Benq Th690St Review

Updated on

The BenQ TH690ST stands out as a compelling option for anyone looking to bring the big screen experience home, especially if you’re into gaming or movies in a more compact space. This short-throw projector delivers a vibrant 1080p picture with impressive brightness and color accuracy, making it a strong contender in its price bracket. What really sets it apart is its low input lag, which is a critical feature for gamers, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience without noticeable delays. Beyond gaming, its ability to project a large image from a short distance is a must for smaller living rooms or dedicated media spaces, eliminating the need for extensive setup or a cavernous room.

It’s not just about the technical specs.

The TH690ST offers a balanced performance that appeals to both casual users and enthusiasts.

While it might not have the native 4K resolution of some higher-end models, its enhanced 1080p output and HDR compatibility ensure that content looks crisp and dynamic.

The projector also boasts a durable LED light source, promising years of maintenance-free operation compared to traditional lamp-based projectors.

0.0
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Benq Th690St Review
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

For those prioritizing a bright, colorful, and responsive projection solution without breaking the bank, the BenQ TH690ST presents a very strong case.

Product Resolution Brightness ANSI Lumens Contrast Ratio Light Source Type Price Range USD Key Feature
BenQ TH690ST 1080p Native 2300 50,000:1 LED $1000 – $1200 Low Input Lag, Short-Throw
Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 1080p Native 1000 2,500,000:1 Laser $900 – $1100 Android TV Built-in, Yamaha Audio
Optoma GT1090HDR 1080p Native 4200 300,000:1 Laser $1200 – $1400 High Brightness, Ultra-Short Throw
XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K Native 2200 Not Specified LED $1500 – $1800 4K Resolution, Harman Kardon Audio
LG CineBeam HU70LA 4K Native 1500 150,000:1 4-Channel LED $1500 – $1700 4K UHD, TruMotion, webOS
ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K Native 3200 12,000:1 Lamp $800 – $1000 High Brightness, Gaming Mode
Samsung The Freestyle 1080p Native 550 300:1 LED $600 – $800 Portable, Smart TV Features

Amazon

Table of Contents

Picture Quality and Performance: A Deep Dive into Visual Fidelity

When you’re shelling out for a projector, the picture quality is paramount, right? The BenQ TH690ST really delivers here, especially for its price point. It’s pushing a native 1080p resolution, which means you’re getting crisp, clear images without any upscaling trickery. For most home entertainment setups, 1080p is more than sufficient, offering a rich visual experience that’s a significant step up from standard definition.

Resolution and Clarity: The 1080p Advantage

While some projectors might boast 4K, the TH690ST’s 1080p is still a sweet spot.

Think of it this way: for screen sizes that most people can accommodate in their homes say, up to 120 inches, the difference between a high-quality 1080p image and native 4K can be surprisingly subtle to the average viewer, especially if you’re not sitting ridiculously close.

What the TH690ST does well is making every pixel count.

  • Sharpness: Text is readable, and fine details in movies and games are noticeable. You won’t see fuzzy edges unless the source material is poor.
  • No Pixelation: At typical viewing distances, you won’t discern individual pixels, which contributes to a more immersive experience.
  • Optimal for Gaming Consoles: Current-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X often target 1080p at higher frame rates, making the TH690ST a perfect match for their output.

Brightness and Contrast: Punching Above Its Weight

The TH690ST clocks in at 2300 ANSI Lumens, which is a respectable figure for a home theater projector. This means it can stand up to some ambient light, although, like all projectors, it performs best in a darker room. Dark Matter Hyper K Ultralight Wireless Gaming Mouse Review

