Introduction

BenQ has long been a player in the gaming projector market, and their latest offering, the X3100i, released in early January 2025, aims to set a new standard for gaming projection. This 4K LED projector is designed to cater specifically to gamers, promising low input lag, high refresh rates, and vibrant colors, all while maintaining the versatility to serve as a capable home theater projector.

Review

The BenQ X3100i makes a strong visual statement with its cube-shaped design and striking white and gold color scheme. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, it certainly stands out from the crowd of black box projectors. The compact form factor also makes it relatively portable, despite being a full-fledged 4K projector.

At the heart of the X3100i is a 4LED light source, which BenQ claims can achieve 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. In our testing, color reproduction was indeed exceptional, with vivid, accurate colors that bring games to life. The projector outputs 3,000 ANSI lumens, providing ample brightness for gaming in rooms with some ambient light.

The X3100i uses DLP technology with XPR pixel-shifting to achieve 4K resolution. While not native 4K, the image is sharp and detailed, with no visible pixel structure at normal viewing distances. The contrast ratio is solid for a DLP projector, though it doesn’t quite match the deep blacks of some higher-end home theater projectors.

Where the X3100i truly shines is in its gaming performance. BenQ has managed to achieve an incredibly low input lag of just 4ms at 1080p 240Hz, and 16ms at 4K 60Hz. This puts it on par with many gaming monitors, making it suitable even for competitive gaming. The projector also supports AMD FreeSync Premium, ensuring smooth, tear-free gaming when paired with compatible devices.

BenQ has included several game-specific picture modes, each optimized for different genres. The FPS mode, for example, enhances visibility in dark areas, while the RPG mode focuses on color richness and contrast. These modes genuinely enhance the gaming experience and are more than just marketing gimmicks.

The X3100i runs on BenQ’s updated CinematicColor technology, which now includes HDR PRO. This feature dynamically adjusts HDR performance based on the content, resulting in more impactful HDR images in both games and movies. The projector supports HDR10 and HLG formats.

For audio, the X3100i features a built-in 2.1 channel speaker system with a dedicated 5W subwoofer. The sound quality is surprisingly good for built-in speakers, with clear dialogue and decent bass response. It’s more than adequate for casual gaming sessions, though serious gamers will likely still opt for a dedicated audio setup.

On the smart features front, the X3100i includes BenQ’s updated Smart TV system, which now offers a wider range of streaming apps. The interface is intuitive and responsive, though not quite as comprehensive as some competitors’ offerings. The inclusion of both Google Assistant and Alexa support adds convenient voice control options.

One minor drawback is the fan noise, which can be noticeable during quiet scenes when running in high brightness modes. However, it’s generally not disruptive during gameplay or when watching content with a typical audio mix.

Conclusion

The BenQ X3100i represents a significant step forward in the gaming projector market. Its combination of low input lag, high refresh rates, and excellent color reproduction make it a top choice for gamers seeking a large-screen experience. While it may not match the absolute best home theater projectors in terms of contrast and black levels, its versatility in serving both gaming and movie-watching needs is impressive. For gamers who also enjoy casual movie nights, or those looking for a single projector to handle all their large-screen needs, the BenQ X3100i is an excellent choice that delivers outstanding performance for its price point.