Our Verdict
ViewSonic LX700-4K Wins

It offers significantly superior core performance for its price, boasting native 4K resolution, a much brighter 4000 ANSI lumen laser light source, and an ultra-low 4.2ms gaming input lag, compared to BenQ's 4K pixel shift, 3000 lumens, and 16ms lag. While more expensive at $1635.1 versus $1399.0, its advantages justify the cost for demanding users. The BenQ TK700ST is the better pick for those on a tighter budget who require a short-throw projector for smaller spaces and are content with pixel-shifted 4K and slightly higher input lag.
Bottom Line: ViewSonic LX700-4K is the better choice. It offers significantly superior core performance for its price, boasting native 4K resolution, a much brighter 4000 ANSI lumen laser light source, and an ultra-low 4.
In-Depth Analysis
How they compare in practice
The BenQ TK700ST and ViewSonic LX700-4K both aim to deliver 4K gaming and entertainment, but they achieve this through different technologies and at varying price points, leading to distinct real-world experiences. The most significant difference lies in their native resolution and light source. The ViewSonic LX700-4K features true native 4K, meaning each of its 8.3 million pixels is distinct, resulting in sharper fine details and crisper text. In contrast, the BenQ TK700ST uses 4K pixel shift technology, which rapidly shifts 1920x1080 pixels to create a perceived 4K image. While effective, it generally can't match the absolute clarity of a native 4K panel, especially noticeable on larger screens or with very detailed content.
Brightness is another key differentiator. The ViewSonic's 4000 ANSI lumens, powered by a laser, outshine the BenQ's 3000 ANSI lumens lamp-based system. This 33% increase in brightness means the LX700-4K can better contend with ambient light, delivering a more vibrant and less washed-out image in living rooms or partially lit environments. For dedicated home theater spaces, both are bright, but the ViewSonic offers more headroom. The laser light source also provides superior longevity (20,000+ hours versus typical lamp life of 4,000-15,000 hours) and instant on/off functionality, enhancing convenience and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Gaming performance heavily favors the ViewSonic LX700-4K with its astounding 4.2ms input lag, making it one of the most responsive projectors on the market. This is a game-changer for competitive gamers where every millisecond counts, providing a near-instantaneous connection between controller input and on-screen action. The BenQ's 16ms input lag is still excellent for a projector, far surpassing many traditional home theater models, but it's not in the same league for twitch-reflex gaming. The BenQ does offer a short-throw ratio of 0.8949, allowing it to cast large images from a much closer distance than the ViewSonic's 1.3 throw ratio, making it more suitable for smaller rooms or tighter setups where mounting flexibility is limited.
Key Differences
The most significant spec differences at a glance
Brightness Ansi Lumens
25% lessGaming Input Lag Ms
281% moreThrow Ratio
31% lessAdvantages
Where each product wins
BenQ
- Gaming Input Lag Ms: 281% higher (16 vs 4.2)
ViewSonic
- Brightness Ansi Lumens: 25% higher (3000 vs 4000)
- Throw Ratio: 31% higher (0.89490008 vs 1.3)
Which to Pick for Your Situation
Concrete scenarios with a clear recommendation
For competitive online gaming
ViewSonicThe ViewSonic LX700-4K boasts an ultra-low 4.2ms input lag, providing a significant advantage for fast-paced and competitive gaming over the BenQ's 16ms.
For a small living room with limited throw distance
BenQThe BenQ TK700ST features a short-throw ratio of 0.8949, enabling it to project a large image from a much closer distance than the ViewSonic LX700-4K with its 1.3 throw ratio.
For a bright home theater or living room
ViewSonicWith 4000 ANSI lumens, the ViewSonic LX700-4K delivers a brighter image that better combats ambient light compared to the BenQ's 3000 ANSI lumens.
For a budget-conscious 4K home theater setup
BenQPriced at $1399.0, the BenQ TK700ST offers a more affordable entry into 4K projection than the ViewSonic LX700-4K at $1635.1, while still providing good brightness and low lag.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy BenQ if...
BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR
The BenQ TK700ST is ideal for the budget-conscious gamer or home theater enthusiast who needs a versatile projector for smaller spaces. This buyer might live in an apartment or a room where the projector must be placed close to the screen, making the 0.8949 short-throw ratio a crucial feature. They prioritize a compelling 4K image and smooth gaming without breaking the bank, recognizing that pixel-shifted 4K is sufficient for their needs. While they appreciate the 3000 ANSI lumens for good visibility in moderately lit rooms, they might not always game or watch movies in pitch darkness. They are willing to accept the 16ms input lag, which is still excellent for most gaming, and are comfortable with the long-term potential for lamp replacement, valuing the lower upfront cost of $1399.0. They don't need the absolute sharpest native 4K or the lowest possible input lag, understanding the trade-offs for a more accessible price point.
Buy ViewSonic if...
ViewSonic LX700-4K 3500 Lumens
The ViewSonic LX700-4K is tailored for the serious gamer and dedicated home theater enthusiast who demands uncompromised performance and a premium viewing experience, and is willing to invest more. This buyer seeks the purest image quality, valuing the Native 4K resolution for breathtaking detail and clarity in movies and games. For them, gaming responsiveness is paramount, making the ultra-low 4.2ms input lag a non-negotiable feature for competitive play. They often use their projector in a variety of lighting conditions, so the bright 4000 ANSI lumens are essential for vibrant images even with some ambient light. The long-lasting, maintenance-free laser light source is a significant draw, providing peace of mind and consistent brightness over many years. This buyer prioritizes cutting-edge technology and longevity over the initial cost of $1635.1, understanding that they are getting a superior, future-proofed device. They don't need a short-throw lens and have adequate space for a more standard projector setup.
Spec Comparison
9 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1399 | $1623 |
| Rating | 4.4(412) | 4.0(111) |
| Brightness Ansi Lumens | 3000 | 4000 |
| Native Resolution | 4K Pixel Shift | Native 4K |
| Gaming Input Lag Ms | 16 | 4.2 |
| Hdr Support | Yes | Yes |
| Throw Ratio | 0.89 | 1.3 |
| Hdmi Ports | — | 2 |
| Light Source | — | Laser |
| Model Number | — | LX700-4K |
| Keystone Correction | — | Full (H+V) |
Swipe horizontally to see all columns
Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
BenQ TK700ST 4K
- 16ms input lag for responsive gaming
- 3000 lumens offers good brightness in ambient light
- Short throw projects large image in limited space
- 4K pixel shift delivers high resolution
- 4K resolution is pixel shifted, not native
- Image quality affected by room ambient light
- Precise placement needed for optimal screen fill
- Lamp replacement adds to long-term operational cost
ViewSonic LX700-4K 3500
- 4000 ANSI lumens ensures bright images.
- Native 4K resolution delivers sharp visuals.
- 4.2ms input lag for responsive gaming.
- Laser light source provides long operating life.
- Lacks lens shift for advanced placement.
- Only two HDMI inputs, may limit connections.
- No integrated smart TV functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
What is the key difference in 4K resolution between these projectors?
The ViewSonic LX700-4K offers native 4K resolution for true pixel-for-pixel clarity. The BenQ TK700ST uses 4K pixel shift technology, which achieves perceived 4K by rapidly shifting a lower-resolution panel.
Which projector is better for gaming responsiveness?
The ViewSonic LX700-4K is significantly better for gaming, featuring an extremely low 4.2ms input lag. The BenQ TK700ST has a good 16ms lag, but it's not as instantaneous.
How do their light sources compare in terms of longevity and maintenance?
The ViewSonic LX700-4K uses a laser light source with a much longer lifespan and no lamp replacements needed. The BenQ TK700ST uses a traditional lamp, requiring eventual replacement.
Can either projector be used in a room with some ambient light?
Yes, but the ViewSonic LX700-4K is better equipped due to its 4000 ANSI lumens. The BenQ TK700ST's 3000 ANSI lumens are also good, but will be more affected by light.
What is the price difference between the two projectors?
The BenQ TK700ST is priced at $1399.0, while the ViewSonic LX700-4K is more expensive at $1635.1, a difference of approximately $236.1.
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