The BenQ TH671ST is a highly regarded short-throw projector designed primarily for gaming and home entertainment, offering a compelling blend of low input lag, bright visuals, and a convenient short-throw ratio that allows for large images even in compact spaces.

This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to transform a smaller room into an immersive viewing experience without the hassle of long projection distances or complex setups.

Product Name	Resolution	Brightness ANSI Lumens	Contrast Ratio	Throw Ratio	Key Feature
BenQ TH671ST Projector	1080p	3200	10,000:1	0.69-0.83	Low Input Lag 16.67ms, Short Throw
Optoma GT1080HDR Short Throw Projector	1080p	3800	50,000:1	0.5:1	HDR10 Compatible, Ultra Short Throw
Epson Home Cinema 2250 Projector	1080p	2700	70,000:1	1.32-2.14	Android TV Built-in, Dynamic Contrast
ViewSonic PX701HD Projector	1080p	3500	12,000:1	1.5-1.65	SuperColor Technology, Low Input Latency
XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K Projector	4K UHD	2200	N/A	1.2:1	4K Resolution, Harman Kardon Speakers
LG HU810PW 4K UHD Projector	4K UHD	2700	2,000,000:1	1.3-2.08	Laser Light Source, Dynamic Tone Mapping
AWOL Vision LTV-2500 UST Projector	4K UHD	2500	1,000,000:1	0.25:1	Triple Laser, Ultra Short Throw, Smart Features

Table of Contents

The BenQ TH671ST: A Gamer’s Secret Weapon and Home Theater Powerhouse

When it comes to home entertainment, particularly for gamers, the BenQ TH671ST often flies under the radar for its unassuming exterior, but it packs a serious punch. This isn’t just another projector.

Think of it as that underdog athlete who quietly dominates the field—it might not have the flashiest specs on paper compared to some ultra-premium models, but its performance in its niche is truly exceptional.

Why Input Lag Matters And Why the TH671ST Nails It

For any serious gamer, input lag is the silent killer of immersive experiences. It’s that frustrating delay between when you press a button on your controller and when you see the action happen on screen. In competitive games, even milliseconds can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Understanding Input Lag: This isn’t your projector’s response time which is different. Input lag measures the total delay from the signal being sent to the display. A high input lag can make aiming feel sluggish, timing jumps impossible, and generally ruin your flow.
The TH671ST’s Advantage: The BenQ TH671ST boasts an incredibly low input lag of 16.67ms at 1080p/60Hz. This is a must. For context, anything under 30ms is generally considered good for gaming, and under 20ms is excellent. This projector delivers a near-instantaneous response, making it feel as if you’re playing directly on a high-end gaming monitor, but on a massive scale.
Game Mode Optimization: BenQ has specifically engineered a “Game Mode” on the TH671ST that further optimizes settings to minimize input lag and enhance clarity in dark scenes, ensuring you don’t miss crucial details in shadowy environments. This mode often adjusts color profiles and image processing to prioritize speed over nuanced visual fidelity, a trade-off gamers are usually happy to make.

Key Takeaway: If you’re into competitive shooters, fighting games, or any title where precise timing is crucial, the TH671ST’s low input lag is arguably its single most compelling feature. It ensures that your skill is the only variable, not your equipment.

The Magic of Short Throw: Big Picture in Small Spaces

One of the BenQ TH671ST’s standout physical attributes is its short-throw lens. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick. it’s a practical solution to a common problem for projector owners: finding enough space.

What is Short Throw? A short-throw projector can produce a very large image from a relatively short distance from the screen or wall. The TH671ST has a throw ratio of 0.69 – 0.83:1.
Practical Benefits:
- Space Saving: You can place the projector just a few feet away from your wall or screen and get a 100-inch image. This eliminates the need for long cable runs across the room or complicated ceiling mounts.
- Shadow Prevention: With the projector closer to the screen, there’s less chance of people walking in front of the lens and casting shadows on the image, which is a common annoyance with standard-throw projectors.
- Flexibility in Setup: Ideal for apartments, small living rooms, or dedicated gaming dens where traditional projector setups might be impractical. You can set it up on a coffee table or a small stand.
Image Size Examples for TH671ST:

Screen Size Diagonal Projection Distance Approx.

60 inches 3.9 – 4.7 feet

80 inches 5.2 – 6.2 feet

100 inches 6.5 – 7.8 feet

120 inches 7.8 – 9.4 feet

This short-throw capability isn’t just convenient.

