BenQ TK705i vs TK705STi: The Smart 4K Showdown

BenQ continues to push the limits of home cinema technology with the debut of its new TK705 Series projectors — the TK705i and TK705STi. Both are smart 4K UHD projectors built for vivid color, flexible setup, and seamless streaming. Yet, despite their shared DNA, these two models are designed for slightly different home environments. Let’s dive into what sets them apart and which one might be the better fit for your entertainment setup.

Design and Setup: Standard vs Short Throw

The key difference between the TK705i and TK705STi lies in their projection distance. The TK705i is a standard-throw projector that delivers large 4K images from a longer distance, making it ideal for spacious living rooms or dedicated home theaters. The TK705STi, however, is a short-throw variant capable of projecting a 100–150-inch screen from just 5.8 to 8.7 feet away — a clear advantage for apartments or smaller rooms.

Both projectors share a sleek, minimal design that blends into modern interiors. They can be placed on a table or paired with the stylish BenQ ST30 projector stand (sold separately), featuring a curved metal arm and anti-slip silicone pads for stable tabletop projection. Whether ceiling-mounted or placed on furniture, setup is fast thanks to 8-way Smart Image Adaptation with Auto Focus, Auto 2D Keystone, and automatic screen alignment.

Display Performance: Same Power, Different Focus

Under the hood, both projectors deliver True 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) resolution and 3,000 ANSI lumens of brightness — bright enough for rooms with some ambient light. The difference is in their projection style. The TK705i gives users more range for flexible placement, while the TK705STi provides a more space-efficient setup without compromising sharpness or contrast.

Both feature CinematicColor™ and HDR-PRO™ technologies, reproducing 98% of the Rec.709 color gamut for precise and natural tones. These technologies also ensure higher contrast and deeper blacks, particularly noticeable during dark movie scenes or high-action sports. If you’re after pure color accuracy and cinematic tone mapping, both models deliver equally well — but the short-throw model offers more adaptability in tight areas.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Streaming entertainment comes built-in with Google TV, granting instant access to Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube without needing external devices. The system is intuitive and supports voice commands for effortless browsing. The TK705i adds an advantage here with Optical Moto Zoom, giving it mechanical precision for image scaling — something the TK705STi lacks due to its compact optical system.

When it comes to connectivity, both models are equally versatile. They include HDMI 2.1 with ALLM for smooth console gaming, USB-C with 30W power delivery for direct device connection, and Bluetooth 5.2 for pairing with soundbars or wireless headphones. Lag-sensitive users will appreciate the 5ms input delay at 4K/60Hz, ensuring responsive gameplay even on large displays.

Gaming and Everyday Use

Whether it’s watching sports, gaming on a PS5, or bingeing a new show, both projectors deliver smooth, high-refresh performance. The TK705i may be a better fit for users who want greater placement flexibility, ceiling mounts, or long-distance setups. The TK705STi, on the other hand, is tailor-made for smaller living spaces or users who prefer placing the projector closer to the screen or wall.

For first-time buyers, BenQ’s AR Projector Planner app (available for iOS devices) can help visualize throw distances and screen sizes before purchase. This AR-based tool scans your wall to simulate the viewing area, making it easy to decide between the two models.

As for pricing, the TK705i retails at $1,799, while the TK705STi is priced slightly higher at $1,999 due to its short-throw optics. Both are available through BenQ.com and Amazon starting early October, with a special 10% discount available for users completing the “Find Your Watch Party Style” quiz on BenQ’s website this month.

Ultimately, the BenQ TK705i is perfect for traditional setups with more distance flexibility, while the BenQ TK705STi excels in smaller environments where space efficiency is key. Whichever you choose, you’re getting BenQ’s top-tier image quality, brilliant brightness, and convenient Google TV integration — redefining what modern home projection can be.