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- Best overall: ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector
- Best budget: Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector
- Best premium: Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector
- Best for bright 1080p viewing: BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector
- The Optoma HD146X is a 1080p projector with 3,600 lumens and a 16ms input-lag rating.
- The ViewSonic PX701HDH pairs 1080p resolution with 3,500 ANSI lumens; the PX701-4K adds 4K UHD resolution.
- Bright rooms favor high-lumen projectors, while dark-room movie viewing benefits from controlled light and a suitable screen.
- The BenQ TH575 and Epson Home Cinema 1080 are practical alternatives for buyers prioritizing brightness or 3LCD color.
The Optoma HD146X and ViewSonic PX701 projectors are bright, game-friendly choices, but the best Black Friday 2026 pick depends on resolution, room lighting and the exact PX701 model. The Optoma HD146X delivers 1080p resolution, 3,600 lumens and a 16ms input-lag rating; the ViewSonic PX701HDH is another 1080p option, while the ViewSonic PX701-4K steps up to 4K UHD.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build a useful shortlist for movie nights, sports and gaming. My pick for most people is the Optoma HD146X when straightforward 1080p value comes first. Buyers focused on sharper detail should look at the 4K alternatives, and anyone shopping for a ViewSonic PX701 should check the full model name before comparing features.
How We Picked
- Compared resolution, brightness ratings and gaming specifications listed for each full model name.
- Prioritized projectors with clear use cases, including 1080p value, 4K detail, bright-room viewing and color performance.
- Reviewed published product specifications, customer reviews and owner feedback rather than relying on a single headline feature.
- Included alternatives from Optoma, ViewSonic, BenQ and Epson so readers can compare different imaging technologies and feature sets.
- Considered setup flexibility, including optical zoom and the practical importance of room placement and screen size.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Resolution | Brightness | Input lag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector | 1080p movies and casual gaming | 1920 × 1080 | 3,600 lumens | 16ms |
| ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector | ViewSonic 1080p performance | 1920 × 1080 | 3,500 ANSI lumens | 16ms |
| ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector | 4K gaming and movies | 4K UHD | 3,200 ANSI lumens | 4.2ms |
| BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector | Bright 1080p viewing | 1920 × 1080 | 3,800 ANSI lumens | 16ms |
| Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector | Full HD color and family viewing | 1920 × 1080 | 3,400 lumens | Not specified |
| BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector | 4K console gaming | 4K UHD | 3,200 ANSI lumens | 16ms at 4K 60Hz |
| Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector | Bright 4K viewing | 4K UHD | 4,000 lumens | 4.2ms |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector
The Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector is the best value-focused 1080p pick for movie fans and casual gamers. The Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector's 3,600-lumen brightness rating and 16ms input-lag rating suit versatile home use.
Best for: 1080p movies and casual gaming
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Brightness
- 3,600 lumens
- Input lag
- 16ms
- Refresh rate
- Up to 120Hz
- Full HD resolution fits mainstream movie and console use.
- High stated brightness gives placement flexibility.
- Low input-lag rating suits responsive casual gaming.
- Does not provide 4K resolution.
- A darkened room improves perceived contrast.
Is the Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Optoma HD146X 1080p DLP Projector is worth considering for buyers who want a bright Full HD image and a 16ms input-lag rating. Choose a 4K model instead when fine detail and higher resolution are priorities.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector
The ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector is the best ViewSonic 1080p option for bright-room movie nights and gaming. The ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector's 3,500 ANSI-lumen rating and 16ms input-lag specification make it a close rival to the Optoma HD146X.
Best for: ViewSonic 1080p performance
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Brightness
- 3,500 ANSI lumens
- Input lag
- 16ms
- Optical zoom
- 1.1x
- Full HD resolution supports movies and console games.
- High brightness rating helps with ambient light.
- Optical zoom provides useful placement adjustment.
- Not a native 4K projector.
- Image quality depends on room light and screen choice.
Is the ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ViewSonic PX701HDH 1080p Projector is a solid choice for buyers seeking a bright Full HD projector with a 16ms input-lag specification. Compare it with the Optoma HD146X for price, placement needs and preferred brand features.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3 · Top pick
ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector
The ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector is the best PX701 choice for viewers who want 4K detail and responsive gaming. The ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector's 3,200 ANSI-lumen rating combines with 4K UHD resolution for a step up from the PX701HDH.
Best for: 4K gaming and movies
- Resolution
- 4K UHD
- Brightness
- 3,200 ANSI lumens
- Input lag
- 4.2ms
- Optical zoom
- 1.1x
- 4K UHD resolution shows more fine detail.
- Low stated input lag suits gaming.
- Brightness supports flexible home viewing.
