When it comes to home entertainment, few upgrades create as dramatic an impact as a quality projector. The ability to transform any wall into a massive screen opens up possibilities that traditional TVs simply can't match. Today, we're comparing two distinct BenQ projector solutions that approach home projection from completely different angles: the BenQ GV50 Full HD Smart Ceiling Projector and the BenQ TH685P 1080p HDR Gaming Projector. Both retail around the $800 mark, but as we'll discover, they're designed for very different users and experiences.
The projector market has evolved dramatically in recent years. No longer bulky, dim devices relegated to conference rooms, today's home projectors come in various form factors with specialized features targeting specific use cases. The two models we're examining today—released in 2021 (GV50) and 2022 (TH685P)—represent the latest approaches to home projection technology.
Modern projectors generally fall into a few categories: traditional lamp-based units, newer LED models, and cutting-edge laser projectors. Each technology offers different advantages in terms of brightness, color accuracy, and lamp life. Additionally, manufacturers have begun creating more specialized projectors optimized for particular uses—whether that's gaming, portable outdoor viewing, or in the case of the GV50, ceiling projection for bedroom viewing.
Before diving into specifics, it's worth understanding that projector performance fundamentally differs from TVs. While 4K TVs are now standard, 1080p projectors remain common due to the challenges of projecting ultra-high-resolution images at large sizes while maintaining brightness and affordability. Both the GV50 and TH685P feature 1080p resolution, which still delivers excellent image quality at typical viewing distances.
The BenQ GV50 represents an innovative approach to personal projection. Released in 2021, it's part of BenQ's lifestyle projector lineup that focuses on versatility and convenience rather than pure performance metrics.
What makes the GV50 unique is its specialized design for ceiling projection. While most projectors are built assuming they'll be pointed at a wall, the GV50 features a 360° rotating base and 135° vertical tilt specifically engineered for pointing at the ceiling while you're lying in bed. This distinct use case drives many of its design decisions.
The GV50 employs a laser phosphor light source—an advancement over traditional lamps that provides up to 30,000 hours of life without replacement (compared to 3,000-5,000 hours for conventional lamps from just a few years ago). This technology also enables instant on/off functionality without warm-up periods that older projectors required.
Since its release, BenQ has continued refining the GV50's firmware, improving its Google TV implementation and adding compatibility with more streaming services. The projector now serves as a complete entertainment package rather than just a display device.
In contrast, the BenQ TH685P follows a more conventional projector design but with specialized gaming optimizations. Released in 2022 as an update to the popular TH685, this model represents BenQ's focus on the growing gaming projector market.
Unlike its predecessor, the TH685P features improved HDR processing, slightly lower input lag (down to 8.3ms from 8.4ms), and enhanced game audio modes. While these might seem like minor upgrades, they reflect BenQ's commitment to refining its gaming projection technology.
The TH685P uses a traditional lamp-based DLP (Digital Light Processing) system—technology that has been refined over decades but with fundamental principles unchanged. What has evolved dramatically is the processing power behind it, allowing for the ultra-low input lag that makes it viable for competitive gaming.
Perhaps the most significant difference between these projectors is their brightness output. The TH685P delivers a substantial 3,500 ANSI lumens—a standardized brightness measurement—while the GV50 outputs 500 ANSI lumens.
This 7x brightness difference fundamentally changes where and when these projectors can be used effectively. ANSI lumens directly impact how visible your projected image will be in different lighting conditions. Think of it like this: higher brightness is like having more powerful headlights when driving at night—it allows the image to "cut through" ambient light.
With 3,500 lumens, the TH685P can produce a visible image even in rooms with some ambient light—perfect for living room gaming sessions where you might not want to sit in complete darkness. By comparison, the GV50's 500 lumens practically requires a darkened room for optimal viewing, which aligns with its intended bedtime viewing use case.
When it comes to image quality metrics beyond brightness, each projector has its strengths. The GV50 boasts an impressive 100,000:1 contrast ratio—the difference between the brightest whites and darkest blacks—while the TH685P offers a more modest 10,000:1 ratio. In theory, this gives the GV50 more dynamic range in dark scenes, but the TH685P's superior brightness often compensates in practical viewing scenarios.
Both projectors support HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) formats, which allow for expanded dynamic range when viewing compatible content. The TH685P adds specific color optimization with 95% coverage of the Rec.709 color space—an industry standard for HD content—ensuring accurate color reproduction for games and movies.
If you're considering a projector for gaming, input lag—the delay between when your device sends a signal and when it appears on screen—becomes crucial. This is where the TH685P truly shines with its remarkably low 8.3ms input lag at 1080p/120Hz. For context, most televisions considered "good" for gaming offer 10-15ms response times, making the TH685P exceptional.
