BenQ W1100

BenQ W1100 review

BenQ's W1100 projector delivers large scale, vibrant images without obvious compromise, and its a full HD flag-waver for AV in our straitened times. Despite the budget price tag, this model is undeniably cute. Should you be a fair-weather projectionist, it is small enough to store in a draw, but it's also smart enough, with its contemporary white finish, to leave out when guests drop by. Its distinctly upmarket remote also helps. Backlit and comfortably moulded, it feels good in the hand. There are generous connections on the back, comprising two HDMIs, component and S-Video inputs, phono AV and a 12V trigger. The latter allows the projector to automatically sync with an electric screen or lighting system – a pleasingly professional AV embellishment for such an affordable model. Other connection options include a PC D-Sub input, Type B USB 'upscreen' connector, RS232 port and PC monitor output. It doesn't take long to have the W1100 up and running. While there is no vertical lens shift, the projector sports auto keystone correction which works surprisingly well. There's also a manual option, should you need to fiddle further. BenQ is rightly proud of the 12-element optical system used on this model. Straight out of the box, the W1100's image is preternaturally sharp and bright.