Gamers today have more screen choices than ever—so if you’re debating between a projector or a TV for gaming, you’re not alone. Both can deliver immersive experiences, but each has trade-offs in speed, image quality, size, and price. In this guide, we’ll break down projectors vs. TVs for gaming so you can choose the right setup for your style and space.
Quick Comparison: Gaming on Projectors vs. TVs
| Feature | Projector | TV |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 80″–150″ | 40″–85″ |
| Input Lag | 16ms–50ms (varies by model) | 5ms–20ms (especially OLED/QLED) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz–240Hz | 60Hz–120Hz+ |
| Resolution | 1080p to 4K | 4K (standard), some 8K |
| Brightness | Best in dark rooms | Works in all lighting |
| Portability | Easy to move | Fixed in place |
| Ideal Use Case | Immersive, large-screen gaming | Competitive, fast-paced gaming |
| Price Range | $400–$2,000+ | $300–$3,000+ |
Best Gaming Projector Pick
🎮 BenQ TK700STi
4K resolution, 16ms input lag, and support for 120Hz at 1080p—built with gamers in mind. Excellent short-throw design for small rooms.
👉 See on Amazon
Best Gaming TV Pick
🕹️ LG C3 OLED 55”
Ultra-fast response time, deep blacks, and HDMI 2.1 support make this one of the best TVs for console and PC gaming.
👉 See on Amazon
Pros and Cons of Gaming on a Projector
✅ Pros
- Massive screen for immersive experiences
- Great for story-driven and split-screen games
- Good value for screen size
- More cinematic for casual gaming sessions
❌ Cons
- Higher input lag on budget models
- Needs a dark room for best quality
- May require external audio setup
Pros and Cons of Gaming on a TV
✅ Pros
- Lower input lag = better for FPS and eSports
- Brighter screen, even in daylight
- Built-in audio is usually better
- Plug-and-play ready for consoles
❌ Cons
- Smaller screen compared to projectors
- More expensive for premium models
- Less immersive than a projector at same price point
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a projector if:
- You want the biggest screen possible
- You game in a dark or controlled lighting space
- You enjoy RPGs, racing, or casual couch co-op
Choose a TV if:
- You’re into competitive gaming or twitch-response titles
- You need lower input lag and higher brightness
- You want an all-in-one setup with great speakers
Final Thoughts
For casual or cinematic gamers, a gaming projector like the BenQ TK700STi gives you the big-screen thrill without breaking the bank. But if you’re serious about frame rates and reaction time, a high-end TV like the LG OLED C3 is tough to beat.
It all comes down to your play style: immersive vs. competitive.
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