were better than what you can achieve with most projectors after calibration.
The Gamma measurement was close to our target of 2.2, but blacks were slightly elevated. The good news is most of these issues can be quickly corrected using the projector color adjustment setting.
Picture Mode: USER
Gamma: 2.0
Color Temperature: 6860K
Average Grayscale dE: 6
Average Color Tracking dE: 1.0
Post-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
In the USER picture mode, the average color temperature measured 6860K, which is close to my target, so I left the Color Temperature setting at its default of Normal. I used the projector's Color Temperature Tuning adjustments to increase the Red and Blue Gain, which resulted in excellent RGB balance while being the average color temper closer to 6500K.
To achieve a Gamma of 2.2, I switched the projector Gamma Selection to 2.3 and reduced the Brightness setting slightly. The projector's out-of-box color tacking was outstanding, so there really isn't a need to adjust further. However, I did use the Color Management adjust to improve the RED color tracking.
The end result was class-leading color reproduction.
Picture Mode: USER
Gamma: 2.18
Color Temperature: 6559K
Average Grayscale dE: 0.73
Average Color Tracking dE: 0.72
The BenQ X3100i has advanced settings for color adjustment, which are lacking on many lower-priced projectors. However, BenQ brings robust CMS systems to their value projectors, such as the recently reviewed BenQ HT2060 ($999 MSRP). The X3100i offers a wide range of adjustments. The projector's ACS (Advanced Color Settings) menu can adjust image parameters, including gamma, color temperature tuning, and HDR brightness. The X3100i's advanced CMS (Color Management System) is where users will fine-tune the projector's picture performance.
When evaluating color reproduction, a Delta E measurement of 3 or less is considered ‘Excellent’ and imperceptible by the human eye. After SDR calibration, the grayscale average DeltaE was less than one, which was outstanding. The average pre-calibration Color Tracking dE was just one, which is also outstanding, but you have the tools to improve it even further.
The X3100i has no problem reproducing 100% of the Rec709 color space used in SDR content. One of the new features BenQ has included on the X3100i is the addition of WCG (Wide Color Gamut) preset picture modes to existing preset modes. WCG does exactly what it sounds like, applying a modest but noticeable boost to the overall color performance.
WCG is more than just turning up the color. When one of the WCG-equipped picture modes is selected, the projector engages a color filter, and its DCI-P3 color gamut coverage increases from 90% to 100%. The wider color gamut is useful when viewing HDR content, but the projector's brightness output is reduced by about 30%.
WCG uses BenQ's color science and on-board processing to intelligently apply a wider range of colors to the displayed content. Simply applying an across-the-board color boost could be problematic, boosting colors you don't want to be boosted, but that's not an issue with WCG modes on the X3100i.
When viewing High Dynamic Range content, the HDR10 (WCG) mode delivers the best color reproduction and grayscale. There is no need to change the default Color Temperature setting. Like the SDR, you can use the projector's Color Temperature Tuning setting to improve the RGB balance further.
HDR Pre/Post Calibration RGB Balance
BRIGHTNESS
The BenQ X3100i has a manufacturer-rated brightness of 3,300 ANSI lumens, 300 ANSI lumens brighter than its previous flagship, the BenQ X3000i. ANSI lumens is the standard of choice for measuring brightness at Projector Reviews.
The BenQ X3100i is one of the brightest projectors of its class, with most lifestyle (cube-shaped) home entertainment projectors maxing out brightness at around 1,600 ANSI lumens. Even when gaming or watching content in a room with the lights on, the 3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness preserve color and a high percentage of dark area details.
To measure the X3100i's maximum light output, I switched the projector to its brightest picture mode, BRIGHT (SDR mode), and ensured the 4LED light source power rating was NORMAL. I then took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the screen.
At wide zoom, the BenQ X3100i produced a brightness of 3,462 ANSI lumens, which exceeds the projector's rated brightness by 162 ANSI lumens.
For the other modes available on the X3100i, I've compiled the results of my measurements below for your reference.