It’s a fundamental design choice that makes the TH671ST incredibly versatile and user-friendly for a wide range of home environments.

Visual Fidelity: Brightness, Resolution, and Color Accuracy

Beyond its gaming prowess, the BenQ TH671ST is a solid performer in the visual department, offering a bright and clear image suitable for various viewing conditions.

While it might not compete with high-end 4K HDR projectors in every aspect, its 1080p output is more than sufficient for most casual viewers and even many discerning gamers.

Brightness That Cuts Through Ambient Light

The TH671ST boasts a respectable 3200 ANSI Lumens of brightness. This is a crucial specification, especially if you don’t have a dedicated home theater room with perfect light control. Hisense C1

Why 3200 Lumens is Good:
- Daytime Viewing: While no projector truly shines in direct sunlight, 3200 lumens allows for comfortable viewing in rooms with some ambient light, such as during the day with curtains drawn, or in a living room with lamps on. This makes it a much more practical “living room projector” than dimmer models.
- Vibrant Images: Higher brightness helps colors pop and maintains contrast even when the room isn’t pitch black. This is particularly beneficial for games and sports where vivid visuals are key.
- Longevity in Eco Mode: You can often run the projector in a lower-brightness “Eco Mode” to extend lamp life, and still have enough brightness for many scenarios, saving on replacement costs in the long run.

Native 1080p Resolution: Crisp and Clear

The projector delivers a native 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution. While 4K is becoming more common, 1080p still provides a sharp and detailed image, especially at common viewing distances.

1080p for Gaming: Most games today render natively at 1080p or upscale from a lower resolution. Projecting a 1080p signal to a 1080p native projector means there’s no complex scaling involved, which can sometimes introduce minor input lag or image artifacts. This direct pixel-to-pixel mapping ensures optimal clarity.
1080p for Movies/TV: Full HD is the standard for Blu-ray discs and most streaming content. The TH671ST renders these sources faithfully, providing a cinematic experience on a grand scale. While you won’t get the ultra-fine detail of native 4K, the image remains impressively crisp and immersive on a large screen.
Pixel Density: For a 100-inch screen at a typical viewing distance of 10-12 feet, individual pixels are not discernible, resulting in a smooth, contiguous image.

Color Accuracy and Contrast

The BenQ TH671ST uses DLP Digital Light Processing technology and is equipped with a Rec. 709 color wheel, aiming for accurate color reproduction. It also features a dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000:1.

Rec. 709 Standard: This is the international standard for HDTV, ensuring that colors are reproduced as they were intended by content creators. While not as wide as the DCI-P3 gamut found in some higher-end HDR projectors, Rec. 709 ensures natural and consistent colors for most movies, TV shows, and games.
Dynamic Contrast: The 10,000:1 contrast ratio is achieved dynamically, meaning the projector adjusts lamp output based on the scene to deepen blacks and brighten whites. This helps to give the image more depth and punch. While not as impactful as native contrast, it certainly enhances the viewing experience.
Vibrant Visuals: Users often report that the TH671ST produces very vibrant and punchy colors right out of the box, contributing to a pleasing visual experience whether you’re gaming or watching a nature documentary.

In essence: The BenQ TH671ST delivers a bright, clear, and color-accurate 1080p image that is more than capable of satisfying the demands of home entertainment and gaming, especially given its price point. It’s about getting the most bang for your buck in terms of visual quality without into the deep end of professional-grade equipment.

Connectivity and Setup: Getting Up and Running

One of the strong suits of a dedicated projector like the BenQ TH671ST is its straightforward connectivity and relatively simple setup process.

While it’s not a “smart” projector with built-in streaming apps, its focus on core functionality means less fuss and more direct action.

Essential Ports for Modern Entertainment

The TH671ST comes equipped with the necessary ports to connect your primary entertainment devices.

It’s designed to be a hub for your gaming console, Blu-ray player, or streaming stick.

HDMI 1 & HDMI 2 with MHL support: These are your primary inputs. You’ll use these for your gaming consoles PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, a PC, a Blu-ray player, or streaming devices like a Roku, Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV. The MHL Mobile High-Definition Link support on one of the HDMI ports allows you to connect compatible smartphones or tablets and mirror their screens directly.
VGA D-sub 15pin: While less common for home theater setups these days, a VGA port is useful for connecting older laptops or desktop computers. It’s a testament to its versatility, allowing it to pull double duty as a presentation projector if needed.
Audio In/Out 3.5mm Jack: The projector has a built-in 5W speaker, which is surprisingly decent for casual use or if you’re in a pinch. However, for a truly immersive experience, you’ll want to connect to external speakers. The 3.5mm audio out allows you to hook up a soundbar, AV receiver, or powered speakers directly.
USB Type A Power Supply: This port is primarily for providing power to streaming dongles like a Chromecast or Fire TV Stick that require a USB power source, reducing the need for an extra wall adapter.
RS232 Serial: This is a control port, typically used by integrators for home automation systems. It allows for remote control and integration into smart home setups.

