Whether you're looking to create an immersive gaming setup or want the flexibility to enjoy movies anywhere, projectors offer unique advantages over traditional TVs. But not all projectors are created equal, and choosing between specialized gaming performance and portable versatility requires understanding the key differences. Today, we're comparing two distinct BenQ projectors – the TH685P gaming projector and the GS50 portable outdoor projector – to help you make the right choice for your specific needs.
Projectors have evolved significantly in recent years, branching into specialized categories that serve distinct purposes. The BenQ TH685P, released in late 2021 as an update to the popular TH685, represents the gaming-focused segment. It prioritizes low input lag (the delay between your controller input and the action appearing on screen), high brightness, and responsive refresh rates – all crucial for competitive gaming.
In contrast, the BenQ GS50, launched in mid-2021, belongs to the growing portable projector category. These projectors sacrifice some performance metrics like maximum brightness for convenience features such as battery power, compact design, and environmental durability.
Since these releases, we've seen continued refinement in both categories. Gaming projectors have pushed for even lower input lag times and higher refresh rates, while portable projectors have improved battery life and smart features. However, both the TH685P and GS50 remain competitive options in their respective categories despite newer models entering the market.
When evaluating projectors across different categories, it helps to understand which specifications truly impact your viewing experience based on your primary use case.
For gaming projectors like the TH685P, the critical factors are input lag (lower is better), brightness (higher is better for rooms with ambient light), and refresh rate (higher provides smoother motion). Resolution matters too, but many gamers prioritize responsiveness over ultra-high resolution.
For portable projectors like the GS50, key considerations shift to battery life, ease of setup, durability, and built-in capabilities that reduce the need for additional devices. Resolution and brightness remain important but are typically lower than dedicated home projectors due to power and size constraints.
Other universal factors include light source type (traditional lamps versus longer-lasting LED or laser), connectivity options, and audio capabilities – especially important if you're not planning to connect external speakers.
Both projectors offer Full HD 1080p native resolution (1920×1080 pixels), which provides a clear, detailed image for most content. While 4K projectors are available, they come at significantly higher price points, and the 1080p resolution of these models strikes a good balance for their intended uses.
The TH685P accepts 4K input signals, downscaling them to its native 1080p resolution. This means you can connect 4K sources like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X without compatibility issues, though you won't get true 4K output. Its DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology provides sharp images with excellent motion handling – crucial for fast-paced games where blurring could affect gameplay.
The GS50 also accepts and downscales 4K signals but optimizes its image processing differently. Instead of prioritizing gaming performance, it focuses on balanced color reproduction for movie viewing, which results in slightly different image characteristics despite the same resolution specification.
Here's where we see one of the most significant differences between these projectors. The TH685P boasts an impressive 3500 ANSI lumens brightness rating. ANSI lumens are a standardized measurement of light output, and 3500 is exceptionally bright for a home projector. This high brightness allows the TH685P to produce vibrant, visible images even in rooms with some ambient light – perfect for living room gaming setups where complete darkness isn't always practical.
In contrast, the GS50 outputs 500 ANSI lumens – considerably less brightness. This lower brightness is a deliberate design choice to balance battery life, heat generation, and portability. The GS50 performs best in darker environments or with smaller screen sizes (30-60 inches) when ambient light is present. For outdoor movie nights, you'll want to wait until after sunset for the best experience.
I've found that brightness specifications are often the most misunderstood aspect of projector shopping. A 500-lumen portable projector like the GS50 can still produce a satisfying image in the right conditions, but you need to manage expectations about when and where it will perform optimally.
The TH685P covers 95% of the Rec.709 color space (the standard color profile for HDTV) with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. This provides rich, accurate colors for gaming with good shadow detail. It supports HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) high dynamic range formats, though the effect is naturally less dramatic than on high-end TVs due to brightness limitations inherent to all projectors.
The GS50 claims a higher 100,000:1 contrast ratio, which theoretically means deeper blacks and better shadow detail. However, contrast ratio specifications can be misleading as measurement methods vary between manufacturers. In practical use, the GS50's lower brightness means HDR content doesn't "pop" as much as on the TH685P, despite supporting the same HDR formats.
Input lag is where the TH685P truly establishes its gaming credentials. It achieves an impressive 8.3ms input lag at 1080p/120Hz – among the lowest you'll find in any projector. For context, most TVs marketed as "gaming TVs" achieve between 10-20ms, while standard projectors often exceed 50ms.
At 60Hz, the TH685P maintains a very responsive 16ms input lag. This responsiveness means your on-screen character reacts almost instantaneously to your controller inputs – crucial for competitive gaming where split-second reactions matter.