  • Ambient Light Performance: You don’t need a pitch-black cave to enjoy this projector. While darker is always better, some diffused light won’t completely wash out the image. This is a huge win for living rooms that aren’t dedicated home theaters.
  • HDR Compatibility: It supports HDR10 and HLG, which means you’re getting a wider dynamic range and more vibrant colors from compatible content. This isn’t just a buzzword. HDR content truly pops with deeper blacks and brighter whites, making movies feel more cinematic.
  • Contrast Ratio 50,000:1: This impressive static contrast ratio ensures that shadows have depth and highlights are brilliant, avoiding that washed-out look. Dynamic contrast modes can further enhance this, adapting the light output scene by scene.
Feature BenQ TH690ST Performance User Impact
Resolution Native 1080p Sharp images, ideal for most home viewing
Brightness 2300 ANSI Lumens Good for rooms with some ambient light
Contrast 50,000:1 Deep blacks, vivid whites, good image depth
HDR Support HDR10, HLG More vibrant colors, better dynamic range
Color Accuracy 98% Rec.709 True-to-life colors, great for movies

Color Reproduction: A Feast for Your Eyes

BenQ has a reputation for excellent color accuracy, and the TH690ST doesn’t disappoint. It boasts 98% Rec.709 color gamut coverage, which is the standard for HDTVs and Blu-ray content.

  • Factory Calibration: BenQ often factory calibrates their projectors, meaning you get great color right out of the box without needing to tweak settings extensively.
  • Color Wheel Optimization: The internal color wheel design is optimized to produce a wide array of accurate colors, crucial for a truly immersive visual experience.

Gaming Features: Low Latency, High Thrills

If you’re a gamer, you know that input lag can make or break an experience. The BenQ TH690ST is specifically designed with gamers in mind, offering features that give you a competitive edge. This isn’t just a projector that can game. it’s a projector that’s built for gaming.

Input Lag: A Gamer’s Best Friend

This is where the TH690ST truly shines.

It boasts incredibly low input lag, making it one of the best projectors in its class for responsive gaming.

  • 4K@60Hz: 16.7ms input lag
  • 1080p@60Hz: 16.7ms input lag
  • 1080p@120Hz: 8.3ms input lag

These numbers are fantastic. Samsung 77 Inch S95C Oled Tv Review

For context, anything under 30ms is generally considered good for gaming, and under 20ms is excellent.

The TH690ST’s performance puts it squarely in the “excellent” category, comparable to many gaming monitors.

  • Competitive Edge: In competitive multiplayer games, even milliseconds can matter. The TH690ST ensures you’re not held back by your display.
  • No Motion Blur: Coupled with its fast refresh rates, you’ll experience minimal motion blur, keeping fast-moving action clear and crisp.

High Refresh Rates: Smooth Motion

While it’s primarily a 1080p projector, the ability to handle 1080p at 120Hz is a significant boon for PC gamers.

  • PC Gaming: Many PC games can run at frame rates exceeding 60fps, and the TH690ST can take advantage of that, providing buttery-smooth motion.
  • Console Gaming: While current-gen consoles generally target 60fps or 120fps in performance modes, the projector’s ability to maintain low input lag at these rates is what truly matters.
  • Reduced Stutter: High refresh rates, combined with low input lag, drastically reduce screen stutter and tearing, leading to a much more fluid visual experience.

Game Modes: Optimized Visuals

The TH690ST typically includes dedicated “Game” picture modes that optimize the projector’s settings for gaming.

  • Brightness and Contrast Adjustments: These modes often boost brightness and contrast to make details in dark areas more visible, crucial for spotting enemies in dimly lit game environments.
  • Color Profile: Some game modes might tweak the color profile to be more vibrant or to highlight specific elements, though for the best visual fidelity, you might stick with standard modes for cinematic games.
  • Minimal Processing: Game modes generally prioritize speed over image processing, further contributing to the low input lag.

| Gaming Feature | BenQ TH690ST Advantage | Benefit for Gamers |
| Input Lag | As low as 8.3ms 1080p/120Hz | Immediate response, competitive edge |
| Refresh Rate | 1080p @ 120Hz support | Smooth motion, reduced stutter |
| Game Modes | Pre-optimized picture settings | Enhanced visibility and responsiveness |
| HDR Support | HDR10 & HLG for gaming | More immersive visuals with wider color gamut | Canon Eos R6 Mark Ii Review

Short-Throw Capabilities: Big Screen in Small Spaces

The “ST” in TH690ST stands for Short-Throw, and this is a major selling point. A short-throw projector can produce a large image from a very short distance, which is incredibly useful for a variety of reasons.

