Our take
Consider the MS500 only when its native SVGA image and older wired connections match equipment already in a classroom or meeting room. Its DLP and input facts are documented, but the source packet does not support a comparable ANSI output claim or modern streaming use.
A legacy classroom or meeting setup that still uses VGA and older video sources.
It is not a good fit for native Full HD video, small detailed text, a bright-room requirement stated in ANSI lumens, or a wireless all-in-one source setup.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The official manual specifies native 800 × 600 SVGA and a single-chip DLP imaging system.
- VGA, component, composite and S-Video inputs can connect a range of older presentation equipment.
- At about 2.4 kg, the manual's listed weight is manageable for occasional room-to-room movement, with mains power.
What to weigh up
- The 4:3 SVGA raster is low resolution by current standards and less suited to detailed widescreen media.
- The reviewed model manual does not establish ANSI brightness; do not reuse the historical listing's 2700-lumen wording as ANSI.
- Its 220 W lamp and legacy connections make lamp condition and exact input compatibility important for an older unit.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | MS500 |
|---|---|
| Image format | 800 × 600 native SVGA DLP |
| Rated light output | ANSI brightness not established |
| Placement | Conventional placement; exact throw table should be checked |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 17, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
Know what SVGA means for classroom material
BenQ's manual specifies a native 800 × 600 image in the MS500 and MS500-V family. That 4:3 SVGA raster may be adequate for basic older slides, but it provides less room for fine text, detailed charts and modern widescreen video than a WXGA or Full HD projector. A computer can send a different input format, yet the projector's panel remains the resolution limit. Before choosing it for an established room, review the actual slide templates and minimum text size. If the content has moved to widescreen presentations or spreadsheet-heavy collaboration, a higher native resolution is likely a more useful upgrade than keeping the old connection set alone.
Its best reason to remain in consideration is compatibility
The MS500 manual lists VGA, S-Video, composite and component connections, along with a mini-B USB port and stereo 2 W audio. That combination can simplify a room where a legacy laptop, document camera or older video source is already installed. It does not guarantee that every cable or adapter will work with a current computer. Check the exact output ports and formats on the equipment used by the presenter, then confirm whether an adapter, switcher or source replacement is needed. The model's connection list is specific; assumptions about wireless projection, HDMI or app streaming are not supported by the reviewed manual.
Keep brightness claims on a comparable basis
The historical listing's title included a 2700-lumen phrase, but the official manual checked for this review does not establish that figure as ANSI output. It is therefore left out of the profile's ANSI value. A numeric label without a stated method is not suitable for comparison against an ANSI-filtered need. Classroom ambient light and image size can make a large difference, so a buyer who must keep lights on should choose a projector with model-specific, comparable output documentation. Do not turn contrast, lamp wattage or a title claim into a brightness estimate. The precise condition of an individual MS500 lamp is also unknown until inspected.
A lamp model needs a unit-level check
BenQ specifies a 220 W lamp and about 2.4 kg weight. The lamp wattage identifies a model component, not how much useful life remains in a projector being sold today. Ask for the lamp-hour counter, any replacement receipt, a startup demonstration and a clear view of the image before committing to an older or renewed unit. The manual's nominal details cannot show whether a particular projector has dust, color shading, a damaged cable socket or a worn remote. Mains power is part of the plan; the sources do not document internal battery use. Make sure the room has a safe outlet and cable path.
Use the manual to confirm placement and format
This model belongs on a stable table or a measured installation after the exact manual's throw and screen-size information has been checked. The saved packet does not support labeling it ultra-short-throw or promising a particular image size at a given distance. Select a position that keeps the projector square to the screen and allows focus adjustment; keystone correction should not be treated as extra resolution. Its native 4:3 format can display other source shapes, but blank bars or scaling may change the usable image. Test the expected computer resolution and aspect ratio in advance so older presentations remain legible.
Keep it for the right legacy job
The MS500 can be a practical bridge when a room still depends on analog video or VGA and its presentation content is simple. It is less persuasive as a general home-theater projector because its native image is 800 × 600 and the reviewed source does not settle brightness by ANSI method. Epson EX70 is a WXGA option with HDMI and a broader set of digital connections, while BenQ TH670 offers native Full HD for home video. Those models have their own lamp and output tradeoffs. Compare the actual room and source inventory, then verify a used MS500's lamp, inputs and exact model label. This review makes no claim of hands-on performance.
Compare for your needs
Compare Epson EX70 for native WXGA and HDMI, or BenQ TH670 for native Full HD and HDMI. The right upgrade depends on source ports, text size and brightness requirements.
Find the video projector that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
Is the MS500 native 1080p?
No. BenQ's manual lists native 800 × 600 SVGA resolution.
Is 2700 lumens a verified ANSI specification?
Not in the reviewed official MS500 manual. Keep ANSI brightness unknown and do not treat the historical title as a measurement.
Can it connect to a current laptop?
It has VGA and older video inputs. Check the laptop's outputs and the exact adapter or switcher needed before purchase.
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 MS500 official support page and user manual ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
- BenQ MS500 support and downloads ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
- BenQ MS500/MX501 official user manual ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
The decision
BenQ MS500 is a legacy SVGA DLP projector whose analog inputs may suit an existing room. Its low native resolution and unknown ANSI output limit its value for modern detailed content.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.