Although most 4K projectors on the market are very expensive, some similarly good ones cost less than $2000, and the BenQ TK800M is the best in that category.
Nothing but an Ultra High Definition 4K projector’s clarity, sharpness, and color vibrancy will leave you speechless for the ultimate home cinematic experience. Sadly, the cost of these high-resolution projectors can be high.
An essential feature of a 4K projector is image clarity. There is no justification for buying a home projector without amazing visuals on the screen. Input latency is an issue for gamers, and certain models are created with this in mind. Furthermore, it would help if you had a projector that is simple to set up. While you might be viewing a movie on a large screen, you don’t want to waste time attempting to align visuals.
The BenQ TK800M will provide you with a stunning and true 4K resolution at a fairly moderate cost. This projector is of high quality and performs at a high level. Its picture quality and color accuracy are amazing. This projector will fit perfectly well in your home theatre set-up. It also offers an impressively low input lag to give gamers an immersive experience. The TK800M has other amazing features that made it out on top of the list I have compiled.
I’ve compiled a list of the top best 4K projectors under $2,000 to simplify your selections. Each of these projectors costs less than $2,000 and provides a stunning 4K image.
A Quick Preview of the Best 4K Projectors Under $2000
- BenQ TK800M 4K UHD Projector (Best Overall)
- BenQ HT3550i 4K Home Theater Projector
- Optoma UHD51A Smart Home Theater Projector (Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant Compatible)
- BenQ TK700STi 4K HDR Short Throw Gaming Projector
- Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K 3-Chip HDR Projector
- Optoma UHD38 True 4K UHD Gaming Projector
- LG HU70LA 4k Home Theater Projector with Built-In Alexa
- BenQ TK850i 3D True 4K HDR-PRO Smart Home Entertainment Projector powered by Android TV
- ViewSonic X10-4KE 4K UHD Projector
Best 4K Projectors Under $2000 Reviewed
1). Best Overall: BenQ TK800M 4K UHD Projector
The best 4K projector under $2,000 is the BenQ TK800M 4K. It boasts top-tier performance that provides unique features. The model is renowned for its ability to distinguish between ranges, enhance pictures, have minimum input lag, and pull out every aspect of 4K video footage.
It has a cornerstone revision extending modified images for almost any screen size. The sensation of using Football Picture Mode is surprising and overpowering. One distinctive characteristic that sets this projector apart from the competition is the football sound mode. The gadget is boosted by content in HDR10 and HLG.
It combines Full HD 1080p and 4K UHD, reduces pixel obscurity, and produces stunning close-ups and wide-angle images of the tiny details. Moreover, the TK800M employs progressive 0.47′′ single-DMD DLP innovation to reduce the projector’s overall size for everyday usage.
The TK800M offers superior value for the money when compared to other projectors in this category. The TK850 is more costly but offers improvements in color reproduction, and zoom settings and has a 98% color Rec rating. 95%.
Watching sports and movies is simple, and gamers may take advantage of an improved gaming mode. The BenQ TK800M 4K UHD’s ability to flawlessly balance all variations of vivid or unusual colors is another important advantage. By providing you with the greatest seats in the house, the TK800M also increases the thrill of watching sports, playing games, and watching your favorite 4K shows.
Key Features
Display technology: DLP
Lamp brightness: 3000 lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It provides a true 4K resolution.
- This projector’s weight is very light.
- It has dedicated modes for indoor and outdoor usage.
Cons:
- The lamp brightness is overloaded.
2). BenQ HT3550i 4K Home Theater Projector
The BenQ HT3550i’s visual quality is outstanding at this affordable price. Its excellent natural contrast and 6-segment color wheel with HDR-PRO tone mapping provide its real 4K resolution.
All of this results in a clear, detailed image with a rich, true-to-source, cinematic color. Moreover, the BenQ HT3550i is a smart projector. With the help of the Google Play store’s built-in Android interface, you can access more than 5,000 apps for viewing movies, playing games, and listening to music.
Also, it supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa speech control systems, but just for voice searches because they lack the playback controls required for complete smart home integration. Another feature I adore about the BenQ HT3550 is how simple it is to set up and operate. The colors are calibrated by the manufacturer, so you don’t have to waste time messing with settings before using them.