Space Saving: No More Long Cables

This is perhaps the most significant benefit.

If you have a small living room, a bedroom, or even a dedicated media room where you can’t place a projector far from the screen, a short-throw model is your answer.

  • Large Image from Close Distance: The TH690ST can project a 100-inch image from just 4.9 feet 1.5 meters away. This means you can place it on a coffee table, a small shelf, or even a TV stand right in front of your screen.
  • Reduced Cable Clutter: Since the projector is closer to your source devices gaming console, Blu-ray player, streaming stick, you need shorter HDMI and power cables, leading to a cleaner setup.
  • Eliminates Installation Hassle: No need for complex ceiling mounts or running long cables across a room.

Shadow Reduction: Walk Freely

One of the most annoying aspects of traditional long-throw projectors is people walking in front of the lens and casting shadows on the screen.

With a short-throw projector, this problem is largely eliminated. Clx Hathor Review

  • Clearer Viewing: Since the projector is so close to the screen, anyone walking between the projector and the screen is unlikely to cast a shadow. This is fantastic for interactive content, presentations, or just general home use where people might be moving around.
  • Ideal for Gaming: Especially if you’re using motion controllers or standing up to play, short-throw ensures your shadow doesn’t interfere with the game.
  • Immersive Experience: An uninterrupted image enhances the overall immersion, pulling you deeper into your movies or games.

Placement Flexibility: Beyond the Coffee Table

While placing it on a coffee table is common, the short-throw capabilities open up other creative placement options.

  • Wall-Mounted Shelf: You can easily install a small shelf above or below your screen to place the projector, keeping it out of the way.
  • Ceiling Mount Closer: If you prefer a ceiling mount, a short-throw allows you to mount it much closer to the screen, simplifying installation and reducing the overall footprint in the room.
  • Rear Projection: In some setups, a short-throw can be used for rear projection, where the projector sits behind a translucent screen, creating a seamless, TV-like experience without the projector being visible.

| Short-Throw Benefit | How TH690ST Delivers | Practical Use Case |
| Space Efficiency | 100″ image from ~5 ft | Small apartments, bedrooms |
| Shadow Elimination | Projector close to screen | Gaming with motion, interactive content |
| Reduced Cables | Shorter cable runs | Cleaner setup, less clutter |
| Placement Versatility | Table, shelf, ceiling close | Adapts to various room layouts |
| Easy Setup | Less complex installation | Quick to set up for movie nights |

LED Light Source: Longevity and Efficiency

Traditional projectors use lamps that burn out and need replacement, often after just a few thousand hours. The BenQ TH690ST leverages an LED light source, which brings a host of benefits, particularly in terms of longevity and maintenance.

Extended Lifespan: Set it and Forget it

This is arguably one of the biggest advantages of LED projectors like the TH690ST.

  • Long-Lasting: The LED light source is rated for up to 30,000 hours of operation in Eco Mode. To put that into perspective, if you watched movies for 4 hours every single day, the LED light source would last for over 20 years.
  • No Lamp Replacements: This eliminates the recurring cost and hassle of buying and installing replacement lamps, which can be expensive often $100-$300 per lamp.
  • Consistent Brightness: Unlike lamps that dim over time, LEDs maintain their brightness much more consistently throughout their lifespan. You won’t notice a significant drop-off in picture quality as the projector ages.
Light Source Type Typical Lifespan Cost of Replacement Brightness Degradation Heat Generation
Lamp 2,000 – 4,000 hours High $100 – $300+ Significant High
LED 20,000 – 30,000+ hours None Minimal Lower
Laser 20,000 – 30,000+ hours None Minimal Moderate

Instant On/Off: Convenience at Your Fingertips

LED projectors don’t require the same warm-up and cool-down cycles that lamp-based projectors do. Tp Link Kasa Smart Wi Fi Outdoor Plug Ep40A Review

  • Quick Start: The TH690ST powers on almost instantly, letting you jump into your content much faster. No more waiting minutes for the lamp to reach full brightness.
  • Immediate Shutdown: You can turn it off immediately without worrying about damaging the lamp or having to wait for it to cool down, which is perfect for spontaneous viewing or if you need to quickly pack it away.
  • Energy Efficiency: The reduced warm-up/cool-down time and the inherent efficiency of LEDs contribute to lower overall power consumption.