Connectivity Table:

Port Type	Quantity	Primary Use
HDMI	2	Gaming consoles, Blu-ray, Streaming Devices
VGA	1	Older PCs/Laptops
Audio In 3.5mm	1	Analog audio input from source
Audio Out 3.5mm	1	Connect to external speakers/soundbar
USB Type A	1	Power for streaming dongles
RS232	1	Home automation control

Quick and Easy Setup Process

Setting up the TH671ST is generally a breeze, even for projector novices.

Its short-throw nature simplifies placement, and the on-screen menus are intuitive. TP-Link Deco X5000

Placement: Thanks to its short-throw lens, you can place it on a coffee table directly in front of your screen or wall, or even on a shelf above your seating position. Just ensure it’s level and centered.
Keystone Correction: If the projector isn’t perfectly perpendicular to the screen e.g., if it’s placed slightly off-center or on a low table, the vertical keystone correction feature up to ±30 degrees allows you to digitally correct the image shape to be perfectly rectangular. However, it’s always best to physically place the projector as straight as possible, as digital keystone correction can sometimes introduce minor image degradation.
Focus Ring: A manual focus ring on the lens barrel allows for precise image sharpness adjustment.
Zoom Control: The manual zoom ring 1.2x optical zoom gives you some flexibility in adjusting the image size without moving the projector, which is particularly useful for fine-tuning the fit to your screen.
Menu Navigation: The on-screen display OSD is well-organized, allowing you to easily switch inputs, adjust picture modes Game, Bright, Cinema, User, and fine-tune settings like brightness, contrast, and color.

Pro Tip: While the built-in speaker is fine for basic use, investing in a decent soundbar or connecting to your existing home theater system will significantly enhance the immersive experience. Projectors provide the visuals. your audio setup completes the sensory immersion.

Maintenance and Lamp Life: Keeping Your Investment Running

Like any projector, the BenQ TH671ST requires some basic maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The lamp is the heart of the projector, and understanding its life cycle is crucial for budget planning and consistent quality.

Understanding Lamp Life and Replacement

The BenQ TH671ST uses a traditional UHP Ultra High Performance lamp, which has a finite lifespan.

This is a common characteristic of many home theater projectors in this price range, differing from newer laser or LED projectors that offer much longer, maintenance-free light sources.

Lamp Life Specifications:
- Normal Mode: Up to 4,000 hours
- Eco Mode: Up to 8,000 hours
- SmartEco Mode: Up to 10,000 hours
What these modes mean:
- Normal Mode: Full brightness, suitable for well-lit rooms or when maximum visual punch is desired.
- Eco Mode: Reduces lamp power, lowering brightness slightly but significantly extending lamp life and often reducing fan noise. This is ideal for dark rooms or when you don’t need peak brightness.
- SmartEco Mode: Dynamically adjusts lamp output based on the content being displayed. For dark scenes, it dims the lamp to deepen blacks, then brightens for lighter scenes. This intelligent power management maximizes lamp life while aiming to maintain good contrast.
Why Lamp Life Matters:
- Cost of Ownership: A replacement lamp typically costs between $150 and $300. Knowing the lamp life helps you factor this into your long-term budget.
- Brightness Degradation: Over time, projector lamps naturally dim. The stated lamp life is usually the point at which the lamp will still output 50% of its original brightness. You might notice a gradual reduction in brightness before the lamp completely fails.
Signs of a Dying Lamp:
- Significant dimming of the image.
- Color shift or faded colors.
- Projector warning messages or indicator lights.
- Failure to power on or flickering.

Lamp Replacement Process

Replacing the lamp on the BenQ TH671ST is a relatively straightforward process that most users can do themselves.

