Our take
Optoma's HD73 is an older DLP home-video projector with a native 1280 × 768 WXGA image, a manual 1.2× zoom, and a 1.6–1.9:1 throw. The brochure lists 1,100 Video Optimised Lumens, which is not an ANSI rating, and it calls the projector HD Ready rather than native Full HD. Two HDMI inputs and DVI-I give it a useful source panel for compatible legacy equipment. It may suit a room with a known throw distance and a working older receiver, but it needs external sources and a lamp inspection; the brochure does not establish app support or current unit condition.
A legacy home-theater or video setup that can use WXGA and still has compatible HDMI or DVI sources..
It is not for native Full HD or 4K detail, a strict ANSI-lumen threshold, close-wall placement, or modern streaming without an external player.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Optoma documents native WXGA 1280 × 768 and distinguishes the HD Ready model from Full HD units.
- Two HDMI inputs plus DVI-I support several wired video sources.
- A 1.6–1.9:1 throw and 1.2× zoom provide concrete conventional-room planning details.
What to weigh up
- The 1,100 Video Optimised Lumens figure is not labeled ANSI and should not be compared directly with ANSI ratings.
- WXGA has fewer native pixels than Full HD and may soften small text or detailed video.
- A 220 W VIP lamp is consumable, while its rating cannot establish the lamp hours or color of a used projector.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | HD73 |
|---|---|
| Image format | WXGA 1280 × 768; HD Ready, not Full HD |
| Rated light output | 1,100 Video Optimised Lumens; not ANSI |
| Placement | 1.6–1.9:1 throw; 1.2× manual zoom |
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
WXGA is HD Ready, not Full HD
Optoma's brochure specifies a 1280 × 768 native image and describes the HD73 as HD Ready. That is wider than XGA but below 1920 × 1080 Full HD. The brochure's supported video formats do not change the native DLP pixel grid. For a room that mainly shows older video or presentations, the panel may be adequate; for detailed films, game text, or a large screen viewed closely, compare a Full HD projector. The exact native format is valuable because it prevents the common mistake of turning a higher supported input into a claim about the image device itself.
Optoma uses a special brightness label
The HD73 brochure gives 1,100 Video Optimised Lumens. It does not call that value ANSI, so the matching profile does not assign an ANSI number. Keep it separate from the NEC NP40's labeled ANSI output and the ViewSonic LS830's ANSI rating. The brochure's label describes Optoma's claim for this model, not the current light level of an old unit. Screen size, room darkness, picture mode, and lamp wear affect the result. If brightness is an important must-have, request a demonstration and compare models using the same published measurement basis.
Measure conventional throw before mounting
Optoma specifies a 1.6–1.9:1 throw ratio and 1.2× manual zoom. That is conventional placement and needs space behind the screen; it does not provide the close-wall arrangement of the LS830. Measure the image width and projector lens distance against the brochure before buying a mount or deciding on a shelf. Zoom offers some framing tolerance, but not the wide placement freedom of motorized lens shift. The saved brochure does not establish lens shift, so do not count on optical repositioning to correct an offset mount. Keystone, if present on an individual revision, should not replace a sensible starting position.
Check HDMI and DVI against the equipment you own
The brochure lists two HDMI inputs and DVI-I, which can accommodate several wired devices when they produce compatible signals. It does not establish a built-in streaming system. An external player or receiver is the straightforward route for current services, and older HDCP or audio behavior may depend on the exact source chain. Check that the selected cable, receiver, and content format work together before installation. The brochure is a product specification, not proof that both HDMI sockets, remote controls, and ports on a particular used HD73 remain functional.
Treat the lamp and listing as separate questions
Optoma specifies a 220 W VIP lamp rated at 3,000 hours in standard mode. That is a manufacturer-rated life figure; it does not tell you how much time remains on a used HD73 or whether its lamp has been replaced correctly. Ask for the menu's lamp counter and a warm demonstration. Inspect fans, color uniformity, dust marks, zoom, focus, HDMI, DVI, remote, and any included cables. The source packet verifies the HD73 identity but not the historical candidate ASIN as a current offer. Use an exact-model search and confirm the label and accessory bundle on the item being sold.
Compare for your needs
JVC DLA-RS48 is another older home-theater design with motorized lens shift and a brightness value left unknown; the LS830 is the close-wall option with an ANSI-labeled output.
Find the video projector that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
Is the HD73 a native 1080p projector?
No. Optoma specifies 1280 × 768 WXGA and labels the projector HD Ready.
What does Video Optimised Lumens mean here?
Optoma lists 1,100 Video Optimised Lumens; the brochure does not label the figure ANSI.
Can the projector sit close to the wall?
Its 1.6–1.9:1 throw is conventional and needs room behind the screen, unlike a UST model.
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.
- Optoma HD73 exact-model brochure ↗ — checked October 14, 2026.
- Optoma HD73 official brochure; DLP resolution, Video Optimised Lumens, optics, lamp, and inputs ↗ — checked October 14, 2026.
The decision
The HD73 can fit a legacy wired setup if WXGA and its conventional throw meet the room's needs. Verify the lamp and signal chain rather than relying on its non-ANSI lumen label.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.