The GT1080HDR from Optoma is a short-throw projector designed with gamers in mind. But is it as good a buy as it seems at first glance? This Optoma GT1080HDR review is here to answer that very question.
There are three main areas we evaluate when looking at a projector: picture quality, installation flexibility, and ease of use. If you’re buying a projector for gaming, you’ll also want to evaluate the projector’s responsiveness. Let’s look in more depth at how the Optoma GT1080HDR performs in each of these areas. >>> Find the current price on Amazon
Optoma GT1080HDR Review – Main Features
| Optoma GT1080HDR | |
|---|---|
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| Resolution | 1080p |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 3,800 |
| Contrast Ratio | 50,000:1 |
| Throw Ratio | .5:1 |
| Screen size | 37”-312” |
| Input lag | 8.4ms |
| Price | BHPhotoVideo.com |
Picture Quality
Whatever you’re using a projector for, a better-looking image will give you a better user experience. The HDR10 technology used in the Optoma GT1080HDR enhances every aspect of the picture. Colors are vibrant and accurate with more depth—they really pop right off the screen.
Now the resolution on the Optoma GT1080HDR isn’t the highest out there. While it can play 4K content, it has a native resolution of 1080p, the same as most standard HD televisions. The picture is still very sharp and detailed, with a high contrast ratio that keeps that level of detail even in dark areas of the screen. Find Optoma GT1080HDR vs GT1080Darbee comparison here.
Set-up and Installation
A wide +/- 40° vertical keystone correction means you don’t have to ceiling-mount the Optoma GT1080HDR to get a good picture, and that alone makes it easier to install than other projectors. The throw ratio is very short for a lamp-based projector. You can get a 120” picture with only 4 feet of distance, and that allows for more flexibility when it comes to the set-up.
The high brightness of the Optoma GT1080HDR increases its flexibility. You don’t have to limit the light in the room to use this projector, or limit yourself to gaming and watching movies when it’s dark out. Since it’s so easy to set up, you also don’t have to limit yourself to using the Optoma GT1080HDR in one room. You can even use it outside. With enough space, the GT1080HDR can project an image over 300” diagonally, big enough for use at tailgates or neighborhood block parties. If you are planning to use GT1080HDR in your garden, this best outdoor projector screens guide might be useful.
Connecting your favorite content sources is a breeze with the Optoma GT1080HDR. It has two HDMI ports, the perfect way to hook up streaming sticks or modern gaming systems. There are also VGA and RCA inputs, along with an audio out for hooking up external speakers.
Pros
- Bright lamp won’t be washed out by ambient light
- Excellent color and contrast
- Enhanced Gaming Mode has impressive lag time and refresh rate
- Works in any room size thanks to short throw ratio
- Can play 4K and 3D content
- Easy to set up and adjust the display
Cons
- On-board speakers don’t have a good sound quality
- Even 4K content will play at 1080p resolution
Ease of Use
The Optoma GT1080HDR comes with a remote (and has controls on the projector, as well, in case you lose it). The menus are intuitive and easy to navigate. If you’re having trouble finding a specific setting, the menu map in the manual is a helpful touch.
We like the range of display pre-set options on the Optoma GT1080HDR. The “Wall Color” option optimizes the picture to the surface it’s projected on, so you can even get a decent picture without a screen.
Responsiveness
Here’s where the Optoma GT1080HDR really out-performs its competition. In Enhanced Gaming Mode, the input lag drops to 8.4ms. That’s a stat even most high-end gaming projectors can’t match. It also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate. In layman’s terms, there’s no delay between your input and what you see on the screen with the Optoma GT1080HDR.
The Verdict
The Optoma GT1080HDR is hands down the best projector for gamers in the under-$1,000 price point. You’d be hard pressed to find a projector with a low input lag at any price. The consistency and quality of the image, paired with the smooth display, let you play even graphic-intensive and fast-paced games without a problem.
The versatility of the Optoma GT1080HDR is a strong point in its favor, too. A short-throw ratio, bright lamp, and robust image adjustment options allow it to adapt easily to different room set-ups or even outdoor use. >>> Find the current price on Bhphotovideo
You’d have to spend a lot more money to get a better resolution. About the only thing, it doesn’t have going for it is sound—the wimpy 10-watt speakers aren’t going to cut it for most people. This is a minor point in our minds, though. If you’re looking for both performance and value, the Optoma GT1080HDR is an excellent choice.
