Epson LS800 vs BenQ LK936ST: Budget Laser vs Premium Short Throw

Last updated: 2026-03-10

Epson LS12000B Laser Projector

$4,499

★★★★½4.8/5

Laser projector with 2700 lumens and 4K UHD. The most popular high-end golf simulator projector. No lamp to replace.

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OUR WINNER

BenQ LK936ST Short Throw Projector

$2,999

★★★★½4.7/5

Short-throw 4K laser projector at 5100 lumens. Designed for sports simulation. Installs closer to the screen in tight spaces.

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Bottom Line

The BenQ LK936ST is brighter and more suitable for golf simulator use. The Epson LS800 works at the entry level for smaller rooms.

Winner:BenQ LK936ST Short Throw Projector

Specs Compared

FeatureEpson LS12000B Laser ProjectorBenQ LK936ST Short Throw Projector
Price$4,499$2,999
Our Score93/100 91/100 (Winner)
Rating4.8/5 (892 reviews)4.7/5 (534 reviews)
Light SourceLaserLaser
Brightness2700 lumens5100 lumens
Resolution4K UHD (3840x2160)4K UHD
Throw Ratio1.35-2.84:10.75-0.92:1 (short throw)
Lamp Life20,000 hours20,000 hours

Epson LS12000B Laser Projector: Pros and Cons

+Laser light source, 20,000+ hour lifespan
+2700 lumens, bright enough for daytime use through an impact screen
+4K UHD with HDR10
+No lamp costs
+Fast response time
+Excellent color accuracy
Expensive at $4,499
Heavy, requires solid ceiling mount
Not a short-throw projector, needs 12-15 feet of throw distance
Overkill for budget simulator builds

BenQ LK936ST Short Throw Projector: Pros and Cons

+Short throw works in rooms as short as 12 feet
+5100 lumens, extremely bright
+4K laser, no lamp replacement
+Designed for simulation, not just home theater
+Lower latency than many projectors
Still $2,999, not cheap
Heavier than standard projectors
Short throw means closer mount, may be in swing path without proper planning

Which One Should You Buy?

The BenQ LK936ST is brighter and more suitable for golf simulator use. The Epson LS800 works at the entry level for smaller rooms.

If you have budget flexibility, our detailed reviews cover both products in depth. The right choice often comes down to how you plan to use the monitor.

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