BenQ LK936ST vs. LG BU53RG Comparison

In 2024, LG introduced their latest version of their short throw 4K UHD laser projectors for digital signage that also can be used for golf simulation. We’ll take a closer look at these two models to see what the difference between them is so you can decide which one is best for you.  For a fair evaluation, we’ll look at the following performance factors:  

• Brightness & Laser Life
• Color Accuracy and HDR Support
• Throw Ratio & Lens Shift
• IP5X Dustproof Certification
• Golf Simulation or Business Projector

In the past, golf simulation projectors were primarily focused on brightness. But with new golf simulation graphical engines such as GS Pro and E6 that generate stunning course renderings using natural colors, color accuracy is far more important than brightness when it comes to a premium golf simulator experience. 

Here, the BenQ is the only golf simulation projector that uses the same industry color accuracy standard for TV’s - Rec. 709. The BenQ LK936ST covers 92% of the Rec. 709 color space, so it can replicate the complex colors of Pebble Beach #7 or the 18^th hole at Pine Valley. The LG BU53RG does not have any color accuracy specifications. Both projectors support HDR content.

Short throw projectors are ideal for golf simulation because they minimize the risk of the golfer creating a shadow on the screen. Both the BenQ LK936ST and the LG BU53RG have short throw lenses, but the BenQ can be mounted much closer to the screen than the LG model.  This means that the projector can be mounted just outside the hitting area with less risk of a shadow. For a larger golf simulator impact screen that is 10 feet tall, the BenQ LK936ST can be mounted about three feet closer than the LG BU53RG, reducing the risk of shadows.  In addition, the BenQ has more vertical and horizontal lens shift, which makes it easier to adjust the image to the screen after you mount the projector.

Because most people have never had to mount a projector before, BenQ has created an easy-to-use tool to enable you to lay out your golf simulator based on your launch monitor, golfer height size of your impact screen, and projector model to make sure everything will fit properly – without shadows.  Here is an example of a 10 foot tall golf simulator screen using the LK936ST with an overhead launch monitor and 6’ 3” Scottie Scheffler.  You can adjust the distance from your impact screen to the tee, and make sure there are no shadows.  The tool can then generate a complete configuration complete with measurements for you to use when setting up your room.

For commercial golf simulators, it is essential to get a model that can resist dust. Older projectors using filters can require staff to get on a ladder every month, and even home projectors may need cleaning every three months. Only the BenQ LK936ST has been certified under the IP5X standard (same as the Apple Watch) as dustproof on its specification sheet.

Both BenQ and LG are highly respected brands and known for quality products. While the LG BU53RG is optimized for LG’s digital signage software, the BenQ LK936ST is designed specifically for golf simulation. Besides being easier to install in smaller spaces, the BenQ projector has nice touches like a special “golf mode” on the projector that adds more realistic colors on platforms like GS PRO, E6, and other golf simulation software. BenQ also has more connectivity options than the LG BU53RG if you are setting up a multipurpose room, such as HDMI audio return, HDBaseT, DisplayPort connection to your computer, 12 volt trigger,  and a SPIDIF connection to enable audio control. 

BenQ also has experts available to help you with setting up your golf simulation projector, which you can just fill out the form below if you have any questions or need help.