Optoma HD142X 1080p 3D DLP Projector Review

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The latest in video projection technology has afforded a visual presentation to rival some of the highest performing TVs on the market today. For example, while they don’t necessarily provide all of the same wireless and smart features that you’d typically dish out an extra thousand or more dollars for, they provide the same or higher resolution on the same or larger sized screen area.

On the other hand, while you can get more value at a lower price in many cases, there are some expensive replaceable features including a high intensity lamp requirement, which could set you back even further, depending on how you use it.

In this review, we’re going to point out the Optoma HD142X 3D DLP Projector‘s specific features in-depth. First, it’s worth mentioning that Optoma USA is a well-known company that specializes in projection and sound technology. They have a breadth of expertise in the field, with a diverse catalog of high end standalone projectors, as well as reliable accessories like their mounts, carrying cases and filters. In particular, their various genuine Optoma lamps which are recommended for use in all of their projectors hold some significance in this review.

Optoma HD142X

3,000 ANSI Lumens with High Contrast Ratio

One of the challenges with HDTVs is not only outputting the full resolution offered by other platforms and advanced media, but also the range of color that they have available. It’s still very difficult for the consumer with an average spending budget to take advantage of the high dynamic range and super high resolution of major popular video game consoles and Blu-Ray content, which poses a dual problem.

As you know, the Optoma HD142X, which is an enhanced version of the HD141X, is priced a bit higher. They both feature a 3,000 maximum ANSI lumen output, which is an important measurement for projectors, because it’s based on output at several different angles.

Optoma HD142X

In effect, this means that both models output a very bright white. However, this alone doesn’t guarantee bright colors, as single chip DLP projectors use several different filters that don’t take into effect the brightness of red, green, blue or other color filters as well.

With that in mind, both the HD142X and the HD141X feature a demanding contrast ratio of 23,000:1, at a frame rate of 24 fps. This not only means that each color is accounted for in terms of brightness, but the appropriate intensity is output for each pixel on a frame-by-frame basis.

Optoma HD142X remote

REC.709 and HD 1080p

Smart features aren’t everything and there’s a reason why TVs are becoming increasingly expensive as time goes on. One area where this projector, as well as its less advanced model match this competition is in displaying a full 1920 x 1080 pixels. This is another way of saying that newer video media is very detailed, and this projector is capable of displaying each pixel of it.

In addressing the issues of depth of color, as well as filling each pixel with color rather than white space, Optoma has provided a few additional features in the HD142X, some of which aren’t available in the HD141X.

  • sRGB Standard
  • CMS with ISF Modes
  • DLP BrilliantColor Multi-Color Processing

The first of these features is called sRGB. This is essentially a standard set by HP and Microsoft many years ago, to ensure that visual content matched what was being on hardware, like computer monitors. The reason why it’s available on the HD142X and not the HD141X is that achieving this on a high resolution projector is much more difficult than on a low resolution monitor, as it includes the entire gamut of colors that appear in the REC.709 standard.

Optoma HD142X

This is made possible in part by the multi-color processing technology called BrilliantColor, which isn’t exclusive to Optoma projectors. What this does is allows the projector to combine its RGB color processing with up to 3 other colors simultaneously, allowing for a palette of potentially billions of colors for more realistic, detailed and accurate output.

While it’s guaranteed for 99% accuracy to the REC.709 standard, Optoma also stands by its performance for 5 years of continuous service. It also has a Color Management System that gives you control over the color and brightness settings for your particular viewing environment. You can also save custom calibrated settings with two ISF modes, typically reserved for light or dark environments.

Improved Eco Mode for Added Lamp Life

Moving onto the lamp itself, there are considerable advantages to not only using a higher end lamp, but also going with one specifically designed to work with your projector. What the Optoma HD142X has to offer in this area is, first and foremost, three different power modes. Based on their output, each offers the following lifespan for the included lamp:

  • Bright Mode: 5,000 hours.
  • Dynamic Mode: 6,500 hours.
  • Eco Mode: 8,000 hours.

