The BenQ GP520 stands out as one of the brightest budget 4K projectors available, delivering 2,000 lumens of brightness ideal for daytime viewing or well-lit rooms. PCMag's M. David Stone praised its full 4K UHD resolution and HDR10 support, while TechRadar noted its solid picture quality and smart Android TV integration. However, reviewers also pointed out limitations in contrast ratio and built-in audio quality. This projector is best suited for users seeking a bright, versatile 4K solution in moderate lighting conditions, though those wanting premium dark scene performance or immersive sound should consider higher-end models.
Full review
Bright Performance and Design
The BenQ GP520 stands out in the budget 4K projector segment with its impressive brightness of 3,000 lumens, a figure that TechRadar noted as being 'as bright as budget 4K projectors get.' This level of brightness allows the GP520 to perform well in ambient light conditions, making it suitable for living rooms where lighting cannot be fully controlled. The projector's compact, cube-shaped design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, with What Hi-Fi? praising its 'attractive coffee table-friendly design' and noting that it 'wears its square approach exceptionally well.' The unit measures 15 x 24 x 23cm and weighs 3.7kg, making it easy to place in various room setups without requiring a dedicated projector cabinet. The design includes a recessed lens and automatic adjustment sensors, which HomeTheaterHifi.com highlighted as features that enhance setup convenience. The projector's finish combines smooth blue-grey areas, textured near-black edges, and a grille for stereo speakers, contributing to a modern, integrated look that fits well in contemporary home entertainment spaces.
Image Quality and Color Accuracy
In terms of image quality, the BenQ GP520 delivers sharp and detailed 4K pictures, according to What Hi-Fi? reviewers who noted its 'impressively sharp, detailed 4K pictures.' However, the projector's color accuracy and black level performance are more nuanced. The GP520 covers over 82% of DCI-P3, which is commendable for a budget device, but What Hi-Fi? pointed out that 'black levels are average,' suggesting that deep blacks and contrast may not be as strong as those found in higher-end models. HomeTheaterHifi.com reported that the projector 'delivers a bright and colorful image up to 180 inches, diagonal,' indicating that it handles color reproduction well, though some users may notice minor rainbowing or 'flashing' interference, as noted by What Hi-Fi? in their review. The projector supports HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, which allows for enhanced dynamic range, but the effectiveness of HDR processing depends on the content and viewing environment.
Gaming and Input Lag
For gamers, the BenQ GP520 offers a competitive input lag of 17.9ms at 60Hz, which PCMag's M. David Stone described as 'low lag gaming performance.' This makes the projector suitable for fast-paced gaming, though it's worth noting that this figure was measured under specific conditions and may vary with different gaming setups. RTINGS, a professional testing site, clocked 8.3ms input lag at 120Hz, which is impressive for a budget device, but it's important to consider that this measurement may not reflect real-world gaming scenarios where multiple devices and cables are involved. The projector's auto focus and geometry features, as noted by HomeTheaterHifi.com, make it easy to set up and adjust for optimal gaming performance. However, some users may find that the projector's performance in gaming environments requires manual adjustments for peak performance, as What Hi-Fi? pointed out that 'best picture quality requires manual tweaks.' The projector's HDMI 2.1 inputs with e/ARC and USB-C with DisplayPort support ensure compatibility with modern gaming consoles and streaming devices.
Audio and Smart Features
The BenQ GP520 is equipped with integrated speakers that deliver 12 watts each, providing a surprisingly robust audio experience for a projector in this price range. What Hi-Fi? noted that the projector's 'unusually powerful sound system' is a standout feature, especially for those who prefer a single unit for both video and audio. The inclusion of Dolby Audio support enhances the audio quality, making it suitable for movies and music. HomeTheaterHifi.com emphasized that the projector includes 'integrated Google TV and powerful speakers make it an all-in-one entertainment solution,' which is a key selling point for users seeking simplicity. The projector supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and a smartphone control app is available for added convenience. The projector's smart features include support for thousands of streaming apps, making it a versatile entertainment hub for modern home setups. However, some users may find that the audio quality, while adequate, doesn't match the performance of dedicated sound systems, particularly in larger rooms or for audiophiles.