BenQ X3100i Brightness
Picture Modes
Brightness Measured (ANSI Lumens)
BRIGHT (SDR)
3462
RPG (SDR)
2094
FPS (SDR)
2115
SPG (SDR)
2111
RCG (SDR)
2107
CINEMA (SDR)
2113
USER (SDR)
2104
HDR10
1157
HDR10 (WCG)
756
HDR-RPG
1225
HDR-RPG (WCG)
691
HDR-FPS
1122
HDR-SPG
1254
HDR-RCG
1095
HDR-USER
1173
The projector BRIGHT preset in SDR mode provided the highest ANSI lumens out of all the preset picture modes. BRIGHT mode is designed for use in spaces with minimal uncontrolled ambient light. CINEMA mode provided the best overall balance between color accuracy and brightness. The X3100i's game-oriented preset picture modes offered the best gaming experience in various lighting situations and with the game genre they were designed for. This year, BenQ has expanded the preset gaming modes for well-lit rooms with Audio-Visual presets for RPG, FPS, SPG, and the new RCG mode for racing games. BenQ has also added two WCG (Wide Color Gamut) modes for HDR10 and RPG modes.
CINEMA mode was one of my most used modes. Colors and contrast were excellent, even in rooms with ambient light. The HDR and SDR USER modes allow the end-user to customize all aspects of the picture and audio and save them.
BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL
The BenQ X3100i uses a large 0.65-inch DLP imager and a 4LED light engine like the recently reviewed V4000i/HT4550i and other BenQ projectors. Typically, larger DLP DMD imagers can have much to do with overall contrast capability, but it's not a guarantee, and it’s not the case with the X3100i.
The black levels on the X3100i were not as dark as some other BenQ projectors I've reviewed. The blackest parts of the image are very much gray on this projector. I understand that deep, inky blacks like those found on high-end Epson, Sony, and JVC projectors will not be found in a DLP projector selling for under $2,400, and the black levels on this projector are on par with most DLP projectors, meaning average. I also understand that the primary focus of this projector is gaming, and seeing details in darker areas of the picture is more critical than inky blacks, where a certain amount of dark area detail will be sacrificed. I completely understand why BenQ intentionally tuned the X3100i the way it did.
Many of you reading this may think, "If you want to use the projector for home theater use with better black levels, then just adjust the image yourself." I know I did, but that's a problem. The X3100i's black level floor is already the lowest it can be out of the box, and no tweaking or adjustment will result in deeper blacks. Plenty of projectors allow you to push blacks deeper, typically at the cost of dark area details. Blacks will drop a shade or two, but not with the X3100i. What you see is pretty much what you get.
SDR
Above are screenshots of a variety of videos and movies. Like all our photos, they are not adjusted for color, so they do not look as good as those the projector produced.
Since most live broadcast content and TV shows will continue to be produced in HD for years, most broadcast content will look excellent on the X3100i. The X3100i did a superb job upscaling 720p and 1080p to 4K UHD. In standard definition, DVD movies looked exactly how you might expect them to look on a 4K DLP projector. If you have no choice, the projector's upscaling is okay.
Standard-definition games faired much better with content originally designed for early Nintendo, Sega, and Playstation systems, looking sweet on my 100-inch screen. With their reduced bit rates, colors, and contrast, these games looked good on-screen and were fun to play on my 100-inch screen.
HDR
HDR gameplay on the X3100i with the projector HDR game modes, details adjustments, and FAST mode options is at another level and is one of the best projector-based gaming experiences I've seen.
The X3100i's HDR tone mapping functions adjust to display the best image quality based on the content. However, you will lose some brightness using the HDR preset picture modes especially one that include WCG, which enables a color filter. BenQ has also included an HDR brightness adjustment on the projector.
The BenQ X3100i provides support for HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) encoded content, which is the HDR standard developed for live broadcast by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in conjunction with Japan's national broadcaster Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai. The amount of broadcast television encoded in HLG is growing. NBC Sports did feature 4K with HDR and Dolby Atmos for its 2022 Winter Olympics coverage. With X3100i, you are all set to enjoy sports and award shows when more networks decide to start broadcasting content in HDR.
BenQ and its HDR-PRO technology display HDR better than most. Besides my black-level concern, HDR-PRO on the X3100i delivers decent contrast with excellent shadow details. BenQ HDR-PRO optimizes the 4LED light source power and adjusts the projector brightness to show finer shadow or dark area details.
