BenQ AK700ST Golf Simulator Projector vs Optoma ZK521ST-B 4K Laser Projector

Both are 4K laser DLP short-throw projectors built for golf sims, and the choice comes down to brightness versus placement. The Optoma ZK521ST-B is brighter at 5,000 lumens, has a longer 30,000-hour laser rating and a shorter 0.5:1 throw, so it fills a big screen from very close and holds up in rooms with some light. The BenQ AK700ST is 4,000 lumens with a 0.69-0.83 throw ratio, adds Auto Screen Fit across four aspect ratios and a 10W speaker with eARC, and its Golf Mode is tuned for course colors. Owners of both report solid, consistent images; the BenQ has few ratings so far, while the Optoma is the safer pick for large or bright commercial bays.

• Choose the BenQ AK700ST if you want one-button Auto Screen Fit to your impact screen, built-in audio and a slightly longer throw that gives more mounting flexibility behind the player.
• Choose the Optoma ZK521ST-B if your bay is bright, your screen is large, or the projector must sit very close to the wall, and you want the longer laser rating.