Epson Powerlite 826W 3LCD Projector Review

Posted on September 10, 2009 by Art Feierman

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Epson PowerLite 826W Specs
Price	999
Technology	3LCD
Native Resolution	WXGA (1280x800)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)	2500
Contrast	2,000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio	1.60:1
Lens Shift	No
Lamp Life	5000
Weight	7.0 lbs.
Warranty	2 years

Epson Powerlite 826W Projector Overview

The Epson Powerlite 826W is a portable widescreen WXGA (1280 X 800) LCD projector that is likely to find a place in many classrooms or conference rooms. The 826W is very versatile in that it can display via USB input from a computer and it can also display photo (JPEG format) slideshows directly from a USB thumb drive. With an optional wireless network module, it can display from networked computers. In addition, it has a built-in 10-watt speaker that provides an acceptable sound level for most classrooms. A microphone jack enables the presenter to make use of the built-in speaker, making the 826W an all-in-one solution for many presentations. It has specified output of 2500 lumens with a high life lamp, a 1.6 zoom lens and digital zooming, as well as automatic keystone correction for quick setup. It can also be permanently mounted, while still maintaining good access to controls and the air filter.

We previously reviewed the Epson 1735W and W6 projectors, which, like the 826W, are both WXGA 3LCD projectors. The W6 is rated at 2000 lumens and doesn’t have network capability, while the 1735W is a step up in brightness (3000 lumens) and has the same wired and wireless network capability. The 826W fits right in the middle of those two and has very similar performance.

The 826W’s lightweight (7 lbs.) and size enhances portability. It also comes with a travel bag that holds the projector, remote and any accessory cables for easy transport.

Epson Powerlite 826W Projector Highlights

Lightweight – 7.0 lbs.
High Brightness – 2500 lumens
Plug 'n Play — USB connection projects video and plays audio from a PC
Wired or wireless (optional) network projection capability
Built-in 10W speaker for usable sound in classrooms
E-TORL lamp provides up to 6000 hours lamp life
USB drive projection capability – JPEG slideshows (including those converted from Powerpoint) can be done without a computer from a USB thumb drive
Rapid Power up and nearly instant shut off

Epson Powerlite 826W Special Features

EasyMP – Short for Epson Administrative System for Meeting and Presentation, EasyMP allows for flexibility in presentations with such features as follows:

Slideshow (which allows you present a series of JPEGs stored on a USB storage device)
Multi-Screen Display (which allows connection to up to 4 projectors for a wide spreadsheet or flowchart).
Presentation Mode (which allows for display of PowerPoint or Keynote slide shows)
Distribution Function (which allows for display from a remote computer to up to 4 projectors on the network)
Switching Function (which allows for other computers on the network to take turns projecting their own images)

Email Notification - When using the networking ability of the 826W, either wired or wireless, it can be set to notify the owner of the projector status, reminders or any problems via email.