Color Stability: Better Over Time

LEDs offer more stable and consistent color performance compared to traditional lamps.

  • Richer Colors: LEDs are known for their ability to produce vibrant and saturated colors. The TH690ST leverages this to deliver its impressive 98% Rec.709 color gamut.
  • Less Color Shift: Unlike lamps that can sometimes shift color temperature as they age, LEDs maintain a more stable color output throughout their lifespan, ensuring your picture quality remains consistent.
  • Eco-Friendly: With no mercury-filled lamps to dispose of, LED projectors are generally considered more environmentally friendly.

Audio and Connectivity: Integrating into Your Setup

A great picture needs great sound, and a good projector needs versatile connectivity.

The BenQ TH690ST makes a decent effort in both areas, ensuring it can easily integrate into most home entertainment setups.

Built-in Audio: A Convenient Option

While dedicated external speakers are always recommended for the best audio experience, the TH690ST does come with built-in speakers.

  • treVolo Stereo Speakers 5W x 2: BenQ has equipped the TH690ST with a pair of 5W treVolo stereo speakers. These are certainly better than the tinny speakers found in many projectors.
  • Clear Dialogue: For casual viewing, background noise, or presentations, they’re perfectly adequate for clear dialogue.
  • Portability: If you’re moving the projector between rooms or taking it to a friend’s house, the built-in speakers provide a convenient all-in-one solution without needing to carry extra audio gear.
  • Limitations: For a true cinematic or immersive gaming experience, they won’t compare to a soundbar, home theater system, or even a good pair of headphones. They lack the bass and spatial separation needed for impactful audio.

Connectivity Ports: Hooking Everything Up

The TH690ST offers a standard array of ports, covering most of your needs for source devices. Samsung 75 Inch Qn900C 8K Neo Qled Tv Review

  • HDMI 2.0 x2: This is your primary connection for gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices like a Roku Streaming Stick or Amazon Fire TV Stick, and PCs. Having two ports is crucial for switching between devices without constantly unplugging and re-plugging.
    • HDCP 2.2 support: Essential for playing protected 4K content though the projector is 1080p, this ensures compatibility with 4K sources that downscale.
  • USB Type-A: Often used for power e.g., for a streaming stick that needs external power or for firmware updates. Some projectors allow media playback from USB, but this is less common for dedicated home theater models.
  • Audio Out 3.5mm Jack: This allows you to connect the projector to external speakers, a soundbar, or a stereo receiver using a standard 3.5mm audio cable. This is highly recommended for an improved audio experience.
  • S/PDIF Optical Audio Out: A digital audio output that can connect to a soundbar or AV receiver, providing higher quality audio than the analog 3.5mm jack. This is a great inclusion for better audio integration.

| Port Type | Quantity | Common Use |
| HDMI 2.0 | 2 | Gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices, PCs |
| USB Type-A | 1 | Power for streaming sticks, firmware updates |
| 3.5mm Audio Out | 1 | Connect to external speakers, headphones, soundbar |
| S/PDIF Optical | 1 | Digital audio out to AV receivers, soundbars |

Amazon

Wireless Connectivity: Streamlining Your Experience

While the TH690ST doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi for smart features like some projectors, it can easily be made “smart” with external devices.

