Projector-based gaming has always held a unique appeal. You gain the immersive experience of a massive display that dwarfs even the largest TVs. However, traditional projectors come with their frustrations – complicated setups, bulky size, and the need for significant space to generate that giant image. The BenQ X300G sets out to tackle these issues head-on while keeping the focus squarely on fast-paced, vibrant gaming.
The X300G breaks away from the traditional projector mold. It’s surprisingly compact and lightweight for a projector promising a 100-inch 4K image. The sleek, minimalist design wouldn’t look out of place in a modern living room. This relatively small size is crucial since portability is one of the X300G’s central selling points. Whether you’re moving it between rooms or taking it to a friend’s place, the X300G shouldn’t feel like a chore to transport.
The X300G’s star feature is its short-throw capability. To achieve a massive 100-inch display, you’ll only need to position the projector a little over 7 feet away from the wall or screen. This is a game-changer, especially for smaller rooms and setups where a standard projector simply wouldn’t be practical.
BenQ has clearly aimed for ease of use with the X300G. Features like automatic vertical keystone correction and motorized zoom help you get the perfect image quickly and without needing to delve into complex menus. It won’t replace the flexibility of manual adjustments entirely, but it significantly lowers the barrier to entry for less tech-savvy users.
Let’s address the elephant in the room – at its price point, the X300G won’t match the absolute black levels or pixel-perfect sharpness of a high-end OLED TV. However, it delivers where it counts for gaming. The 4K resolution is crisp, and HDR-PRO support adds an extra layer of visual punch and vibrancy, especially noticeable in games with high-contrast scenes.
The real standout is the X300G’s color reproduction. Wide color gamut coverage ensures games with lush color palettes look their absolute best. The brightness is ample for most rooms, but you’ll still get the best image in a dimly lit environment as with any projector.
Input lag, the delay between a button press and the action on-screen, is a vital concern for gamers. The X300G excels in this area. Its dedicated gaming modes boast an ultra-low input lag of 4.16ms (at 1080p/240Hz), keeping gameplay feeling snappy and responsive. Whether you’re into competitive shooters or timing-sensitive action games, you won’t feel like the projector is holding you back.
The X300G features built-in speakers driven by BenQ’s CinematicSound™ technology. While they won’t replace a dedicated soundbar or surround sound system, they are surprisingly powerful for their size, providing a decent audio experience when a full sound system isn’t available.The inclusion of an Android TV dongle is a welcome bonus. It gives you access to streaming services and other smart functionality right out of the box.
The BenQ X300G isn’t without some compromises, primarily in outright image contrast and black levels. However, if you’re looking for a projector that prioritizes a hassle-free setup, portability, and delivers a fantastic, low-latency gaming experience, it’s a compelling option. The BenQ X300G retails for $1799 and is available now!
