Compare BenQ Projectors: TK700STi vs. LK936ST

Golfers researching how to practice golf at home often wonder: is a 4K golf simulator projector worth the money? Here we compare the specs of BenQ TK700STi vs. LK936ST. Both 4K projectors work well in golf simulators. Which one projects the best image on your golf screen, and is it worth it to get 4K vs. 1080p HD?

Due to advancements in projector technology and growth of the gaming industry in recent years, indoor golfers now have a wide variety of 4K projector models to choose from. What was once a technology reserved for those with only the biggest budgets is now offered at a wide range of price points. With such varied pricing, though, golfers often question what specs are worth the splurge. 

At the time of writing this article (March 2023), the 4K BenQ TK700STi sits at more than $3,000 less than the 4K BenQ LK936ST. They both are 4K, short throw and have great mounting placement flexibility with vertical and horizontal keystone, so why the massive price difference? And, will the difference matter in a golf simulator?

We help you with that answer below.

BENQ TK700STi VS. BENQ LK936ST SPECS

In the following table, we walk you through the most important specs of each projector and highlight which projector is better for that specification.

Need help understanding projector terminology?

BENQ TK700STi VS. BENQ LK936ST TEST

After reviewing the main specs, the TK700STi isn’t really that far off from what the LK936ST has to offer. However, the specs that the LK936ST wins might be seen as more important for that 4K, immersive golf course feel.

Of course, both projectors have 4K UHD (3840x2160) resolution with a 16:9 native aspect ratio; that’s the main reason many users compare them. But the TK700STi has a lamp light source compared to the LK936ST’s laser light source, which is much newer and better technology that provides an even better image and longer life.

The LK936ST’s 5100 lumens is hard to beat. That’s going to give you a bright projected image in just about any setting, including one with ambient light. Also, the contrast ratio is significantly better with the LK936ST.

On paper, the colors on the LK936ST should pop more with the difference in lumens, laser light and better contrast ratio. However, our real-world test showed the two were much closer to the naked eye than you would think. In the brightness test with a light meter, the LK936ST came back with a reading of 130 lux at 15 feet from projector to screen. The TK700STi read 120 lux, which was not far off of the LK936ST considering it is 2100 lumens less.

Where the TK700STi excels is in the zoom ratio, input lag and size. A 1.2x zoom ratio allows you to vary the image size by 20% (10% more than the LK936ST) by just adjusting the zoom lens.

The TK700STi is almost two times better than the LK936ST with input lag, which is defined by BenQ as “the time between when the audio/video signal from the input source (the gaming console) is received by the projector and when the projector actually projects the video that corresponds to that signal, which can cause things such as lag time or image stuttering.”

The TK700STi also is significantly smaller in footprint and weight, and also comes with an Android dongle that allows you to download Android apps or cast from wireless devices (Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, or Chromebook).

KEYSTONE CORRECTION

One great aspect of both projectors is their ability to be mounted off center, both above and below, and left and right of center, thanks to their keystone settings.

Both allow for vertical and horizontal keystone correction up to 40 degrees either way. This provides much more flexibility for mounting while still being able to square up your projected image to fit your impact screen. 

LENS SHIFT

One massive advantage the LK936ST has is its ability to lens shift, both vertically (-60%~ +60%) and horizontally (-23%~ +23%).

Lens shift allows the user to move the lens within the projector to provide a perfectly straight edged image with great focus in each part of the image. Similar to keystone, this allows you more flexibility in mounting the projector without loss of resolution.

In some instances, you might be able to avoid using keystone, which can cause some soft focus, image distortion, and/or resolution loss.

WHICH 4K PROJECTOR SHOULD YOU BUY?

When comparison shopping between the BenQ TK700STi and the LK936ST projectors for your golf simulator, it really comes down to your budget and the image quality you want.

BenQ LK936ST Overall Review

If you’re looking for one of the best image qualities and dynamic ranges on the market and money is not a factor for your golf simulator build, then we’d suggest going with the LK936ST. 

BenQ TK700STi Overall Review

If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a 4K image, then you’d be getting a great value installing the TK700STi in your golf simulator.