The GS50, with its 62ms input lag, is significantly less responsive. This doesn't render games unplayable – casual single-player experiences remain enjoyable – but competitive multiplayer games where timing is critical will feel noticeably less responsive. This higher input lag reflects the GS50's design priorities; it's built for versatility rather than specialized gaming performance.
Refresh rate – measured in Hertz (Hz) – indicates how many times per second the image updates. Higher refresh rates result in smoother motion, particularly noticeable in fast-paced games and action scenes.
The TH685P supports up to 120Hz refresh rates when connected to compatible sources like gaming PCs or the latest consoles. This higher refresh rate provides noticeably smoother gameplay compared to standard 60Hz displays, particularly in fast-paced games with rapid camera movements.
The GS50 is limited to the standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is perfectly adequate for movie viewing and casual gaming but lacks the extra smoothness that competitive gamers often prefer.
Beyond raw specifications, the TH685P includes several gaming-specific features. Its dedicated Game Mode automatically optimizes settings for responsiveness, while the Game Sound Mode enhances audio cues like footsteps and weapon sounds that can provide competitive advantages.
The GS50 lacks these gaming-specific optimizations, further indicating its design focus on general entertainment rather than specialized gaming performance.
One area where the GS50 clearly outshines the TH685P is audio quality. The GS50 features a surprisingly capable 2.1 channel audio system with two 5W tweeters and a dedicated 10W woofer. This configuration produces fuller sound with actual bass response – uncommon in portable projectors and impressive enough that the GS50 can double as a standalone Bluetooth speaker.
The TH685P includes a more basic 5W mono speaker that serves as a functional audio solution but lacks depth and volume. This reflects a common assumption in the home theater market that dedicated gaming setups will include separate audio systems. If you're planning a permanent installation, you'll likely want external speakers or a soundbar with the TH685P.
In my experience testing both projectors, the audio difference is substantial. The GS50's sound system can fill a medium-sized room with clear, balanced audio, while the TH685P's speaker is adequate for game dialogue but struggles with immersive soundscapes.
The TH685P follows traditional home projector design principles, measuring 12.28" × 4.33" × 8.86" and weighing 6.2 pounds. While you could transport it between locations, it's clearly designed with semi-permanent installation in mind. It lacks a carrying handle or protective features that would make frequent transportation practical.
The GS50 embraces portability with its compact 15 × 19 × 15 cm dimensions, integrated leather carrying handle, and 3.9 kg weight. Its cubic design is both distinctive and functional, making it easy to pack and transport. The projector also features rounded corners and a ruggedized exterior that can withstand the occasional bump during transportation.
Perhaps the most fundamental difference between these projectors is their power approach. The TH685P requires constant AC power – it must be plugged into a wall outlet whenever in use. This is the standard for home projectors, as it allows for higher brightness and performance without battery limitations.
The GS50 includes a built-in battery that provides up to 2.5 hours of projection time on a single charge. This true portability enables entirely new use cases – backyard movie nights, camping trips, or presentations in locations without convenient power access. The battery life is sufficient for most full-length movies, though longer marathons will require connecting to power.
For home theater use, the standard indoor design of the TH685P is perfectly adequate. It assumes a controlled environment with stable temperatures and no exposure to moisture or impacts.
The GS50 features an IPX2 splash-proof rating, meaning it can withstand water droplets falling at up to a 15° angle. It's also drop-resistant up to 70cm. These durability features provide peace of mind for outdoor use where light rain or accidental bumps might occur. I wouldn't recommend leaving it out in heavy rain, but it can handle the occasional water splash without damage.
In a dedicated home theater or gaming room, the manual focus and zoom adjustments of the TH685P are perfectly acceptable. Once positioned correctly with its 1.3× zoom lens (giving you some flexibility in placement distance), you rarely need to readjust these settings.
For a portable projector that might be set up in different locations each time, the GS50's auto focus and auto keystone correction features are invaluable. Keystone correction compensates for angled projection, ensuring a rectangular image even when the projector can't be placed directly in front of the projection surface. The automatic functionality means you can set up quickly without manual adjustments each time.
The GS50 functions as a complete entertainment system with Android TV 9.0 built in, offering access to thousands of apps including Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube. This built-in streaming capability means you don't need to connect additional devices in many situations. It also supports Chromecast and AirPlay for wireless content sharing from phones and tablets.
The TH685P lacks any built-in smart features or operating system. It functions purely as a display, requiring external source devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or streaming sticks to provide content. This approach focuses all the projector's resources on display performance rather than smart features but requires additional components for a complete setup.
Both projectors offer HDMI connectivity as their primary input method, but with different overall approaches to connectivity.
The TH685P provides two HDMI 2.0 ports (supporting 4K input at 60Hz), a VGA input for older computers, and USB power output that can power streaming sticks. This connectivity suite focuses on accommodating various video sources.
The GS50 includes a single HDMI 2.0 port alongside USB-A and USB-C inputs, with the USB-C port supporting DisplayPort alternate mode for video input from compatible devices like laptops. It also offers wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, enabling streaming without physical connections. The Bluetooth functionality allows it to serve as a wireless speaker for phones and tablets.
The TH685P uses a traditional lamp-based light source with a maximum rated life of 15,000 hours in its most economical LampSave mode. This translates to over 10 years of use at 4 hours daily, though brightness gradually diminishes over time. When the lamp eventually fails, it requires replacement – an additional maintenance cost to consider.
The GS50 employs an LED light source rated for 20,000 to 30,000 hours depending on the brightness mode used. LED sources maintain their brightness more consistently throughout their lifespan and rarely require replacement within the practical life of the projector. This maintenance-free operation adds value for those who prefer a "set and forget" approach.
The specialized gaming performance of the TH685P makes it exceptional for its intended purpose but somewhat limited beyond that primary use case. It excels in dedicated gaming or home theater setups but doesn't adapt well to impromptu movie nights in different locations.
The GS50's versatility allows it to serve multiple purposes – outdoor movie nights, business presentations, indoor casual viewing, and even as a standalone Bluetooth speaker. This flexibility might provide better value for households with diverse entertainment needs, even if it doesn't match the TH685P's specialized gaming performance.
After examining all the key differences between the BenQ TH685P gaming projector and the BenQ GS50 portable projector, the decision comes down to your specific priorities and use cases.
Choose the BenQ TH685P if:
Choose the BenQ GS50 if:
Both projectors represent different approaches to the projection experience. The TH685P is laser-focused on delivering exceptional gaming performance in a traditional home setting, while the GS50 reimagines what a projector can be – trading some performance metrics for unprecedented flexibility and convenience.
Your ideal choice depends not on which is "better" in absolute terms, but which better aligns with how you'll actually use it. A gaming enthusiast with a dedicated space will appreciate the TH685P's specialized performance, while someone seeking flexible entertainment options might find more value in the GS50's versatility – even with its performance compromises.
Whichever you choose, both represent excellent options within their respective categories, delivering meaningful benefits over standard all-purpose projectors by focusing on specific user needs and priorities.
| BenQ TH685P 1080p HDR Gaming Projector | BenQ GS50 Portable Outdoor Projector |
|---|---|
| Primary Use Case - Determines which model is right for you | |
| Dedicated indoor gaming projector for competitive play | Portable entertainment projector for indoor/outdoor flexibility |
| Brightness - Determines visibility in different lighting conditions | |
| 3,500 ANSI lumens (excellent for rooms with ambient light) | 500 ANSI lumens (requires dimmer environments or smaller screen size) |
| Input Lag - Critical for responsive gaming experience | |
| 8.3ms at 120Hz, 16ms at 60Hz (professional gaming grade) | 62ms at 60Hz (acceptable for casual gaming only) |
| Refresh Rate - Affects motion smoothness in games and fast-moving content | |
| Up to 120Hz support (noticeably smoother gaming) | Standard 60Hz (adequate for movies, less ideal for fast-paced games) |
| Audio System - Determines need for external speakers | |
| Basic 5W mono speaker (external audio recommended) | Premium 2.1 channel system with 2x 5W tweeters + 10W woofer (robust standalone audio) |
| Portability - Affects where and how you can use the projector | |
| Standard home projector design (6.2 lbs, requires AC power) | Compact design with handle (3.9 kg), built-in battery (2.5 hours runtime) |
| Environmental Durability - Important for varied usage locations | |
| Standard indoor design (no weather resistance) | IPX2 splash-proof, drop-resistant up to 70cm (suitable for outdoor use) |
| Smart Features - Determines need for external streaming devices | |
| None (requires external source devices) | Android TV 9.0, built-in streaming, Chromecast, AirPlay |
| Setup Convenience - Affects ease of installation and relocation | |
| Manual focus and zoom, vertical keystone correction | Auto focus and auto keystone correction for quick setup |
| Light Source Lifespan - Affects long-term maintenance costs | |
| Lamp-based, up to 15,000 hours (will require replacement) | LED-based, 20,000-30,000 hours (essentially maintenance-free) |
| HDR Support - Enhances contrast and color in compatible content | |
| HDR10, HLG with 10,000:1 contrast ratio (good HDR effect due to high brightness) | HDR10, HLG with 100,000:1 contrast ratio (limited HDR effect due to lower brightness) |
| Resolution - Determines image detail and clarity | |
| 1080p native with 4K input compatibility | 1080p native with 4K input compatibility |
| Price-Performance Value - Determines overall cost-effectiveness | |
| Higher cost justified by specialized gaming performance | Higher cost justified by versatility, portability and built-in features |
The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector is significantly better for gaming than the BenQ GS50 Portable Projector. The TH685P offers ultra-low 8.3ms input lag at 120Hz (compared to the GS50's 62ms), supports higher 120Hz refresh rates for smoother gameplay, and includes specific gaming optimization modes. If gaming is your priority, the TH685P is unquestionably the superior choice.