Safety First: Always unplug the projector and allow it to cool down completely at least 30-60 minutes before attempting lamp replacement. Lamps get extremely hot.
Locate the Lamp Cover: The lamp cover is usually secured by a screw on the top or side of the projector.
Remove the Old Lamp: Unscrew the cover, then gently unlatch and pull out the old lamp module. Handle with care, as lamps can be fragile.
Insert New Lamp: Carefully insert the new lamp module, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Replace the cover and screw it back on.
Reset Lamp Timer: Crucially, after replacing the lamp, you must go into the projector’s on-screen menu and reset the lamp timer. This tells the projector it has a new lamp and clears any lamp-related warnings. Failure to do this will result in inaccurate lamp life tracking and potential future issues.

General Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Beyond lamp replacement, a few simple habits can extend the life of your projector and maintain its performance.

Dust Control: Dust is the enemy of projectors. Keep the projector in a relatively clean environment. Regularly clean the projector’s exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
Filter Cleaning/Replacement: Many projectors have air filters that prevent dust from entering the optical engine. Check your manual for the TH671ST’s filter location and recommended cleaning schedule. A clogged filter can lead to overheating and reduced lamp life.
Ventilation: Ensure the projector has ample space around its vents for proper airflow. Don’t block the vents, and avoid placing it in enclosed cabinets without adequate ventilation. Overheating is a common cause of lamp failure and can damage internal components.
Power Cycling: Avoid frequent on/off cycles. If you’re going to use the projector again within a few hours, it’s often better to leave it in standby rather than constantly turning it off and on, as the lamp heats up and cools down.
Handle with Care: Projectors contain sensitive optical components. Avoid dropping or subjecting the projector to harsh vibrations.

By following these simple maintenance guidelines, you can ensure your BenQ TH671ST continues to deliver excellent performance for years to come, maximizing your investment in a high-quality home entertainment device.

The BenQ TH671ST vs. The Competition: Where Does It Stand?

In the crowded projector market, the BenQ TH671ST occupies a sweet spot, particularly for gamers and those with smaller spaces.

While newer, higher-resolution, and more expensive models exist, understanding its core strengths relative to its peers is key to appreciating its value. BenQ GV30

Compared to Other 1080p Short-Throw Projectors

The TH671ST’s most direct competitors are other 1080p short-throw models from brands like Optoma and ViewSonic.

Optoma GT1080HDR: This is perhaps the TH671ST’s closest rival.
- Advantages of GT1080HDR: Often boasts higher brightness e.g., 3800 lumens, better contrast ratios often 25,000:1 or 50,000:1 dynamic, and HDR10 compatibility. Its throw ratio is typically even shorter e.g., 0.5:1, meaning an even larger image from a closer distance.
- TH671ST Counterpoint: While the GT1080HDR technically supports HDR, the overall impact on a 1080p DLP projector can be minimal compared to true HDR displays. The TH671ST’s 16.67ms input lag is often cited as being slightly better or on par with the GT1080HDR, making both excellent for gaming. For pure gaming, the TH671ST often offers similar performance at a potentially lower price point.
ViewSonic PX701HD: Another strong contender in the budget 1080p space.
- Advantages of PX701HD: Can be brighter e.g., 3500 ANSI Lumens and often offers comparable input lag. ViewSonic’s SuperColor technology aims for vibrant color reproduction.
- TH671ST Counterpoint: The PX701HD is often a standard-throw projector, meaning it requires more distance for a large image. If short-throw capability is a priority, the TH671ST is the clear winner. If you have plenty of space, the PX701HD is a solid value option.

Key Comparison Table:

Feature	BenQ TH671ST	Optoma GT1080HDR	ViewSonic PX701HD
Resolution	1080p	1080p	1080p
Brightness	3200 AL	3800 AL	3500 AL
Contrast	10,000:1	50,000:1	12,000:1
Throw Ratio	0.69-0.83:1	0.5:1	1.5-1.65:1
Input Lag	16.67ms	~16ms	~16ms
HDR Support	No	Yes HDR10	Yes HDR
Specialty	Gaming/Short-Throw	Gaming/Ultra Short-Throw	General Purpose

Compared to Entry-Level 4K Projectors

As 4K projectors become more affordable, it’s natural to compare the TH671ST to these higher-resolution options.

Entry-Level 4K Projectors e.g., BenQ TK800M, Optoma UHD35:
- Advantages of 4K: Significantly higher resolution 3840 x 2160 pixels offering sharper details, especially noticeable on very large screens or at close viewing distances. Many support full HDR.
- TH671ST Counterpoint:
  - Price: Entry-level 4K projectors are almost always more expensive than the TH671ST, sometimes by a significant margin.
  - Input Lag: While some 4K projectors now achieve good input lag e.g., 4ms at 1080p/240Hz or ~16-20ms at 4K/60Hz, earlier or cheaper 4K models might have higher input lag than the TH671ST, making them less ideal for serious gaming.
  - Brightness/Contrast: To achieve true HDR, 4K projectors need substantial brightness and contrast, which often comes at a higher cost.
  - Short Throw: Many entry-level 4K projectors are not short-throw, requiring more placement distance.

