Consumers often feel like they have to choose between gaming and image quality in a 4K projector. You either get impressive lag times or picture quality.
When you are looking for a 4K projector that is just as great for gaming as it is for movies, two models will get your attention. Comparing the BenQ TK700STi vs the Optoma UND38 comes down to what features are important to you. The TK700STi has a low input lag and multiple modes to ensure smooth gameplay . The Optoma UHD38 produces a brighter, more dynamic picture (>>> Check on Amazon).
Still not sure which 4K projector to bring home? Here’s a closer look at each model to help you make the right decision.
BenQ TK700STi vs Optoma UHD38 Specifications:
| BenQ TK700STi | Optoma UHD38 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 3840x2160 | 3840x2160 |
| Contrast Ratio | 10,000:1 | 1,000,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 3,000 ANSI | 4,000 ANSI |
| Input lag | 16ms | 4ms |
| Throw Distance | 2.4' - 19.6' | 4.0' - 32.7' |
| Screen size | 30" - 300" | 33" - 300" |
| Internal Speakers | 5.0 Watts Mono | 10.0 Watts Mono |
| Price | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon ProjectorScreen.com Bhphotovideo.com |
Image Quality
Both are 4K projectors meaning you get over 8 million pixels per frame. The image detail is stunning. It’s like being at the movie theater no matter which projector you use.
The UHD38 produces a brighter picture than the TK700STi. While the 3,000 lumens lamp is more than enough for ambient light, the 4,000 lumens on the UHD38 handles bright sunlight. It also comes out ahead in image quality. You get a more dynamic contrast, and the UHD38 also boasts image enhancing technology.
Best Image Quality: Optoma UHD38
Gaming Performance
You get a 4.2ms input lag and 240Hz refresh rate with both projectors. Everything from first-person shooter to MPRGs will load smoothly frame-by-frame without any blurring or noticeable lag.
The TK700STi gives you a little more. It comes with multiple gaming modes that optimize your playing experience. Presets adjust image quality to match the game. There are options for sports and multiplayer games.
Best Gaming Quality: BenQ TK700STi
Ease of Installation and Set-Up
You need plenty of space to cast 100” images with either 4K projector. These are not short-throw models, but the UHD38 does allow for ceiling mounting, giving you a more flexible installation. Being able to center the projector on the screen helps with image alignment.
Centering the images is easy with either model. Both offer keystone correction and lens zoom. The ±40° correction on the UHD38 may make it easier to set the projector up over the TK700STi.
Most Flexible Installation: Optoma UHD38
BenQ TK700STi
The TK700STi is a 4K projector with a 3,000 lumens lamp and HDR support. You get bright, detailed images in most lighting, but you may need to close the blinds during the day. The contrast ratio is low at 10,000. Blacks may not have the depth some movies lovers look for, but colors are accurate across the Reg.709 spectrum.
When it comes to gaming, it is hard to beat the BenQ projector. Latency speeds are around 16ms for 4K images. Drop the resolution to full HD and input lag is a fast 4ms. Add in the 240Hz refresh rate and modes geared for specific games, and you won’t have an issue with tearing or slow-loading frames.
Installing and operating the projector is a breeze. It boasts a slim design that fits easily on a shelf or table. 2D keystone correction and corner fit technology automatically center images, and manual zoom lets you make any adjustments. The projector is just as easy to use. It comes with a user-friendly Android operating system and is compatible with Airplay and Chromecast for screen sharing.
Pros
- 4K resolution
- Low latency speed
- Flexible installation
- Accurate colors
- Android operating system
Cons
- The contrast ratio may be too low for some movie aficionados
Optoma UHD38
If image quality is a deciding factor, the UHD38 delivers. The 4,000 lumens rating ensures bright light isn’t a problem. A dynamic contrast ratio and HDR plus HLG technology produce accurate, immersive colors, including rich, deep blacks. UltraDetail enhancement sharpens the 4K resolution for more dynamic images.
Gamers will appreciate the low input lag. It is fast enough for online games and gaming consoles. The 240Hz refresh rate keeps frames playing smoothly whether you are watching a movie or playing a game.
Its relatively compact size makes for a flexible installation. You can place it on a table or mounted on the ceiling. Digital keystone correction ±40° and 1.1x zoom make it easy to align onscreen images. It also comes with plenty of connections for your external devices.
The UHD38 is a versatile multi-media projector. It is compatible with 3D content and also comes with 10W internal speakers. The speakers are powerful enough to produce audio matching image quality. Click here for our more in-depth UHD38 review.
Pros
- 4K resolution
- Dynamic contrast ratio
- Bright light source
- 3D support
- Onboard speakers
Cons
- The projector does not come with onboard streaming
Conclusion
Deciding between the Ben TK700STi and the Optoma UHD38 comes down to what you expect from a 4K projector. Gamers will appreciate the different modes on the TK700Sti, and it does have a shorter throw distance. It’s something to consider if you are working with a small space.
The UHD38 is lacking the gaming modes, but it matches the BenQ projector in refresh rate and input lag. You get brighter, more dynamic images, and the built-in speakers are enough to fill mid-size rooms with audio (>>> Find on ProjectorScreen).