BenQ TK700 vs BenQ TH685P: Gaming Projector Showdown 2026
4K resolution vs maximum brightness - Which gaming projector wins?
Price Check: Prices verified as of October 2026
Choosing between the BenQ TK700 4K gaming projector ($749) and the BenQ TH685P 1080p gaming projector ($975)? This detailed comparison reveals which projector delivers better gaming performance for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC gaming. We analyze input lag, resolution impact, brightness differences, and real-world gaming scenarios to help you choose the right BenQ gaming projector.
Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Specification | BenQ TK700 | BenQ TH685P |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $749 | $975 |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 1080p |
| Brightness | 3200 lumens | 3500 lumens |
| Input Lag | 16ms (4K) / 4.16ms (1080p@240Hz) | 8.3ms (1080p) |
| Rating | 4.3 ★ (370 reviews) | 4.1 ★ (79 reviews) |
BenQ TK700
4K Champion
BenQ TH685P
Brightness King
Quick Verdict
Choose TK700 for stunning 4K visuals, HDR gaming, and future-proofing at the lower price of $749. Choose TH685P for maximum brightness (3500 lumens) and better ambient light performance at $975. Both offer excellent sub-20ms input lag for responsive gaming.
Complete Specifications Comparison
| Specification | BenQ TK700 | BenQ TH685P |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840x2160)8.3 million pixels | 1080p (1920x1080)2.1 million pixels |
| Brightness | 3200 ANSI lumens | 3500 ANSI lumens+9.4% brighter |
| Input Lag (Gaming) | 4.16ms @ 1080p/240Hz8.33ms @ 1080p/120Hz16ms @ 4K/60Hz | 8.3ms @ 1080p/120Hz |
| Refresh Rate Support | Up to 240Hz @ 1080p60Hz @ 4K | 120Hz @ 1080p |
| HDR Support | HDR10 | No HDR |
| Contrast Ratio | 10,000:1 | 6,000:1 |
| Technology | DLP (Single-chip) | DLP (Single-chip) |
| Throw Type | Standard (1.13-1.46:1) | Standard |
| Keystone Correction | 2D Keystone (Manual) | Horizontal Keystone (Manual) |
| HDMI Ports | 2x HDMI 2.0b | 2x HDMI 2.0 |
| Speaker | 5W chamber speaker | 6W built-in speaker |
| Lamp Life | 4,000 hrs (Normal) / 15,000 hrs (Eco) | 6,000 hrs rated |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg) | 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Price | $749Better value | $975Premium pricing |
| Customer Rating | 4.3 stars370 reviews | 4.1 stars79 reviews |
Gaming Performance Analysis
Input Lag: Who Wins for Competitive Gaming?
Input lag is the most critical specification for gaming projectors. Both BenQ projectors deliver exceptional performance, but with different strengths depending on your gaming resolution.
BenQ TK700 Input Lag
- 1080p @ 240Hz:4.16ms
- 1080p @ 120Hz:8.33ms
- 1080p @ 60Hz:16.67ms
- 4K @ 60Hz:16ms
Winner for: Competitive PC gaming at high refresh rates (240Hz)
BenQ TH685P Input Lag
- 1080p @ 120Hz:8.3ms
- Enhanced Game Mode:Enabled
Winner for: Console gaming (PS5/Xbox) and fast 120Hz PC gaming
Real-World Gaming Experience
Both projectors feel responsive for console and casual PC gaming. The TK700 shines when you drop to 1080p on PC, delivering professional-grade 4.16ms lag at 240Hz - perfect for esports titles like CS:GO, Valorant, and Apex Legends. The TH685P's 8.3ms at 1080p/120Hz is also excellent, and for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming, the difference between the TK700's 16ms at 4K and the TH685P's 8.3ms at 1080p is unlikely to be noticeable in practice.
4K vs 1080p: Resolution Impact on Gaming
4K Gaming Advantages (TK700)
- ✓Stunning detail: 8.3 million pixels for crisp textures and sharp UI elements
- ✓HDR10 support: Enhanced dynamic range for better shadows and highlights
- ✓Future-proofing: Ready for next-gen gaming graphics
- ✓Large screen viewing: Maintains sharpness on 120-150 inch screens
- ✓Ideal for: Single-player adventures, RPGs, racing games, flight simulators
1080p Gaming Advantages (TH685P)
- ✓Consistent performance: Reliable 60fps at 1080p across all games
- ✓Superior brightness: 3500 lumens for better ambient light performance
- ✓Lower cost: More budget-friendly despite higher price tag
- ✓Perfect sharpness: Excellent quality on 80-120 inch screens
- ✓Ideal for: Competitive gaming, FPS titles, sports games, multiplayer
Bottom Line: Choose 4K if you primarily play visually stunning single-player games and want the best graphics quality. Choose 1080p if you prioritize competitive gaming, play in bright rooms, or focus on fast-paced multiplayer titles where frame rate and visibility matter more than resolution.