Also Read:
Best short throw projectors under $1000
For a 100″ screen, you’ll need roughly 8 to 9 feet of space, which is less than many standard-throw projectors require. The addition of adjustment options like lens shift and keystone correction provides you with even more installation freedom.
Key Features
Contrast ratio: 30,000:1
Lamp brightness: 2000 ANSI lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It produces a real 4K quality image that is sharp and detailed.
- 95 percent of the DCI-P3 color space is used for a film.
- Direct streaming via an Android TV system built-in.
- It supports AirPlay and Chromecast screen mirroring.
- It supports 3D.
- It comes with a 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- It has poor bulb brightness compared to others.
- It has restricted voice control instructions.
3). Optoma UHD51A Smart Home Theater Projector
The Optoma UHD51A is a powerful projector for the money. It is one of the more expensive choices on the list, but this guarantees its performance and quality.
The Optoma UHD51A has a native 4K resolution and a brightness of 2400 ANSI Lumens. As this projector isn’t the brightest, I advise using it in rooms with low lighting or a conventional home theatre setup. The Optoma UHD51ALV, the updated version of the UHD51A, is substantially more expensive but has a brightness rating of 3000 ANSI Lumen. Even if there is a significant difference, you won’t see it if you place the projector in a room with low lighting.
The UHD51A is, therefore, my preferred option out of the two, given its value and what it provides at a significant price reduction. The UHD51A makes up for its lack of brightness with extraordinarily vivid colors that are true to life thanks to a contrast ratio of 500,000:1 and Dynamic Black technology, which further increases color depth.
It does this by modulating lamp output such that dark scenes are detailed without sacrificing light and shade details, and brilliant settings remain crystal clear.
The Optoma UHD51A’s interoperability with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa is a major selling point. This makes it possible for you to command your projector just by speaking. It’s incredible that the voice control allows you to adjust volume, switch inputs, or change viewing modes because projectors require time to turn on and operate.
The UHD51A also boasts a 15,000-hour bulb life and supports HDR, vertical keystone, and vertical lens shift. The Optoma UHD51A checks all the boxes with what it has to offer. Even if the brightness may be better, with the proper settings, it is irrelevant. The UHD51A is an appropriate option if you’re looking for quality and clever features.
Key Features
Lamp brightness: 2400 ANSI Lumens
Contrast Ratio: 500,000:1
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It has an outstanding contrast ratio.
- It utilizes Black Dynamic Technology.
- It supports Alexa.
- It has extensive voice commands.
Cons:
- Low rating for brightness.
4). BenQ TK700STi 4K HDR Short Throw Gaming Projector
The best 4K projector available for gaming is the BenQ TK700STi. One thing that stands out is its responsiveness, with a full HD input latency as low as 4.2ms. While playing in 4K only increases to roughly 16–17 ms, which is still a lot of time to maintain your competitive edge.
The BenQ TK700STi’s Game Mode settings are also fantastic for gamers. The contrast and color are optimized for first-person shooters, role-playing, and sports games, so you can see every detail, even in the shadowy corners of the playing field. When you watch television shows and movies, the image quality is just as good, with clear details and true colors that span 96% of the Rec.709 spectrum.
The BenQ TK700STi’s simple setup is one of its key strengths. It only needs roughly 6-7 feet to make a 100″ screen, so it is effective in small settings. Also, it has good positioning flexibility because of the corner fit correction and 2D keystone correction, which maintain the squareness of the image even when the projector is angled.
Key Features
Lamp brightness: 3000 ANSI Lumens
Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It produces an original 4K resolution.
- Suitable lamp for viewing even in daylight or outdoors.
- It has a low input latency for gaming.
- It is a great short throw projector.
- It supports AirPlay and Chromecast.
- Google voice search is integrated into the Android streaming interface.
Cons:
- It has restricted smart home connectivity and voice control capabilities.
- The lamp’s life span is very short compared to other competing projectors.
5). Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K 3-Chip HDR Projector
Are you searching for the finest 4K projector for rooms with a lot of ambient light? If so, Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K is the best option available. It’s simple to set up and operate. Full HD 1080p performance provides the user with the greatest possible experience.
