BenQ has introduced the W2720i, a 4K UHD projector equipped with advanced features aimed at elevating home cinema experiences. With its AI-powered Cinema Mode and comprehensive support for high dynamic range (HDR) formats, the W2720i aims to adapt to various ambient lighting conditions and content types, providing what BenQ describes as an “as-the-director-intended” viewing experience.

This projector is part of BenQ’s line of digital cinema-grade products, featuring 2500 ANSI lumens brightness, support for HDR10+, and a wide color gamut that covers 90% of the DCI-P3 color space, a standard widely used in digital cinema.

The W2720i stands out with its AI Cinema Mode, which uses artificial intelligence to adjust the image dynamically based on the surrounding environment. Designed to detect ambient lighting conditions, this feature optimizes color accuracy, brightness, and contrast in real-time, potentially enhancing viewing quality for those in diverse lighting environments.

For purists who prefer settings without such dynamic adjustments, the W2720i offers a Filmmaker Mode. Unlike the AI Cinema Mode, Filmmaker Mode adheres strictly to industry-standard color settings, recommended for dark-room environments where light conditions remain stable.

The W2720i’s HDR capabilities include support for HDR10 and HDR10+ formats, as well as Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), which is typically used in broadcast content. HDR10+ support allows for scene-by-scene adjustments, aiming to retain detail across a broader range of lighting conditions.

Further enhancing this feature set, BenQ’s HDR-PRO technology works with several contrast-enhancement tools, such as Global and Local Contrast Enhancers and Dynamic Black, which automatically adjust contrast and brightness levels based on scene content.

To maintain color fidelity, BenQ has incorporated its CinematicColor technology into the W2720i, which ensures that each projector is factory-calibrated to meet high color accuracy standards.

 Each unit comes with a calibration report that demonstrates adherence to D65 color temperature and delta E errors below three—an accuracy threshold where deviations become imperceptible to the human eye. This calibration is performed by a team trained in THX and ISF standards, indicating BenQ’s focus on ensuring consistency in color accuracy from unit to unit.

Built on a 4LED light source, the W2720i provides a maximum brightness of 2500 ANSI lumens, suitable for most home environments, even moderately lit rooms. The projector’s light source is designed with longevity in mind, offering up to 30,000 hours of use in Eco mode, which should minimize maintenance requirements for users. The optical system supports image projection up to 120 inches from a distance of 2.7 meters, making it versatile enough to accommodate a range of room sizes and setups.

Additional image adjustments are facilitated through a vertical lens shift of ±5% and eight-point manual corner-fit correction, allowing users to fine-tune the image placement and alignment on their screen. These tools provide flexibility in installation, accommodating rooms with varying layouts and screen placements.

A significant convenience for users, the W2720i integrates Android TV, allowing access to streaming platforms such as Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video directly from the projector. With Chromecast built-in, users can cast content from compatible devices without requiring additional hardware.

For connectivity, the W2720i offers three HDMI 2.1 ports with HDCP 2.3 compatibility, one of which includes eARC support for audio passthrough, enabling connection to soundbars or AV receivers for enhanced audio. 

Additional ports include S/PDIF for optical audio, USB Type-A for media playback, and system integration options via RS232 and a 12V trigger. With a latency as low as 17.9ms on one of the HDMI ports, the projector is also a feasible option for gaming, supporting 120Hz refresh rates on compatible content.

The W2720i’s audio system is equipped for high-quality output, with support for Dolby Atmos transmission via eARC, which can transmit uncompressed audio formats for immersive sound experiences. For users with 7.1-channel audio setups, this feature facilitates a surround sound experience, further enhancing its utility as a versatile home cinema device.

The BenQ W2720i is available now for £1999 in the UK. While U.S. pricing is yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated to retail around $2,500.

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