BenQ is betting on the growing demand for portable projectors with the launch of its dinky new GV32 model, which looks pretty functional with its clever rotating body that allows it to project images at almost any angle.
The company says the BenQ GV32 is designed to provide a “laid-back entertainment experience”, and it should certainly do that, as it has the ability to project images onto the ceiling as well as the wall, thanks to the way it tilts upwards within its integrated stand.
It’s capable of projecting images at a maximum size of 120-inches, with brightness hitting 500 ANSI lumens, suggesting it's probably better for nighttime viewing, although it should be bright enough for use in the daytime if you can block out the sunlight. The images from its LED light source are 1080p – no 4K resolution here – but it does boast “Rec.709 95% colour accuracy” and support HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range content, which should help those images to pop out a bit more.
Setup is simplified with the aforementioned adjustable body, and there are other helpful features onboard such as automatic screen correction, digital zoom and keystone correction, enabling what BenQ assures us is “precise alignment with minimal effort”. Audio is provided by a pair of 5-watt speakers, which combine to generate 10-watts of sound.
The GV32 comes with the Google TV operating system, so users will be able to stream movies from Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+, and they can also connect media players and consoles such as the Nintendo Switch via its single HDMI port. Other connectivity options include USB-A and USB-C, as well as a power cord. As such, its battery life can be topped up by an external power pack to enable portability away from a power outlet. The company didn’t talk about the battery, but we simply surmised there is one because its product page talks about using a power pack to charge the projector.
Helpfully, the power works both ways, meaning that the projector can also be used to charge a smartphone or some other device if you happen to be desperate for juice.
BenQ said the GV32 will replace an older model, the GV31, which is now being retired, though it will likely be available at some retailers while stocks last. The GV32 will go on sale later this month, priced at $599 (around £445). The company didn’t say when it will launch in the U.K., but we do expect that to happen, as the GV31 is available to buy here.