The projector also supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, meaning it can display up to 120 frames per second—double the standard 60Hz found in most displays and crucial for fast-paced competitive games where milliseconds matter. Combined with its dedicated Game Mode that enhances visibility in dark scenes, the TH685P provides a gaming experience that rivals or exceeds many gaming monitors.
By comparison, the GV50 wasn't designed with gaming as a priority. While BenQ doesn't publish specific input lag measurements for this model, lifestyle projectors typically have response times in the 50-100ms range—noticeably laggy for fast-paced games though acceptable for casual gaming.
The physical design and placement options for these projectors couldn't be more different, reflecting their specialized use cases.
The GV50's standout feature is its flexible mounting system, offering 360° rotation and 135° vertical tilt. This unique design allows you to project onto virtually any surface—walls, ceilings, even angled surfaces—from nearly any position. For bedroom ceiling viewing, this flexibility is transformative, letting you project a 100-inch display directly above your bed.
To complement this flexibility, the GV50 includes impressive automatic adjustment features:
These features, collectively called "Smart Screen Adaption," make the GV50 remarkably user-friendly. You can place it almost anywhere, point it in any direction, and it will optimize the image automatically—technology that simply didn't exist in consumer projectors a few years ago.
The GV50's portability is enhanced by its built-in battery, providing approximately 2.5 hours of video playback. At 2.1kg (4.6 pounds), it's light enough to move between rooms or take outdoors for impromptu movie nights.
The TH685P follows a more traditional projector design philosophy. It features a 1.3x manual zoom lens and vertical keystone correction (±40°), but expects a relatively standard setup—placed on a table or ceiling-mounted, projecting straight ahead onto a screen or wall. Its throw ratio of 1.13:1 to 1.46:1 means it can project a 100-inch image from approximately 8 to 10.5 feet away, requiring dedicated space in your room configuration.
At 6.2 pounds with no battery, the TH685P isn't designed for portability. It's meant to be set up in a fixed location as part of a permanent or semi-permanent entertainment system—ideal for dedicated home theaters or gaming rooms.
Another fundamental difference between these projectors is their approach to content access and connectivity.
The GV50 functions as a complete entertainment system thanks to its built-in Google TV operating system (Android 11). This integration means you can access streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and Disney+ directly from the projector without connecting additional devices. Google Assistant voice control adds convenience, allowing you to search for content or control playback with voice commands.
For connectivity, the GV50 includes:
This comprehensive connectivity suite means the GV50 can function entirely independently—you can stream content directly or cast from your phone without additional hardware.
In contrast, the TH685P follows a component system approach with no built-in smart features. It requires external sources for all content, whether that's a streaming device, gaming console, or computer. This design philosophy focuses all the projector's resources on image quality and performance rather than smart features.
Its connectivity options include:
This difference reflects two valid but distinct approaches to home entertainment. The GV50 offers convenience and simplicity as an all-in-one solution, while the TH685P provides better performance as part of a component system where each device specializes in its primary function.
Audio is often an afterthought in projectors, with many users opting for external sound systems. However, these two models take remarkably different approaches to built-in sound that deserve attention.
The GV50 features a surprisingly robust 18W 2.1 channel audio system, consisting of dual 4W speakers complemented by a dedicated 10W woofer. This configuration provides noticeably fuller sound than typical projector speakers, with actual bass response that's rare in integrated projector audio. The GV50 also includes a specialized "Ceiling Cinema Sound Mode" that adjusts audio projection for optimal sound when viewing from below—a thoughtful addition that acknowledges its unique use case.
By comparison, the TH685P includes a more basic 5W mono speaker. While it offers a "Game Sound Mode" to enhance audio cues in games, the single speaker can't match the fullness or stereo separation of the GV50's system. The TH685P's audio is functional but clearly designed with the expectation that serious users will connect external speakers or gaming headsets.
In practice, this means the GV50 can function as a complete entertainment system without additional audio equipment—ideal for bedroom setups or portable use—while the TH685P delivers its best experience when paired with a proper sound system or headphones.
At similar price points around $750-850, these projectors offer comparable value but for entirely different use cases.
The BenQ GV50 provides exceptional value for users seeking flexibility and convenience. Its standout features include:
Where it falls short is raw performance metrics like brightness and gaming responsiveness. The 500 ANSI lumens brightness restricts it to use in darkened rooms, and while perfectly adequate for casual viewing, it won't satisfy videophiles seeking the ultimate image quality.
The BenQ TH685P delivers excellent value for performance-focused users, particularly gamers. Its strengths include:
Its limitations are primarily in convenience features—no smart OS, basic audio, and conventional placement requirements. It also uses a traditional lamp with a shorter lifespan (up to 15,000 hours in eco mode).