When to Choose TH671ST over 4K:

Budget is paramount.
Gaming performance especially low input lag is your absolute top priority.
You need a short-throw solution for a confined space.
You mostly consume 1080p content Blu-rays, console games, most streaming.

When to Consider 4K over TH671ST:

You prioritize ultimate image sharpness and detail.
You have a large screen 120+ inches where 4K resolution truly shines.
You want full HDR support for movies and compatible games.
Your budget allows for the upgrade.

The BenQ TH671ST isn’t trying to be the most advanced projector on the market.

Instead, it meticulously focuses on delivering an exceptional 1080p gaming and home entertainment experience within a specific budget and form factor.

Its strength lies in its focused excellence rather than broad, all-encompassing features.

Audio and Fan Noise: The Acoustic Experience

While projectors are primarily visual devices, the auditory experience plays a significant role in immersion.

This covers both the projector’s internal speaker and its operational fan noise. BenQ X3000i

Built-in Speaker: Good for Convenience, Not for Immersion

The BenQ TH671ST includes a 5W internal mono speaker.

Functionality: It’s there. It works.
Best Use Cases:
- Casual Viewing: Good for watching a quick YouTube video, a news broadcast, or for background audio where high fidelity isn’t critical.
- Temporary Setups: Useful when you’re setting up the projector in a new location or demonstrating it, and don’t have external audio hooked up.
- Portability: If you’re taking the projector to a friend’s house or using it outdoors for a casual movie night, the built-in speaker means one less piece of equipment to carry.
Limitations:
- Sound Quality: As expected from a small, single speaker, the audio is generally thin, lacks bass, and won’t offer any significant stereo separation or immersive qualities.
- Volume: While it can get reasonably loud, cranking up the volume can make the audio sound tinny or distorted.
Recommendation: For any serious gaming, movie watching, or sports viewing, always plan to connect to an external audio system. This is true for virtually any projector, not just the TH671ST. A decent soundbar, a set of powered speakers, or a full home theater receiver will elevate your experience exponentially. The 3.5mm audio out port makes this connection straightforward.

Fan Noise: An Unavoidable Companion

All projectors generate heat, and thus, require fans for cooling.

The noise produced by these fans can be a noticeable factor in your viewing experience. BenQ specifies the TH671ST’s noise levels as:

Normal Mode: 33 dBA
Eco Mode: 29 dBA
Understanding dBA:
- 30 dBA: Roughly equivalent to a whisper or a quiet rural area.
- 40 dBA: Similar to a quiet library or a refrigerator hum.
Real-World Experience:
- In Eco Mode 29 dBA, the fan noise is quite manageable and often fades into the background, especially once content with sound starts playing. It’s generally considered quiet for a projector in this class.
- In Normal Mode 33 dBA, it becomes more noticeable, particularly during quiet scenes in movies or lulls in gaming action. However, most users find it acceptable, especially if seated a few feet away from the projector and if the audio system is in use.
- Location Matters: Placing the projector closer to your seating position will make the fan noise more apparent. Using its short-throw capability to place it further away e.g., behind you on a shelf can help reduce its impact.
- Ambient Temperature: If your room is very warm or the projector is not well-ventilated, the fans might work harder, increasing noise levels.

Tips to Mitigate Fan Noise:

Use Eco Mode: If brightness isn’t an absolute necessity e.g., in a dark room, using Eco Mode significantly reduces fan noise and extends lamp life.
Optimize Placement: Position the projector as far from your seating area as practical, while still leveraging its short-throw benefits.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Give the projector ample space around its intake and exhaust vents. Don’t place it in enclosed spaces or against walls that block airflow.
Use External Audio: A good sound system will naturally mask the fan noise, allowing you to focus on the content.

While fan noise is an inherent characteristic of lamp-based projectors, the BenQ TH671ST’s noise levels are generally considered reasonable for its class, especially in Eco Mode.

By understanding its characteristics and taking simple steps, you can ensure the fan noise doesn’t detract from your immersive visual experience. BenQ HT4550i

Versatility Beyond Gaming: Movies, Sports, and Presentations

While the BenQ TH671ST is justly praised for its gaming prowess, to pigeonhole it solely as a “gaming projector” would be to miss out on its broader capabilities.