Brightness Battle: 3200 vs 3500 Lumens
The BenQ TH685P wins the brightness battle with 3500 lumens compared to the TK700's 3200 lumens - an 9.4% advantage. This difference significantly impacts your gaming experience depending on your room conditions.
Dark Room Gaming
Complete darkness with blackout curtains
TK700: Excellent (3200 lumens)
TH685P: Excellent (may need Eco mode)
Winner: TK700 (better color accuracy at lower brightness)
Dim Room Gaming
Low ambient light, lamps, evening gaming
TK700: Very Good
TH685P: Excellent (bright, vibrant)
Winner: TH685P (extra brightness helps)
Bright Room Gaming
Daytime gaming, windows, overhead lights
TK700: Good (usable but washed out)
TH685P: Very Good (maintains visibility)
Winner: TH685P (300 lumens advantage matters)
Recommendation: If you game primarily in a bright living room or can't control lighting, the TH685P's extra 300 lumens justify its higher price. For dedicated dark gaming rooms, the TK700's 3200 lumens is more than sufficient, and you'll appreciate the 4K resolution more.
Pros and Cons Breakdown
BenQ TK700
✓ Pros
- •True 4K resolution for stunning visual clarity and detail
- •Ultra-low 4.16ms lag at 1080p/240Hz for competitive PC gaming
- •HDR10 support enhances shadow detail and highlights in games
- •96% Rec.709 color gamut for accurate, vibrant colors
- •$749 price point excellent value for 4K gaming projector
- •240Hz support at 1080p for high-refresh-rate PC gaming
- •1.3x zoom provides better installation flexibility
- •Future-proof for next-gen gaming graphics and consoles
✗ Cons
- •Lower brightness (3200 lumens) struggles in bright rooms
- •Higher input lag (16ms at 4K) than the TH685P's 8.3ms
- •Slightly heavier at 7.7 lbs vs 6.2 lbs
- •Shorter lamp life (4,000 vs 6,000 hours)
- •DLP rainbow effect may bother sensitive users
BenQ TH685P
✓ Pros
- •Brighter at 3500 lumens — better in ambient light
- •Excellent 8.3ms lag at 1080p/120Hz, perfect for console gaming
- •120Hz refresh rate support for smoother competitive play
- •Lighter weight (6.2 lbs) easier to move and mount
- •Longer rated lamp life (6,000 hours)
- •Enhanced Game Mode optimized for fast-paced gaming
- •3-year warranty provides peace of mind
✗ Cons
- •Only 1080p resolution lacks 4K detail and sharpness
- •No HDR support misses enhanced dynamic range
- •Higher price at $975 vs $749 for lower resolution
- •Lower contrast ratio (6,000:1) than the TK700's 10,000:1
- •Smaller review base (79 reviews) than the TK700
Which Projector for Your Gaming Style?
PS5 & Xbox Series X Gaming
Single-Player Adventures
God of War, Horizon, Assassin's Creed, Final Fantasy, Spider-Man
Recommended: BenQ TK700
4K resolution brings these stunning games to life. HDR10 enhances visual impact. Perfect 16ms lag for responsive exploration.
Competitive Multiplayer
Call of Duty, Fortnite, Apex Legends, Warzone, Rainbow Six
Recommended: BenQ TH685P
Extra brightness improves target visibility. 8.3ms lag is excellent for competitive play. Better for bright gaming rooms.
PC Gaming
Competitive Esports (240Hz)
CS:GO, Valorant, Overwatch, League of Legends, Rocket League
Clear Winner: BenQ TK700
4.16ms lag at 240Hz is professional-grade. Supports high refresh rates. Drop to 1080p for competitive advantage.
AAA Titles & Simulation
Cyberpunk 2077, Microsoft Flight Sim, Red Dead 2, Starfield
Clear Winner: BenQ TK700
4K resolution essential for immersive detail. HDR10 enhances realism. Better color accuracy for stunning visuals.
Racing & Sports Games
Racing Simulators
Forza, Gran Turismo, F1, iRacing, Assetto Corsa
Recommended: BenQ TK700
4K resolution reveals track details and distant markers. HDR enhances lighting conditions. Low lag ensures responsive steering.
Sports Games
FIFA, Madden, NBA 2K, MLB The Show, NHL
Recommended: BenQ TH685P
Bright image perfect for group viewing. Excellent motion handling. 1080p sufficient for fast-paced sports action.