For dedicated home theater setups, these projectors serve different roles. The TH685P aligns more closely with traditional home theater expectations—bright output, accurate colors, and performance-focused design meant to be part of a larger system with separate audio and source components.
In a dedicated light-controlled theater room, the TH685P's brightness might actually be excessive, potentially washing out contrast in dark scenes. However, this same brightness makes it versatile enough to use in living rooms that double as casual theater spaces where complete darkness isn't practical.
The GV50 offers a different approach to home entertainment. While not ideal for a traditional projector-screen setup due to its lower brightness, it excels at transforming bedrooms or other intimate spaces into impromptu theaters. Its ceiling projection capability creates a unique viewing experience that conventional home theaters don't offer.
After comparing these two projectors in depth, the decision comes down to your specific needs and viewing environment:
Choose the BenQ GV50 if:
Choose the BenQ TH685P if:
Both projectors represent the cutting edge of their respective niches. The GV50 showcases innovation in form factor and flexibility, while the TH685P demonstrates how specialized gaming performance can transform projectors from casual viewing devices to serious gaming displays.
In the end, the "best" choice depends entirely on how you plan to use it. The GV50 and TH685P aren't really competing products—they're specialized tools designed for different experiences. Understanding which experience you value most will lead you to the right decision for your home entertainment needs.
| BenQ GV50 Full HD Smart Ceiling Projector | BenQ TH685P 1080p HDR Gaming Projector |
|---|---|
| Price Range - Budget consideration for buyers | |
| $750-850 | $750-850 |
| Projection Type - Determines primary use case | |
| Lifestyle portable projector with ceiling projection capability | Dedicated gaming projector for traditional setup |
| Brightness - Critical for determining usable environments | |
| 500 ANSI lumens (requires dark room) | 3,500 ANSI lumens (works in ambient light) |
| Light Source - Affects longevity and maintenance costs | |
| Laser with 20,000-30,000 hour lifespan | Lamp-based with up to 15,000 hour lifespan |
| Input Lag - Essential for gaming performance | |
| Not specified (likely 50-100ms, not gaming optimized) | 8.3ms at 1080p/120Hz (exceptional for competitive gaming) |
| Refresh Rate - Important for smooth motion | |
| 60Hz standard | Up to 120Hz (better for fast-paced gaming) |
| Smart Features - Convenience for content access | |
| Built-in Google TV with streaming apps and voice control | No smart features (requires external devices) |
| Audio System - Quality of built-in sound | |
| 18W 2.1 channel system with 10W woofer (good standalone audio) | Basic 5W mono speaker (external audio recommended) |
| Portability - Flexibility for different setups | |
| 2.1kg with built-in battery (2.5 hours playback) | 6.2 lbs, no battery (designed for fixed installation) |
| Installation Flexibility - Ease of setup | |
| 360° rotation, 135° tilt with auto screen adjustment | Standard placement with 1.3x zoom and vertical keystone |
| Contrast Ratio - Affects image depth and quality | |
| 100,000:1 (better for dark scenes) | 10,000:1 (standard performance) |
| Connectivity - Options for external devices | |
| 1x HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Google Cast | 2x HDMI, VGA, USB (power only) |
| Best For - Primary user recommendation | |
| Bedroom ceiling viewing, portable use, all-in-one solution | Gaming, bright room viewing, component of home theater system |
For movie watching, it depends on your environment. The BenQ TH685P HDR Gaming Projector offers 3,500 ANSI lumens, making it better for living rooms with some ambient light. The BenQ GV50 Smart Ceiling Projector with 500 ANSI lumens requires a dark room but offers unique ceiling projection capabilities for bedroom viewing. The TH685P provides brighter images, while the GV50 offers more convenient built-in streaming apps and better audio quality with its 18W 2.1 channel system. Choose the TH685P for bright, large-screen viewing or the GV50 for cozy bedroom movie nights.
The BenQ TH685P is specifically designed for gaming with an exceptional 8.3ms input lag at 1080p/120Hz and a specialized Game Mode. It supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, making it excellent for competitive gaming where responsiveness matters. The BenQ GV50 isn't optimized for gaming with its higher input lag (likely 50-100ms), making it suitable only for casual gaming where timing isn't critical. If gaming is a priority, the TH685P is the clear choice with its gaming-focused features and performance.
With the BenQ GV50, external speakers are optional thanks to its impressive 18W 2.1 channel audio system with dual 4W speakers and a 10W woofer. This provides reasonably rich sound suitable for most casual viewing. The BenQ TH685P comes with a basic 5W mono speaker that delivers functional but limited audio. For the best experience with the TH685P, external speakers or a soundbar are highly recommended, especially for gaming or movie watching. The GV50 can function well as a standalone audio device, while the TH685P benefits significantly from audio upgrades.