HDR formats supported by the BenQ X3100i are the same as previous models, meaning the projector can identify and display content encoded in HDR10 and HLG, including HDR-encoded games. BenQ has increased the number of HDR preset picture modes on the X3100i, including one HDR mode for each projector's gaming mode (FPS, SPG, RCG, and RPG). One of the new features of the X3100i is the inclusion of WCG (Wide Color Gamut) on specific preset modes, which includes one of the four gaming modes, RPG and HDR10.
WCG is designed to provide cinematic color and cinema sound as if you are in a film-like and role-playing game world. When a WCG mode is selected, the projector's sound mode automatically switches to the CINEMA sound mode.
Selecting HDR-RPG (WCG) will display the picture in HDR-RPG mode with WCG (Wide Color Gamut), which displays 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, it also also reduces brightness. When viewing HDR on a projector, higher brightness is usually more beneficial than wider color reproduction. Higher brightness minimizes the amount of tone mapping required, making it easier to display highlight details while maintaining good overall screen brightness.
SOUND
The 5-watt treVolo x 2 speaker system produces big sounds. It gets loud without distortion and can tune the audio settings with User Sound EQ.
The X3100i features multiple audio preset modes, including CINEMA, MUSIC, FPS, SPG, RCG, and USER preset sound profiles. The User Mode allows the personalization of the sound settings via the User Sound EQ. The User Sound EQ adjusts the 100Hz, 300Hz,1kHz, 3kHz, and 10kHz bands to fine-tune the sound to the end user's preference. The dual 5-watt built-in chamber speakers with dynamic stereo enhancement powered by Bongiovi DPS technology audio quality changes from acceptable to relatively respectable once you tune the audio settings with User Sound EQ. So, all of these automatic and customizable features are great, but how does it sound?
Generally, the best sounding on-board projector sound systems can be found on ultra-short throw laser TV style projectors, which can sound like a decent entry-level sound bar with good mid-bass and imaging (sometimes). The BenQ X3100i is not a laser TV-style projector, so you don't get as big of a bottom end on this gaming projector as you would on most UST projectors. However, the X3100i, treVolo speakers, and Bongiovi DSP software offer some of the best sound quality I've heard on a gaming projector. BenQ has modestly improved the bass performance on the X3100i. But, for me, the real standout is how the X3100i produces a sound that explodes all around you, which is amazing considering that the X3100i only has stereo speakers.
BenQ X-series projectors have always offered excellent sound imaging, starting with the X1300i, but with the X3100i, BenQ takes it up a level.
The projector can get decently loud with minimal distortion. Audio not only seems to be coming from all over the room on the X3100i, but more often than not, the sounds coming from all around you are accurate for the projected content.
The BenQ X3100i's HDMI 2.0 (input 2) supports eARC, which enables higher-quality audio to be sent from the projector to an external audio device such as a soundbar or home theater audio system. The X3100i also supports Dolby Atmos sound.
GAMING
The X3100i comes with a FAST mode, which is even better than a GAME mode because every single preset mode on the projector can play low input lag gaming. The X3100i can detect and display 4K 60 Hz signals, 1440p 120 Hz signals, and 1080p 60, 120, and 240 Hz games. Each of these resolutions supports its own super low input lag, which ranges from 4.16ms input lag in 1080P@240Hz to 8ms in 1440P@120Hz to 16ms in 4K@60Hz.
I am not a professional gamer, but I love playing first-person shooters, which look great on the X3100i.
The X3100i's dark area detail makes this projector a wonderful gaming projector, especially for first-person shooters.
SUMMARY
The X3100i is the follow-up to BenQ's highly successful X3000i and is the newest addition to the X Series line of gaming-focused projectors. The X3100i projector has big shoes to fill, and I'm happy to report it does an excellent job.
The X3100i keeps all the best features of the X3000i, from LEDs and DMD size to advanced gaming modes, to name a few. The new, brighter 4LED light source replaces the one used in the previous X3000i, offering new benefits like increased projector brightness and contrast.
LED light sources provide instant power, so your device is always ready to use. LED offers a lifespan of 30,000 hours (4 hours per day for over 20 years), and projectors like the X3100i require much less maintenance over the projector's life compared to lamp-based projectors. Also, LED-powered projectors create less pollution than traditional lamp-based projectors' toxic mercury lamps.
