The most common question we hear is: "Is 4K necessary?" The right answer depends on screen size, viewing distance, ambient light, and budget. Let's break it down.
Resolution Basics
- 1080p (Full HD): Excellent value and performance for most screens. Examples include BenQ AH700ST, BenQ AH500ST, Optoma GT200HDR, and Optoma ZW350ST.
- 4K (UHD): More detail—most noticeable on larger screens and closer viewing distances. Examples include BenQ AK700ST, BenQ LK936ST, and Optoma 4K400STx.
When 1080p Shines
- Moderate screen sizes: Ideal for screens under 100 inches diagonal (≈8–10 ft wide).
- Budget-conscious builds: Provides great visuals without high cost..
- Prioritizing brightness and low latency over pixel density: Ensures responsive play and clear images even in rooms with ambient light.
When 4K Shines
- Large impact screens (≈10 ft wide and up): Shows more detail and crisper visuals on expansive screens.
- Mixed-use rooms (movies/gaming + golf): Provides versatility for entertainment beyond golf.
- Premium builds seeking maximum detail: Enhances realism and immersion.
What Matters More Than Resolution
For golf simulators, brightness (lumens) and input lag often impact your experience more than pixel density. If choosing, prioritize lumens and latency first, then select resolution accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Both BenQ and Optoma offer 1080p and 4K short-throw options. Your choice should be guided by screen size, room lighting, viewing distance, and budget. There's no one-size-fits-all answer—both resolutions can deliver a great simulator experience when paired with the right brightness and low-latency projector.
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Note: All projectors referenced are short-throw models suitable for golf simulators. Always check throw ratio, brightness, and input lag for your space.