Based on Room Conditions
Dedicated Dark Room
Basement, theater room, blackout curtains
Choose: TK700
Maximize 4K quality in controlled lighting
Living Room Gaming
Windows, lamps, mixed lighting
Choose: TH685P
Extra brightness handles ambient light
Daytime Gaming
Afternoon sessions, bright environment
Choose: TH685P
3500 lumens combat daylight wash-out
Final Verdict: Which Gaming Projector Should You Buy?
Choose BenQ TK700
Best Overall Value
Perfect For:
- • Single-player AAA games and RPGs
- • Dark or controlled lighting gaming rooms
- • PC gamers wanting 240Hz competitive edge
- • Future-proofing for next-gen graphics
- • Large screens (120-150 inches) needing sharp detail
- • HDR gaming enthusiasts
Why It Wins:
At $749, the TK700 delivers true 4K gaming, HDR10, and ultra-low 4.16ms lag at high refresh rates. You get professional-grade gaming performance with stunning visuals at $151 less than the TH685P. The 4K resolution and superior color gamut make every game look spectacular.
Choose BenQ TH685P
Brightness Champion
Perfect For:
- • Competitive multiplayer and FPS gaming
- • Bright living room gaming environments
- • Daytime gaming sessions
- • Group gaming and sports viewing
- • Console-focused gamers (PS5/Xbox)
- • Easy setup with auto keystone
Why Choose This:
The TH685P's 3500 lumens dominates in ambient light, making it ideal for living room gaming. Its lighter weight also makes it easier to mount or move around. If you can't control lighting or prioritize brightness over 4K resolution, this is your projector despite the higher $975 price.
Our Overall Recommendation
For most gamers, the BenQ TK700 is the better choice. At $749, you get true 4K gaming, HDR10 support, and incredibly low input lag (4.16ms at high refresh rates). The 3200 lumens is sufficient for most gaming environments, and the visual quality difference between 4K and 1080p is substantial on large projection screens.
The TH685P makes sense in specific scenarios: if you absolutely need maximum brightness for daytime gaming, can't control room lighting, or primarily play fast-paced competitive games where brightness matters more than resolution. However, at $151 more than the TK700, it's harder to justify unless brightness is your top priority.
Budget-conscious choice: TK700 saves $151 and gives you 4K. Brightness priority: TH685P for ultimate visibility. Best overall value: TK700 wins for gaming performance per dollar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BenQ TK700 worth the extra cost over the TH685P?
Actually, the TK700 costs $151 less than the TH685P ($749 vs $975), making this question reversed. The TK700 offers better value with true 4K UHD resolution, HDR10 support, and 16ms input lag at 4K@60Hz.
The TH685P's higher price reflects its superior brightness (3500 lumens vs 3200), lower input lag, and longer rated lamp life. However, for pure gaming performance and value, the TK700 delivers 4K resolution and HDR at a lower price.
Value verdict: TK700 offers better gaming features per dollar unless you specifically need the TH685P's extra brightness for ambient light situations.
Which projector has better input lag for gaming?
Both projectors offer excellent gaming input lag, and at matching refresh rates they're close — the BenQ TK700 only pulls ahead at its top-end 240Hz PC mode:
BenQ TK700
- • 4.16ms at 1080p@240Hz (professional-grade)
- • 8.33ms at 1080p@120Hz (excellent)
- • 16ms at 4K@60Hz (excellent)
BenQ TH685P
- • 8.3ms at 1080p@120Hz (excellent)
- • Consistent performance
- • Enhanced Game Mode
At 1080p/120Hz, the two are essentially tied (8.33ms vs 8.3ms). For PC gaming at 240Hz, the TK700's 4.16ms lag is in professional esports territory — a mode the TH685P doesn't match. For console gaming, either projector delivers excellent, imperceptible lag.
Should I choose 4K or 1080p for gaming projectors?
The choice between 4K and 1080p depends on your gaming priorities and room setup:
Choose 4K (TK700) if you:
- • Play primarily single-player adventures, RPGs, or racing games
- • Want stunning visual detail and text clarity
- • Have a dark or controlled lighting gaming room
- • Use screens 120+ inches where 4K sharpness matters
- • Want HDR gaming for enhanced visuals
- • Value future-proofing for next-gen graphics
Choose 1080p (TH685P) if you:
- • Focus on competitive FPS and multiplayer gaming
- • Game in bright rooms with ambient light
- • Need maximum brightness over resolution
- • Sit closer to screens (80-100 inches)
- • Want easier setup with auto keystone
- • Prioritize consistent 60fps performance
Bottom line: 4K provides noticeable improvement on large screens (100+ inches) and enhances immersion in visually detailed games. 1080p remains excellent for competitive gaming where brightness and consistent performance matter most. Given the TK700 costs less with 4K, it's the better value unless you specifically need the TH685P's extra brightness.
