Epson PowerLite Presenter Review

It’s hard to get an easier-to-use projector than the Epson PowerLite Presenter. Designed for small-business users, the PowerLite would also work as a projector for someone who’s looking for both a DVD projector and something to show off their PowerPoint slides. It has a variety of connectors and can be used right out of the box.

Pros: Simple to set up, simple to use, marvelous picture

Cons: A bit heavy, a bit hot

The PowerLite Presenter rates at 2,500 lumens, with 1280 x 800 WXGA native resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. At 9.5 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some of its Epson brothers and sisters. While this won’t be an issue if you’ll be carrying it around in your car or from room to room, it could be problematic if your business requires you to fly often and you need to carry it on.

The PowerLite comes with a variety of inputs, including VGA, RCA, USB and HDMI, and you can plug a microphone into the device. It also has integrated 10-watt x 2 stereo speakers, and it comes with a remote control.

An Eco Mode is included that reduces fan noise but ups the lamp life, which can be an important factor as replacing projector bulbs can get costly.

Its ease of use and brilliant picture outweigh any potential negatives, though. The PowerLite can be used right out of the box -- you just plug in the power cord, and slip in a DVD or connect it to your computer using one of the inputs. An HDMI cable isn't included, but you can pick one up for less than $10.

When you turn on the projector, you will have to fiddle with the zoom and focus to get the picture looking right, but this was a snap. Switching inputs is a breeze as well -- just hit the Source Search button and the device will automatically register which inputs you're using.

Of course, using a projection screen will result in an ideal performance, but we also tried it on a lightly colored painted wall. Although you could see the paint texture if you looked closely, it still did a fine job and displayed remarkable colors. This will be a plus if you're a frequent traveler without access to a bulky projection screen.

The 10-watt speaker proved to be surprisingly loud and crisp and would probably do well in a smaller presentation hall or larger classroom. As mentioned, it comes with a microphone input for when you're narrating those PowerPoint presentations or photo slideshow.

The PowerLite Presenter did get a bit hot after it had been in use for about 30 minutes. The fan was operating -- and it's a pretty quiet fan -- but the device still became fairly warm.

This isn’t really meant as a home-theater projector, but there’s no saying you can’t use it for both business and pleasure should the need arise.

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.