- Costs more to prioritize than a 1080p projector.
- Room placement still affects image size and clarity.
Is the ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector is a strong pick for viewers who want 4K UHD resolution and a 4.2ms input-lag specification. Choose the PX701HDH instead when Full HD resolution is sufficient and budget matters more.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector
The BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector is the best bright 1080p alternative for sports, movies and console play. The BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector's 3,800 ANSI-lumen rating gives it a brightness advantage on paper over the Optoma HD146X.
Best for: Bright 1080p viewing
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Brightness
- 3,800 ANSI lumens
- Input lag
- 16ms
- Optical zoom
- 1.1x
- Bright specification suits flexible viewing conditions.
- Full HD resolution keeps console and movie setup simple.
- Low input-lag rating supports gaming.
- Lacks 4K UHD resolution.
- A bright image does not replace a dark-room setup for best contrast.
Is the BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector is worth comparing for bright Full HD viewing, with a 3,800 ANSI-lumen rating and 16ms input-lag specification. Buyers who want 4K detail should compare it with the ViewSonic PX701-4K.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector
The Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector is the best 3LCD choice for buyers who value color brightness and Full HD resolution. The Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector's 3,400-lumen brightness rating and 3LCD design distinguish it from the DLP options.
Best for: Full HD color and family viewing
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Brightness
- 3,400 lumens
- Imaging technology
- 3LCD
- Image size
- Up to 300 inches
- 3LCD design delivers three-chip color imaging.
- Full HD resolution fits movies and TV viewing.
- Large stated image-size range suits a dedicated setup.
- Does not offer 4K UHD resolution.
- Placement and screen selection remain important.
Is the Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector is a good fit for households seeking Full HD resolution and 3LCD color. The Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector's 3,400-lumen rating and stated image sizes make it a practical option for shared movie and TV viewing.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector
The BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector is the best 4K gaming alternative for buyers who want detailed images and quick response. The BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector's 3,200 ANSI-lumen rating and 4K UHD resolution put it in the same broad class as the ViewSonic PX701-4K.
Best for: 4K console gaming
- Resolution
- 4K UHD
- Brightness
- 3,200 ANSI lumens
- Input lag
- 16ms at 4K 60Hz
- Refresh rate
- Up to 240Hz at 1080p
- 4K UHD resolution supports detailed gaming and movies.
- Gaming-focused response specifications.
- Bright rating supports flexible home setups.
- Higher-resolution gaming requires compatible source equipment.
- Full HD models are simpler for budget-focused buyers.
Is the BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector is worth considering for console players who want 4K UHD resolution and a 16ms input-lag rating at 4K 60Hz. The BenQ TK700 4K Gaming Projector's 1080p mode supports refresh rates up to 240Hz.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector
The Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector is the best Optoma upgrade for buyers seeking 4K resolution and high brightness. The Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector's 4,000-lumen rating offers a brighter specification than the Optoma HD146X.
Best for: Bright 4K viewing
- Resolution
- 4K UHD
- Brightness
- 4,000 lumens
- Input lag
- 4.2ms
- Refresh rate
- Up to 240Hz at 1080p
- 4K UHD resolution delivers higher detail than Full HD.
- High brightness rating suits versatile rooms.
- Gaming specifications include a fast 1080p mode.
- A 4K upgrade is unnecessary for buyers satisfied with 1080p.
- Room light still affects contrast and perceived image quality.
Is the Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Optoma UHD38x 4K UHD Projector is a compelling upgrade for viewers who want 4K resolution, a 4,000-lumen rating and gaming-focused modes. Choose the HD146X when Full HD performance meets your needs.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better, the Optoma HD146X or ViewSonic PX701?
The Optoma HD146X and ViewSonic PX701HDH are closely matched 1080p projectors, each with a 16ms input-lag rating and brightness above 3,000 lumens. The Optoma HD146X lists 3,600 lumens, while the ViewSonic PX701HDH lists 3,500 ANSI lumens, so the headline brightness difference is small.
The ViewSonic PX701 name also refers to the ViewSonic PX701-4K, a separate 4K UHD model with a 4.2ms input-lag specification. Check the model suffix before buying: the PX701HDH is Full HD, while the PX701-4K is the sharper-resolution choice. For a straightforward 1080p comparison, focus on setup distance, connections, warranty and the current listing rather than treating the PX701 family as one model.
Is the Optoma HD146X good for gaming?
The Optoma HD146X is a capable casual-gaming projector with a 16ms input-lag rating and support for refresh rates up to 120Hz. Those specifications suit console play, sports and everyday gaming, especially when a large image matters more than maximum resolution.