  • No Built-in Smart OS: This isn’t a projector with Android TV or webOS built-in, which means you’ll need an external streaming device for apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc.
  • Easy Integration with Streaming Sticks: This is a minor point as a Google Chromecast, Roku Streaming Stick, or Amazon Fire TV Stick can be plugged directly into an HDMI port and powered via the USB port, turning it into a smart projector instantly. This often provides a better, more updated smart experience than built-in systems anyway.
  • Bluetooth for audio: The TH690ST does support Bluetooth for audio output. This is a fantastic feature, allowing you to wirelessly connect to Bluetooth headphones or a Bluetooth speaker for more immersive and private listening without messy cables.

Setup and User Experience: Getting Up and Running

Setting up a projector might seem daunting, but the BenQ TH690ST is designed to be relatively straightforward, especially with its short-throw capabilities.

The user experience is generally intuitive, allowing you to get to your content quickly. Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro Review

Initial Setup: Plug and Play Mostly

Getting the TH690ST operational is a fairly quick process.

  • Placement: Thanks to its short-throw lens, you can place it much closer to your screen or wall. This simplifies placement significantly compared to long-throw projectors that require precise distances.
  • Focus Ring: There’s a manual focus ring on the lens for sharpening the image. It’s smooth and easy to adjust.
  • Keystone Correction: Projectors often need keystone correction if they aren’t perfectly perpendicular to the screen, to square up the image. The TH690ST offers both vertical and horizontal keystone correction.
    • Vertical Keystone: Corrects image distortion when the projector is tilted up or down.
    • Horizontal Keystone: Corrects distortion when the projector is placed off-center to the left or right.
    • 2D Keystone: This implies it can correct both axes independently, giving you more flexibility.
    • Digital Correction: Keep in mind that digital keystone correction, while convenient, can slightly reduce image quality as it’s essentially digitally manipulating the image. It’s always best to physically position the projector as squarely as possible.
  • Corner Fit: This advanced feature allows you to individually adjust each corner of the image, perfect for when you’re projecting onto an uneven surface or a tricky corner. This adds a lot of flexibility for challenging setups.

User Interface: Navigating the Menus

BenQ’s on-screen display OSD menu system is typically well-organized and easy to navigate.

  • Intuitive Layout: The menus are logically structured, with clear categories for Picture, Audio, Setup, and Information.
  • Remote Control: The included remote control is essential for navigation. BenQ remotes are usually well-designed with clearly labeled buttons and often backlight for use in dark rooms.
  • Picture Modes: Easily switch between various preset picture modes e.g., Bright, Cinema, Game, HDR, User to optimize the image for different content types.
  • Detailed Adjustments: For enthusiasts, there are plenty of options to fine-tune picture settings like brightness, contrast, color temperature, gamma, and more.

Portability and Design: Form Factor

The TH690ST is a reasonably compact projector, making it easy to move if needed.

  • Dimensions and Weight: While not “mini” like some ultra-portable models, it’s still small enough to fit on most shelves or coffee tables. It’s easy to pick up and move for a movie night at a friend’s place or to set up in a different room.
  • Aesthetics: BenQ projectors often feature a clean, modern design that blends well into a home environment. The TH690ST has a sleek, understated look.
  • Cooling System: Projectors generate heat, and effective cooling is crucial. The TH690ST’s LED light source generally produces less heat than lamps, which can lead to quieter operation.

| Setup Feature | BenQ TH690ST Performance | User Benefit |
| Short-Throw | Large image from close distance | Easy placement, saves space |
| Keystone Correction | Vertical, Horizontal, 2D | Squares image from off-angle |
| Corner Fit | Adjusts individual corners | Perfect for uneven surfaces |
| User Interface | Intuitive OSD menus | Easy to navigate and adjust settings |
| Remote Control | Ergonomic, often backlit | Convenient control in dark rooms |
| Portability | Relatively compact design | Easy to move between rooms |

Comparison with Competitors: Standing Out in the Market

The projector market is bustling, with various brands offering models that cater to different needs and budgets. Tp Link Tapo C420S2 Smart Wire Free Security Camera System Review

The BenQ TH690ST carves out a strong niche, particularly for gamers and those with limited space, by balancing features and performance.