This will vary slightly based on the amount of hours you use the projector each day, however this is rated for a consistent 2 hours on a daily basis.

Next, because its bulb is produced by Optoma you’re never at risk of damaging your projector or bulb, and you get a consistent output and lifespan per bulb as well as a more generous warranty for the entire system. Although there’s a small amount of maintenance and expense involved with this, you’ll get plenty of value out of it by the time you might replace an expensive TV, as it’s definitely built for endurance.

Optoma HD142X front

Full 3D Output

This next feature may not be the most appealing to all users, however if it works right and is easy to setup, it can be quite valuable overall. We won’t pay too much attention to this feature, but it’s worth mentioning that it can display 3D content from a variety of devices, including Blu-Ray players, 3D broadcasting and video game consoles.

This is significant because, while you are required to wear active 3D glasses, the HD142X has a refresh rate of 144Hz, which is higher than most quality computer monitors today. It ensures that visual data transferred to it isn’t reduced in quality or consistency of display. There’s also a VESA port for an external RF 3D signal emitter. This non-included accessory ensues a near-perfect synchronization between your active 3D glasses and projector.

HML and HDMI Ports

Smart technology has become a big part of not only our personal lives, but also has useful applications in the business world. The existence of full HD 1080p is more of a personal feature while it does provide professional opportunities as well. However, there are connectivity features available for the Optoma HD142X that can satisfy both audiences.

Optoma HD142X back

For starters, it can act as a hub for your smartphone or tablet via a MHL v1.2 supported connection. This is basically the high definition standard of cable that’s compatible with advanced mobile devices. It gives you the option of playing video games or streaming photos and videos from your favorite platforms, like Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Instant Video and Hulu in high definition, with a plug-and-play quality that’s exclusive to the advanced model.

Going back to basics, there are also 2 HDMI ports with 1.4a 3D support, for your major systems like Blu-Ray players, video game consoles and PCs, as well as providing access to your AV receiver. The lack of a wireless option is both a blessing and a curse. Although you’re required to have a non-portable, cable connection to all devices, even the Roku Streaming Stick and Optoma’s HDCast Pro, you won’t experience any loss of quality typical of low quality wireless connections. There’s also a USB connection option for any photos or videos stored from a digital camera, for example.

Optoma HD142X

Built In Sound System

We don’t always have access to a booming sound system, especially when we’re using a projector as a portable option, which is why audio is such a big concern for many people. If you have a home theater system there’s a good chance that you’ll never want to use this projector outside of that room, let alone your home. As such, the 3.5mm audio out jack will provide everything you need in this area.

You can plug it directly into an AV receiver or independent speaker system, and in addition to this, there’s also a 10 watt speaker device built into it. It likely won’t provide the home theater or cinema experience that it takes to really enjoy professionally engineered movie and video game soundtracks or ambient sounds. However, the sound is very clear and should suffice for any small or mid-size room presentation.

Optoma HD142X

Final Thoughts

The Optoma HD142X Home Theater Projector is definitely no ‘run of the mill’ projector as you can tell from its price. However, Optoma is making its initial release quite affordable on Amazon. Based on the response received from the HD142X and HD141X’s predecessor, the HD131Xe, they’ve been able to serve a significant market very well, despite the fact that they’re only now providing a full 3,000 ANSI lumens of brightness. The addition of full HD 1080p really bring them up a step from their competitors, and you’ll still be able to take advantage of Optoma’s dedication to relevant accessories and sound devices.

Overall, it’s packed with some pretty impressive features and is available for a bargain of a price, considering what it’s capable of. While you may not consider it a necessity for your home theater system, it’s capable of a wealth of high-end technology that’ll likely outperform most other models for the price.

14 thoughts on “Optoma HD142X 1080p 3D DLP Projector Review”

  1. Great website, thanks for share your knowledge with us. I am writing from Brazil, and inttend to bring in my next trip to USA. To use it as a home cinema which Optoma projector do you recomend: HD 27 or hd 142x? Thank you in advance

    Reply
    • Hello Denis! Thanks for the kind words, we try to make NerdTechy a helpful and resourceful website – glad we could help!
      Between the HD27 and the HD142X, we’d recommend going with the HD142X. It’s a slightly better upgrade with more brightness and a slightly better screen size range.
      Do let us know if you need any additional help or assistance!
      Thank you!

