ViewSonic PJ501

CNET Editors' Rating

3.5 stars
    Overall score: 7.3 (3.5 stars)

Very good

As shown: $1,299.00

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ViewSonic PJ501 - front ViewSonic PJ501 - back ViewSonic PJ501 - front angle ViewSonic PJ501 - top
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  • ViewSonic PJ501 - front
  • ViewSonic PJ501 - back
  • ViewSonic PJ501 - front angle
  • ViewSonic PJ501 - top

CNET Editors' Review

CNET Editors' Rating

3.5 stars Very good
    Overall score: 7.3 (3.5 stars)
  • Design: 6.0
  • Features: 7.0
  • Performance: 8.0
  • Service and support: 8.0
  • Reviewed by: Brian Nadel
  • Released on:
  • Reviewed on:

The good: Very bright; projects a 25-foot diagonal image clearly; fast warm-up and shutdown times; three-year warranty.

The bad: Big and heavy; low contrast ratio; grays look pink.

The bottom line: Consider the ViewSonic PJ501 if you're looking for a very bright projector and a long warranty.

Review: The jet-black ViewSonic PJ501 LCD projector pumps out the light like a beacon in the night. This entry-level SVGA projector can produce big images with a measured brightness of almost 1,300 lumens, making it perfect for presentations in well-lit rooms. But at 5.4 pounds, it's a lot to carry, and it doesn't automatically connect to its source. Performance issues, such as low contrast ratio, also make the PJ501 a relatively poor choice for home entertainment.

The ViewSonic PJ501 is one of the bigger and heavier mobile LCD projectors we've tested, measuring 11.3 by 8. ... Expand full review

The jet-black ViewSonic PJ501 LCD projector pumps out the light like a beacon in the night. This entry-level SVGA projector can produce big images with a measured brightness of almost 1,300 lumens, making it perfect for presentations in well-lit rooms. But at 5.4 pounds, it's a lot to carry, and it doesn't automatically connect to its source. Performance issues, such as low contrast ratio, also make the PJ501 a relatively poor choice for home entertainment.

The ViewSonic PJ501 is one of the bigger and heavier mobile LCD projectors we've tested, measuring 11.3 by 8.2 by 3.2 inches (W, D, H) and weighing a hefty 5.4 pounds. With its cords, the PJ501 travels at 6.2 pounds. A spring-loaded button releases the adjustable front leg, which can tilt the projector up to about 10 degrees; a threaded rear leg helps balance the device. Odd and possibly inconvenient, the power cord connects on the right side next to the On/Off switch, rather than in the back with the rest of the connectors.

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Where to Buy

MSRP: $1,299.00
See manufacturer site for availability
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Specifications

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Quick Specs

  • Projector type: LCD projector
  • Resolution: 800 x 600
  • Image brightness: 1500 ANSI lumens

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Where to Buy

MSRP: $1,299.00
See manufacturer site for availability
Set price alert

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