The BenQ GP520 sets new standards in the under-€1,200 projector category. With innovative technology, easy handling and versatile applications, it impresses beginners and experienced users alike, offering a complete carefree package for home cinema, gaming and streaming.
Contents
To the BenQ GP520
Easy handling: unpack and get started
The projector comes in a plain white box that is well packed and contains the most important accessories. In the box:
- 1x BenQ GP520
- 1x remote control (incl. 2x AAA batteries)
- 1x UK power supply
- 1x German power supply
Setting up the BenQ GP520 took us about 15 minutes in our test, plus the download time for the individual apps. With three built-in cameras, the projector provides automatic image alignment and obstacle detection. Even if a plant or a piece of furniture is in the way, the image adapts intelligently and is aligned perfectly on the screen.
The BenQ GP520's connections are neatly arranged on the back. A special hole confused us at first during testing – but it is intended for the projector's mount. The power input is on the left-hand side and makes connection easy, regardless of the chosen placement.
Thanks to its flexible placement options, the GP520 can be used almost anywhere. Whether ceiling-mounted, projecting from the floor or on a table – its placement versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of rooms and requirements. This makes the GP520 a true all-rounder, suitable for home cinema beginners and experienced users alike.
Modern technology: Quad LED light source and HDR support
The BenQ GP520 impresses with cutting-edge technology that makes it stand out in its price class. The Quad LED light source offers not only impressive longevity but also high colour stability and brightness, delivering brilliant images even in brighter rooms. Its flexibility allows versatile use, whether for ceiling or floor installation.
Another highlight of the GP520 is its support for the most common HDR standards: HDR10 (static), HDR10+ (dynamic) and HLG (static). These technologies provide extended colour reproduction and more detail in bright and dark areas, guaranteeing an immersive experience, especially with films and series.
In our test, we tried the GP520 under various conditions: in the evening in the dark, during the day with darkened windows and also in daylight without any blackout. In all scenarios, the projector delivered convincing results and there was little to criticise. We tested without a screen – with one, the picture would have gained even more.
The combination of a long-life light source and advanced HDR support makes the BenQ GP520 an excellent choice for home cinema enthusiasts who value quality and versatility.
Without blackout (left) and with blackout (right)
Without blackout (left) and with blackout (right)
Smooth images: frame interpolation on a budget
A remarkable feature of the BenQ GP520 is frame interpolation, which is rarely found in this price class. This technology makes motion look smoother, which is particularly beneficial in fast film scenes or action-packed games. The result is a pleasantly steady image without distracting judder.
In our test, we tried frame interpolation with various content, including sports broadcasts, action films and gaming. The differences were clearly noticeable: motion looked more natural and less distorted. This makes the GP520 an excellent choice for users who value picture quality and smooth playback without breaking the bank.
Entertainment without limits: choice of streaming apps
The BenQ GP520 makes streaming easier than ever. During set-up, it already asks which apps you would like to download straight away. With just a few clicks, platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and many more can be installed on the device. This option saves time and makes getting started easier. For those who want to add more apps later, there is a built-in app store with a wide selection of streaming and entertainment applications.
Thanks to powerful hardware and an intuitive user interface, the apps run smoothly and without delays. The GP520 turns any room into a fully-fledged home cinema – with no additional streaming sticks or devices needed. This seamless plug-and-play experience makes it the perfect choice for streaming fans who want convenience and performance combined in one device.
Streaming app selection and interface in our test
360° sound: impressive audio for the price class
We were able to test the BenQ GP520 privately for a few days and got a good impression of its sound quality. The projector stood both on a bedside table in the bedroom and on a side table in the living room. It turned out that the GP520 adapts well to different room sizes.
In the bedroom, measuring around 17 m², the projector effectively acted as a complete soundbar. The sound was clear, balanced and filled the room effortlessly. It was hard to imagine a better sound solution for a room of this size. In the living room, at around 40 m², the sound was also convincing, although the larger space dampened it slightly. Nevertheless, the performance was more than sufficient for movie nights or gaming sessions.
Another advantage of the GP520 is its low operating noise. Even if you sit directly behind or next to the projector, the fan noise is barely noticeable. To illustrate this, we placed a microphone directly on the device. Even at maximum output, there was no annoying projector hum, as the following audio file shows – a feature that considerably increases comfort and makes it an ideal choice for quiet environments.
Conclusion: the perfect all-rounder for under €1,200?
The BenQ GP520 offers an impressive overall package that convinces both technically and functionally. With its easy set-up, versatile Quad LED light source and advanced HDR support, it clearly stands out in its price class. Smooth images thanks to frame interpolation and an extensive choice of streaming apps make it a perfect companion for home cinema, gaming and more.
The 360° sound, which adapts to different room sizes, and the virtually silent operation round off the experience and make it suitable for larger living rooms too. Minor weaknesses, such as the slight dampening of the sound in large rooms, hardly matter in the overall picture.
For under €1,200, the BenQ GP520 is not only a clear recommendation but can already be regarded as the flagship of this price class. We are curious to see how other well-known brands will respond and whether they will launch similar projectors with comparable features.
If you need help with the right settings or would like free, no-obligation advice, feel free to contact our projector experts. Here is the contact form: Our experts Go to the projector here: BenQ GP520
Matching product categories in our shop:
Further guides:
- Projector test: the best projectors of 2026 – the best models of 2026 by price class