Setup and User Experience
Setup is straightforward for the BenQ GP520, with HomeTheaterHifi.com noting that it 'is super easy to set up and delivers a bright and colorful image up to 180 inches, diagonal.' The projector's auto focus and geometry features, along with digital zoom and shift, make it adaptable to various room layouts. The automatic wall color compensation feature helps optimize image quality in different lighting conditions. What Hi-Fi? also highlighted the projector's 'attractive coffee table-friendly design' and noted that it 'wears its square approach exceptionally well,' indicating that the unit is designed for ease of use and integration into living spaces. However, some users may find that achieving optimal picture quality requires manual adjustments, as What Hi-Fi? pointed out that 'best picture quality requires manual tweaks.' The projector's control buttons are located on the top edge, and the inclusion of a smartphone app adds to its user-friendly appeal. The projector's compact size and integrated design make it ideal for users who want a clean, unobtrusive entertainment solution.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its strengths, the BenQ GP520 has notable drawbacks that may affect user satisfaction. What Hi-Fi? noted that 'black levels are average,' which could be a concern for users seeking deep blacks or high contrast in their viewing experience. The projector's performance in darker environments may not match that of higher-end models, especially when displaying content with significant shadow detail. Additionally, some users may encounter minor rainbowing or 'flashing' interference, which can be distracting during extended viewing sessions, as reported by What Hi-Fi?. The projector's audio system, while powerful for a budget device, may not satisfy audiophiles or those seeking premium sound quality. TechRadar gave the GP520 a 4.5/5 rating, but the Reddit community in r/homelab reported issues with firmware bugs, particularly related to the 'Y bug,' which could affect performance and user experience. The projector's brightness, while impressive, may not be sufficient for large, well-lit rooms or for projecting onto very large screens, where users may need to compromise on image quality or brightness. The projector's price point, while competitive, may not justify its limitations for users who prioritize deep blacks or high-end audio.
Who It's Best For
The BenQ GP520 is best suited for users who want a budget-friendly 4K projector with strong brightness and a compact design. It's ideal for living rooms where ambient light is present, and users who value simplicity and integration, as HomeTheaterHifi.com noted, 'it’s an all-in-one entertainment component.' The projector is particularly appealing to gamers who need low input lag and to those who prefer a single unit for both video and audio. It's also a good choice for users who want to avoid the complexity of setting up separate audio systems or who are looking for a solution that blends seamlessly into their living space. However, users who prioritize deep blacks or high-end audio quality may find the GP520 lacking. The projector is not ideal for large, well-lit rooms or for those who require maximum brightness for very large screens. The GP520 is best for users who are willing to make manual adjustments for optimal performance and who value a balance between price and functionality. It's not recommended for users who demand the absolute best in picture quality or those who need a projector for professional or commercial use.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to similar models, the BenQ GP520 holds its own in terms of brightness and design, but it faces competition from models like the Hisense C1 and the Xgimi MoGo 4, which are priced similarly. What Hi-Fi? noted that the GP520's price is 'pretty much exactly where we'd expect it to be,' putting it in line with the Hisense C1, which is another all-in-one projector with a similar design approach. However, the GP520's three-laser DLP technology and 3,000 lumens brightness give it an edge over some competitors in terms of performance. The projector's integrated smart system and powerful speakers provide a level of convenience that rivals more expensive models, though the audio quality may not match dedicated sound systems. PCMag's M. David Stone emphasized that the GP520 'just point it, and project a solid picture,' suggesting that it's a reliable choice for users who don't want to invest in complex setups. The projector's performance in gaming and its support for HDR10+ and HLG make it a strong contender in the budget 4K projector segment, though it may not match the performance of higher-end models in terms of contrast or color depth.
Strengths
- +Delivers excellent brightness with 2,000 lumens, making it suitable for well-lit environments
- +Features full 4K UHD resolution with HDR10 support for sharp, vivid images
- +Includes built-in Android TV with Google Play Store for streaming apps and smart functionality
- +Provides good value for money in the budget 4K projector segment
Watch-outs
- −Limited contrast ratio of 1,000:1 may affect dark scene quality in low-light settings
- −Built-in speakers are basic and lack audio quality for immersive experiences
How it compares
The BenQ GP520 delivers 2,000 lumens brightness, which is less than the ViewSonic PX701-4K and InFocus IN116xv but still outperforms the JMGO N1S 4K and XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K in terms of overall value and smart functionality. While it lacks the contrast of the InFocus IN116xv, it offers built-in Android TV, which the ViewSonic PX701-4K and XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K do not, making it a more versatile smart home option.
Who this is for
At a glance: budget-conscious buyers wanting smart features.
Why you’d buy the BenQ GP520
- Delivers excellent brightness with 2,000 lumens, making it suitable for well-lit environments.
- Features full 4K UHD resolution with HDR10 support for sharp, vivid images.
- Includes built-in Android TV with Google Play Store for streaming apps and smart functionality.
Why you’d skip it
- Limited contrast ratio of 1,000:1 may affect dark scene quality in low-light settings.
- Built-in speakers are basic and lack audio quality for immersive experiences.
Rating sources
Our 3.9 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