Most importantly, LED projectors like the X3100i provide an enhanced viewing experience. They produce a higher perceived brightness thanks to the 4LED system's higher color saturation. This increased color saturation creates a picture with a wider color gamut for watching movies or enjoying big-screen gaming with no specular artifacts that can often be found in RGB or dual-blue laser light sources. The X3100i's light engine uses no color wheels, so it is smaller, which reduces the overall size and weight of this new projector.
The X3100i fully supports 3D movies, videos, sporting events, and games with enhanced depth when wearing compatible 3D glasses. This projector's color is excellent out of the box, presenting a warmly saturated image on the screen.
The X3100i is capable of producing 3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness. This improved brightness means that the X3100i will perform better in a wider range of environments, especially those where total control of a room's lighting is not always possible, like spaces with a moderate amount of uncontrolled ambient light. The X3100i is not a full lights-on viewing projector, but lights-on viewing can be achieved by adding a high-gain screen to your home theater system. Even without this screen, the X3100i’s improved brightness and stunning color saturation mean it will maintain decent picture quality when total light control is impossible.
The video quality of the BenQ X3100i is also good right out of the box. However, BenQ has made it easy for users to take the image to the next level with various basic and advanced adjustments. For example, it's easy to tweak the image using the projector's basic color, contrast, brightness, and hue settings to adjust any of the projector's preset picture modes.
The BenQ CMS (Color Management System) allows users to customize picture elements such as gamma, color temperature tuning, and HDR brightness. BenQ even provides basic and advanced audio adjustments to match the projector's detailed video adjustments. BenQ provides a range of preset audio modes matched to a wide range of displayed content. Users can also make detailed EQ adjustments to each projector's audio preset if this is insufficient.
The most amazing thing about this powerhouse projector is that BenQ has increased its gaming performance by adding all-new custom game settings and keeping the existing modes from the X3000i. BenQ carries over the RPG mode, focusing on cinematic realism with deep bass, SPG mode, which boosts colors and vocals to match SPG gameplay, and FPS mode, which enhances dark detail and clear audio. BenQ has created an all-new RCG mode to improve the user experience when playing fast-motion driving games, providing users with highlighted engine and road sounds.
I am impressed with the BenQ X3100i. It is a perfect choice for console gamers looking to create an incredibly immersive gaming experience for all games, from sprawling open-world games to first-person shooters and even high-speed racing games. The BenQ X3100i creates true-to-life authentic landscapes in 4K resolution. The dual built-in 5-watt chamber speakers powered by Bongiovi DPS technology allow users to surround themselves with amazing virtual 3D surround sound to match the gameplay visuals.
COMPETITION
The UHZ66 is one of Optoma's most compact and hassle-free 4K UHD DuraCore laser projectors. Designed for maintenance-free continuous operation, this 4000-lumen projector delivers powerful image performance with flexible installation features and extensive connectivity options in a sleek, compact form factor, up to 34% smaller than previous Optoma models. At 4,000 ANSI lumens, the UHZ66 is significantly brighter than the X3100i. However, the BenQ’s 4LED light source offers a wider color range than the Optoma's single blue laser light source.
The BenQ and the Optoma are very power-efficient projectors, ensuring a long product lifespan of up to 30,000 hours without additional lamps. They require minimal maintenance and are mercury-free, further lowering their carbon footprint.
The UHZ66 and the BenQ bring input lag down to as little as 4ms (1080p 240Hz) — perfect for a competitive gaming advantage.
Regarding sound performance, the BenQ X3100i treVolo sound system offers an incredibly wide range of audio performance compared to Optoma's single 15-watt mono speaker.
While the BenQ offers an amazing range of preset picture modes for video and gaming, these two projectors are very close in video specifications.
Choosing between these two projectors will likely come down to whether you need a projector that excels at full-light viewing, as the Optoma does, or the BenQ X3100i's state-of-the-art 4LED light source's advanced color performance.
ViewSonic X2-4K Gaming Projector $1,599 MSRP
The ViewSonic X2-4K is a fantastic gaming projector and can be an excellent home theater projector as long as it's calibrated. However, if you want an amazing out-of-the-box home theater experience, the X2-4K may not be your projector.
