BenQ HT4550i

The BenQ HT4550i is a high-performance 4K LED home theater projector designed to deliver an immersive cinematic experience with exceptional color accuracy and brightness.

This model stands out for its 4K UHD resolution, HDR-PRO technology, and the inclusion of an Android TV dongle, making it a comprehensive solution for movie buffs and serious home theater enthusiasts looking for plug-and-play smart functionality.

Unlike many projectors that might compromise on color fidelity for brightness, the HT4550i leverages BenQ’s expertise to provide a balanced image with stunning detail and vibrant, true-to-life colors, suitable for dedicated dark rooms or spaces with some ambient light.

It’s built for those who appreciate the nuances of visual quality, aiming to reproduce content as the creators intended.

Feature / Product	BenQ HT4550i	Epson Home Cinema 5050UBe	Sony VPL-XW5000ES	LG HU810PW	Optoma CinemaX D2 Plus	JVC DLA-NP5	XGIMI Horizon Pro
Projection Technology	LED RGBB	3LCD	SXRD Laser	DLP Laser	DLP Laser UST	D-ILA Lamp	DLP LED
Resolution	True 4K UHD 3840×2160	4K PRO-UHD pixel shifting	Native 4K 3840×2160	True 4K UHD 3840×2160	True 4K UHD 3840×2160	Native 4K 4096×2160	True 4K UHD 3840×2160
Brightness Lumens	2200 ANSI	2600 ANSI	2000 ANSI	2700 ANSI	3000 ANSI	1900 ANSI	2200 ANSI
Light Source Life Hours	20,000 Normal	5,000 Lamp	20,000	20,000	30,000	4,500 Lamp	25,000
HDR Support	HDR10, HLG HDR-PRO	HDR10, HLG	HDR10, HLG	HDR10, HLG	HDR10, HLG	HDR10, HLG	HDR10, HLG
Smart Features	Android TV Dongle	No external device needed	No external device needed	webOS Smart TV	Android TV	No external device needed	Android TV
Lens Shift	Vertical ±60%, Horizontal ±23%	Vertical ±96%, Horizontal ±47%	Vertical ±80%, Horizontal ±31%	Vertical ±60%, Horizontal ±24%	No UST	Vertical ±80%, Horizontal ±34%	No
Throw Ratio	1.15-1.50 100″ @ 7.5-9.8 ft	1.35-2.84	1.35-2.06	1.52-2.92	0.25 UST	1.40-2.80	1.2:1
Key Selling Point	Excellent color accuracy, smart features	Bright, flexible placement, strong black levels	True native 4K, laser, premium image	Hybrid laser, smart TV, versatile	Ultra-short throw, big image in small space	Ultimate contrast, native 4K, cinema-grade	Portable, auto-correction, smart features

Unpacking the BenQ HT4550i: A Deep Dive into Home Theater Excellence

Alright, let’s talk about the BenQ HT4550i. If you’re anything like me, you’re not just looking for a projector. you’re looking for an experience. You want to transform your living room, or even a dedicated media cave, into a proper cinema. The HT4550i is BenQ’s latest play in the 4K home theater space, bringing some serious firepower to the table. This isn’t just about throwing a big image on a wall. it’s about precision, color fidelity, and ease of use. Think of it as that critical piece of gear that lets you actually see what the director intended, without needing to take out a second mortgage.

The Heart of the Beast: LED Light Source and True 4K UHD

This is where the HT4550i starts to differentiate itself. We’re talking about an LED light source, not your traditional lamp or even a full laser. What does that mean for you?

• Longevity, Seriously: Lamps burn out. They degrade. Lasers are better, but LEDs? We’re talking about 20,000 hours in normal mode. That’s like watching a 2-hour movie every single day for over 27 years before you even think about a replacement. This practically makes it a set-it-and-forget-it component. No more lamp replacement anxiety.
• Instant On/Off: Remember those old projectors that took forever to warm up and cool down? That’s ancient history. LEDs are pretty much instant. You hit the power button, and you’re watching. You hit it again, and it’s off. No waiting around. This is a subtle but significant quality-of-life improvement.
• Consistent Brightness and Color: Unlike lamps that dim and shift color over their lifespan, LEDs maintain their brightness and color accuracy much more consistently. This means your picture looks great day one, and it looks great five years from now.

Color Accuracy and HDR-PRO Technology: Seeing What the Director Intended

BenQ has always prided itself on color accuracy, and the HT4550i doubles down on this. This isn’t just about “vibrant” colors. it’s about accurate colors.

