BenQ TK700ST Projector Review: Sharp 4K Gaming Verdict
Starting at under 16ms input lag in 4K and plunging as low as 4ms in 1080p at 240Hz, the BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR Short Throw Projector is touted as “world-leading” for responsive gaming. Based on cross-platform user reports, it earns an 8.6/10 for delivering stunning image clarity and versatility across gaming, movies, and even golf simulation setups — though built-in audio and throw distance nuances leave room for improvement.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy for gamers, sports fans, and home theater users in tight spaces.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| True 4K UHD with HDR10 providing crisp, detailed visuals | Built-in 5W speaker underwhelms in larger rooms |
| Ultra-low input lag suited for competitive gaming | Some variance between advertised and actual zoom range (1.2x vs 1.3x) |
| Short throw frees floor space, ideal for smaller rooms | Keystone correction slightly increases input lag |
| Bright 3000 lumen output maintains visibility in ambient light | Slight high-frequency noise from DLP processing |
| Strong Rec.709 color accuracy for lifelike tones | Throw distance may be longer than expected compared to older models |
| HDMI 2.0b with eARC and Dolby Atmos support | No native 3D glasses included (optional purchase) |
Claims vs Reality
One of BenQ’s headline claims is “lowest input lag in the world” for a 4K projector. While the spec sheet confirms 16.7ms at 4K/60Hz and 4.2ms at 1080p/240Hz, a golf simulator builder shared: “I noticed 0 dropped frames or input lag… credited to the projector’s relatively low refresh rate” in a demanding PC setup with GSPro software, reinforcing the claim for practical use.
The company also promotes “big benefits of short throw” projection. Officially, the TK700ST offers a 0.9–1.08 throw ratio, but this can vary in real-world arrangement. The same simulator owner measured that “my previous TH671ST… 10’1” for 150” vs TK700STi needing 12’1” for the same,” suggesting setup may require more space than anticipated.
For audio, BenQ describes its 5W chambered speaker as immersive. Users agree it’s clear in small spaces — “great for my small garage space with minimal background noise” — but also note that larger rooms benefit from external sound via HDMI eARC, highlighting that “Dolby Atmos… levels up the experience” when paired with a dedicated system.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Trustpilot, and BenQ’s own case studies, image quality is lauded. True 4K with HDR10 renders “each fiber of hair and clothing with subtle highlights and rich texture” according to an official description echoed in user impressions. A verified buyer reported colors “were natural with no changes to my graphics card,” and the sport mode setting heightened vibrancy without over-saturating.
Gamers with PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch found the low latency transformative. Reddit users called it “instant immersion” and praised black detail enhancement for spotting enemies in dark scenes without washing out bright areas — crucial for competitive play.
Brightness, rated at 3000 ANSI lumens, consistently satisfied users in mid-to-high ambient light conditions. BenQ’s Rec.709 coverage at 96% ensured consistent color reproduction, with one golf sim user noting sharp greens under partial room lighting.
Common Complaints
The most persistent gripe centers on the built-in speaker. While small-space users found it serviceable, several noted it lacked depth for cinematic audio, describing the sound as “about what you would expect” from internal hardware. Larger setups almost universally resorted to external systems via HDMI eARC.
Another issue emerges around the throw distance. While marketed as ideal for tight spaces, comparisons with older short-throw models (like TH671ST) revealed that the TK700ST often requires slightly more placement distance to achieve the same screen size, which may challenge some space-constrained rooms.
Finally, some users mentioned a faint high-frequency noise linked to DLP’s pixel displacement process. While subtle, sensitive viewers in quiet environments might detect it.
Divisive Features
Keystone correction’s convenience is widely appreciated — eliminating trapezoidal distortion when projecting at an angle — but enabling it does modestly increase input lag. Users chasing the absolute lowest latency turned it off for competitive gaming, whereas casual viewers valued the flexibility.
Zoom range confusion also cropped up. While most sources list 1.2x, certain regional spec sheets suggested 1.3x, leading to mismatched expectations for framing control.
Trust & Reliability
No widespread scam indicators surfaced in Trustpilot patterns. Long-term Reddit accounts shared six-month follow-ups confirming consistent performance, with lamp life tracking close to Eco Mode’s 10,000-hour estimate.
Refurbished models sold via eBay and certified vendors, often with two-year warranties, bolstered buyer confidence. Several sellers emphasized professional cleaning and factory inspection before resale, and buyers confirmed units arrived “pristine” in packaging.
Alternatives
Users most frequently compared the TK700ST to BenQ’s TH671ST — an older 1080p short-throw projector. Upgraders overwhelmingly found 4K HDR worth the jump for sports and gaming realism, though some lamented the longer throw distance as a mild regression for ultra-tight installations.
Golf simulation communities also weighed the TK700STi against higher-end laser models. While lasers offered marginally better brightness and no bulb replacement, the TK700STi’s lower price, HDMI 2.0b compatibility, and included Android TV streaming stick made it more accessible for multipurpose rooms.
Price & Value
eBay listings showed refurbished units as low as $1,079 — nearly 46% off original list prices around $2,000 — making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers. Brand new units hovered between $1,353 and $1,621 depending on bundle options and seller region.
Resale value holds well; lightly used TK700ST models still fetched above $1,100, reflecting enduring demand. Community buying tips favored certified refurb suppliers for maximum warranty coverage without sacrificing performance.
FAQ
Q: Does keystone correction impact gaming performance?
A: Yes, but minimally. BenQ confirms it adds no more than one frame (~4ms) to latency, so most players won’t notice unless aiming for absolute lowest lag.
Q: Can I connect the projector directly to a console?
A: Absolutely. Dual HDMI 2.0b ports handle PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch at optimal resolutions and refresh rates.
Q: How bright is it in daylight?
A: With 3000 ANSI lumens, it can project clearly in moderate ambient light. Users in lit golf sims and living rooms reported vivid images without washout.
Q: Does the TK700ST support Dolby Atmos?
A: Yes, via HDMI eARC, allowing uncompressed Atmos streams to a compatible sound system.
Q: Is it good for both gaming and movies?
A: Yes — multiple picture modes (Game, Cinema, Sport) tailor performance, and users praise its smooth handling of high-motion scenes in 4K streaming.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a gamer, sports fan, or golf sim enthusiast seeking sharp 4K HDR visuals in a moderately lit, space-conscious room. Avoid if you expect cinema-grade sound from built-in speakers in large spaces. Pro tip from community: Pair it with external audio and plan throw distance carefully for your room size.
