The Optoma GT2160HDR 4K Is A Mixed Bag

The projector category is getting busier and busier every day and this trend will only continue to grow. With classrooms, boardrooms, creators, gamers and almost every profession that requires audio-visual support using display technology extensively, the market for projectors is rapidly expanding. In this issue, we take a close look at the Optoma GT2160HDR 4K.

Specifications

• 4K resolution
• 2 x 4K HDMI ports
• RS-232 port support
• A 12V port
• 3.5 mm audio port
• Operating buttons on the top panel
• Remote controller with basic functions
• Smooth focus ring

*Design and Build Quality

The box comes with the projector, the power cord, the remote controller and the manuals. The projector is light and has a lens lid. The lens itself is rather big.

Here’s the thing about projector designs, there is not much scope for making radical designs. As far as the design goes, it has to serve the purpose. The projector comes with a clean design, oddly reminiscent of projectors in professional or educational settings. The device I received is white in colour, which is standard for most LED projectors these days.

The Optoma GT2160HDR 4K projector was easy to set up. You just need to find a stable platform, make sure the plug point is within the vicinity of the cord and move around the projector to get the aspect ratio right. The remote is light in weight and might feel basic. However, it does have the necessary controls.

*Performance: Picture

One of the standout features of the Optoma GT2160HDR is, of course, its 4K UHD resolution. With four times the pixel density of Full HD (1080P), this projector offers immense clarity and high picture quality, two key requisites of any good projector, be it for cinema or gaming. The image is sharp and well-defined and watching video content is simply a delight. In fact, event watching full HD content looks amazing on this projector.

The HDR support helps produce a wide colour gamut and adds a good amount of contrast. Visuals are vibrant and the colours really pop. One of the frustrating things about projectors is that they are not able to produce good colour. Well, this is certainly not the case with the Optoma GT2160HDR. For the number geeks out there, the projector offers 4,000 lumens and a contrast ratio of 1,200,000:1. It also offers HDR 10 and HLG support.

*Performance: Gaming

Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the low input lag offered (4ms) by the Optoma GT2160HDR 4K projector. With its responsive performance, the projector minimises the delay between your actions and the on-screen response, ensuring a smooth and lag-free gaming experience. This is particularly important for competitive gaming, given that split-second reactions are critical for wins. The low input lag not only gives a competitive edge, but also allows for a pleasant gaming experience for the not so professional gamers.

The connectivity options on the GT2160HDR are vast, with multiple HDMI ports, USB, VGA and audio inputs available. This flexibility allows users to connect various devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices (PCs/MACs), making it a versatile product for different entertainment setups.

Expecting a gaming monitor-like experience from a projector is nonsensical, but the Optoma GT2160HDR comes really close to it.

*Verdict: Is it worth it? 

While the Optoma GT2160HDR excels in many areas, there are a couple of minor considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, the projector's fan noise can be audible during quiet scenes and /or in a silent room. A handy tip is to use external speakers to drown out the noise. Speaking of speakers, the built-in speaker of the projector is not that great. While it is very much functional, it is not adequate for serious game playing or for an immersive film-watching experience. For a better audio experience, do use external speakers.

Secondly, the power cord given with the product is way too short. A longer cord would have been really handy. Additionally, the projector comes with a 16 A power plug. This plug needs bigger sockets that are used for ACs and water heaters. This tells us two things. Firstly, the projector consumes a lot of power and secondly, it really limits the ‘versatility’ and ‘portability’ quotients of the projector.

In conclusion, despite the few shortcomings, the Optoma GT2160HDR 4K projector offers an impressive visual experience and there’s no doubt about it. It is a worthy addition to any home theatre or gaming setup. However, if you’re a professional gamer, I’d suggest you stick to your monitor for now. The 4K resolution, HDR support, low input lag and a myriad of connectivity options come together to deliver stunning visuals and immersive entertainment, making this product excellent for cinephiles. The projector is priced at an MRP of Rs 2,50,000.