• 95% Rec.709 and 100% DCI-P3 Coverage: For film enthusiasts, this is the money shot. Rec.709 is the standard for HDTV and Blu-ray, while DCI-P3 is the color space used in digital cinema and many 4K HDR productions. Achieving 100% DCI-P3 coverage means the HT4550i can reproduce the vast majority of colors found in modern cinematic content. This translates to incredibly rich, saturated colors that are true to life, from deep reds to vibrant blues and nuanced greens. You’re not just getting a pretty picture. you’re getting a correct picture.
• BenQ’s HDR-PRO Technology: HDR High Dynamic Range is crucial for modern content, delivering brighter whites, deeper blacks, and more nuanced details in both highlights and shadows. BenQ’s HDR-PRO isn’t just about decoding HDR. it’s about optimizing it for projector output.
  • Local Contrast Enhancer: This feature divides the image into over 1,000 zones and analyzes the brightness of each zone to adjust contrast dynamically. The goal is to bring out more detail in dark scenes without crushing blacks and to prevent highlights from blowing out. It’s like having a smart dimming system for your projector, enhancing the perception of depth and realism.
  • Dynamic Tone Mapping: HDR content is mastered at different brightness levels, and a projector has a much lower peak brightness than an HDR TV. Dynamic tone mapping intelligently adjusts the HDR metadata frame by frame, or even scene by scene, to ensure that the projector can display the full range of detail without clipping bright areas or losing information in shadows. This means you get a more consistent and impactful HDR experience, regardless of the content’s original mastering.
• Factory Calibrated for Delta E < 2: For the uninitiated, Delta E is a metric for color difference. A Delta E of less than 2 is considered excellent, meaning the human eye can barely perceive any deviation from the target color. The fact that each HT4550i is individually factory calibrated to this standard right out of the box is a massive win. It means you don’t necessarily need professional calibration to get stunningly accurate colors. Just plug it in, and you’re largely good to go.

Installation Flexibility: Making It Fit Your Space

One of the biggest headaches with projectors can be getting them set up correctly in your room.

The HT4550i offers features that make this process significantly less painful.

• 1.3x Zoom Lens: This isn’t just a minor tweak. it’s a must for placement. A 1.3x zoom allows you to project a 100-inch image from approximately 7.5 to 9.8 feet away. This flexibility means you have a wider range of distances from your screen where you can place the projector, making it easier to integrate into existing room layouts.
• Vertical and Horizontal Lens Shift: This is another premium feature that saves you from awkward ceiling mounts or wonky placement. The HT4550i offers vertical lens shift of ±60% and horizontal lens shift of ±23%. What does this mean in plain English? You can physically move the projected image up, down, left, or right without tilting the projector. Tilting a projector requires digital keystone correction, which can degrade image quality. Lens shift keeps the image perfectly rectangular and sharp across the entire screen. This is crucial for optimal image quality and simplifies installation immensely.
• Digital Keystone Correction: While lens shift is preferred, the HT4550i also includes 2D Digital Keystone Correction Vertical ±30 degrees, Horizontal ±30 degrees. This is useful for minor adjustments or if you have to place the projector at an angle. Just remember, use lens shift first, as digital keystone can introduce slight pixel scaling artifacts.
• Quiet Operation: A projector buzzing away in the background can ruin the immersion. The HT4550i is designed with efficient cooling, resulting in a relatively quiet operation, especially in Eco mode. This allows you to focus on the movie’s soundtrack, not the projector’s fan.

Smart Features and Connectivity: More Than Just a Projector

The “i” in HT4550i stands for “intelligent,” and that’s thanks to its integrated smart capabilities.

• Google-Certified Android TV Dongle: This is a huge convenience. The HT4550i comes with a QS02 Android TV dongle that slots neatly into a hidden compartment. This means you get full access to the Google Play Store, allowing you to download and stream directly from apps like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, and thousands more. No need for an external streaming stick taking up an HDMI port.
  • Built-in Chromecast: Cast content directly from your phone, tablet, or laptop to the projector.
  • Google Assistant: Use voice commands to search for content, control playback, and even control smart home devices.
• Extensive Connectivity: The HT4550i is well-equipped for your home theater setup.
  • Two HDMI 2.0b ports: Capable of handling 4K HDR signals. One port also supports eARC/ARC for sending audio back to a soundbar or AV receiver.
  • USB-A ports: For media playback from external drives or powering accessories.
  • S/PDIF Optical audio output: For connecting to older audio systems.
  • 12V Trigger: This is a pro-level feature. Connect it to a motorized screen, and the screen will automatically deploy or retract when you turn the projector on or off. It’s a small detail that adds a lot to the “cinema experience.”
  • RS232: For integration into advanced home automation systems.
• Input Lag for Gaming: While primarily a home theater projector, the HT4550i offers a respectable input lag. In 4K/60Hz, it’s around 20ms, and in 1080p/120Hz, it drops to about 8ms. This isn’t professional gaming monitor territory, but it’s more than adequate for casual to serious console gaming where responsiveness is appreciated without sacrificing image quality.

