If the projector comes with a Movie Rec. 709 mode and it’s under $1,000, it’s worth considering. That’s why the Viewsonic PRO7827HD has received iReviews’ nod for one of the best projectors currently on the market in 2017. With stellar black levels, an impressive contrast ratio, and best-in-class connectivity, the Viewsonic DLP is a projector you can actually afford at just under $800. With that being said, if you’re a serious gamer or an avid movie buff, you may have an issue with its sub-par video processing time.
Read full review
Intelligent Design Features
First, let’s talk about the good stuff and there’s plenty to go around. The 3D compatible Viewsonic projects an impressive 1080p resolution and since it’s a short throw, you can display larger images in smaller spaces – making this a highly portable device. Capable of 2,200 lumens and a manual zoom of 1.3x, this projector is not just relegated to dark rooms – it actually has a pretty clear picture in daylight.
Owners have the benefits of a vertical lens shift feature – allowing you to position the projector higher or lower relative to the screen. Armed with a lamp (on normal mode) that can last 3,500 hours of use, you get some pretty good viewing miles out of the bulb before replacing, which as we all know can be a costly endeavor. The lightbulb’s lifespan can be extended with dimming modes – making this an even more affordable projector.
The Viewsonic Technology
From its vertical lens feature to its 120″ throw distance to the 3D capability, the Viewsonic 7827 comes with a full arsenal of bells and whistles. Without needing to use the Keystone control – notorious for compromising image quality – you can set up a high-quality image in minutes with a black level that is second to none at this price range.
As mentioned previously, Viewsonic’s default Move Rec. 709 setting puts the projector in an elite category that ensures enhanced color quality. Even though the BenQ 3050 has a more consistent color balance, the Viewsonic makes up for it with its darker depths and still impressive contrast. Most reviewers put the Viewsonic’s dark scales way ahead of both the Epson 2045 and the Optoma HD142X – making your next Blu-Ray showing of Star Wars all the more engaging.
Connectivity
Equipped with three HDMI ports, one USB, two AV inputs, MHL, and an Analog RGB PC input, the Viewsonic is ready to hook up with any entertainment device. One of the coolest features: Viewsonic comes with a hidden port behind a hatch on the top – designed specifically for “discretely streaming multimedia content from an optimal wireless dongle.” This is perfect for the streaming TV lovers that need both an HDMI connection and a USB port. Whether you have a Roku Streaming Stick, an Amazon Fire Stick, AppleTV, or ChromeCast, you can neatly tuck the device in a hidden slot for easy access from a mounted Viewsonic.
Performance Issues
The knock on the Viewsonic PRO7827 is its sub-par video processing speeds. From a bit of choppiness during on-screen pans in films viewed in 1080p/24 to its 50ms gaming lag time, this may not be the projector for the serious gamer or the extreme movie buff. With the average input lag for projectors hovering around 33/34ms, the Viewsonic’s performance is a bit disappointing.
Final Thoughts
For a projector that uses DLP instead of LCD technology, the Viewsonic stands above the competition, especially in the under $1,000 category. With its best-in-class connectivity and its default Movie Rec. 709 setting, you have an impressive short-throw home theater projector that plays nice with Blu-Ray, streaming devices, and surround sound speakers.