The 4010 is still an ideal projector overall despite the Epson Home’s use of pixel-shifting technology. The 4010 has a large 2.1x powered zoom, Lens Memory & Frame Interpolation capabilities, a 200,000:1 contrast ratio, and 3000 lumens brightness. This is a significantly superior device for those seeking the easiest setup process.
The visuals are at their finest with 2400 lumens of color brightness, making it the best option for rooms with more light. It comes with in-built speakers that have good sound quality.
Let’s now discuss the project’s construction materials. High-quality materials were used to make it. Despite the intimidating installation process, this Epson Cinema projector under $2,000 is still a better entertainment option than an Android TV or voice-activated television!
The gadget is highly effective and is a good investment. I may also claim that it is the best 4K projector under $2,000 made by Epson. Also, the firm offers a two-year guarantee, a 90-day lamp warranty, and a one-year 3D lens warranty. The Projector also provides a straightforward user interface with a naturally composed set of functionality.
Key Features
Contrast ratio: 200,000:1
Lamp brightness: 3000 lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It has the ability to show true 4K images.
- Excellent in a light environment.
- This projector supports 3D materials.
- It is lightweight.
Cons:
- It cannot be used as a portable device.
6). Optoma UHD38 True 4K UHD Gaming Projector
The Optoma UHD38 is a great option for bright areas because its light can produce up to 4,000 lumens. It can even handle a small amount of natural light, so your room may no longer require blackout curtains. This makes it a wonderful option for outdoor activities like watching movies in the backyard and other similar activities, especially considering how little and lightweight it is.
With two HDMI inputs and a VGA connection for PC gamers, it is equally suited to home theatres and gaming thanks to its minimal input latency. It also has the connectivity to accommodate multi-use entertainment setups.
Remember that there is no built-in voice control or streaming interface, so you must utilize a wired connection to access content sources or manage your network. With the Optoma UHD38, you’ll need a space that is at least 11 to 12 feet wide (for a screen that is 100 inches).
Although it has 2D keystone correction, the alignment features are also somewhat restricted, and there is no lens shift or rotation adjustment. Although the basic installation procedure is simple, installing it in particular areas might be challenging.
Key Features
Display technology: DLP
Lamp brightness: 4000 lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- True 4K resolution.
- It has low latency for online gaming.
- It comes with a super-bright bulb that is functional in every lighting situation.
- It offers a decent selection of wired inputs.
Cons:
- It has no voice control or streaming.
- It has fewer possibilities for image alignment and adjusting.
7). LG HU70LA 4k Home Theater Projector with Built-In Alexa
The LG HU70LA Home Theater Projector is the next projector on my list of the top 4K projectors that costs less than $2000. Via its enormous 140-inch display, a 4K UHD resolution is clearly visible. Your productivity is increased with the built-in Alexa because it is so convenient and fast.
The availability of WebOS is a fantastic feature that is not present in many other devices. Hence, you won’t have to worry about input latency or connectivity difficulties when streaming your favorite media. Also, the zoom and mirroring options raise the bar for simplicity and convenience, superior to any integrated Android TV.
One of its primary rivals, the Anker Nebula Cosmos Max, is a little less expensive yet supports 4K resolution. The HU70LA, on the other hand, offers a significantly greater contrast ratio, resulting in well-saturated pictures and movies with vibrant, rich colors. The LG HU70LA is included on my list since there is a significant improvement in image quality.
Tone mapping and HDR10 technologies work together to provide a stunning display. Similar to this, the TruMotion technology smoothes and produces life-like video frames.
Key Features
Display technology: DLP
Lamp brightness: 1500 ANSI lumens
Contrast ratio: 150,000:1
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It utilizes HDR10 technology.
Cons:
- The zooming feature is not very flexible.
8). BenQ TK850i 3D True 4K HDR-PRO Smart Home Entertainment Projector powered by Android TV
Users of the BenQ TK850i may stream music and films straight through the projector or mirror content from another device using Chromecast or AirPlay, thanks to the same Android TV interface as the TK3550i described above.
It also supports voice searches with Amazon and Google Assistant. Still, with the same restrictions—it lacks the playback controls that users of smart homes need. Both dedicated home theatres and more adjustable settings like living rooms are excellent candidates for the BenQ TK850i.
It’s especially excellent for watching sports because it has specialized viewing modes that optimize the visual settings for indoor or outdoor sports and outstanding detail even for fast-paced activities like hockey.
The Improved HDR Tone Mapping makes up for the projector’s smaller color range compared to the other projectors on the list. I was pleased with how accurate and colorful the image was.
The BenQ TK850i may be installed in a variety of ways. Its Dynamic Iris technology and 3,000-lumen bulb work together to maximize output while minimizing the effect of ambient light on the image. It is quite simple to install in virtually any location, thanks to the 10% vertical lens shift and vertical keystone correction.
Key Features
Display technology: DLP
Lamp brightness: 3000 lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It has a dedicated sports mode that enhances the image quality.
- It has an Android TV interface.
- It is compatible with AirPlay and Chromecast.
Cons:
- Only searches may be done with voice control.
- Not the best option for gaming.
9). ViewSonic X10-4KE 4K UHD Projector
Undoubtedly, the ViewSonic X10-4KE is one of the top 4K projectors under $2000. No projector can match the superb daytime viewing experience of the immersive 4K resolution. The screen size has just undergone an improvement from the ViewSonic X10-4K, the previous model. The previous model had a 120′′ maximum, which some users might find too little.
For individuals that require the larger 200′′ size, the X10-4KE is the superior bargain. For some, this might not be a major concern. Also, the increased adaptability can be useful if you decide to replace your home theatre projector system.
You may create your own private theatre in your house thanks to the enormous 200-inch screen and 2400 lumens of brightness. Wi-Fi networking and other clever compatibility choices are wonderful features that increase its efficiency.
You can get more flexibility with this project by connecting it to your Google Home or Amazon Alexa voice control. Thanks to the HDMI and USB-C input connectors, you may connect them to your laptops and PCs for gaming and other leisure activities.
It has an upgraded LED system that increases its bulb hours to 30,000. The lamp uses significantly less energy compared to comparable solutions in the same price range. There is nothing less than extraordinary visual quality.
The Rec. 709 color fidelity and HDR content provide unmatched sharpness and vibrancy. It’s perfect for any room because of its compact design. Overall, this projector is of high quality and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Key Features
Lamp brightness: 2400 lumens
Resolution: 4K
Pros:
- It has a fantastic sound system.
Cons:
- Its HDR technology is average.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best 4K Projector Under $2000
Remember that the quality of projectors is comparable to that of televisions. The larger screen is the only discernible difference. Thanks to projectors, you may also benefit from the movie experience at home.
You must be aware of the important key elements if you want to buy the best 4K projector for under $2000. Finding the finest projector within your budget is difficult because 4K projectors are unquestionably more expensive. Don’t worry; this section will assist you with some of the important things to consider while making a purchase.
Flexible installation options
Projectors require a little more preparation and room than Televisions. The best projectors have features to help make image alignment simpler for first-time projector users. Vertical keystone correction is required if you want to mount the projector on the ceiling. The majority of projectors at least have manual focus and zoom adjustments.
The BenQ TK700STi projector has features like lens shift and Corner Fit Correction that allow for additional installation locations without sacrificing image quality. The throw distance of a projector also matters in this situation. This is a measurement of the distance required to obtain a specific picture size between the lens and the screen.
Gameplay Acceptability
Input latency and frame refresh rate are the two key specifications for a gamer. How long commands take to reach the projector’s screen depends on the input lag. The gamer will be aware of anything longer than roughly 60ms. Any fast-paced game might find it really frustrating. Input latency should be 30ms or less for serious gamers.
You want something that operates at 60Hz or greater, with a minimum of 60fps, when it comes to frame refresh rate. The player may find choppiness or compression artifacts on the screen as bothersome as severe latency. Thus this will prevent them from appearing. Furthermore useful is a high contrast ratio, which gives you the best clarity in the darkest portions of the screen.
Lumens and Ambient Lighting
The projector’s brightness is measured in lumens. You must decide whether you will utilize the projector in low light (below 2000 lumens) or brighter light. The lumen range for projectors is typically between 1500 and 6000. Overall, the top 4K projectors under $2000 offer good brightness, such as 2000 to 3000 lumens.
Also, the projectors on my list have sufficient native resolution and digital video processing to provide outstanding images regardless of lighting conditions. The finest projector, however, will always perform at its peak in a dimly lit space.
Connectivity
While looking for a new projector, it is crucial to have a variety of connections available because most people today use laptops or other devices as their main source of entertainment. While some models come with Wi-Fi built-in, others need an HDMI connection or adaptor to function correctly. Verify that the model you select has the required connection requirements.
Resolution
Image resolution is affected by the picture quality, pixel shifting, and lens shifting in both horizontal and vertical orientations. You must also examine for color, brightness, sharpness, or other specifics for image quality.
Moreover, look for specific details regarding the display technology, mobility, lens shift, zoom capability, and resolution. Vertical lens shift, little input latency, and a relatively large throw distance are all characteristics of an excellent projector under 2000.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio is crucial in determining the display quality. An image that is more detailed and realistically colored can be delivered by projectors with a greater contrast ratio. A projector with a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 can provide a sharper or more detailed image than one with a contrast ratio of 50,000:1.
Lamp life
All projectors will have lamps, except a laser projector that is best for outdoor shows. There will be a lifespan restriction for each light. The light life on some of the best 4k projectors ranges from 2000 to 20,000 hours.
Remember that the new light will have a brighter image and improved contrast on projector displays. As time passes, it will become less dazzling.
The lights in my list of projectors have a very extended lifespan. The most recent advancement in light-source technology, lasers, is also the most expensive. Some of the versions under $2,000 do, however, have lasers!
Sound
Sound quality is the next consideration. It is also known as having built-in speakers. The feature, though, is not crucial for office use. For amusement at home, it is essential. The best projector under $2000 has an integrated high-quality sound system, so no extra speakers are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Buy a 4K Projector?
No. You may spend less than $2000 for a 1080p projector if you want. A higher resolution model can have certain advantages, such as exhibiting greater clarity and information in your image. A 1080p projector will also make some scenes appear less impressive.
One of the persons in a scenario with two people standing side by side may look a little fuzzy or indistinct. This is due to the fact that they were taken at various times. Due to variations in the illumination during filming, each frame has a distinct amount of detail.
Why Should I Buy a 4K Projector?
There are several benefits to using a high-quality projector versus other technologies. One benefit is that you can use them in dim circumstances and yet generate crystal-clear images that will astound anyone who has never seen them before. In addition, projectors maintain a great quality and vibrant colors while offering an image size larger than practically any TV in the same price range.
Does 4K Have Better Picture Quality Than 1080p?
Because of its improved contrast ratios and increased light output with such high resolution, 4K image quality is superior to 1080p. In fact, a 4K projector can turn your living room into a home theatre.
What Maintenance Do 4K Projectors Require?
Contemporary 4K projectors don’t need to be serviced frequently. The only upkeep needed is the periodic wiping of the outer lens with the right cloth and replacing the lamp after it has reached the end of its useful life.
What is the 4K Aspect Ratio?
The aspect ratio of 4K is 4092 x 2160 pixels, making it much broader than 1080p. The proportionality between a display’s width and height is called its aspect ratio. A 21:16 screen would better suit full-length films and other cinematic material. In contrast, a 16:09 screen would have an aspect ratio similar to HDTVs.
Final Thoughts
You should know that getting an affordable projector with a true 4K resolution is possible. Many cheap projectors advertise 4K; however, these projectors just downscale any 4K input they receive. You may have to spend more if you want a projector that can produce a true 4K image. Spending a little over $1000 will guarantee a quality 4K projector.
The BenQ TK800M is a top choice for a 4K projector that costs less than $2000. Many of the projectors on the list are excellent for gaming. I would recommend the BenQ TK700STi. This projector has a low input lag of 4.2ms when used in 1080p. Even if you use the 4K resolution, you still get a good input latency of 16ms. These are the best 4K projectors under $2000 on the market.
Whatever you intend to use the projector for, there is something for you. All of the projectors in this list cost less than $2000. If you are not satisfied with any of the projectors on my list, check out the buying guide to know what to look out for to get something to suit your needs.
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