Our take
Shortlist the BenQ MP522 only when an older room's VGA or analog sources and XGA format are still useful. BenQ's manual establishes the model and connections; a secondary model record supplies the ANSI-lumen label. This is a source-based model assessment, not a claim about any current offer.
A legacy presentation room that already uses VGA or analog sources.
It is not a good fit for an HDMI-only setup, native Full HD or 4K viewing, self-contained audio, or a buyer who cannot verify the condition of a discontinued lamp projector.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- BenQ documents a native 1024 × 768 XGA image from a single-chip DLP engine.
- The model record lists 2000 ANSI lumens and a 1.1× manual zoom.
- VGA, S-video, composite, component-through-VGA, and RS-232 support legacy systems.
What to weigh up
- The manual's connection list does not include HDMI or a built-in speaker for MP522.
- Its 4:3 XGA panel is dated for widescreen video and detailed modern slides.
- The discontinued lamp's present hours, brightness, and optical state are unknown.
The key details
| Model covered | MP522 |
|---|---|
| Image format | 4:3 XGA, 1024 × 768, DLP |
| Rated light output | 2000 ANSI lumens, secondary-source model record |
| Placement | Conventional 1.86–2.04 throw ratio; manual 1.1× zoom |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 4, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Keep MP522 separate from similarly named models
BenQ's shared MP512/MP513/MP522 manual has a model-specific table for MP522: one DMD imaging device and native XGA resolution of 1024 × 768. The MP522 ST is a separate short-throw model and should not be treated as interchangeable. For a buyer, the MP522's 4:3 image and XGA detail fit older presentation material better than wide-screen films, high-density spreadsheets, or a new home theater. Supported input formats do not change the panel's native resolution. Verify the actual label before purchase, especially because old offers may use abbreviated titles or combine accessories from another model.
Use the ANSI number with its source attached
ProjectorCentral's exact-model record reports 2000 ANSI lumens and attributes the model specification to BenQ. The official manual is the stronger source for model identity, resolution, and lamp details; the saved ANSI label is secondary rather than a new independent measurement. It is still useful as a comparable model rating when discussing room role, but it does not describe the brightness of an old lamp today. If a listing advertises the same number, that is not a reason to assume equivalent output. Ask for the lamp counter and a real image demonstration, and keep ambient light and screen size in the plan.
Plan around its legacy connections
The manual lists VGA, S-video, composite, component through the VGA connector, VGA output, and RS-232. It does not list HDMI or an onboard speaker for this exact MP522 model. That makes the connection panel a central purchase criterion: an old computer may connect directly, while a current laptop, console, or streaming box may need a compatible converter and a separate audio route. Do not confuse the manual's color-management features with a promise of modern 3D cinema. A full list of room sources is more useful than a generic claim that an adapter should work.
Throw, lamp, and installation limits
The saved model record gives a 1.86–2.04 throw ratio and 1.1× manual zoom, so it uses conventional placement rather than sitting close to the screen. Measure the room and compare that range with the target image size before committing. BenQ specifies an 185 W lamp with rated life around 3000 hours in normal mode and 4000 in Eco; these estimates are not remaining life on a used projector. Check the lamp counter, color uniformity, focus across the image, fan, ports, remote, and any component adapter. Optical lens shift is not established in the cited MP522 material.
Make the choice from the room that already exists
The MP522 can be a practical compatibility purchase if the room's VGA or analog source chain is staying in place and a working unit is available with a clear lamp history. It is not a general recommendation for new installations. Hitachi CP-X305 offers a broader analog panel and a separately documented 2600-ANSI rating; NEC NP110 trades down to SVGA but keeps a compact legacy presentation path. For native 1080p home viewing, the Epson Home Cinema 6100 is the relevant model in this group. Those comparisons concern documented roles and specifications, not image tests or live prices.
What else to compare
The Hitachi CP-X305 has a broader documented analog input panel and 2600 ANSI-lumen rating. NEC NP110 is another legacy presentation model with a lower SVGA panel, while the Epson Home Cinema 6100 serves native-1080p home viewing.
Before you buy
Does the BenQ MP522 have native 1080p resolution?
No. BenQ's manual identifies native 1024 × 768 XGA output, which is below Full HD.
Does the MP522 connect to HDMI without an adapter?
The model-specific manual lists VGA and analog inputs but no HDMI. Check a converter and audio plan for your source.
Is MP522 ST the same projector as MP522?
No. BenQ identifies MP522 ST as a separate model with a different lens; do not transfer its placement specifications.
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 & review basis
We use the following manufacturer documentation for the product features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- BenQ MP512/MP513/MP522 official user guide ↗ — checked October 4, 2026.
- BenQ official user guide, MP522 model table ↗ — checked October 4, 2026.
- ProjectorCentral exact-model specification record ↗ — checked October 4, 2026.
The decision
The MP522 is a narrow legacy-system option. Its XGA format, missing HDMI in the saved manual, and unknown used-lamp condition should decide whether it belongs on a shortlist.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.