Let’s stack it up against some common alternatives.

BenQ TH690ST vs. Optoma GT1090HDR

Both are short-throw, 1080p projectors aimed at gaming and home entertainment, but they have key differences.

  • Optoma GT1090HDR:
    • Brightness: Significantly brighter at 4200 ANSI Lumens vs. TH690ST’s 2300 Lumens. This makes the GT1090HDR better for rooms with significant ambient light.
    • Light Source: Also uses a Laser light source, similar longevity to LED.
    • Input Lag: Competitive gaming performance, often similar low lag to the TH690ST.
    • Price: Typically a bit more expensive than the TH690ST.
    • Consideration: If maximum brightness is your absolute priority for a very bright room, the Optoma might edge it out. However, the BenQ’s color accuracy and cinematic presentation often get higher marks for dedicated movie watching.

BenQ TH690ST vs. Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12

These two represent different philosophies in compact projectors.

  • Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12:
    • Portability: Much smaller and more portable, designed for grab-and-go convenience.
    • Brightness: Lower brightness at 1000 Lumens, meaning it needs a darker room.
    • Built-in Smart Features: Comes with Android TV built-in, offering direct access to streaming apps.
    • Audio: Features Yamaha audio, which is generally quite good for a portable unit.
    • Light Source: Laser light source.
    • Consideration: The Epson is a fantastic option if portability and built-in smart features are paramount, and you primarily watch in dark environments. The BenQ offers superior gaming performance and higher brightness for less controlled lighting conditions.

BenQ TH690ST vs. XGIMI Horizon Pro

The XGIMI Horizon Pro steps up in resolution and aims for an all-in-one smart home experience. F Secure Anti Virus Review

  • XGIMI Horizon Pro:
    • Resolution: Native 4K UHD, offering more detail than the TH690ST’s 1080p.
    • Brightness: Similar brightness around 2200 ANSI Lumens.
    • Smart Features: Comprehensive Android TV integration with auto-keystone and auto-focus.
    • Audio: Harman Kardon speakers deliver impressive audio.
    • Price: Significantly more expensive.
    • Consideration: If native 4K and a seamless smart projector experience are your top priorities and budget allows, the XGIMI is compelling. However, for pure gaming performance and short-throw convenience at a lower cost, the BenQ is still a strong contender.

BenQ TH690ST vs. ViewSonic PX701-4K

These are both strong value propositions, but the ViewSonic is a lamp-based 4K projector.

  • ViewSonic PX701-4K:
    • Resolution: 4K UHD via pixel shifting.
    • Brightness: Higher brightness 3200 ANSI Lumens.
    • Light Source: Lamp-based, meaning shorter lifespan and replacement costs.
    • Input Lag: Also boasts low input lag for gaming, making it a budget 4K gaming option.
    • Throw Ratio: Standard throw, not short-throw.
    • Consideration: If you want a 4K image and prioritize brightness, and don’t mind a lamp-based system or a longer throw distance, the ViewSonic is a great value. The BenQ excels in short-throw convenience and the longevity/maintenance-free nature of its LED source.

In essence, the BenQ TH690ST positions itself as an excellent choice for a dedicated home entertainment projector that prioritizes gaming performance, short-throw flexibility, and long-lasting LED technology within a very competitive price range. It’s a sweet spot for many users who want a big, vibrant picture without the logistical hurdles or higher costs of some alternatives.

Value Proposition and Target Audience: Is it Right for You?

Understanding the BenQ TH690ST’s value proposition means looking at who it’s best suited for and what unique benefits it offers.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it hits a sweet spot for a significant portion of the market.

Who is the BenQ TH690ST For?