Its strengths translate well into a variety of home entertainment scenarios, making it a surprisingly versatile workhorse.

A Cinematic Experience for Movie Buffs

The TH671ST, despite its gaming focus, excels at delivering a compelling movie-watching experience, especially when paired with a good sound system.

Full HD Clarity: With native 1080p resolution, Blu-ray movies and high-definition streaming content look crisp and detailed on a large screen. You get that immersive, cinematic feeling without the need for a 4K source.
Vibrant Colors Rec. 709: The Rec. 709 color standard ensures that movies are displayed with accurate and natural colors, respecting the director’s artistic intent. Colors pop without being oversaturated.
Brightness for Ambient Light: The 3200 ANSI lumens mean you don’t necessarily need a pitch-black room for a satisfying movie night. While darker is always better for contrast, it handles some ambient light much better than dimmer projectors, making it suitable for casual family viewing in a living room.
Large Image Immersion: The short-throw capability means you can easily project a 100-inch or even 120-inch image, truly transforming your room into a home cinema. This scale is something no TV can easily replicate at this price point.

Recommendation for Movies: Switch to “Cinema Mode” or “User Mode” and fine-tune contrast and brightness to your preference. While it lacks true HDR, the dynamic contrast helps to enhance black levels and overall image depth.

Bringing the Stadium Home for Sports Fans

Sports enthusiasts will find the TH671ST a fantastic companion for live events.

Large, Engaging Screen: There’s nothing quite like watching a football game or a basketball match on a giant screen. The sheer scale makes you feel like you’re right there in the stadium.
Bright Image: Given that many sports events are watched during the day or with some room lighting, the high brightness of the TH671ST ensures that the action remains clear and vibrant even with ambient light present.

More Than Just Entertainment: Presentations and Casual Use

Beyond gaming and movies, the TH671ST can easily double as a capable presentation tool or for other casual uses.

Clear Text and Graphics: The 1080p resolution is more than sufficient for displaying clear text, spreadsheets, and graphics from a laptop or PC, making it suitable for home office presentations or remote work sessions.
Easy Setup: Its portability and short-throw nature make it easy to set up for impromptu presentations in various rooms or even outdoors for a backyard movie night.
Educational Content: For homeschooling, online courses, or educational videos, projecting content onto a large screen can be more engaging and easier on the eyes than a smaller monitor.
Digital Art Display: If you’re into digital art or photography, the projector can be a unique way to display your work on a grand scale for friends and family.

Considerations:

No Smart TV Features: The TH671ST is a projector, not a smart TV. You’ll need external devices streaming sticks, consoles, Blu-ray players to access content. This is a common design choice for projectors focused on raw performance rather than integrated smart features.
No Vertical Lens Shift: While it has keystone correction, it lacks vertical lens shift, which is a more advanced feature found on higher-end projectors that allows for image adjustment without distorting the picture. This means precise physical placement is more important.

In summary, while the BenQ TH671ST’s gaming credentials are its headline feature, its excellent 1080p picture quality, high brightness, and practical short-throw design make it a highly versatile home entertainment projector capable of delivering an outstanding experience for movies, sports, and even productivity tasks.

It offers significant value for anyone looking to transform their living space into a truly immersive viewing arena.

Potential Downsides and Considerations Before Buying

No product is perfect, and the BenQ TH671ST, while excellent in its niche, has a few aspects that might be deal-breakers for some users. Eero 6+

Understanding these limitations is key to making an informed purchasing decision.

Lack of True HDR Support

One of the most significant omissions for some modern viewers is the absence of true HDR High Dynamic Range support.

What HDR Does: HDR significantly expands the range of brightness and color that a display can produce, leading to more lifelike images with brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and a wider, more nuanced color palette.
TH671ST’s Limitation: The TH671ST processes a standard dynamic range SDR signal and uses Rec. 709 color. While it produces vibrant and accurate colors within that standard, it cannot display the expanded color gamut or dynamic range of HDR content.
Impact: If you’re used to watching HDR content on a modern 4K HDR TV, you will notice a difference. Scenes with extreme contrast e.g., bright explosions against a dark night sky won’t have the same punch or detail in the highlights and shadows that a true HDR projector or TV would offer.
Consideration: For a 1080p projector at this price point, HDR support is often rare or implemented superficially. If true HDR is a must-have, you’ll need to look at higher-priced 4K projectors that explicitly state robust HDR performance e.g., HDR10, HLG support with tone mapping.