The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector significantly outperforms the GV50 in bright environments with its 3,500 ANSI lumens brightness - seven times brighter than the GV50. This allows the TH685P to maintain a visible, vibrant image even with some ambient light, making it suitable for living rooms with windows or moderate lighting. The BenQ GV50 Ceiling Projector with only 500 ANSI lumens requires a dark or heavily dimmed room to produce a good image. If you can't control ambient light, the TH685P is definitely the better choice.
The BenQ GV50 Smart Ceiling Projector features built-in Google TV (Android 11), providing direct access to popular streaming services including Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+, and more without needing additional devices. It also includes Google Assistant for voice control. The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector has no smart features or built-in apps and requires an external streaming device like a Roku, Fire TV Stick, or gaming console to access streaming content. If you want an all-in-one solution without additional devices, the GV50 offers significant convenience advantages.
For a dedicated home theater setup, the BenQ TH685P aligns better with traditional home theater expectations. Its high 3,500 ANSI lumens brightness, accurate 95% Rec.709 color coverage, and HDR support deliver excellent image quality for movie viewing. The BenQ GV50 is designed more for casual, flexible viewing rather than dedicated theater use. In a light-controlled theater room, both projectors can perform well, but the TH685P provides a brighter, more cinema-like experience when paired with proper external audio. The TH685P is the better choice for conventional home theater installations.
The BenQ GV50 is better suited for outdoor use thanks to its portability (2.1kg) and built-in battery that provides approximately 2.5 hours of playback time. It also has built-in streaming apps, meaning you only need Wi-Fi to start watching content. The BenQ TH685P lacks battery power and weighs more at 6.2 pounds, requiring extension cords and an external content source for outdoor use. While the TH685P's higher brightness would perform better against ambient light at dusk, the GV50's convenience makes it more practical for impromptu outdoor viewing sessions.
The BenQ GV50 Smart Ceiling Projector offers exceptional placement flexibility with 360° rotation and 135° vertical tilt, allowing projection onto ceilings, walls, or angled surfaces. It includes auto focus, auto keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance for easy setup anywhere. The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector follows a conventional design with 1.3x manual zoom and vertical keystone correction (±40°), requiring more standard placement on a table or ceiling mount. If you need versatile placement options or want to project onto a ceiling, the GV50 provides significantly more flexibility.
The BenQ GV50 uses a laser light source with an impressive lifespan of 20,000-30,000 hours (depending on mode), meaning you could use it for 4 hours daily for over 13 years before needing replacement. The BenQ TH685P uses a traditional lamp with up to 15,000 hours in LampSave mode. Additionally, laser light sources maintain brightness better over time compared to lamps which gradually dim. For long-term value and reduced maintenance, the GV50's laser technology offers approximately twice the operational lifespan of the TH685P's lamp.
Yes, both projectors support gaming console connections through HDMI ports. The BenQ TH685P includes two HDMI 2.0 inputs, allowing you to connect multiple consoles simultaneously. The BenQ GV50 has one HDMI 2.0b port, so you'd need to disconnect and reconnect devices if using multiple consoles. However, only the TH685P is optimized for gaming performance with its low input lag and 120Hz refresh rate support. Both projectors can display console games, but the TH685P delivers a significantly better gaming experience.
Both projectors offer good value at similar price points ($750-850) but for different use cases. The BenQ GV50 provides better value if you prioritize versatility, built-in streaming, portability, and unique ceiling projection capabilities. Its laser light source also offers longer lifespan value. The BenQ TH685P delivers superior value for performance-focused users, particularly gamers or those needing a bright projector for rooms with ambient light. Your specific needs determine which represents better value - the GV50's convenience features or the TH685P's superior brightness and performance specifications.
Neither projector has native 4K resolution - both are 1080p (Full HD) projectors. However, the BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector does accept 4K input signals and downscales them to 1080p, preserving some image quality benefits from 4K sources. Both the BenQ GV50 Smart Ceiling Projector and TH685P support HDR10 and HLG formats, enhancing contrast and color when playing HDR content even at 1080p resolution. If you want true 4K projection, you would need to look at higher-end models, as both these projectors max out at Full HD 1080p display resolution.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: thewellnessinsider.asia - bhphotovideo.com - thetechnovore.com - howtogeek.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorcentral.com - techradar.com - adorama.com - projectorcentral.com - thesmarthomehookup.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - whathifi.com - youtube.com - cdw.com - projectorcentral.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - projectorcentral.com - androidguys.com - bhphotovideo.com - techradar.com - newegg.com - projectorcentral.com - cnet.com - staples.com - cdw.com - youtube.com - shi.com - touchboards.com - projectorcentral.com - youtube.com - iconicmicro.com - adorama.com - publicsector.shidirect.com - adorama.com
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