      Reply
      • Hello Guys,

        Great site!

        I am at exactly the same dilemma, but I was leaning towards the HD27.

        By the specs, it seemed a little better. (I could tell by the specs why you say the 142 have a better range…).

        On the PC Site it says something about wireless video connectivity on the 142. Is that built in? Does it work?

        What other specs aspects should I be looking to differentiate / choose among them?

        Any other make/models I should consider?

        Oh, also, it is white! I am going to put it on a living room where the white case would blend better with the white ceiling.

        Thank you!

        Reply
        • Hello, could you please tell me which one you ended up getting? I’m looking at the same comparison and Amazon has the 142 on a lightning deal right now. Thanks!

          Reply
  2. Hi,

    I am Kumar from India and am getting this from USA. My room size is 13ft x 23ft and can accommodate a screen size of about 5ft x 7ft width. Can you suggest me a economical yet good sound system to be connected to this unit. I am hard core fan of Hollywood movies.

    Also this is connected to a solar back up enabled inverter system for power dependence. Will you suggest to go ahead with this or shall I need to have separate UPS.

    Thanks in advance.

    Kumar

    Reply
    • Hello Kumar, what’s your budget for a sound system? It sounds like you’re looking for a boxed all-in-one sound system? You could always go with a simple sound bar and subwoofer combo… Ultimately, let us know your budget and what you’re willing to spend.

      Also, what wattage is your inverter system rated to? If you need an additional power supply, you should be aware of how much energy or wattage your room is currently using so you can figure out what’s needed with the addition of a new projector and sound system.

      Reply
  3. Hi,

    I was wondering if this model would be appropriate for business meetings where it would be mostly used for PowerPoint presentations or Skyping in participants who can’t attend in person.
    How would it compare to another product you reviewed; the BenQ DLP Business Projector – WXGA Display, 3300 Lumens, Dual HDMI, 13,000:1 Contrast, 3D-Ready Projector (MW529E)
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Hello JD. The Optoma HD142X would definitely be appropriate for business meetings where Power Point and Skype is needed. The BenQ MW529E (https://nerdtechy.com/benq-mw529e-review) isn’t quite as nice as this Optoma model (specs-wise), so naturally we’d suggest going with the HD142X.

      The BenQ has a 13,000:1 contrast ratio while the Optoma has a 26,000:1 contrast ratio. Additionally, the resolution on the Optoma is full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels, whereas the BenQ only supports WXGA resolution at 1280 x 800 pixels.

      However, since you don’t seem to need it for high-end movies or entertainment, if you wanted to save a few dollars, you’d likely still be just as happy with the BenQ MW529E. Ultimately the choice is yours and you’ll have to determine which is right for your specific scenario. Let us know if you have any other questions. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  4. Hi TechGuru!

    First of all, awesome review. Very detailed. I am really interested in purchasing this projector, but want to have a “similar” 3D experience as in the theaters. I saw Transformers: Age Of Extinction in 3D in the theaters, and was blown away and HOOKED on the 3D experience. The way it seems like you can reach out and touch things was awesome. In your opinion, does this projector have those capabilities? Or will it be similar to my Samsung 8500 3D Smart TV…where yes, it is quite an experience, but nothing like the theaters. I want to try and get something as close as possible as our family only buys 3D ever since we “discovered” it a few years ago. Thank you in advance, and keep up the great work!

    Reply
  5. Hi techguru I have a question for you is there any way to huck my time Warner Cable box in to this projector I would really like to use it just like I would a regular TV and if there is a way can you tell me how thanks for your advice and help

    Reply
  6. Hello, TechGuru

    I just recently bought the HD142X though,I feel like I should have gone for the HD141X due to having better features and optical zoom. Would it be better for me to grab the HD141X?

    From what I see they are the same Lumens and contrast.

    – Jason

    Reply

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