This projector is particularly appealing to a few key demographics: Superhuman Review

  • Dedicated Gamers Console & PC: If you spend hours on your PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or gaming PC, and you crave that big-screen, immersive experience without input lag ruining your precision, the TH690ST is tailor-made for you. Its low latency and 120Hz support at 1080p are top-tier for its price point.
  • Home Theater Enthusiasts in Smaller Spaces: Got a cozy living room, a bedroom, or a tight media nook? The short-throw lens is a must, letting you project a massive image from just a few feet away, eliminating placement headaches and shadow interruptions.
  • Casual Movie Watchers Who Want a Step Up: For those upgrading from a TV and wanting a more cinematic experience for movies and sports, the TH690ST delivers vibrant colors, good contrast, and sufficient brightness for typical evening viewing.
  • Value-Conscious Buyers: It strikes an excellent balance between performance and price. You’re getting a high-quality 1080p picture, great gaming features, and the longevity of an LED light source without stepping into the much higher price brackets of native 4K laser projectors.
  • Users Who Prioritize Longevity and Low Maintenance: The 30,000-hour LED light source means you won’t be worrying about lamp replacements for decades, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

The Value Proposition: Why Choose This One?

The TH690ST isn’t just another projector. it’s a strategic investment for specific needs.

  • Performance-to-Price Ratio: It offers a compelling set of features – low input lag, vibrant 1080p, HDR support, short-throw – at a price point that undercuts many competitors offering similar gaming or convenience features. You’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.
  • The Gaming Edge: Its emphasis on low input lag is a significant differentiator. Many projectors claim to be “good for gaming,” but the TH690ST genuinely backs it up with impressive numbers, comparable to dedicated gaming monitors.
  • Ease of Use for Small Spaces: The short-throw capability solves a common problem for many urban dwellers or those with limited room, making big-screen projection accessible where it otherwise wouldn’t be.
  • Future-Proof Light Source: While “future-proof” is a strong term in tech, the LED light source certainly makes it very “long-term viable,” meaning it won’t depreciate in functional value due to lamp burnout for a very, very long time. This is a huge hidden saving.
  • BenQ’s Reputation: BenQ has a strong track record for producing reliable projectors with good color accuracy and image quality. This brand trust adds to the overall value.

| Factor | BenQ TH690ST’s Strength | Benefit to User |
| Gaming | Ultra-low input lag 8.3ms at 1080p/120Hz | Competitive edge, responsive gameplay |
| Space | Short-throw lens | Large image in small rooms, no shadows |
| Maintenance | 30,000-hour LED light source | No lamp replacements, consistent brightness |
| Picture | 1080p, 98% Rec.709, HDR | Vibrant, accurate, immersive visuals |
| Price | Competitive for its feature set | Excellent value for money |

Ultimately, if your primary goal is to enjoy large-screen gaming and movies in a typical living room or bedroom without needing a dedicated, cavernous home theater space, and you appreciate a projector that’s built to last and won’t break the bank, the BenQ TH690ST is an exceptionally strong contender.

It offers a focused set of features that genuinely enhance the user experience for its target audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the native resolution of the BenQ TH690ST?

The BenQ TH690ST has a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels 1080p. Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra Review

Is the BenQ TH690ST a 4K projector?

No, the BenQ TH690ST is not a native 4K projector.

It supports 4K input signals and downscales them to its native 1080p resolution, offering HDR compatibility.

What is the brightness of the BenQ TH690ST?

The BenQ TH690ST boasts a brightness of 2300 ANSI Lumens.

How long does the light source of the BenQ TH690ST last?

The LED light source in the BenQ TH690ST is rated for up to 30,000 hours of operation in Eco Mode.

Does the BenQ TH690ST require lamp replacements?

No, the BenQ TH690ST uses an LED light source, which does not require traditional lamp replacements. Msi Radix Axe6600 Wifi 6E Tri Band Gaming Router Review

What is the input lag of the BenQ TH690ST for gaming?

The BenQ TH690ST has a very low input lag, as low as 8.3ms at 1080p/120Hz and 16.7ms at 1080p/60Hz or 4K/60Hz downscaled.

Can I play PS5 or Xbox Series X games on the BenQ TH690ST?

Yes, absolutely.

The BenQ TH690ST is highly recommended for gaming on PS5 and Xbox Series X due to its low input lag and 1080p/120Hz support.

