BenQ GV31 Review: Portable Full HD projector with great sound
Today we’re reviewing another portable mini projector, this time the BenQ GV31. Priced at $899, it offers a native 1080p resolution, 300 ANSI lumens, and a remarkable 100,000:1 contrast ratio. What sets it apart is its ability to run on battery power for up to 180 minutes, providing a flexible and portable viewing experience.
The GV31 projector boasts an LED light source, ensuring vibrant and crisp visuals with a 24-bit display color. The inclusion of two 4-watt speakers and an 8-watt subwoofer delivers a rich audio experience. Running on Android 11, it provides a user-friendly interface, with built-in apps like Netflix and YouTube. Additionally, the projector supports AirPlay and Chromecast, eliminating the need for extra streaming devices.
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- OPTIMAL PICTURE MODES: Optimized Picture Modes powered by CinematicColor and 98% Rec.709 wide color gamut for true...
- EASY SETUP & VERSATILE PROJECTION: Adjustable stand tilts up to 15°, auto focus, 2D keystone & four corner...
- WIRELESS & DIVERSE ENTERTAINMENT: Embedded Google-certified Android TV, supports AirPlay & Chromecast casting for...
Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz). Powered by Android TV, it integrates smoothly with Google Assistant, offering voice-controlled convenience. The BenQ projector projects images up to 100 inches in dark rooms and up to 40 inches in bright rooms. Thanks to its rotating magnetic mount, the projector can also be used on ceilings.
BenQ GV31: Video Review
| Specs | BenQ GV31 |
| Native Resolution | 1080P (1920x1080) |
| Brightness | 300 ANSI lumens |
| Contrast Ratio | 100,000:1 |
| Light Source | LED |
| Light Source Life | Normal 20000 h, ECO 30000 h |
| Projection System | DLP |
| Throw Ratio | 1.2 |
| Keystone Adjustment | 1D, (Auto) Vertical ± 40 degrees |
| Input Lag | 45 ms (1080p@60Hz) |
| Speaker | 2 x 4W + 8W Woofer |
| Noise | 26dBA |
| OS | Android 11.0 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax(2.4GHz/5GHz) |
| Dimensions | 131.3 x 203.2 x 191.4 mm |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
BenQ GV31: Design
The BenQ GV31 features a round shape with smoothly rounded edges, contributing to a modern and sleek appearance. The high build quality is immediately evident, with all parts assembled precisely.
The surface of the projector is durable and rubberized. This design choice enhances grip, allowing users to hold the projector securely.
With dimensions of just 13.1 x 20.3 x 19.1 cm and a lightweight design at 1.7 kg, the BenQ GV31 is exceptionally portable. This makes it an ideal choice for users who value convenience and want to take their entertainment on the go.
The top of the projector is equipped with four controls for volume adjustment, source selection, and more. This intuitive placement ensures easy access to essential functions, enhancing user convenience. Moreover, the inclusion of a mount on the bottom provides flexibility for users who may want to place the projector on a tripod or ceiling mount, catering to various installation preferences.
All the necessary connections are neatly consolidated on one side, offering a streamlined and organized appearance. The array of ports includes USB, HDMI, USB-C, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and the power input. A particularly cool feature of the base is the presence of small metal pieces that secure it in place, ensuring stability during operation. This, coupled with the ability to adjust the angle up and down, adds versatility to the projector’s positioning.
Towards the back of the projector, there are two slots where the cover easily slides off, revealing the internal speakers.
The inclusion of a leather strap on the top of the projector is a practical touch, providing an easy and stylish way to carry the device.
Installation
The BenQ GV31 features a simple and quick initial setup that only takes a few minutes.
To begin the installation process, you need to insert the included Android TV dongle into the appropriate slot on the side of the projector. Then use an HDMI cable to connect the dongle to the projector, providing a secure and efficient connection between the two components. After that, connect the power cable and insert batteries into the included remote control.
Once turned on, the startup process is fast and smooth as both devices start up without any delay. The efficiency of the installation is complemented by an automatic calibration function that includes autofocus. Notably, the autofocus feature is fast and responsive, ensuring that the projected image remains sharp even if the projector moves slightly during initial setup.
The GV31 comes with built-in Android TV, adding to the projector’s versatility. This integration allows you to cast content via Chromecast, download popular streaming services directly to the projector, and easily control it all with the included sleek remote control. An added convenience is the remote’s functionality, as it responds even when pointed at the screen, eliminating the need to point it directly at the projector.
Setup
The BenQ GV31 projector offers a seamless and user-friendly experience from the moment you set it up. Once connected, you have the flexibility to either manually set up the Android TV software or use your phone for a quicker process. The projector seamlessly connects to your Wi-Fi network, providing access to various features.
