Your golf simulator projector is the window into your virtual course and the visualization of your shot shape. It controls how real your ball flight looks, how immersive your session feels, and how clear your golf simulator software appears. This is to say, every swing feels just a little less satisfying when your image quality is off.

The good news is you have no shortage of options here at Indoor Golf Outlet if you want a premium projector. But, two of the most compelling short-throw projectors for golf simulator setups in our lineup are the BenQ AK700ST and the BenQ LK936ST. 

Both deliver true 4K resolution, golf-optimized color tuning, and ultra-low latency. They’re manufactured by one of the most trusted names in this industry, however they’re ultimately built for very different needs.

The AK700ST offers excellent value for home and commercial sim setups in light-controlled rooms as a true 4k projector for golf simulator. On the other hand, the LK936ST steps things up with higher brightness and greater installation flexibility for more precise image optimization and non-standard setups.

You can learn more about the difference between the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST below. Or, you can get in touch with our team at Indoor Golf Outlet for a personalized recommendation between the two.

We know these models inside and out, and we’re here to help you find the right fit, not just make a sale. Our team supports you before, during, and after the purchase. Bring your space to life today!

The BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST Comparison at a Glance

What is the BenQ AK700ST?

The BenQ AK700ST is a short-throw, 4K laser projector purpose-built for golf simulators - but it can work well in home theaters, too. Basically, any environment that demands crisp, color-accurate visuals without overwhelming brightness can rely on the AK700ST.

It delivers 4,000 ANSI lumens, which is plenty for dedicated sim bays or dimly lit rooms, and the native 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) means sharp detail whether you're watching your ball flight on a virtual range or teeing off at Pebble Beach.

The BenQ AK700ST utilizes a 0.69 - 0.83 short throw ratio with a 1.2x zoom ratio to provide flexible mounting capability across a wide-variety of golf simulator dimensions.

The laser light source is sealed and rated for 20,000 hours, so you're not swapping lamps every few years - it’s really low-maintenance. Image tuning is straightforward, too, with 3D horizontal and vertical keystone correction, auto screen fit, and focus assistance all built in. 

Where it really shines is in color performance. It supports HDR10 and HLG, hits over 1 billion colors (30-bit), and includes BenQ’s Golf Mode, which tones greens and fairways for realism without oversaturation.

The bottom line is this: you can’t go wrong with the BenQ AK700ST Short-Throw Projector if you’re building a home simulator setup. But, let’s introduce the other half of our BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST comparison and to showcase where the LK936ST really shines.

What is the BenQ LK936ST?

The BenQ LK936ST is the heavy-hitter in BenQ’s sim projector lineup, designed for commercial or premium home setups where brightness, install flexibility, and long-term durability all matter.

It’s substantially brighter than the AK700ST with 5,100 ANSI lumens, so it works better in rooms with ambient light, oversized screens, or commercial hitting bays that don’t want to feel like a dark cave.

It also brings native 4K resolution and BenQ’s Golf Mode, but the real upgrade comes in the form of install flexibility. You get a 0.81 - 0.89 throw ratio, 1.1x zoom, and a wide vertical (±60 degree) and horizontal (±23%) lens shift. This means you can mount it off-center, higher, or behind protective glass without sacrificing image quality.

The sealed laser light source runs for the same 20,000 hours with dust-resistant internals, so durability is more or less a wash. It’s important to note that the LK936ST makes a bit more noise under full load (~40 dB), but that’s the tradeoff for the extra power.

This projector supports HDBaseT, eARC, DisplayPort, and other pro-level connections not found on lower-end models. You just get more room to work with (literally and figuratively) if you’re building a permanent simulator studio, commercial facility, or just want max brightness and control over placement.

BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST: Which is Right For You?

For what it’s worth, these are two excellent projectors for a golf simulator setup and are among the best sellers across our store. You can’t lose choosing between the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST. Each offers native 4K resolution, laser reliability, and BenQ’s dedicated Golf Mode for lifelike course simulation.

But once you look closer at the differences between the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST, it becomes crystal clear that they cater to very different environments and user needs.

Resolution and Image Clarity

First, know that there is no tradeoff in sharpness or detail since both projectors deliver true 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution. Either model will deliver if you care about seeing every blade of virtual grass or tracking your ball flight with the highest degree of realism.

However, the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST start to diverge in visual tone. The AK700ST brings better balance and subtlety, while the LK936ST leans into vivid contrast with its higher lumen output and slightly different tone mapping.

Brightness and Room Versatility

This is ultimately the biggest difference between the BenQ LK936ST vs AK700ST. It’s a comparison of 5,100 lumens (LK936ST) vs 4,000 lumens (AK700ST). That 1,100-lumen gap matters more than it sounds.

The AK700ST is best suited to controlled lighting setups. Think basement sims or closed bays where ambient light is limited. On the other hand, the LK936ST thrives in multi-use spaces, open garages, or commercial facilities where you simply can’t dim everything down.

Keystone and Mounting Adjustments

You should think about where you plan to install your projector while debating between the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST, too. The AK700ST offers solid flexibility with horizontal and vertical keystone correction, 1.2x zoom, and auto screen fit tools.

However, the LK936ST takes it up a notch with vertical lens shift up to 60%, horizontal shift up to 23%, and 1.1x zoom. This makes the LK936ST far easier to install off-center and while mounting the projector above the height of your impact screen. This is more important in non-standard setups or pro installs.

Price Comparison

All the differences we’ve talked about thus far between the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST lead to one final nuance: cost! 

The AK700ST is the more affordable option by a wide margin at $2,899 compared to $4,899. It’s great for budget-conscious setups and doesn’t compromise on quality.

Meanwhile, the LK936ST sits at a premium price point, but you’re paying for the extra brightness, versatility, and advanced installation options. In other words, it offers great value for the money. You get what you pay for!

Indoor Golf Outlet Has the Best Prices and Support for BOTH BenQ Models!

Whether you're leaning toward the AK700ST for your home sim or the LK936ST for a high-traffic commercial install, we’ve got you covered at Indoor Golf Outlet. We stock both models at the lowest prices online with free shipping.

Perhaps most importantly, though, we back every sale with knowledgeable support from actual golf simulator pros. That being said, the key takeaways between our BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST comparison is this:

• AK700ST: Best for dedicated home sim bays with good lighting control. You get 4K clarity and accurate colors without paying for brightness you don’t need.
• LK936ST: Ideal for commercial spaces, multi-purpose rooms, rooms with ambient light, or setups where the projector is mounted off-center of the golf simulator impact screen. It’s built for flexibility and heavy use.

Still unsure which fits your space? Our team will walk you through screen sizing, throw distance, ambient light considerations, and more. So, take the next step at Indoor Golf Outlet today!

Final Words on the Differences Between the BenQ LK936ST vs AK700ST

That concludes our BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST comparison. In summary, the primary differences come down to brightness and overall setup flexibility. Cost will play a role in your decision between the BenQ LK936ST vs AK700ST as well. 

So, can you use either projector for your golf simulator? Yes, but they’ll be better suited for different uses and budgets. The AK700ST shines in home simulator builds with its 4K HDR support and budget-friendly price, while the LK936ST caters more towards commercial or high-end residential use with its amplified brightness and versatile setup capabilities. 

Remember, we carry both models and can help you decide which fits your space, goals, and budget best. Don’t play the guessing game. Talk to a projector expert today at Indoor Golf Outlet.