Can both projectors handle PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming?
Yes, both projectors work excellently with PS5 and Xbox Series X, but with different strengths:
BenQ TK700 for Next-Gen Consoles
- • 4K@60Hz support matches PS5/Xbox native output
- • HDR10 support displays next-gen HDR games properly
- • 16ms input lag at 4K provides responsive gameplay
- • 2x HDMI 2.0b ports connect multiple consoles
- • 96% Rec.709 color shows games as developers intended
Best for: Single-player exclusives like God of War Ragnarok, Horizon Forbidden West, Starfield, Halo Infinite
BenQ TH685P for Next-Gen Consoles
- • 1080p@120Hz smooth performance for multiplayer
- • 3500 lumens superior for living room gaming
- • 8.3ms input lag excellent for competitive play
- • 2x HDMI 2.0 easy switching between consoles
Best for: Competitive multiplayer like Call of Duty, Fortnite, Apex Legends, FIFA, NBA 2K
Recommendation: If you bought a PS5 or Xbox Series X to experience next-gen graphics, the TK700's 4K and HDR support maximizes your console investment. If you primarily play online multiplayer, the TH685P's brightness helps in competitive scenarios, though you're not using your console's full 4K capability.
How do these projectors compare to the BenQ TK710STi?
The BenQ TK710STi ($1,299) is the premium gaming model that outperforms both the TK700 and TH685P:
| Feature | TK700STi | TK700 | TH685P |
|---|---|---|---|
| Input Lag | 4.2ms | 16ms | 8.3ms |
| Resolution | 4K@120Hz | 4K@60Hz | 1080p@120Hz |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.1 + VRR | HDMI 2.0b | 2x HDMI 2.0 |
| Brightness | 3000 lumens | 3200 lumens | 3500 lumens |
| Throw Type | Short Throw | Standard | Standard |
| Price | $1,299 | $749 | $975 |
When to upgrade to TK700STi: Choose the STi if you want professional-grade 4.2ms lag, HDMI 2.1 with 4K@120Hz, VRR support, or short throw convenience. The $550 premium over TK700 gets you cutting-edge gaming tech. For most gamers, the TK700 at $749 delivers 90% of the performance at nearly half the price. Compare all BenQ gaming projectors
What screen size works best with these projectors?
Both projectors support similar throw distances, but recommended screen sizes differ based on resolution:
BenQ TK700 (4K)
Throw Ratio: 1.13-1.46:1
- • 100" screen: 8.2-10.5 ft distance
- • 120" screen: 9.8-12.7 ft distance
- • 150" screen: 12.3-15.8 ft distance
Sweet spot: 120-150 inches for maximum 4K impact
BenQ TH685P (1080p)
Throw Ratio: 1.15-1.5:1
- • 100" screen: 8.4-11.0 ft distance
- • 120" screen: 10.1-13.2 ft distance
- • 150" screen: 12.6-16.5 ft distance
Sweet spot: 80-120 inches for crisp 1080p clarity
Resolution considerations: The TK700's 4K resolution maintains sharpness on larger screens (120-150 inches), making it ideal for home theater-style gaming. The TH685P's 1080p looks excellent on 80-120 inch screens but may show pixel structure on 150+ inch screens when sitting closer.
Gaming distance tip: For competitive gaming, sit closer (1.5x screen width) to see all action. For immersive single-player games, sit farther (2-2.5x screen width) for cinematic experience. Both projectors support flexible placement with their zoom features.
Do I need to buy an external sound system for gaming?
Both projectors include 5W built-in speakers, but for serious gaming, external audio significantly enhances the experience:
Built-in 5W Speakers
- • Pros: Convenient, no extra cost, adequate for casual gaming
- • Cons: Lack bass, limited volume, poor directional audio for competitive gaming
- • Best for: Quick gaming sessions, puzzle games, retro gaming, party games
Recommended Audio Upgrades
- • Budget ($100-200): Gaming soundbar with subwoofer for enhanced bass and volume
- • Mid-range ($300-500): 2.1 or 3.1 system with center channel for clear dialogue and sound effects
- • Premium ($500+): 5.1 surround sound for competitive advantage (hear footsteps, gunfire direction)
Competitive gaming note: For FPS games like Call of Duty, Apex Legends, or Valorant, surround sound or quality headphones provide tactical advantage by revealing enemy positions through audio cues. Budget at least $150-200 for a gaming soundbar if you play competitively. For single-player adventures, the built-in speakers work fine for casual sessions, but external audio greatly enhances immersion.
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Both the BenQ TK700 and TH685P deliver exceptional gaming performance. Choose 4K for stunning visuals at $749, or maximum brightness for $975.