One notable feature is the ability to install additional apps from BenQ, enhancing the projector’s functionality. The option to access the Play Store opens up a world of possibilities for adding any other apps you might want to use.
The picture quality on the BenQ GV31 is commendable, boasting good contrast. However, it’s worth noting that adjusting the brightness to 100 in the settings is recommended for optimal performance.
The projector’s Settings menu allows you to configure settings such as brightness, picture mode, sound mode, picture and sound focus, installation, power mode, and system settings. Notably, you can manually adjust focus and keystone or select automatic settings.
For energy-conscious users, the projector menu includes a toggle that allows you to turn off the remote control power when not in use, thereby conserving battery power.
Image quality
The BenQ GV31 impresses with its advanced features and superior performance. Boasting a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, this projector delivers crisp and clear images, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.
With 300 ANSI lumens of brightness, GV31 projects images up to 100 inches in dark rooms and up to 40 inches in bright rooms.
The sharpness of the projected image is exceptional, thanks to the Full HD resolution. Content is rendered with incredible clarity, making text and details appear clear without any blur. The autofocus feature adds to the convenience, ensuring pixel-perfect focusing within seconds, even when the projection distance changes. Manual adjustments are unnecessary, as the image remains clear and sharp.
Automatic keystone correction further contributes to a geometrically correct display, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The inclusion of CinematicColor technology ensures that colors are not only intense but also vivid, with high color saturation. The projector’s wide dynamic range contributes to realistic and vibrant contrasts, preserving details in both light and dark areas. The GV31 covers 98% of the sRGB color space, guaranteeing that colors are not only intense but also realistic and natural.
Games
The GV31 is not made for gaming. So if you need the highest refresh rate then GV31 is not the first choice, but for mobile and retro games it will be good. Mobile games like Asphalt 9 run smoothly with minimal lag or delay when using a Bluetooth controller.
Even retro games, such as Punch-Out, deliver a smooth experience with a display that enhances the gaming visuals. The reduced lag and improved lighting details make it a standout choice for faster-paced games.
Sound quality
The appearance of the BenQ GV31 looks more like a speaker than a projector. And this aesthetic choice is not just for show: the sound quality matches the impressive appearance.
Equipped with dual 4-watt mid-range tweeters and an 8-watt woofer, the GV31 delivers a sound experience that exceeds expectations. The mid-range tweeters ensure clear and detailed reproduction of vocals and high-frequency sounds, while the 8-watt woofer adds depth and richness to the bass.
The sound quality, particularly the bass, stands out as notably good, surpassing the performance of many other projectors. However, there’s a slight desire for a little more volume, even though the overall sound quality is commendable.
Battery life
The BenQ GV31 is equipped with a robust battery that lasts for approximately three hours – a duration that conveniently aligns with the runtime of most feature films.
For those who wish to extend their viewing sessions, the GV31 offers a simple solution – just plug in the power using the included adapter.
Beyond its role as a projector, the GV31 serves as a versatile entertainment hub. It can function as a wireless speaker for up to five hours, allowing users to stream audio seamlessly from their smartphones or the Internet.
BenQ GV31: Conclusion
The BenQ GV31 is well-equipped, offering a comprehensive set that caters to various needs. Whether you’re looking for portability with its built-in battery, high-resolution visuals with Full HD output, or the convenience of wireless audio streaming, the GV31 has it covered. Its versatility extends to its rotating magnetic mount for ceiling use, autofocus, and keystone correction for hassle-free adjustments, making it a well-rounded solution for diverse applications.
Sound quality is another area where the GV31 stands out. With better-than-average audio capabilities, the built-in speakers deliver impressive sound quality.
- BIG & CLEAR CINEMATIC PICTURE: This TC projector gives you movie theater visuals, 1080p Full HD Resolution, 500...
- 2.1 CHANNEL AUDIO W/EXTRA BASS: 2.1 Channel Bluetooth built in Speaker with Extra Bass (5Wx2 midrange tweeters &...
- OPTIMAL PICTURE MODES: Optimized Picture Modes powered by CinematicColor and 98% Rec.709 wide color gamut for true...
- EASY SETUP & VERSATILE PROJECTION: Adjustable stand tilts up to 15°, auto focus, 2D keystone & four corner...
- WIRELESS & DIVERSE ENTERTAINMENT: Embedded Google-certified Android TV, supports AirPlay & Chromecast casting for...
Whether you’re watching movies, giving presentations, or playing games, the projector consistently delivers sharp and clear images. The Full HD resolution contributes to an outstanding visual experience, ensuring that every detail is presented with precision.
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