The BenQ X3100i therefore expands the range of the Taiwanese manufacturer whose references are optimized for video game operation. However, with its Ultra HD 4K compatibility and 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 gamut announced, the BenQ X3100i displays specifications perfectly suited to Home Cinema sessions, particularly from HDR sources.
BenQ X3100i vs BenQ X3000i, what changes?
First notable change, an increase in brightness with 3,300 lumens on the X3100i (compared to 3,000 on the X3000i). Then, we discover the presence of a vertical Lens Shift (+/‑ 10%) and a new image mode for the video game, RCG, specifically for racing games and the Cross Hair function which materializes a target at the screen to facilitate player action in shooting games. Likewise, it is now possible with the Setting Exchange option to make your best image settings available via a dedicated space on the internet depending on the games. And to take advantage of the settings of other players of course.
Finally, the BenQ QS02 Android TV 11.0 dongle intended to take place in a reserved slot under the BenQ X3100i offers Netflix 4K directly accessible, with all its features, exactly as on a Smart TV. Namely, the BenQ QS02 dongle (see photo below) can be associated with a BenQ X3000i but it must be connected to an HDMI socket on the back of the video projector. A lesser evil to enjoy Android TV 11.0 and natively the Netflix application.
BenQ X3100i, main specifications
HD Ready 2 160p and 3D Ready model, the BenQ through the XPR4 process (wobulation). The hyper-high switching speed of the mirrors (7 micro-seconds) is used via specific video processing to create 8 million pixels for each image displayed (a real pixel ultimately results in four pixels).
The light source is 4LED RGBB (like the X1300i). Understand that it has four diodes, one red, one green and two blue (see photo below). The latter is converted to green via a phosphor treatment to boost the brightness by approximately 10% compared to an RGB LED model. The lifespan is 20,000 hours in Normal mode, 30,000 hours in Eco mode.
BenQ X3100i, specifications the rest
Based on HDR‑PRO technology specifically optimized for video projection, the BenQ X3000i supports HDR10 and HDR HLG formats. Additionally, HDR‑PRO includes automatic color and skin tone mapping techniques to deliver an impressively realistic image. The contrast ratio is 600,000:1 and the wheel is an eight-segment specimen (RVBWRVBW).
Always on the menu, in addition to a short focal length already mentioned, we must also mention a 1.3x manual zoom to display a diagonal of up to 300'' (762 cm). Finally, we note a vertical/horizontal keystone correction ±30° and a manual focus adjustable via a rotating ring, located on the side of the video projector.
Of course, the BenQ X3100i includes a whole host of features designed for video games. For example, it is possible to intervene to increase the visibility of details in the darkest areas of the image. And in addition to the classic modes of using video content, three modes dedicated to the game mentioned above are required: FPS (first-person shooter), RPG (role-playing games) and SPG (sports games).
Finally, the audio section based on an “in-house” Trevolo system (see our BenQ Trevolo news: portable electrostatic audio system) delivers a total power of 2 x 5 watts.
BenQ X3100i, Android TV dongle
Of course, the BenQ X3100i is also 3D DLP Link compatible. We also note an operating noise oscillating between 28 dB and 32 dB, respectively in Eco and Normal mode. Finally, as already mentioned, the BenQ X3100i accommodates an Android TV 11 dongle at its base in a specific location to access the Google universe with the Google Play Store. It is therefore easy to install your favorite applications: Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, myCanal… Without forgetting the AirPlay and ChromeCast functions (integrated) to display a suitable wireless source.
BenQ X3100i, connectivity
The connection includes three HDCP 2.2 certified HDMI 2.0b inputs, one of which has the eARC function. Likewise, one of the HDMI connectors (mini type) is intended for the BenQ QS02 Android TV dongle. Also present is a 3.5mm mini-Jack output, an optical output, an RS-232 socket, a 12V Trigger and a powered USB Host port. We must also mention Wi-Fi ac and Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility.
BenQ X3100i, Input Lag
Last point, as indicated in the title of this news, the BenQ X3100i is compatible 2 160p/60 (UHD 4K at 60 Hz) but also 1080p/120 or even 1080p/240. In terms of Input Lag, we note 16.7 ms with a 2160p@60 Hz signal, 4.2 ms at 1080p@240 Hz and 8.3 ms at 1080p@120 Hz. Perfect characteristics for video games from a PS5, Xbox Series X console or a PC equipped with a powerful graphics card.
Availability planned from the end of March to mid-June. Indicative price: 1,999 euros.
Reminder of the key characteristics of the BenQ Texas Instrument's : 4LED (RGBB)
• Brightness: 3300 lumens
• Input Lag: 16.7 ms (2160p@60 Hz), 4.2 ms (1080p@240 Hz), 8.3 ms (1080p@120 Hz)
• CinematicColor functions
• Google Assistant functions
• Chromecast functions (built-in)
• Smart Android TV 11.0 functions
• HDR functions -Pro
• CinematicSound functions
• HDR10 compatibility
• 3D Ready compatibility (BD 3D and DLP Link)
• HDR HLG compatibility
• HDCP 2.2 compatibility
• Bluetooth 4.2 compatibility• Wi-Fi ac compatibility
• eARC compatibility
• AirPlay compatibility
• Gamut: 100% DCI-P3
• Sound section: 2.0
• Power: 2 x 5 W
• 3D compatibility: yes
• Connections: 3 HDCP 2.2 certified HDMI 2.0b inputs including one for the BenQ QS02 Android TV dongle, a mini-Jack output 3.5 mm, an optical output, an RS-232 socket, a 12V Trigger and a powered USB port
• Zoom: 1.3x
• Sound level: 32 dB in Eco mode, 32 dB in Normal mode
• Lamp life: 30,000 hours in Eco mode and 20,000 hours in Normal mode
• Lens Shift: vertical, + or -10°
• Vertical keystone correction : + or -30°
• Weight: 6.8 kg
• Consumption: 330 W in Normal mode
• Dimensions (L x H x D): 272 x 213 x 259 mm
