For the budget-friendly consumer wanting all of the bells and whistles that come with DLP projector technology without compromising the 1080p image quality, look no further than the Optoma HD142X. Priced right around $550, this impressive HD projector competes with its more expensive BenQ HT3050 and Viewsonic PRO7827HD competitors with only a few subtle differences when it comes to image brightness, color balancing, and contrast.
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Intelligent Design
Considered to be “the best value among the 1080 projectors,” the Optoma HD142X is not a short-throw but instead, fills a 120-inch diagonal screen with its oversized picture. The large 1080p image conforms to Rec. 709 color quality and with its 3,000 lumens, is bright enough for both the daytime as well as dark room viewing.
Designed to be highly portable, the 11.7 x 9 x 3.8 inch (WHD) projector is the smallest of the 1080p DLP’s weighing only 5.5 lbs – making this incredible versatile unit easy to bring over to the neighbors for the big game or movie night. If space is a concern, however, the HD142X projects an oversized image that may not be suitable for small rooms. It’ll be like sitting in the front row of a movie theater or watching the football game actually on the 50-yard line.
The Optoma Technology & Connectivity
With the option of watching in 3D, the Optoma projector uses DLP Link to transform your on-screen world into an immersive experience. All you need is just a set of 3D glasses and a copy of Jaws on Blu-Ray. Equipped with 2 HDMI inputs, MHL, and a mouse-only USB port, the HD142X relies heavily on HDMI connectivity. Ideal for live sports, TV shows and movies on the big screen, the Optoma allows for easy connection with laptops, PC’s, Blu-ray players, media streamers and gaming consoles.
With a 33/34ms input lag, the HD142X is right on par with the video processing performance of projectors in low-to-mid thousand dollar range. The combination of Rec. 709 colors, two built-in speakers, and an impressive lag time makes the HD142X one of the best bargains for gaming enthusiasts on a budget.
Performance
As for bulb longevity, Optoma claims it can get 8,000 hours out of its lamp using different modes (5,000 hours if for the brightest mode). Compared to other projectors, the BenQ and the Viewsonic has a more expensive bulb and both don’t have the same lasting power – so you’re getting a pretty great deal when it’s time to finally replace Optoma’s bulb at $170.
When it comes to picture quality, which is arguably the most important feature when it comes to DLP units, the Optoma looks incredible on large screens. From sharp edges to zero concerns around visible pixels (the screen door effect), the HD142X has a ton of upside, especially compared to other 1080 DLP units. With Viewsonic having a slight advantage over color brightness and the BenQ 3050 projecting a deeper shade of black, the difference in picture quality is hardly noticeable and by no means a deal breaker.
Bottom Line
The Optoma HD142X DLP is a perfect projector for the budget conscious consumer looking for 1080p HD picture quality.