By: CE Critic
Introduction
BenQ has launched the GV50, a smart laser projector designed to revolutionize how you experience movies, TV shows, and games. With its unique ceiling projection capability, compact design, and powerful features, the GV50 offers a truly immersive entertainment experience from the comfort of your bed.
Design and Flexibility
The GV50's distinctive tear-drop shape sets it apart from traditional projectors. It allows for 135-degree vertical and 360-degree horizontal lens rotation, enabling seamless transitions between wall and ceiling projection. This flexibility empowers users to customize their viewing experience based on their preferences and spatial constraints.
Measuring just 130 x 211.2 x 191.4mm (5.12 x 8.31 x 7.54 inches) and weighing 2.1kg (4.6lbs), the GV50 is compact and portable. It fits effortlessly on a bedside table or can be easily moved around for different setups. The two-stage tilt feature further enhances its adaptability, ensuring optimal image alignment regardless of your viewing position.
Visual Performance
The GV50 boasts a laser-based lighting system that delivers 500 ANSI lumens of brightness. This is sufficient for projecting a large, 120-inch image in a dimly lit room, creating a captivating cinematic experience. The laser light source also boasts a 30,000-hour lifespan, eliminating the need for frequent bulb replacements commonly associated with traditional lamp-based projectors.
With Full HD (1080p) resolution, the GV50 ensures sharp and detailed visuals, even at larger projection sizes. Support for HDR10 and HLG formats further enhances the dynamic range and color accuracy, bringing content to life with stunning realism. BenQ's CinematicColor technology contributes to a vibrant and lifelike image by achieving 92% of the Rec. 709 color gamut.
Audio and Smart Features
The GV50 integrates an 18W 2.1-channel audio system featuring two 4W drivers and a 10W subwoofer, all Dolby Audio-compatible. This setup delivers immersive sound quality, further enhancing the viewing experience. The innovative "Ceiling Cinema Sound Mode" optimizes audio delivery for ceiling projection, ensuring clear and unobstructed sound even when lying down.
Running on Google TV OS, the GV50 provides access to a vast library of streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video. Google Assistant voice control and Google Cast support offer additional convenience for seamless content streaming from various devices.
Gaming and Portability
Gamers will appreciate the GV50's relatively low input lag of 22.4ms, suitable for casual gaming sessions. Its 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for competitive gaming, but it's more than sufficient for enjoying most games on a big screen.
A built-in battery provides up to 150 minutes of video playback or 280 minutes of Bluetooth music streaming, making the GV50 a portable entertainment hub. It's perfect for outdoor movie nights or situations where a power outlet is unavailable. Additionally, the USB-C port with DisplayPort Output support can charge devices like the Nintendo Switch, further enhancing its versatility.
Pricing and Availability
The BenQ GV50 is currently available in the United States for $599 through Amazon and BenQ's official website. A UK release is planned soon, with pricing yet to be announced.
Conclusion
The BenQ GV50 redefines home entertainment with its innovative ceiling projection capability, compact design, and impressive features. Whether you're enjoying movies, TV shows, games, or music, the GV50 offers a truly immersive and personalized experience from the comfort of your bed. It's a testament to BenQ's commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual display technology, making big-screen entertainment accessible and enjoyable in any space. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score.
BenQ GV50 Key Specifications
- Projection System: DLP
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Brightness: 500 ANSI Lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 100,000:1
- Light Source: Laser (30,000 hours lifespan)
- Throw Ratio: 1.21
- Projection Size: 40 to 120 inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- HDR Support: HDR10, HLG
- Color Gamut: 92% Rec. 709
- Audio: 18W 2.1-channel (Dolby Audio)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB-C (DP Alt Mode)
- Smart Features: Google TV, Google Assistant, Google Cast
- Dimensions: 130 x 211.2 x 191.4mm (5.12 x 8.31 x 7.54 inches)
- Weight: 2.1kg (4.6lbs)
- Battery Life: Up to 150 minutes (video), 280 minutes (audio)
- Price: $599 (US)
- Availability: Now (US), Soon (UK)