Audio: The Often Overlooked Component

While serious home theater enthusiasts will almost certainly use an external sound system, BenQ hasn’t completely neglected the audio on the HT4550i.

• Built-in treVolo Stereo Speakers: The projector features two 5W treVolo stereo speakers. These aren’t going to rattle your walls, but they are perfectly adequate for casual viewing, outdoor movie nights, or if you’re just getting started and don’t have a dedicated sound system yet. They offer clear dialogue and a decent soundstage for their size.
• Audio Output Options: For a proper cinematic experience, you’ll want external audio. The HT4550i provides:
  • HDMI eARC/ARC: For sending high-quality audio back to a compatible soundbar or AV receiver.
  • Optical S/PDIF: For connecting to older audio systems.
  • 3.5mm audio jack: For headphones or basic external speakers.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios: Brightness, Contrast, and Black Levels

Let’s cut to the chase: how does it actually perform when the lights go down?

• Brightness: Rated at 2200 ANSI lumens, the HT4550i is bright enough for dedicated dark rooms and can even contend with some ambient light, especially with proper screen choice. For HDR content, that brightness is crucial for impactful highlights.
• Contrast and Black Levels: This is often the Achilles’ heel of projectors. While the HT4550i isn’t a native 4K D-ILA or SXRD projector which excel in this area, its LED light source and dynamic contrast features help improve perceived contrast. The Local Contrast Enhancer works to deepen blacks and add pop to highlights. In a fully dark room, you’ll get satisfying black levels, but don’t expect the inky blacks of an OLED TV. For a DLP projector in this class, it performs admirably.

The BenQ HT4550i vs. The Competition: Why Choose This One?

When you’re looking at projectors in this price and performance bracket, you’ve got options. So, why would you lean into the BenQ HT4550i? Eero 6+

• Epson Home Cinema 5050UBe: This is a long-standing favorite. The Epson uses 3LCD technology, which is known for excellent color brightness and strong black levels. It also has incredible lens shift flexibility. However, it’s lamp-based meaning lamp replacements and uses pixel shifting for 4K rather than true 4K like the BenQ. The HT4550i’s LED longevity and true 4K are compelling counterpoints.
• Sony VPL-XW5000ES and JVC DLA-NP5: These are the kings of contrast and native 4K. They offer unparalleled black levels and resolution, but they also come with a significantly higher price tag. The Sony is laser-based, offering longevity, while the JVC is lamp-based. The HT4550i aims to provide a taste of that premium experience at a fraction of the cost, making it a compelling alternative for many.
• LG HU810PW: This LG model also offers 4K UHD, a laser light source hybrid, and LG’s excellent webOS smart platform. It’s a strong contender, but the BenQ often gets the nod for pure color accuracy and picture quality in a dark room. The LG is very versatile for mixed-use environments.
• Optoma CinemaX D2 Plus: This is an ultra-short throw UST projector. If you want a giant image right up against the wall and don’t want a ceiling mount, a UST is your answer. The Optoma offers 4K and a laser light source. However, it’s a completely different category of projector with different placement considerations and typically requires a specific UST-ALR screen for best results. The HT4550i is a traditional long-throw projector, more suited for dedicated theater rooms or flexible ceiling/table mounting.
• XGIMI Horizon Pro: This is more of a portable or “lifestyle” 4K projector. It offers Android TV, auto-keystone, and auto-focus, making it incredibly easy to set up anywhere. While it’s 4K, its brightness and image quality won’t match the dedicated home theater performance of the HT4550i. It’s a great option for flexibility. the BenQ is for dedicated quality.

The BenQ HT4550i carves out its niche by offering true 4K resolution, an incredibly long-lasting LED light source, exceptional out-of-the-box color accuracy especially DCI-P3 coverage, sophisticated HDR-PRO processing, and the convenience of integrated Android TV, all wrapped up with solid installation flexibility.

It’s a compelling package for anyone serious about home theater without venturing into the ultra-high-end price brackets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BenQ HT4550i?

The BenQ HT4550i is a 4K UHD LED home theater projector designed to deliver a high-quality cinematic experience with excellent color accuracy and smart features.

Is the BenQ HT4550i a true 4K projector?

Yes, the BenQ HT4550i uses a 0.65-inch Texas Instruments DMD chip to display 8.3 million distinct pixels, qualifying it as a true 4K UHD 3840×2160 projector.

What type of light source does the BenQ HT4550i use?

The BenQ HT4550i uses an LED RGBB light source, offering long life and consistent performance.

How long does the LED light source last on the BenQ HT4550i?

The LED light source on the BenQ HT4550i is rated for up to 20,000 hours in normal mode, and up to 30,000 hours in Eco mode.

Does the HT4550i support HDR?

