Optoma HD30LV vs HD146X: Which Projector Offers Superior 3D Support?

[Bellmeister]

Introduce​

Parameter	Optoma HD30LV​	Optoma HD146X​
Picture​	​	​
Price​	$649​	$599​
Recommended Uses​	Education, Business​	Gaming​
Highlight​	Projection Distance: Up to 32'9" Image Size: 120" from 13.07' away Resolution: 1080p (1920x1080) Game Mode Input Lag: 8.4ms @ 1080p120Hz, 16ms @ 1080p60Hz HDMI Version: HDMI 2.0 HDR Support: 4K HDR input, outputs 1080p HDR Contrast Ratio: 22,000:1	HDMI-CEC: Allows control of projector and devices with one remote via HDMI-Link Connectivity: HDMI extender and USB power support; compatible with Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox, Switch, PS4, set-top box Throw Ratio: 1.47:1 to 1.62:1 Image Technology: DLP DMD single-chip design for perfect image alignment and high brightness 3D Capability: Supports true 3D content from various sources; requires 3D glasses Refresh Rate: 120Hz for smooth, flicker-free images Gaming Mode: Enhanced response time and improved visibility in dark scenes

Side-by-Side Comparison​

Display​

Parameter	Optoma HD30LV​	Optoma HD146X​
Screen Size​	29.93 Inches - 301.14 Inches​	305 Inches - 301 Inches​
Throw Distance​	1.1 Meters - 10 Meters​	3.2 Feet - 35.37 Feet​
Contrast Ratio​	22000:1​	25000:1​
Display Resolution​	1920 x 1080 Pixels​	1080p​
Native Resolution​	1920 x 1080​	1920 x 1080​
Brightness​	4500 Lumen​	3600 Lumen​
Display Type​	Lamp​	DLP​
Picture Enhancement​	Yes​	-​

Features​

Parameter	Optoma HD30LV​	Optoma HD146X​
Video Encoding​	HEVC (H.265)​	-​
Lamp Wattage​	-​	240 Watts​
Light Source Life​	15000 Hours​	15000 Hours​
Controller Type​	Remote Control​	Remote Control​
Control Method​	Remote​	Remote​
Mount Type​	Tabletop Mount​	Ceiling Mount​
Other Features​	4K HDR Input, Low Input Lag, High Brightness, Compact Size, Full 3D​	Speakers, 3d-Ready​

Connectivity​

Parameter	Optoma HD30LV​	Optoma HD146X​
Connectivity Technology​	USB, HDMI​	Inputs 1 x HDMI 1.4a 3D support / Outputs 1 x Audio 3.5mm, 1 x USB-A power 1.5A​
Hardware Connectivity​	USB, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio​	USB, HDMI​
Compatible Devices​	Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One S, Xbox Series X, Gaming PC​	Gaming Console​

Measurements​

Parameter	Optoma HD30LV​	Optoma HD146X​
L x W x H​	-​	12.4"L x 9.5"W x 4.3"H​
Item Weight​	6.4 Pounds​	6.2 Pounds​

Conclusion​

Product	PROS AND CONS​
Optoma HD30LV​	Pros: • Good clarity for the price • Decent short throw capability at 20 ft for a 10 ft screen • Easy setup and adjustment for screen size • Bright and clear HD image from a 4K signal • Acceptable sound quality from built-in speakers Cons: • Missing lens cap upon shipment • Poor quality remote control • Ineffective keystone correction • Weak speaker output, barely audible at close range • Noticeable fan noise during daytime viewing • Misleading images suggesting it is a laser projector when it is a lamp projector Overall Impression: This projector offers good value with its clarity and brightness, making it suitable for home use like a golf simulator. However, issues with the remote, sound quality, and fan noise, along with misleading marketing regarding its type, may detract from the overall experience. If you prioritize image quality over other factors, this projector is a solid choice, but those looking for a quieter and more feature-rich option may want to consider alternatives.
Optoma HD146X​	Pros: • Bright and decent picture quality for a DLP projector • Clean picture suitable for daytime viewing • Impressive 3D performance Cons: • Irritating green screen issue when using 3D that requires a full reboot • Loses zoom and focus settings over time • Poor remote design; sensor placement makes it frustrating to use • Scattered blacked out pixels appear after a short period of use • Overall reliability and performance issues leading to dissatisfaction Overall Impression: The projector has some strong visual capabilities, particularly in brightness and 3D performance. However, significant drawbacks such as operational inconsistencies, a frustrating remote control experience, and reliability concerns overshadow its positives. Potential buyers may want to consider alternative options for a more dependable and user-friendly experience.