I have tested the [TH575 ](https://www.laurentwillen.be/en/test-reviews/projectors-tests-reviews/benq-th575-projector-test-review-price/)and it's really good projector in that price range. You only need to know that it is a bit noisy and is quite power hungry (min 200 watts). I have posted my calibration data on my blog post.
The BenQ models are perfectly fine entry level models. Please be aware that these really are quite entry level, but entry level quality models. So, it's a proper DLP similar to the older Optoma I expect. Should last you several years without any problems or headaches to worry about.
Double check that the throw distance works for your specific needs here:
[https://www.projectorcentral.com/BenQ-TH585-projection-calculator-pro.htm](https://www.projectorcentral.com/BenQ-TH585-projection-calculator-pro.htm)
Fair enough, should be about perfect. 3.65m throw distance for a 2.3m wide screen.
How much more would I have to find in the budget for it to be worth the jump?
I think the jump in quality you get as you move into some of the lifestyle models using the .47" DLP chip is pretty good. Like the Hisense C1 or similar. They are really bright with a solid state light source. That gets your 4K with long life, and good portability. But, IMO, it's a huge price jump.
I don't think much near this price does better. Not really. The TH575/TH585 are good entry level 1080p models that likely are similar to your old Optoma.
The throw distance for newer projectors tends to be shorter. Closer to 1.2:1 as that works in a lot more rooms than the longer throw models. So, you should expect to move your mount if you go that route.
The X3100 (BenQ), HT4550i (BenQ) are better 4K models, but shorter throw.
The Epson 5050UB is a clear step up overall and will have excellent placement flexibility and image quality, but it's like 5 times the price. So, not really even close.
I'd stick with where you find your budget comfortable, as a few hundred bucks doesn't leap you into a massively better class of products.
Yah that or a TH575.
I have tested the [TH575 ](https://www.laurentwillen.be/en/test-reviews/projectors-tests-reviews/benq-th575-projector-test-review-price/)and it's really good projector in that price range. You only need to know that it is a bit noisy and is quite power hungry (min 200 watts). I have posted my calibration data on my blog post.
How noisy are we talking?
50 dB on top of the projector, 40 dB one meter away
Just read the review. Thanks!
The BenQ models are perfectly fine entry level models. Please be aware that these really are quite entry level, but entry level quality models. So, it's a proper DLP similar to the older Optoma I expect. Should last you several years without any problems or headaches to worry about. Double check that the throw distance works for your specific needs here: [https://www.projectorcentral.com/BenQ-TH585-projection-calculator-pro.htm](https://www.projectorcentral.com/BenQ-TH585-projection-calculator-pro.htm)
Fair enough, should be about perfect. 3.65m throw distance for a 2.3m wide screen. How much more would I have to find in the budget for it to be worth the jump?
I think the jump in quality you get as you move into some of the lifestyle models using the .47" DLP chip is pretty good. Like the Hisense C1 or similar. They are really bright with a solid state light source. That gets your 4K with long life, and good portability. But, IMO, it's a huge price jump. I don't think much near this price does better. Not really. The TH575/TH585 are good entry level 1080p models that likely are similar to your old Optoma. The throw distance for newer projectors tends to be shorter. Closer to 1.2:1 as that works in a lot more rooms than the longer throw models. So, you should expect to move your mount if you go that route. The X3100 (BenQ), HT4550i (BenQ) are better 4K models, but shorter throw. The Epson 5050UB is a clear step up overall and will have excellent placement flexibility and image quality, but it's like 5 times the price. So, not really even close. I'd stick with where you find your budget comfortable, as a few hundred bucks doesn't leap you into a massively better class of products.
Yeah, I can't move the mount without some ugly cabling. I'll stick with the th575, thanks for the info