Yes, the BenQ HT4550i supports HDR10 and HLG Hybrid Log-Gamma formats, enhanced by BenQ’s proprietary HDR-PRO technology with Local Contrast Enhancer and Dynamic Tone Mapping.

What is HDR-PRO technology?

HDR-PRO is BenQ’s optimized HDR technology that utilizes features like Local Contrast Enhancer analyzes over 1,000 image zones for dynamic contrast and Dynamic Tone Mapping adjusts HDR metadata scene-by-scene to improve HDR performance on a projector.

What color gamut does the BenQ HT4550i cover?

The HT4550i covers 100% of the Rec.709 color space and 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, ensuring accurate and vibrant colors for cinematic content.

Is the BenQ HT4550i factory calibrated?

Yes, each BenQ HT4550i projector is individually factory calibrated to achieve a Delta E color difference of less than 2, ensuring high color accuracy out of the box. Contabo Vps Pricing

Does the BenQ HT4550i have smart features?

Yes, it comes with a Google-certified QS02 Android TV dongle, providing access to streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, as well as built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant.

Can I stream Netflix directly on the BenQ HT4550i?

Yes, with the included Android TV dongle, you can download and stream Netflix and other services directly from the Google Play Store.

What is the brightness of the BenQ HT4550i?

The BenQ HT4550i has a brightness of 2200 ANSI lumens.

Does the HT4550i have lens shift?

Yes, it features vertical lens shift of ±60% and horizontal lens shift of ±23%, allowing for flexible installation without picture distortion.

What is the throw ratio of the BenQ HT4550i?

The throw ratio is 1.15-1.50, meaning it can project a 100-inch image from approximately 7.5 to 9.8 feet away.

What kind of zoom does it have?

It features a 1.3x optical zoom lens for flexibility in placement.

What is the input lag of the BenQ HT4550i for gaming?

The input lag is approximately 20ms at 4K/60Hz and around 8ms at 1080p/120Hz, making it suitable for casual to serious gaming.

Does the BenQ HT4550i have built-in speakers?

Yes, it has two built-in 5W treVolo stereo speakers.

What audio output options does the HT4550i offer?

It offers HDMI eARC/ARC, S/PDIF optical, and a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting external audio systems.

What connectivity ports does the BenQ HT4550i have?

It includes two HDMI 2.0b ports one with eARC/ARC, USB-A ports, S/PDIF, 12V trigger, and RS232. Best Dust Mite Mattress Protector

Is the BenQ HT4550i quiet?

The HT4550i is designed for quiet operation, especially in Eco mode, to minimize fan noise during viewing.

Can the BenQ HT4550i be ceiling mounted?

Yes, its design and lens shift features make it suitable for ceiling mounting.

Does the HT4550i support 3D content?

Yes, the BenQ HT4550i supports 3D content.

You will need compatible DLP-Link 3D glasses sold separately.

What is the recommended screen size for the BenQ HT4550i?

While it can project very large images, typical recommended screen sizes for optimal 4K viewing range from 100 to 150 inches, depending on room size and viewing distance.

How does the LED light source compare to a laser light source?

LED light sources offer similar longevity to lasers but typically at a lower cost, often providing excellent color performance.

Lasers can sometimes achieve higher brightness and more consistent uniformity across the image.

Is the HT4550i good for bright rooms?

While it has 2200 ANSI lumens, for the best performance, especially with HDR content, a dark room or a room with controlled ambient light is recommended.

An ALR Ambient Light Rejecting screen can also significantly improve performance in brighter environments.

Does the HT4550i have auto-focus or auto-keystone?

It has 2D Digital Keystone Correction Vertical ±30 degrees, Horizontal ±30 degrees for minor adjustments, but it does not feature automatic focus or keystone. Manual focus is standard. Best Prm

What is the contrast ratio of the BenQ HT4550i?

The native contrast ratio for DLP projectors is typically lower than other technologies, but the HT4550i’s dynamic contrast features and LED light source contribute to a perceived dynamic contrast ratio of 500,000:1 with Dynamic Black enabled.

Does the BenQ HT4550i require an external media player?

No, with the included Android TV dongle, it functions as a smart projector, allowing direct streaming from many popular apps without the need for an external media player.

Can I connect a soundbar to the BenQ HT4550i?

Yes, you can connect a soundbar via the HDMI eARC/ARC port, the optical S/PDIF output, or the 3.5mm audio jack.

What is the warranty for the BenQ HT4550i?

BenQ typically offers a 3-year limited parts and labor warranty for their home theater projectors in the US, but it’s always best to check the specific warranty terms at the time of purchase.

Is the HT4550i suitable for professional calibration?

Yes, while factory calibrated, the HT4550i offers extensive calibration controls, making it suitable for professional calibration to optimize it for specific room conditions and screens.