The BenQ AH500ST and AH700ST are both 1080p laser projectors, but they are not interchangeable when you plan a golf simulator. The most useful starting point is the distance between your proposed lens position and the screen. A projector that cannot create the right image from a safe mounting location is the wrong fit, even when its other specifications look attractive.
This specification-based comparison explains how to narrow down the choice. It is not a hands-on performance test. You can check current options on our BenQ AH500ST and BenQ AH700ST product pages.
The difference that changes your installation
BenQ lists the AH500ST with a fixed 0.499 throw ratio. The AH700ST has a 0.69–0.83 throw-ratio range and 1.2x optical zoom. Both are specified at 1920 × 1080 resolution and 4,000 ANSI lumens. Those figures come from the AH500ST specifications and AH700ST specifications.
For the same native-format image width, the AH500ST needs a shorter lens-to-screen distance. The AH700ST needs more distance but offers an optical adjustment range. Neither arrangement is automatically better: it depends on your enclosure, hitting position, ceiling structure, and available mounting points.
What throw distance looks like in a real plan
For an initial native 16:9 layout, multiply image width by throw ratio. The following figures are calculated planning examples, not mounting instructions. They use projected image width, not enclosure width or screen diagonal.
| Image width | AH500ST | AH700ST |
|---|---|---|
| 8 feet | About 3.99 feet | About 5.52–6.64 feet |
| 10 feet | About 4.99 feet | About 6.90–8.30 feet |
| 12 feet | About 5.99 feet | About 8.28–9.96 feet |
For example, suppose you want a ten-foot-wide 16:9 image and have a suitable mounting location approximately 7.5 feet from the screen. That distance falls inside the AH700ST's calculated range, but not the AH500ST's fixed-ratio position. Choosing the AH500ST would require a different physical layout rather than simply changing a zoom setting.
A 4:3, square, or digitally resized picture needs a separate calculation. The displayed golf image may occupy only part of the projector's native frame. Estimate image dimensions and lens-to-screen distance with the Indoor Golf Kit Simulator Calculator, then confirm final placement in the model's installation documentation before drilling.
When the AH500ST deserves a closer look
Start with the AH500ST when your proposed lens position is close to the screen and its fixed throw ratio matches the image size you need. A fixed-lens design can be entirely suitable for a permanent installation when the location has been planned accurately.
The key question is whether the lens can occupy that position without conflicting with the enclosure, launch monitor, lighting, or the golfer's swing. Do not assume that a shorter throw automatically means behind-the-player placement or a shadow-free image. Mark the hitting position and evaluate the projector's actual beam path.
It is also worth thinking ahead. Changing to a significantly wider screen can require moving a fixed-lens projector. Make that part of your plan if you expect to expand the room later.
When the AH700ST deserves a closer look
Consider the AH700ST when a mounting position farther from the screen works better, or when optical zoom gives you useful flexibility around an existing structural mounting point. The zoom range can help you fine-tune picture size without treating the mounting point as infinitely adjustable.
That flexibility still has limits. A ceiling location outside the lens's range will not become suitable merely because the projector offers setup assistance. Check the lens-to-screen distance first, then vertical offset and alignment, and only then consider the convenience of electronic adjustments.
Do not buy either model on lumens alone
These projectors share the same published ANSI-lumen rating, so that headline number does not provide a reason to call one the brighter choice. Your screen area, room lighting, selected picture mode, and installation all deserve attention.
Before spending more on a different projector, consider whether direct light is reaching the impact screen. Plan task lighting around the hitting area, assess any windows, and check how the enclosure manages light. A brighter room and a larger image create a different visual challenge from a small, dark simulator bay.
Check the whole setup before ordering
Write down the exact screen image width and height, its aspect ratio, the intended lens location, and the finished mat height. Add the golfer's hitting position and the launch monitor's mounting requirements. Measure available height below beams, rails, fixtures, and other obstructions not just the highest point of the ceiling.
Then confirm the mount's load rating, attachment pattern, adjustment range, and compatibility with the mounting structure. Our golf simulator accessories collection includes mounting options, but a mount should be selected for the actual projector and installation rather than its appearance.
Finally, check which accessories are included and which are optional on the current product page. A projector purchase is not automatically a complete simulator, and a wireless accessory should not be assumed to be part of the box.
Use your confirmed lens-to-screen distance when you compare the AH500ST and AH700ST in a complete simulator build. Check the selected enclosure and screen shape alongside the projector before saving your choices.
Frequently asked questions
Does a higher model number mean a better fit?
No. Start with the lens position, image size, and room layout. The better-fitting model is the one that satisfies those requirements without forcing an unsuitable mounting arrangement.
Is the AH500ST a 4K display because it can accept certain 4K signals?
No. Input compatibility and displayed resolution are different specifications. BenQ lists the AH500ST's resolution as 1920 × 1080. Choose a 4K model when you specifically need 4K UHD display output.
Can I use the same ceiling position for both?
Do not assume so. Their throw ratios differ. Recalculate for the actual screen format and verify the mounting geometry before replacing one with the other.
Choose the projector around your room
The AH500ST and AH700ST solve different placement problems. Send Indoor Golf Kit your room dimensions, screen size, and proposed mounting position for help narrowing the choice, or browse our golf simulator projectors. For the rest of the build, use our home golf simulator setup guide as your component checklist.