Like the BenQ X3100i, this ViewSonic is designed for a gaming enthusiast. The X2-4K is the world's first projector designed for Xbox consoles. After a highly rigorous testing process, the X2-4K was designated by Microsoft as the world's first "Designed for Xbox" projector.
The X2-4K is a high-quality projector providing a genuinely immersive gaming experience using multiple technologies, including support for 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160p) gaming at a 60 Hz refresh rate and a native 1440p DLP imager. These give Xbox users an optimal 4K (1440p) gaming experience with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz per feature. The BenQ does not display 1440 120 Hz, but both projectors will display 4K 60 hz, then 1080p at 60, 120, and 240 Hz. PC gamers can also use the X2-4K's 1080p 240 Hz gaming support for hyper-smooth and realistic gameplay. Movies and games can be projected anywhere from 60 to 120 inches at a 16:9 aspect ratio.
The ViewSonic X2-4K and the X3100i use a 0.65" Texas Instruments DMD (Digital Micromirror Device).
The BenQ offers a higher brightness, 3,300 ANSI lumens, compared to the ViewSonic's 2,000 ANSI lumens.
Both projectors offer dedicated on-board sound systems with well above average sound and simulated surround capabilities.
The ViewSonic does not include the Google ecosystem, while the BenQ comes with a QS-02 smart media stick featuring Google's Android TV 11 operating system.
PROS
The $2,399 MSRP makes this projector an incredible value, considering the projector's advanced gaming and cinema features and performance.
The projector's 4K UHD resolution (3,840 x 2,160p) provides great detail for big-screen gaming or movies, even in the largest living rooms.
The 0.65-inch DLP DMD imager created a good image with excellent contrast. The filter-free sealed LED light source provides a 30,000-hour lifespan, improves the projector's overall reliability, and virtually eliminates maintenance.
2D keystone and vertical lens shift make the projector setup remarkably easy.
3,300 ANSI lumens light output helps create bright, colorful images, even in rooms with moderate lighting challenges.
The 600,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio does not create deep blacks but does offer good dark area details.
3D content is fully supported.
1.3x zoom ratio makes for an easy setup.
Auto setup modes like obstacle avoidance and auto orientation are nice for users who don’t like to take the time to square the image manually.
Ultra-fast 4.16ms low input lag in gaming modes brings your sight, hearing, and thoughts into action with zero delay (4.16ms input lag in 1080P@240Hz, 8ms in 1440P@120Hz, 16ms in 4K@60Hz).
The built-in, Trevolo-tuned, 5-watt stereo sound system with adjustable EQ performs like BenQ gaming projectors with decent mid-bass and good stereo imaging.
CONS
The QS-02’s Android TV menu response time is laggy.
Black levels are not great, but as this is a gaming projector likely not a huge issue for anyone except when watching movies and television.
The projector may be small, but it can put out a lot of noticeable heat for an LED light source, especially in a smaller room.
This projector's cooling system can get loud.
BENQ X3100i – SPECIFICATIONS
Full Specifications
Projector Model
X3100i
Price
$2,399 MSRP
Imager Type
DLP (0.65" DMD)
Displayed Resolution
3840 x 2160 pixels
Native Resolution
2716 x 1528 pixels
Brightness
3300 ANSI Lumens
Light Source Type
4LED
Light Source Life
30,000 hours
Contrast Ratio
600,000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio
1.3X
Power Zoom/Focus
No (manual)
Lens Shift
Yes Vertical
Interchangeable Lens
No
Ultra-Short Throw
No
Native Aspect Ratio
16:9
Input Lag
4.16ms 1080P@240Hz, 8ms 1440P@120Hz, 16ms 4K@60Hz
DVI or HDMI
HDMI
3D
Yes
Blu-Ray 3D
Yes
Sound System
TreVolo tuned 5-watt x2 speaker
Noise Level (-dB)
33/28 dB
Low Lag Gaming
Yes
Smart Functionality
Yes
Business
No
Classroom
No
Portable
Yes
Special Features
4LED, Android TV 11
Networking
WiFi via the QS-02 streaming device
Dimensions (HxWxD)
(WxHxD) 10.7 x 8.4 x 10.2 inch (272 x 213 x 259 mm)
