BenQ GS50 Review: The most versatile, portable and all-terrain projector

BenQ GS50
Tech Week Score
5.0
- Lorenzo Garcia

Since the good weather is approaching, it is time to start thinking about weekend getaways. You can make them much more exciting with a portable DLP projector like the BenQ GS50. An easy-to-use model with its automatic adjustment, easy to transport with its compact size and battery included for a movie session under the stars. Learn about the rest of the features of this BenQ projector in our review.

Design

Without a doubt, the most characteristic aspect of the BGS50 is its aesthetics. We could say that it is a rugged, compact projector model prepared for outdoor projections. It is presented as a small cube with rounded corners and a rubber finish. Combine white and green with orange details and body strap. This special finish makes the projector resistant to splashes of water with its IPX2 certification. In addition, its robust body absorbs impacts from falls and bumps of all kinds.

Water and drop resistant design up to 70 cm

As we have indicated, its dimensions make it a great companion on our excursions. It has measures of 186 x 154 x 146 mm and a weight of 2.3 kg. As a nice gesture from BenQ, the projector includes a carrying bag with various compartments to carry other devices, cables and the remote control. This remote controller includes focus adjustment, keystone, quick access to Google Assistant and Prime Video. The remote incorporates a microphone for voice control of the Google Assistant.

Gift carrying case with the projector

It should be noted how well structured and designed the projector is. The entire weft of the rubber cover allows water to be evacuated more quickly and provides extra grip. The connections are hidden behind a waterproof cover that prevents the entry of water and dust. We also notice that the optics are located behind a plastic layer. It is suitable for mounting on a tripod thread. Finally, as it is a portable projection device, speakers and an integrated battery cannot be missing.

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BenQ Projector Overview

Controls, functions and connections

At the top of the BenQ GS50 we see the physical controls of the projector, from here we can activate Bluetooth and adjust the volume level. We also highlight the hidden compartment for a streaming device, the BenQ QS01 that is already included with the projector. This device incorporates Android TV with HDMI 2.0, with which we can transmit Ultra HD content via Dual Band WiFi. It is compatible with AirPlay and Google Chromecast to project the smartphone screen directly and wirelessly.

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Includes the BenQ QS01, an Android TV device compatible with Google Chromecast

Android TV opens up an interesting range of applications and services to use directly from the BenQ QS01 device. This dongle is updated to the Android TV 9.0 version, although it will be able to receive firmware updates like any other device. The interface gives access to the content browser and services such as Prime Video (compatible with HDR10), YouTube (4K), Twitch, among others. By cons, Netflix is ​​not available natively.

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BenQ GS50 Connectivity

The physical connections are concentrated on one of the sides of the GS50 behind a small tab. It features an HDMI 2.0, USB-C that also provides up to 45W of power, full-size USB-A for storage drives, and a 3.5mm audio jack. To this we must add the WiFi ac and Bluetooth that allows the projector to be used as a wireless speaker. The power connection is located on the back.

Image

The lens of the BenQ GS50 is fixed, but it allows automatic focus and keystone correction, making it easy to use. In addition, it includes an eye protection sensor that turns off the projector when it detects that a person gets too close, avoiding possible eye problems with children. This DLP projector gives us a cinematic experience with a screen size ranging from 30 to 120 inches with a native 1080p resolution.

Enjoy projections of up to 120 inches with native FHD resolution and Android TV as a family

The colors enjoy great prominence with BenQ’s CinematicColorTM profile that covers 97% of the Rec. 709 color space. Its brightness of 500 ANSI lumens invites us to vibrate with intense images, being enjoyable even during the day (at sunset or in shade) . ). BenQ GS50 is compatible with HDR video signals, whether from streaming services, HDMI or USB storage drives.

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The LED lamp has an approximate autonomy of 20,000 hours in Normal mode, increasing to 30,000 hours in Eco mode. It has several image modes that adapt to the circumstances of the environment such as Daytime or the type of content such as Sports.

Sound

Inside it hides a battery with an autonomy of approximately 2.5 hours in Eco mode. So it will be possible to watch a movie without having to charge it. Charging is done with a power connector located at the rear of the projector. In addition, its USB-C connector supplies power to connect a laptop or any other device.

Its integrated 2.1 sound system allows us to feel the movies anywhere. It is equipped with two 5W power mid-range speakers, along with a consistent 10W additional speaker for bass tones. A sound configuration that is also noticeable when listening to our music via Bluetooth. Sound delivery is clear and powerful enough for outdoor listening.

Conclusion

BenQ GS50 offers entertainment both indoors and outdoors, with a simple and very versatile projection due to its extensive connectivity. The addition of the dongle with Android TV expands its possibilities considerably, as does access to content.

PROS:

  • Water and drop resistant
  • dlp-projector
  • 500 ANSI lumens
  • Automatic Keystone Correction
  • Native 1080p resolution, with 4K support
  • connectivity
  • AndroidTV

CONS:

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  • Battery life could be higher
  • Somewhat limited visual adjustments

 

BenQ GS50 Specifications:

Make model BenQ GS50
Screen Size Compatibility 30 inches – 120 inches
native resolution HD 1080p
Maximum supported resolution 4K
keystone correction 2D, vertical (automatic) ± 40 degrees; horizontal ± 40 degrees
Technology DLP
projector brightness 500ANSI
contrast ratio 100,000:1
integrated sound 2.1 system (5Wx2 + 10W woofer)
Energy consumption 65W
connectivity HDMI 2.0, USB-C, USB-A, 3.5 audio jack, Bluetooth 4.2, WiFi 5GHz
Feeding battery included
Dimensions 186 x 154 x 146mm
Weight 2.3kg
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