Our take
The MS504A is a legacy presentation option when the room can use VGA or analog inputs and a stated 3200 ANSI-lumen rating matters more than native detail. Its SVGA panel and lamp-based operation require a realistic source, screen, and maintenance check before choosing an old or used unit.
A legacy VGA or analog presentation room that prioritizes an ANSI-rated output figure over native resolution.
It is not for native XGA or higher detail, HDMI-only equipment without adapters, battery projection, streaming apps, or a UST room layout.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- BenQ lists native SVGA 800 × 600 and 3200 ANSI lumens.
- The 1.86–2.04:1 throw ratio and 1.1× zoom support conventional distance planning.
- VGA, shared component, S-video, composite, USB-B, and RS-232 suit older presentation systems.
What to weigh up
- SVGA gives less native detail than XGA and Full HD alternatives.
- The datasheet does not list HDMI input.
- A 190 W lamp's current hours and image condition need exact-unit inspection.
The key details
| Model covered | MS504A |
|---|---|
| Image format | Native SVGA 800 × 600, 4:3 |
| Rated light output | 3200 ANSI lumens |
| Placement | Conventional throw, 1.86–2.04:1 |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 9, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
When is native SVGA enough?
BenQ specifies a native SVGA resolution of 800 × 600 in a 4:3 aspect ratio. That can match basic slides, older computers, and rooms where the existing projector already uses a squarer image. It has fewer pixels than the ViewSonic PJ557D's XGA panel and much less detail than modern widescreen Full HD models. If fine text, diagrams, or video dominate, compare a higher-resolution projector. A high output rating does not make the native panel more detailed. Choose MS504A only when the input material, screen size, and expected viewing distance suit SVGA.
What does 3200 ANSI lumens solve?
BenQ lists brightness of 3200 ANSI lumens, giving the MS504A a specified output figure with a named measurement basis. This can help when the room's selection rule uses an ANSI threshold. It does not mean a used projector still outputs 3200 lumens; lamp age, mode, dust, image size, and screen surface affect present performance. BenQ also gives up to 10,000 hours in its lamp-care mode, but that is a model rating rather than the remaining time on a specific lamp. Ask for service and lamp-hour information and inspect the image before buying.
How much throw distance should be planned?
The MS504A has a 1.86–2.04:1 throw ratio and 1.1× zoom. That is conventional room placement: a large image needs space between the lens and screen. Measure the required image width and available distance before deciding on a ceiling mount or table. Zoom can make a limited size adjustment but does not provide lens shift. Vertical keystone correction is digital geometry correction, not a way to relocate the projector optically. A room with the unit close to the wall should look at a UST model rather than trying to force a conventional throw into the cabinet.
Will the input panel work with this room?
BenQ lists VGA inputs, component video shared with one connector, composite, S-video, a USB-B port, RS-232, audio connections, and one 2 W speaker. The product datasheet does not list HDMI. A room that still uses VGA or analog video may connect directly, while a current laptop or streamer with HDMI needs a compatible adapter and a signal check. No onboard streaming platform is documented. Confirm the actual connectors and remote on a used unit, since ports can be damaged or incomplete. The internal speaker may cover speech in a small room but can be weak for larger groups.
How should it compare with the ViewSonic PJ557D?
ViewSonic PJ557D offers native XGA 1024 × 768 and 2300 ANSI lumens, while BenQ MS504A offers native SVGA and 3200 ANSI lumens. If text detail is central, the ViewSonic's extra pixels may be more useful; if an explicit higher ANSI figure is the priority and lower resolution is acceptable, the BenQ has a different fit. Both are older lamp projectors with analog-oriented inputs and conventional throw. Epson EX5220 adds native XGA, HDMI, and wireless presentation but lists color/white outputs rather than ANSI. Compare the source connections and the room's detail needs, not just brightness numbers.
What else to compare
ViewSonic PJ557D gives native XGA at 2300 ANSI lumens; Epson EX5220 adds native XGA and HDMI but its color and white output methods are not labeled ANSI.
Before you buy
Is MS504A native XGA?
No. BenQ specifies native SVGA 800 × 600; supported inputs do not change the panel.
Does the datasheet list HDMI?
No. The checked MS504A connection panel lists VGA and analog video paths but not HDMI.
Is 3200 an ANSI rating?
Yes. BenQ labels the model brightness as 3200 ANSI lumens.
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 MS504A manufacturer datasheet ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
- BenQ MS504A manufacturer datasheet ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
- BenQ MS504A support and downloads ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
- BenQ MS504A family user manual ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
The decision
Choose MS504A for a legacy analog presentation room when its 3200-ANSI specification outweighs the SVGA detail and the source panel matches.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.