Our take
The BenQ i500 combines native WXGA 1280 × 800, a notably short 0.6:1 throw, dual 5 W speakers and a built-in Wi-Fi interface in a 1.3 kg body. BenQ lists a 77-inch image at about one metre, making distance its most distinctive practical feature. The quick guide gives brightness as 500AL; this review keeps BenQ's wording instead of converting it to ANSI. The projector runs on AC, and its Android 4.4/Aptoide TV platform is old enough that current app access should be tested before relying on it.
A small room with a nearby screen and an existing mains outlet, where short placement and a smart-style interface matter.
It is not a cordless projector, a Full HD panel, or a smart-TV replacement whose current streaming apps can be assumed from the old software platform.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The 0.6:1 throw supports a large picture from a short lens-to-screen distance.
- WXGA 16:10 detail and two 5 W speakers suit a compact presentation or media room.
- BenQ documents dual-band Wi-Fi, launcher access and Aptoide TV app installation.
What to weigh up
- 500AL is BenQ's wording and is not normalized here to ANSI lumens.
- The i500 requires AC power even though its 1.3 kg body is easy to move.
- Android 4.4 software may not support current apps, updates or protected streaming services.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | i500 |
|---|---|
| Image format | 1280 × 800 native WXGA |
| Rated light output | 500AL (BenQ wording; not normalized to ANSI) |
| Placement | 0.6:1 throw; 77 inches at 1 metre |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 14, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
Short throw is the main room-planning advantage
BenQ gives the i500 a 0.6:1 throw ratio and an example of a 77-inch image at one metre. That lets it sit much closer to the screen than a conventional projector, reducing the chance that a presenter or viewer blocks the beam. Measure the actual lens-to-screen space and screen width before deciding it fits a cabinet or shelf. The fixed short path is useful in smaller rooms, but it is not the same as a wall-mounted ultra-short-throw system that can sit directly beside the screen.
Keep the image format and brightness terms separate
The i500's native WXGA 1280 × 800 panel uses a 16:10 shape, which leaves more vertical room for slides than 16:9. BenQ's quick guide states 500AL, but does not spell out an ANSI measurement method in the displayed specification. Keep that maker label intact rather than comparing it as if it were a standardized ANSI result. The figure also describes a model, not an older unit's present output. Choose a controlled-light room and inspect a real text slide or movie at the intended size.
The smart interface is documented but dated
BenQ's guide describes a launcher, dual-band Wi-Fi and Aptoide TV app installation on Android 4.4. Those details establish a built-in software environment, but the operating system is old and does not prove that a particular streaming service still works, signs in or plays protected video. Before buying for apps, connect a unit to your network and test the exact service. If current app support is uncertain, plan on an external HDMI source and treat Wi-Fi as an extra rather than the whole reason to choose it.
AC power and audio shape where it can go
BenQ lists AC 100–240 V power, typical consumption of 75 W and dual 5 W speakers. Its 1.3 kg weight makes the i500 portable to carry between rooms, but it cannot project independently from an outlet based on the checked guide. The built-in speakers can handle a small audience, though the room's noise and seating may call for external sound. Check the included adapter, remote, focus ring, HDMI, VGA and network connections on the exact offer; package details and condition vary on older units.
Manual focus means careful placement still matters
The i500's user guide identifies a manual focus ring and fixed lens geometry. A short throw can simplify distance, but focus, level and keystone still affect a readable image. Set it square to the screen and use the optical placement before applying digital correction. The guide's port list includes HDMI, VGA, LAN, USB and audio connections, so the model can take both modern and older sources. Check that the ports are intact and that the source resolution is compatible before using it for a meeting or regular movie setup.
Compare for your needs
For a current app platform, compare a newer smart projector with current OS and service support. For a compact presentation room, compare other short-throw models while checking their own brightness measurement basis and native resolution.
Find the video projector that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
What is the BenQ i500's native resolution?
BenQ specifies WXGA 1280 × 800 pixels.
Can it make a 77-inch image from one metre?
BenQ's quick guide gives that example for the 0.6:1 throw ratio; measure the exact room and screen placement.
Should I assume its apps still work?
No. BenQ documents Android 4.4 and Aptoide TV, but current service compatibility should be tested on the exact unit.
Where can I check the current price?
Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.
Sources and review basis
Sources & review basis
We use the linked product documentation for the features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- BenQ i500 quick-start guide ↗ — checked October 14, 2026.
- BenQ i500 quick-start guide ↗ — checked October 14, 2026.
- BenQ i500 user guide ↗ — checked October 14, 2026.
The decision
The i500 is most compelling when its short throw solves a specific room constraint and its dated software is not the deciding feature.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.