No Lens Shift

The BenQ TH671ST relies solely on digital keystone correction for image geometry adjustments, lacking optical lens shift.

What is Lens Shift? Optical lens shift allows you to physically move the projected image up/down or left/right without moving the projector itself or introducing any digital distortion. It’s a premium feature that offers significant flexibility in projector placement.
TH671ST’s Limitation: Without lens shift, you need to be more precise with your projector’s physical placement. The projector must be directly perpendicular to the center of your screen or slightly above/below it for vertical keystone.
Impact of Keystone Correction: While useful, digital keystone correction works by compressing and stretching pixels, which can subtly reduce image sharpness, especially with fine text or intricate details. The more correction applied, the more potential for image degradation.
Consideration: For most short-throw setups, this isn’t a huge problem. You can often place the TH671ST on a coffee table or a low stand directly in front of the screen. However, if you have a very specific, challenging placement scenario e.g., off-center, or needing a specific ceiling mount height, the lack of lens shift might require more careful planning or a different projector.

Lamp-Based Light Source and associated costs/maintenance

As discussed in the maintenance section, the TH671ST uses a traditional lamp, which has a finite life and replacement costs.

Limited Lifespan: While 8,000 to 10,000 hours in Eco/SmartEco mode is good, it’s still a finite number. Laser and LED projectors offer 20,000+ hours, often lasting the lifetime of the projector without needing replacement.
Brightness Degradation: Lamps gradually dim over time, meaning the image will be less bright after a few thousand hours compared to when it was new. Laser/LED light sources maintain brightness more consistently.
Heat and Noise: Lamps generate more heat than LEDs or lasers, necessitating robust cooling fans which produce noise.
Replacement Costs: Factor in the cost of a replacement lamp every few years typically $150-$300.
Consideration: If you plan to use the projector for many hours daily or want a truly maintenance-free experience, a laser or LED projector like the LG HU810PW 4K UHD Projector or AWOL Vision LTV-2500 UST Projector would be a better, albeit significantly more expensive, long-term investment. For typical home use a few hours a day, the lamp life of the TH671ST is perfectly acceptable.

No Built-in Smart Features or Wi-Fi

The TH671ST is a “dumb” projector in the best sense of the word. It’s designed to project, not to be a smart hub.

What It Lacks: No built-in streaming apps Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, no integrated Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth audio, no native casting capabilities.
Impact: You’ll need external devices for all your content. This means plugging in a streaming stick Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, a gaming console, or a Blu-ray player.
Consideration: This isn’t necessarily a downside for everyone. Many users prefer external streaming devices anyway, as they offer more flexibility and are easily upgradeable. It means the projector focuses on its core job – projecting a high-quality image with low input lag – without the added complexity and potential obsolescence of integrated smart features. It also means you need enough HDMI ports for all your devices it has two, which is usually sufficient.

In summary, the BenQ TH671ST is a specialist.

It sacrifices some modern conveniences and cutting-edge features like true HDR or native 4K to deliver exceptional performance where it counts: low input lag, bright 1080p visuals, and practical short-throw placement.

For the right user – particularly a gamer in a smaller living space – these trade-offs are more than justified by its focused excellence and accessible price point.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BenQ TH671ST primarily used for?

The BenQ TH671ST is primarily used for gaming and home entertainment, particularly in smaller spaces due to its short-throw capability and ultra-low input lag. Contabo Vps Pricing

Is the BenQ TH671ST a 4K projector?

No, the BenQ TH671ST is not a 4K projector. it has a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 Full HD 1080p.

What is the input lag of the BenQ TH671ST?

The BenQ TH671ST boasts an impressively low input lag of 16.67ms at 1080p/60Hz, making it excellent for gaming.

What is “short throw” on a projector?

“Short throw” means the projector can produce a large image from a very short distance from the screen or wall. The TH671ST’s throw ratio is 0.69 – 0.83:1.

How bright is the BenQ TH671ST?

The BenQ TH671ST has a brightness of 3200 ANSI Lumens, making it suitable for viewing in rooms with some ambient light.

Does the BenQ TH671ST support HDR?

No, the BenQ TH671ST does not support HDR High Dynamic Range. It operates within the Rec. 709 color standard.

What is the contrast ratio of the BenQ TH671ST?

The BenQ TH671ST has a dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000:1.

What kind of light source does the BenQ TH671ST use?