Competitive players should compare game mode, supported resolution and refresh rate across the full signal chain, including the console and HDMI settings. The ViewSonic PX701-4K and Optoma UHD38x offer 4K UHD resolution with stated 4.2ms input lag, while the BenQ TK700 lists 16ms at 4K 60Hz and a faster 1080p mode. A lower response figure is useful, but placement, screen quality and room lighting still shape the viewing experience.
Does projector brightness matter more than resolution?
Brightness matters most in rooms with ambient light, while resolution matters most when viewers want fine image detail from a 4K source. The Optoma HD146X and ViewSonic PX701HDH are bright-rated 1080p choices; the ViewSonic PX701-4K and Optoma UHD38x add 4K UHD resolution.
A projector's published lumen figure does not guarantee the same perceived brightness in every room. Screen material, image size, throw distance and light control all affect the picture. For daytime sports or a multipurpose space, compare brightness ratings and plan to manage windows and lamps. For nighttime movies, a darker room and a well-matched screen often matter more than choosing the largest number on a spec sheet.
Which projector is best for movies and family viewing?
The Epson Home Cinema 1080 3LCD Projector is a family-friendly Full HD option, while the ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Projector is the better match for buyers prioritizing 4K detail. The Epson's 3LCD imaging sets it apart from the DLP models in this guide.
Movie viewing benefits from a stable setup, a screen suited to the room and controlled light. The Optoma HD146X is a sensible choice for a simple Full HD theater, and the BenQ TH575 offers a brighter stated rating for flexible viewing. Households streaming 4K content should consider the 4K options, but buyers with mainly HD sources can spend less attention on resolution and more on room layout, audio and ease of use.
What should shoppers check before Black Friday 2026?
Black Friday 2026 projector shoppers should verify the exact model suffix, warranty terms, included accessories and return window before choosing between the Optoma HD146X and ViewSonic PX701 family. A listing that says only “PX701” does not identify whether the product is the Full HD PX701HDH or 4K PX701-4K.
Check the throw distance for the planned screen size, then confirm that the projector fits the intended ceiling or shelf position. Compare inputs and supported gaming modes with the devices you own. For any shortlisted model, read recent owner feedback about fan noise, setup and image uniformity. Skip it if the listing leaves the precise model unclear or the specifications do not match the room and source devices.
Buying Guide
Choose the resolution first
Full HD 1080p suits many movies, sports broadcasts and console setups. Choose a 4K UHD projector such as the ViewSonic PX701-4K when extra detail from compatible sources justifies the upgrade.
Match brightness to the room
Higher stated lumen ratings help in rooms with some ambient light, but they do not erase the effect of sunlight or lamps. Plan to control light and select an appropriate screen.
Check gaming response and refresh rate
Compare input lag at the resolution and refresh rate you use. A fast 1080p mode and a 4K mode can have different response specifications on the same projector.
Measure the throw distance
Measure the projector-to-screen distance and desired image size before buying. Optical zoom helps with placement, but it does not replace checking a model's throw range.
Confirm the full model name
ViewSonic PX701HDH and ViewSonic PX701-4K are different projectors. Confirm the suffix on the product page and in the checkout details so resolution and specifications match expectations.
FAQ
What is the difference between the Optoma HD146X and ViewSonic PX701?
The Optoma HD146X is a 1080p DLP projector rated at 3,600 lumens. ViewSonic PX701 can mean the 1080p PX701HDH or the 4K UHD PX701-4K, so buyers should confirm the suffix before comparing features.
Is the ViewSonic PX701HDH 4K?
The ViewSonic PX701HDH is a 1080p projector, not a 4K model. The ViewSonic PX701-4K is the 4K UHD version, with a stated 3,200 ANSI-lumen rating and 4.2ms input-lag specification.
Which is brighter, the Optoma HD146X or ViewSonic PX701HDH?
The Optoma HD146X lists 3,600 lumens, while the ViewSonic PX701HDH lists 3,500 ANSI lumens. Published brightness figures use different labeling, and actual perceived brightness depends on room light, screen size and setup.
Is the Optoma HD146X good for PS5 gaming?
The Optoma HD146X suits casual PS5 gaming with 1080p resolution, a 16ms input-lag rating and support for up to 120Hz. Buyers seeking 4K gaming should compare the ViewSonic PX701-4K, BenQ TK700 or Optoma UHD38x.
Should I buy a 1080p or 4K projector for movies?
Choose 1080p for a straightforward, value-focused setup when most sources are HD. A 4K UHD projector such as the ViewSonic PX701-4K makes more sense for compatible 4K sources and viewers who prioritize finer image detail.
Which projector is best for a bright room?
The BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector lists 3,800 ANSI lumens, while the Optoma UHD38x lists 4,000 lumens. A darker room still improves contrast, and screen choice and ambient light affect every projector's picture.