Optoma HZ40HDR Full HD Laser Gaming Projector

The Optoma HZ40HDR is a compact DLP laser projector with native Full HD resolution, 4,000-lumen brightness, HDR compatibility and low-latency gaming support.

It is designed for flexible home entertainment rather than only for a permanently darkened cinema room. Movies, television, live sport and games can all be projected at a much larger scale than a conventional television, while the compact 3kg chassis can be installed permanently or moved when required.

Native Full HD 1080p Resolution

The HZ40HDR uses a native 1920 x 1080 DLP imaging system with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Full HD remains well suited to Blu-ray, television, streaming and gaming, particularly when value, brightness and responsiveness take priority over native 4K resolution.

Compatible 4K UHD signals can be accepted through the HDMI inputs and converted for display at the projector’s native Full HD resolution. This allows modern sources to be connected without suggesting that the projector displays all 3840 x 2160 pixels contained in a 4K image.

Bright 4,000-Lumen Picture

Optoma specifies a brightness of 4,000 lumens, allowing the HZ40HDR to produce a clear, large picture in a variety of environments. This makes it particularly useful for sport, television and social gaming in rooms where some ambient light may be present.

No projector can completely overcome direct sunlight or strong light falling across the screen. Controlling the room lighting and choosing an appropriate projection screen can still provide a substantial improvement in contrast, black level and perceived colour.

DuraCore Laser Light Source

The laser light source is rated for up to 30,000 hours of operation. Unlike a conventional lamp projector, it does not require routine replacement lamps during its expected operating life.

Laser illumination also provides quick start-up, consistent operation and lower maintenance requirements. Optoma describes the design as mercury-free and states that it can reduce power consumption by up to 45% compared with equivalent lamp-based Optoma projectors.

The sealed optical arrangement carries an IP6X dust-resistance rating, helping protect the internal optical components during long-term use.

Low-Latency 1080p Gaming

The HZ40HDR supports 1080p gaming at up to 120Hz and provides a quoted minimum response time of 8.6ms when the required gaming mode and compatible signal are used.

A higher refresh rate can make movement appear smoother, while lower input lag reduces the delay between pressing a controller button and seeing the result on screen. These benefits are particularly relevant to racing, sports and action games that depend on quick reactions.

The minimum quoted latency does not apply to every resolution, refresh rate or image-processing mode. The connected console or computer must be configured to output a supported 1080p high-refresh-rate signal, and additional picture processing may need to be disabled.

HDR-Compatible HDMI Inputs

Both HDMI 2.0 inputs can be used with compatible games consoles, UHD players, streaming devices, computers and television receivers. HDR compatibility allows the projector to interpret supported high-dynamic-range material and map it to the capabilities of its Full HD imaging system.

The result will depend on the source, content, room lighting, screen and picture settings. An Audio T demonstration and proper calibration can help establish the most appropriate balance between brightness, contrast and shadow detail.

DLP Projection and Colour Reproduction

The single-chip DLP system is designed to produce a sharp, stable image without the panel-alignment issues associated with some multi-panel projection systems. Optoma specifies support for approximately 1.07 billion displayable colours.

As with other single-chip DLP projectors, a small number of viewers may notice brief colour flashes commonly called the rainbow effect. Anyone who knows they are sensitive to this should arrange a demonstration before purchasing.

Projection Distance and Image Size

The 1.48:1 to 1.62:1 throw ratio supports projected image sizes from approximately 20 to 300 inches, depending on the installation distance. The practical screen size will also depend on the room, viewing distance, ambient light and expected picture quality.

As a guide, a 100-inch 16:9 image requires the lens to sit approximately 3.3 to 3.6 metres from the screen. This is an approximate calculation, so the final position should always be confirmed with Optoma’s current projection-distance calculator before installing a ceiling bracket, screen or cable route.

Manual Zoom and Keystone Adjustment

A 1.1x manual optical zoom provides some control over image size without moving the projector. Manual focus is then used to sharpen the projected image.

Horizontal and vertical keystone correction of up to ±30 degrees can help square the image when physical placement is not ideal. Keystone is a digital correction and can reduce usable image resolution, so positioning the projector squarely in relation to the screen remains the preferred approach.

Dual HDMI and USB Power

Two HDMI 2.0 inputs allow more than one source to remain connected. Alternatively, an AV receiver can manage several audio and video sources before sending the selected picture to the projector through a single HDMI cable.

The powered USB-A connection can supply up to 1.5A to a compatible streaming stick or wireless accessory. This can reduce the need for a separate nearby power adapter, but the HZ40HDR does not contain its own streaming platform, television tuner or subscription services.

An optional compatible wireless presentation or casting accessory may also be available, depending on current regional availability.

Built-In Speaker and External Sound

A built-in 15W speaker provides convenient sound for temporary setups, casual viewing or situations where a separate system is unavailable.

For films, television and games, a dedicated soundbar or home cinema system will normally provide clearer dialogue, wider stereo separation, deeper bass and a more convincing sense of scale. A 3.5mm audio output is provided, while an AV receiver can extract audio from connected sources before passing the video signal to the projector.

Compact and Flexible Design

The HZ40HDR measures 274mm wide, 216mm deep and 114mm high, with a net weight of 3kg. Its compact white chassis is considerably easier to accommodate than many larger installation projectors.

Optoma specifies support for 360-degree orientation and continuous operation, subject to the ventilation, temperature and installation requirements in the manufacturer’s manual. Sufficient space must be left around the intake and exhaust vents.

Choosing the Right Projector and Screen

Projector performance cannot be judged from brightness and resolution alone. Throw distance, screen size, seating position, room lighting, wall colour and screen material all influence the final result.

A demonstration can help compare the HZ40HDR with 4K alternatives and establish whether its brightness, Full HD resolution and gaming performance suit the room. Audio T can also advise on suitable screens, brackets, HDMI cables and home cinema sound systems.

Browse more projectors and screens or explore Audio T’s wider home cinema and AV range.

Frequently Asked Questions