The BenQ TH671ST uses a traditional UHP Ultra High Performance lamp as its light source.

What is the lamp life of the BenQ TH671ST?

The lamp life of the BenQ TH671ST is up to 4,000 hours in Normal mode, 8,000 hours in Eco mode, and 10,000 hours in SmartEco mode.

How do I replace the lamp on the BenQ TH671ST?

To replace the lamp, first unplug the projector and let it cool.

Then, locate and unscrew the lamp cover, gently remove the old lamp module, insert the new one, secure the cover, and finally, reset the lamp timer in the projector’s menu. Best Dust Mite Mattress Protector

Does the BenQ TH671ST have built-in speakers?

Yes, the BenQ TH671ST has a built-in 5W mono speaker, suitable for casual listening but external audio is recommended for immersion.

Can I connect a soundbar to the BenQ TH671ST?

Yes, you can connect a soundbar or external speakers to the BenQ TH671ST via its 3.5mm audio out jack.

What are the main connectivity options on the BenQ TH671ST?

The main connectivity options include two HDMI ports one with MHL support, a VGA port, 3.5mm audio in/out, and a USB Type-A port for power.

Does the BenQ TH671ST have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?

No, the BenQ TH671ST does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities. You will need external devices for smart features.

Can the BenQ TH671ST be ceiling mounted?

Yes, the BenQ TH671ST can be ceiling mounted, though you may need a specific short-throw mount. Ensure proper alignment as it lacks lens shift.

Does the BenQ TH671ST have lens shift?

No, the BenQ TH671ST does not have optical lens shift. It relies on digital vertical keystone correction.

What is the fan noise level of the BenQ TH671ST?

The fan noise level is 33 dBA in Normal mode and 29 dBA in Eco mode.

Is the BenQ TH671ST good for watching movies?

Yes, despite its gaming focus, the BenQ TH671ST is good for watching movies due to its 1080p resolution, accurate Rec. 709 colors, and bright image.

Can I use the BenQ TH671ST for presentations?

Yes, the BenQ TH671ST can be effectively used for presentations thanks to its clear 1080p resolution and high brightness.

What kind of screen is best for the BenQ TH671ST?

A white or grey projection screen is generally best. For ambient light, an ambient light rejecting ALR screen can further enhance contrast. Best Prm

How big of an image can the BenQ TH671ST project?

The BenQ TH671ST can project a large image, often 100 inches diagonal from just 6.5-7.8 feet away, and even larger depending on distance.

Does the BenQ TH671ST have a zoom feature?

Yes, the BenQ TH671ST has a 1.2x optical zoom to adjust image size without moving the projector significantly.

What is the recommended viewing distance for the BenQ TH671ST?

For a 100-inch screen, a comfortable viewing distance is typically 10-12 feet, but personal preference and room size vary.

Is the BenQ TH671ST good for outdoor use?

While its brightness helps, the BenQ TH671ST is best suited for indoor use or outdoor use at night, as direct sunlight will wash out the image.

How does the BenQ TH671ST compare to the Optoma GT1080HDR?

Both are excellent 1080p short-throw gaming projectors.

The Optoma GT1080HDR often has higher brightness and claims HDR support, while the BenQ TH671ST is known for its consistent low input lag and can be a more budget-friendly option.

What is SmartEco mode on the BenQ TH671ST?

SmartEco mode dynamically adjusts the lamp power based on the content, dimming for dark scenes and brightening for light ones, to maximize lamp life and improve contrast.

Can I connect my gaming console PS5, Xbox Series X/S to the BenQ TH671ST?

Yes, you can connect modern gaming consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S via HDMI. The projector will display them at 1080p.

Does the BenQ TH671ST require a dedicated dark room?

No, while a dark room always provides the best contrast, the BenQ TH671ST’s 3200 ANSI Lumens allow for enjoyable viewing in rooms with some ambient light.

What maintenance does the BenQ TH671ST require?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the exterior, ensuring good ventilation, and eventual lamp replacement after thousands of hours of use. Translation Programs Free

Is the BenQ TH671ST a good value for money?

Yes, for its combination of low input lag, high brightness, 1080p resolution, and short-throw capability at its price point, the BenQ TH671ST is considered an excellent value, especially for gamers.

Screen Size Diagonal	Projection Distance Approx.
60 inches	3.9 – 4.7 feet
80 inches	5.2 – 6.2 feet
100 inches	6.5 – 7.8 feet
120 inches	7.8 – 9.4 feet

BenQ TH671ST