One aspect you look for in a home theater projector is picture quality. You want your shows and movies to look as crisp and clear as they do in the cinema. Gamers also want their games to appear larger-than-life. A lot of home projectors promise immersive image quality, but not all deliver. However, two models might make videophiles happy.
The BenQ HT2050A and the Epson 2150 both produce amazing full-HD images and were designed with gamers in mind. Without taking a closer look at the projector’s specifications you might think they’re similar, but there are noticeable differences. The Epson 2150 produces a more dynamic picture and wirelessly streams content. >>> Check the current price
BenQ HT2050A vs Epson 2150
| BenQ HT2050A | Epson 2150 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 |
| Contrast Ratio | 15,000:1 | 60,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 2,200 ANSI | 2,500 ANSI |
| Throw Distance | 4.4' - 25.1' | 4.7' - 29.0' |
| Screen size | 40" - 300" | 30" - 300" |
| Input lag | 16ms | 28ms |
| Internal Speakers | 10.0 Watts Mono | 10.0 Watts Mono |
| Price | Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon |
Due to these and other differences, it helps to compare the two projectors side-by-side so you’re positive you’re choosing the right one.
Image Quality
You get full-HD resolution with both models so you can enjoy cinematic-quality images at home. The BenQ projector uses a color-wheel to produce accurate colors, while the Epson model comes with 3LCD chips. 10-bit processing eliminates color-fading with both projectors, however, the 2150 model by Epson does come out ahead.
While image brightness is close, the HT2020A has a 2,200 lumens rating compared to 2,500 lumens with the Epson 2150. It’s the contrast ratio that puts the Epson 2150 in front. You will see crisp details with the 15,00:1 ratio on the BenQ model. With the Epson projector, the 60,000:1 contrast ratio does make a difference.
Better Image Quality: Epson 2150
Gaming Quality
Gamers will enjoy the cinematic quality picture as much as movie buffs. The bright projector lamp on both models, also ensures that dimly-lit levels will still be crisp and clear. You also won’t complain about lag times. The 2150 projector boasts 28ms input lag, but the HT2050A has a shorter one at 16ms.
The BenQ HT2050A also comes with a gaming mode function. It doesn’t interfere with image quality, and images are smooth from frame-to-frame. Whether you’re playing a fast-paced game or a quest-type one, you can play for hours without experiencing any problems with input lag or picture clarity.
Better Gaming Quality: BenQ HT2050A
Ease of Installation and Set-Up
Even though you won’t have any problems installing the projectors and aligning the on-screen images, some differences can make comparing the two models difficult. The BenQ model is a short-throw projector, while the Epson requires a little more distance to produce a 100” image. Both projectors weigh slightly over 7lbs and come with a flexible installation.
Manual zoom and focus are standard on both projectors, along with digital lens shift. The Epson 2150 does come with horizontal and vertical keystone correction, like the HT2050A for a little more flexibility with installation and image alignment. However, the Epson 2150 allows you to stream content wirelessly for an unbelievably easy setup.
Easier installation: Epson 2150
BenQ HT2050A
The HT2050A from BenQ was designed for movie and game lovers. It produces bright, clear images with authentic colors. You’ll feel like you’re watching movies in the theater. The 2,200 lumens lamp minimizes image fading due to ambient light, and the 6-segmented wheel ensures rich, vivid colors.
Not only will gamers appreciate the bold, bright images, but also the fast lag time. When the projector is placed in gaming mode, input lag drops to 16ms. Even avid gamers will enjoy playing fast-paced action sequence games with the HT2050A.
Even though it is categorized as a short-throw projector, you still need around 8-feet to produce 100” images. It does work great in smaller spaces, but won’t always work in cramped dorm rooms. Though it’s affordable price may make you settle for a slightly smaller on-screen image.
It’s also simple to align on-screen images. Along with digital horizontal and vertical keystone correction, you also have manual options. The lens can be shifted +/- 10% for perfect alignment and a flexible installation.
Pros
- Easy and flexible installation
- Immersive full-HD images
- Low input lag in gaming mode
- Accurate, bright colors
- Built-in speakers for impressive sound quality
Cons
- Even though it is referred to as s short-throw projector, it’s not designed for use in cramped spaces if you want to cast 100” images.
Epson 2150
If you want a projector that is easy to install and operate, the Epson 2150 does this and more. The projector allows for wireless streaming, making installation, and set up a breeze. Along with wireless streaming capabilities, the projector comes with Miracast. You also have plenty of inputs so you can also connect all of your devices.
The 2,500 lumens projector lamp ensures images are still bright when the lights are on. 10-bit color processing, combine with 3LCD chips ensures that colors are vibrant and accurate. The full-HD resolution makes images crisp and detailed. Blacks are rich and whites crisp with a 60,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio.
Gamers won’t mind the 28ms input lag, though you might notice a slow-down in action or fast-paced games. Epson also included a built-in 10-watt speaker. It manages treble and bass better than small TV speakers, but if you want surround sound you’ll need to connect external speakers. The built-in speaker, however, does make set up a little easier.
Pros
- Impressive dynamic contrast for deep blacks and bright whites
- Easy and flexible installation
- Adequate lag time
- Built-in speaker
- Stream movies, games, TV, and shows
Cons
- The projector does have a loud fan that can interfere with the audio.
Conclusion
Gamers might prefer the BenQ HT2050A due to it’s more than adequate input lag. It is also a short-throw projector that produces cinematic quality images, making it ideal for smaller rooms The Epson 2150 does have a slower input lag, but it also comes out on top with other aspects.
You do get better image quality with the Epson projector. It’s also easier to set up, thanks to its wireless streaming ability. When it comes to choosing between the two projectors, the Epson 2150 is often considered the better choice. >>> Check current price on Amazon