Comparison Viewsonic X2000L-4K vs Viewsonic X2000B-4K

The number of individual colour shades that the projector is capable of displaying.

The minimum indicator for modern projection technology is actually 16 million colours (more precisely, 16.7 million is a standard number associated with the features of digital image processing). In the most advanced models, this value can exceed 1 billion. However, two nuances should be taken into account here: firstly, the human eye is able to recognize only about 10 million colour shades, and secondly, not a single modern image output device (projectors, monitors, etc.) cannot cover the entire spectrum of colours visible to the human eye. Therefore, impressive colour performance is more of a marketing ploy than a real indicator of image quality, and in fact it makes sense to pay attention to other characteristics — primarily brightness and contrast (see above), as well as specific data like a colour gamut chart.

The projector supports HDR technology — high dynamic range.

This technology allows to expand the range of brightness displayed within a single frame — in other words, to display both very bright and very dark colours on the screen at the same time. Due to this, colour reproduction is noticeably improved; in addition, in very bright or very dark areas of the frame, small details remain visible that would not be visible in a normal image. At the same time, it is worth noting that all the benefits of HDR become noticeable only on a high-end screen with maximum dimming. In addition, this function significantly affects the cost of the projector, and the content must initially be recorded in HDR — and using exactly the technology that the projector supports (this point can be clarified in the instructions). Because of this HDR support is found predominantly among high-end home theater models (see "Main purpose").

Autofocus adjusts the optimal image sharpness without user assistance. This option will be extremely useful if the projector often has to be moved from place to place — in this case, the user does not have to manually turn the focal length adjuster to adjust the optimal image sharpness. Autofocus is based on the use of a special sensor (range finder) that determines the distance to the screen. Knowing the distance and throw ratio (see the relevant paragraph), the projector's automation adjusts the focus of the lens. Projectors with autofocus are equipped with a lens with a motor that turns the focal length adjuster.

Miracast technology is designed to transmit streaming video over an IEEE 802.11n wireless channel. This technology is well suited for broadcasting "heavy" high-quality content. Thanks to Miracast, you can display video from a smartphone or a picture of a tablet / laptop screen on the projector in a matter of seconds. Miracast can be considered an optional Wi-Fi Direct application.

— RCA (audio). Analogue audio interface using RCA jacks. Depending on the model of the projector, it can serve as both an input (for example, in addition to the component video input) and an output for connecting external audio devices. We only note that in this case only one channel of sound is transmitted through one RCA connector, and a pair of “tulips” (for the left and right channel) is considered an input or output.

— 3.5 mm input (mini-Jack). This connector is more compact than RCA, in addition, it allows to work with two stereo channels through one jack. On the other hand, a 3.5 mm connection is less reliable and more prone to interference. Therefore, such an input is designed mainly for simple tasks — such as transmitting sound from the audio output of a PC or laptop.

— 3.5 mm output (mini-Jack). This in any case is an analogue output, however, its specific purpose may be different. So, in some projectors it plays the role of a linear interface and is used to output an audio signal to active sound system or an external amplifier. In other devices, the mini-Jack works as a headphone output. There are models where these functions are combined in one connector.

— Optical output. An output for transmission of a digital audio signal by a fibre optic cable; allows the transmission of multi-channel audio. Not...able for its complete insensitivity to electromagnetic interference. On the other hand, fibre optic cable is quite fragile, it must be protected from bending and strong pressure.

— Microphone input. Input for connecting an external microphone to the projector. Using it, you can stream sound from a microphone using the projector's own amplifier — for example, comment on a presentation through the same speakers through which the main sound goes.

The power consumed by the projector during normal operation. Both the high consumption of the device and the requirements for power supply providing depend on this indicator: for example, heavy professional projectors of 3500 W and above cannot be plugged into standard sockets, they require a special connection format.

Keep in mind that when using traditional mercury or gas discharge lamps, high brightness inevitably requires high power. Energy efficient LED projectors do not have this disadvantage, but they are still relatively uncommon, and LED is not always a suitable type of lamp.