As of the first half of 2024, the projector industry has introduced several new models, especially after Dangbei held its spring new product launch, unveiling three different types of projectors.
One of my friends is particularly interested in the Dangbei X5S and asked me whether it's worth buying. With a budget of around 4000 yuan, they are torn between the DaYan Orange X7D Pro and the Dangbei X5S. Which one is more worth buying and better suited for home use? Let's analyze each one in detail.
Comparison of Appearance: More Convenient with the Use of Gimbals
Looking at the latest models released by the three major domestic projector brands, it's clear that the current trend in home projectors is leaning towards gimbals. With the addition of gimbals, projectors become more portable. Previously, projectors placed on a table sometimes required propping up with books due to angle issues, or purchasing a separate projector stand, which was still inconvenient. Now, with the addition of gimbals, you can freely adjust the projection both vertically and horizontally.
The appearance gap between the DaYan Cheng X7D Pro and the Dangbei X5S is quite noticeable. Firstly, the DaYan Cheng X7D Pro sticks to the traditional rectangular design, making it convenient for watching movies in different places. However, it requires propping up with a book or buying a stand for regular use, which can be a bit cumbersome. On the other hand, the Dangbei X5S is an upgraded version of the previous Dangbei X5, offering more features without a price hike. With the addition of a gimbal, the Dangbei X5S allows for a vertical viewing angle of up to 120° and features a base with a 360° rotating gimbal, making it possible to project anywhere by simply rotating the device. This enhances the portability for on-the-go movie watching.
Comparison of Optical Parameters
Some friends might be more concerned about the image quality of the projector itself. Below, let's take a look at the optical parameters and performance of the optics of this model; when comparing the optical parameters of the Dangbei X5S with the Deyan Cheng X7D Pro, there's quite a difference. Whether it's in terms of the light source or brightness, there's hardly any comparability between the two. Here's the conclusion: the Dangbei X5S outperforms the Deyan Cheng X7D Pro.
Different Light Sources
The difference in light sources basically divides these two models into different types: one is the modern laser projection type, and the other is the traditional LED projection type. The Dangbei X5S uses a high-brightness, speckle-free ALPD laser light source, while the Deyan Cheng X7D Pro still uses an LED light source.
LED light sources also have advantages in color reproduction, but the brightness ceiling of LED light sources is relatively low. This means that the machine's brightness cannot be very high, and low brightness naturally leads to weak anti-glare performance. Simply put, in daylight or when the lights are on, the LED light source's image tends to wash out. However, ALPD light sources have high brightness and good anti-glare performance, so the image can withstand sufficient light, which is why we often hear "clear even with the lights on."
Different Brightness Levels
The brightness of a projector is determined by its light source. As mentioned earlier, LED light sources typically result in lower brightness ceilings. This helps explain why the brightness of the Daengbey X7D Pro is only 2000 ANSI lumens, equivalent to 1000 CVIA lumens under stricter measurement standards. In comparison, the Daengbey X5S boasts 2450 CVIA lumens, putting it significantly ahead. Generally, for a picture to resist ambient light well, it needs a brightness level exceeding 2000 CVIA lumens. This is why laser projectors like the Daengbey X5S are better suited for use in living rooms, where ambient light is stronger, yet they can still deliver impressive image quality.
Comparison of Hardware Configurations
After comparing the external visual parameters, let's delve into the internal hardware configurations. In terms of hardware, the author will compare aspects such as processors and memory. Let's first take a look at the processor parameters of the two devices. The processor acts as the brain of the projector, and a good brain undoubtedly ensures swift and efficient processing. A good processor is characterized by fast operation and strong image processing capabilities.
The X5S by Danbei employs the MT9679 high-end flagship processor, which is currently the most advanced in the industry. On the other hand, the Big Eyes Orange X7D Pro utilizes the Amlogic T982 chip, which notably lags behind. In terms of performance, it simply cannot match the MT9679. Generally, high-end projectors priced over ten thousand yuan also opt for the MT9679 processor.
Memory is generally divided into running memory and storage memory. Just like with computer memory, bigger is usually better. Larger running memory leads to faster operation speed for projectors, while larger storage memory provides more space for downloads. The Big Orange X7D Pro has 4GB of running memory and 32GB of storage memory, while the Dangbei X5S boasts a larger storage memory of 64GB alongside 4GB of running memory. Although both have similar running memory, the Dangbei X5S's larger storage memory ensures more stability during use. With ample space for downloading software, it won't affect the operation speed.
Comparative Experience
The overall experience of a projector is also crucial. Factors such as the system configuration, automatic focus adjustment, and useful features significantly impact user experience. For instance, the Dangbei X5S runs on the upgraded Dangbei OS 4.1 system, far surpassing the system of the Big Orange X7D Pro. Dangbei OS 4.1 supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, USB 3.0, and HDMI 2.1. If you're into gaming, this machine's internet speed is astonishingly fast, with rapid screen casting and automatic intelligent calibration and focusing. It also supports adaptive screen adaptation and intelligent obstacle avoidance, ensuring both speed and precision, making far-field voice control convenient to use.
The author enjoys watching classic movies, and finds the XSuper Super Resolution feature of the Bei X5S very useful for converting low-resolution films into high-resolution quality. Additionally, the Split Screen Playback feature comes in handy in households with multiple people, allowing two-way usage without the need to fight over the remote control. The dual 12W high-quality speakers also enhance the immersive viewing experience. In comparison, the system features of the Da Yan Orange X7D Pro seem rather ordinary.
Five, which one is worth buying, the Dangbei X5S or the Optoma X7D Pro?
That concludes our comparison of the Dangbei X5S versus the Optoma X7D Pro. Overall, the Dangbei X5S emerges as the clear winner, boasting superior brightness, better picture quality, and an exceptional user experience. If you have a budget of around four thousand, then the Dangbei X5S, with its high-brightness laser projection system, is the ideal choice without increasing the cost.
