Compare input lag, refresh rates, and value for gaming. Find out whether a TV or projector is right for your competitive multiplayer, immersive single-player, or casual gaming setup.
Enter your preferences and gaming style to get a personalized TV vs projector recommendation.
TV wins for your gaming setup
Lower input lag and better HDR for competitive gaming
For competitive gaming, TVs provide lower input lag and better responsiveness for fast-paced multiplayer games.
Consider your primary gaming genres and whether screen size or input lag is more important to your experience.
Pros:
- Lower input lag (8-15ms)
- Better HDR brightness (1000+ nits)
- 4K/120Hz with VRR standard
- No setup complexity
Cons:
- Max 98" (expensive above 75")
- Less immersive at distance
Pros:
- 100-150"+ screens possible
- Better value per inch
- More immersive experience
- Easier on eyes for long sessions
Cons:
- Higher input lag (16-30ms)
- Needs dark/dim room
Choose TV for:
- Competitive multiplayer
- Bright room gaming
- HDR-heavy games
- PS5/Xbox 4K/120Hz
Choose Projector for:
- Immersive single-player
- Racing/flight sims
- Couch co-op gaming
- Cinema-scale experience
Modern gaming projectors can be excellent for gaming, especially for immersive single-player experiences. Gaming projectors like the BenQ X3100i achieve 16-20ms input lag at 4K/60Hz and support 1080p/240Hz for competitive gaming. While TVs still have lower input lag (8-15ms), projectors offer much larger screen sizes at lower costs per inch.
For competitive gaming (FPS, fighting games), aim for under 16ms input lag. For casual gaming, anything under 30ms is acceptable. Most gaming TVs achieve 8-15ms in Game Mode, while gaming projectors range from 16-25ms. Professional esports players prefer monitors with 1-5ms input lag.
Yes, several gaming projectors now support 4K/120Hz via HDMI 2.1, including models from BenQ, Optoma, and Epson. Some projectors also offer 1080p/240Hz modes for competitive gaming. However, most projectors max out at 4K/60Hz, so check specifications carefully if high refresh rate gaming is a priority.
For maximizing PS5/Xbox Series X capabilities, a 4K/120Hz OLED TV is typically better due to lower input lag (8-10ms), better HDR brightness, and full HDMI 2.1 support. However, if you want a 100+ inch screen for immersive gaming and don't prioritize competitive multiplayer, a gaming projector offers better value per inch.
Some newer gaming projectors support VRR via HDMI 2.1, which reduces screen tearing and stuttering. Models like the BenQ X3100i and Optoma UHZ50 include VRR support. However, VRR support in projectors is less common than in TVs, where most 2023+ models include FreeSync or G-Sync compatibility.
TVs max out at 98 inches and become extremely expensive above 75 inches. Gaming projectors can create screens from 80 to 150+ inches at a fraction of the cost. A 100-inch projector setup (projector + screen) typically costs less than an 85-inch premium TV while offering a much more immersive experience.
TVs currently offer better HDR performance for gaming. OLED and Mini LED TVs can hit 1000-2000+ nits peak brightness, while most projectors max out at 300-500 nits equivalent. This means HDR highlights and contrast are more impactful on TVs. However, projector HDR is improving, and the larger screen size can partially compensate.
While possible, projectors are not ideal for professional esports due to higher input lag compared to gaming monitors. For serious competitive gaming, a 24-27 inch monitor with 1ms response time and 240Hz+ refresh rate is preferred. Projectors are better suited for casual competitive gaming, co-op games, and immersive single-player experiences.
For gaming in a dark room, 2000+ lumens is sufficient for screens up to 120 inches. For rooms with some ambient light, aim for 3000+ lumens. For bright rooms or daytime gaming, you'll need 3500+ lumens or consider an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen. TVs have an advantage in bright rooms due to their higher brightness.
UST (ultra-short throw) projectors are excellent for gaming if you want a TV-like experience with a larger screen. They sit inches from the wall, eliminating shadows and cable runs. Models like the Hisense PX2-PRO offer gaming modes with reduced input lag. UST projectors typically cost more but offer cleaner installations and work well in living rooms.