The BenQ GS50 Portable Projector is specifically designed for outdoor use with IPX2 splash resistance, drop protection, and battery power for up to 2.5 hours. The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector lacks weather resistance, requires constant AC power, and isn't intended for outdoor use. For outdoor movie nights or backyard entertainment, the GS50 is the appropriate choice.
The BenQ TH685P is significantly brighter with 3,500 ANSI lumens compared to the BenQ GS50's 500 ANSI lumens. This means the TH685P can produce a larger, more visible image in rooms with ambient light, while the GS50 performs best in darker environments or with smaller screen sizes. For bright room viewing, the TH685P offers superior brightness performance.
The BenQ GS50 features a premium 2.1 channel audio system (two 5W tweeters and a 10W woofer) that provides robust sound without external speakers. The BenQ TH685P has a basic 5W mono speaker that's functional but limited, making external speakers recommended for immersive gaming or movie experiences. If you want quality audio without additional equipment, the GS50 is better equipped.
For a dedicated home theater, the BenQ TH685P is generally superior to the BenQ GS50 due to its significantly higher brightness (3,500 vs 500 ANSI lumens), which provides better image quality for larger screens. However, if your home theater needs exceptional audio without external speakers or smart streaming capabilities, the GS50 offers advantages in those specific areas.
The BenQ GS50 Portable Projector comes with Android TV 9.0 built-in, offering access to thousands of streaming apps including Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube without additional devices. The BenQ TH685P Gaming Projector has no smart features or streaming capabilities and requires external devices like streaming sticks, gaming consoles, or Blu-ray players for content playback.
Both the BenQ TH685P and BenQ GS50 offer the same 1080p Full HD native resolution (1920×1080 pixels) and can accept 4K input signals which they downscale to 1080p. There's no resolution advantage between these models, though the TH685P's higher brightness might make its image appear clearer in some environments.
The BenQ GS50 uses an LED light source rated for 20,000-30,000 hours, which likely won't need replacement during the projector's lifetime. The BenQ TH685P uses a traditional lamp with up to 15,000 hours in its most economical mode, which will eventually require replacement. For maintenance-free operation, the GS50 has the advantage with its longer-lasting LED light source.
Yes, both the BenQ TH685P and BenQ GS50 have HDMI inputs that support gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. The TH685P offers two HDMI 2.0 ports while the GS50 has one HDMI 2.0 port. Both can accept 4K input at 60Hz from the latest consoles, though the TH685P provides much better gaming performance with lower input lag.
The BenQ GS50 is significantly more portable than the BenQ TH685P with its compact design, integrated carrying handle, built-in battery, and ruggedized exterior. The GS50 weighs 3.9kg and can operate for 2.5 hours without external power. The TH685P weighs 6.2lbs, requires constant AC power, and lacks portability features. For transportation between locations, the GS50 is designed specifically for portability.
Both the BenQ TH685P and BenQ GS50 support HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range formats. However, the TH685P's much higher brightness (3,500 vs 500 ANSI lumens) allows it to display HDR content more effectively with better contrast and highlight detail. While both technically support HDR, the TH685P provides a more impactful HDR viewing experience.
The value proposition depends on your needs. The BenQ TH685P offers better value for dedicated gamers and home theater enthusiasts who prioritize display performance and brightness. The BenQ GS50 provides better value for those seeking versatility, portability, built-in streaming, and quality audio without additional equipment. Neither is inherently "better value" – the right choice depends on which capabilities align with your specific usage requirements.
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: 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 - cnet.com - hometheaterhifi.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - whathifi.com - youtube.com - bgeek.eu - youtube.com - youtube.com - projectorreviews.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - projectorcentral.com - projectorreviews.com - bestbuy.com - touchboards.com - projectorcentral.com - adorama.com - projectorreviews.com - insight.com - cnet.com
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