What is the throw ratio of the BenQ TH690ST?

The BenQ TH690ST is a short-throw projector with a throw ratio around 0.69 – 0.83:1.

How far do I need to place the BenQ TH690ST from the screen for a 100-inch image?

For a 100-inch diagonal image, you would need to place the BenQ TH690ST approximately 4.9 to 5.9 feet 1.5 to 1.8 meters from the screen. Acer Chromebook Vero 514 Review

Does the BenQ TH690ST have built-in speakers?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST features two 5W treVolo stereo speakers.

Can I connect external speakers to the BenQ TH690ST?

Yes, you can connect external speakers via the 3.5mm audio out jack or the S/PDIF optical digital audio output.

Does the BenQ TH690ST support HDR?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST supports HDR10 and HLG Hybrid Log-Gamma for enhanced dynamic range and color.

What is the contrast ratio of the BenQ TH690ST?

The BenQ TH690ST has a contrast ratio of 50,000:1.

Does the BenQ TH690ST have Wi-Fi or smart TV features?

No, the BenQ TH690ST does not have built-in Wi-Fi or a smart operating system. Fujifilm X T5 Review

You will need an external streaming device like a Roku Streaming Stick or Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Amazon

Can I connect a streaming stick to the BenQ TH690ST?

Yes, you can connect streaming sticks like Google Chromecast, Roku Streaming Stick, or Amazon Fire TV Stick via the HDMI port.

Does the BenQ TH690ST have Bluetooth?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST features Bluetooth connectivity for audio output, allowing you to connect wireless headphones or speakers.

What type of inputs does the BenQ TH690ST have?

The BenQ TH690ST includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, one USB Type-A port, a 3.5mm audio out, and an S/PDIF optical audio out. Asus Expertbook B9 450Cba Xve75 Review

Does the BenQ TH690ST have keystone correction?

Yes, it offers both vertical and horizontal 2D keystone correction, as well as Corner Fit adjustment.

Is the BenQ TH690ST good for bright rooms?

While its 2300 ANSI Lumens allow for some ambient light viewing, like all projectors, it performs best in darker environments for optimal picture quality.

What is the Rec.709 coverage of the BenQ TH690ST?

The BenQ TH690ST covers 98% of the Rec.709 color gamut, ensuring accurate and vibrant colors.

Is the BenQ TH690ST noisy during operation?

The noise level fan noise of the BenQ TH690ST is typically around 28dB in Normal mode and 27dB in Eco mode, which is relatively quiet for a projector.

Can the BenQ TH690ST project onto a wall without a screen?

Yes, it can project onto a wall, but for the best image quality, especially in terms of color accuracy and brightness, a dedicated projector screen is recommended.

Does the BenQ TH690ST come with a remote control?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST includes a full-featured remote control.

Is the BenQ TH690ST suitable for outdoor use?

While it can be used outdoors, it must be in a dark environment and protected from the elements. It’s not designed for continuous outdoor exposure.

Does the BenQ TH690ST support 3D content?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST supports DLP Link 3D, requiring compatible 3D glasses sold separately.

What is the warranty for the BenQ TH690ST?

BenQ typically offers a 1-year limited warranty for their projectors, but it’s best to check with the specific retailer or BenQ’s official website for the most current warranty information.

How much power does the BenQ TH690ST consume?

Power consumption varies with mode, but it’s generally around 180W in Normal mode and lower in Eco mode.

Can I ceiling mount the BenQ TH690ST?

Yes, the BenQ TH690ST can be ceiling mounted.

Its short-throw nature means it can be mounted closer to the screen than a standard throw projector.

Does the BenQ TH690ST have horizontal lens shift?

No, the BenQ TH690ST typically does not feature horizontal or vertical lens shift, relying on digital keystone correction for image alignment.

What is the recommended screen size for the BenQ TH690ST?

The recommended screen size for the BenQ TH690ST typically ranges from 60 inches to 120 inches for optimal viewing experience, though it can project larger or smaller if needed.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *