Whether you’re building your golf simulator from scratch or looking to improve performance by upgrading your golf simulator projector, there are a ton of great options online. 

Here at Indoor Golf Outlet, we’re proud to carry some of the best brands on the market - including BenQ and LG. Two models we help our customers choose between all the time are the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG. So which is better?

The BenQ LK936ST is built for golfers who want a professional-grade 4K HDR image in a dedicated simulator room. It’s brighter, sharper, and has extensive lens shift and geometry controls for hassle-free setup in nearly any environment. It’s one of the best short-throw projectors for golf simulators in our lineup.

The LG ProBeam BU53RG also delivers 4K performance with 5,000 lumens of brightness and webOS smart features. It’s also cheaper. But it limits you a bit in terms of installation with a standard throw. The BenQ LK936ST brings the most accurate visuals and long-term reliability for golf simulation, and we think it’s worth paying a bit more for. 

At Indoor Golf Outlet, you’ll find both models at the lowest prices online, backed by hands-on product guidance and personalized setup support from experts who live and breathe golf simulation. Reach out now for one-on-one support!

Fast Facts on the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG

The BenQ LK936ST 4K HDR Short Throw Laser Golf Simulator Projector

We think BenQ makes some of the industry’s best 4k projectors for golf simulator spaces, and the LK936ST is one of our top-selling models. 

It’s designed specifically for commercial and luxury home setups, bringing together 4K HDR resolution, laser precision, and a short-throw lens that fits perfectly above your hitting area to eliminate shadows without any compromise in image quality.

This is the projector we point our customers towards when clarity and realism matter most. Whether you’re practicing approach shots or hosting a round for your friends, the LK936ST’s vibrant picture quality and versatile installation options make it a strong contender.

• Brightness: 5,100 ANSI lumens for vivid image quality, even in ambient light
• Resolution: True 4K UHD (3840×2160) with HDR10 support for enhanced realism
• Throw Ratio: 0.81–0.89, allowing large, distortion-free images in tight spaces
• Laser Life: Up to 20,000 hours for long-term, maintenance-free use
• Lens Shift: Vertical ±60% / Horizontal ±23% for easy, flexible installation
• Color Accuracy: Covers ~92% of Rec.709 color space with a dedicated Golf Mode tuned to reproduce realistic greens and fairways
• Connectivity: Dual HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort, HDBaseT, and RS-232 for professional-grade integration

It’s also remarkably quiet and efficient at just 33dB in Eco Mode. The only drawback for most people is the price tag. It’s not cheap at $4,899, but you do get what you pay for. It’s a reliable, high-performance golf simulator projector that you won’t regret splurging on.  

LG ProBeam BU53RG 5000 Lumen Laser 4K UHD Projector

The LG ProBeam BU53RG is no slouch either. You get stunning 4K projection power with better flexibility through smart connectivity and ultra-bright output. It’s an excellent choice for golf simulators that double as entertainment spaces.

The LG ProBeam BU53RG blends professional performance and modern usability. You gain access to LG’s webOS 6.0 platform so you can stream, cast, or switch between simulator software and video entertainment without additional hardware. 

• Brightness: 5,000 lumens for multipurpose rooms with some ambient light
• Resolution: True 4K UHD (3840×2160) with HDR support
• Throw Ratio: 0.94–1.14 - ideal for larger setups or ceiling-mounted installations
• Laser Light Source: Rated for up to 20,000 hours
• Lens Shift: Vertical ±50% / Horizontal ±20% for flexible positioning
• Color Performance: Wide color gamut with vivid contrast for realistic golf course visuals
• Smart OS: LG webOS for wireless connectivity and device-free streaming

The BU53RG’s compact chassis and remote management features make it especially appealing for commercial venues or simulators in shared environments. It bridges the gap between professional-grade projection with lifestyle convenience.

And at roughly $1,000 less than the BenQ LK936ST, it’s definitely a compelling choice. But we want to take a closer look at the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG projectors side-by-side to help you figure out which is right for your space. 

BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG: Side-by-Side Comparison

We carry both the BenQ LK936ST and the LG ProBeam BU53RG, and you really can’t go wrong either way. Both are made by reliable brands, and each performs very well in golf simulator spaces. But they’re built with slightly different goals in mind.

The BenQ LK936ST is designed specifically for short-throw installation and color tuning for golf simulation. The LG ProBeam offers exceptional brightness and versatility in multi-use environments, but it isn’t tailored for golf simulation in the same way the BenQ LK936ST is.

We’ll help you narrow it down between the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG below.

Resolution, HDR, and Sharpness

Both models have true 4K UHD resolution (3840x2160), delivering over 8 million pixels for crisp, realistic visuals. The BenQ LK936ST adds HDR10 support for more refined detail in bright and dark areas. This really stands out when projecting lush greens and shaded trees in simulator software.

The LG BU53RG also supports HDR, but its tone mapping leans toward cinematic performance rather than golf simulation. That’s the main takeaway here in comparing the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG. One is more optimized for this specific use case, and that’s the BenQ LK936ST.

Brightness, Contrast, and Ambient-Light Handling

Brightness levels are nearly identical between the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG as well - 5,100 and 5,000 lumens respectively. Contrast handling is what sets the two projectors apart.

The BenQ’s 3,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio gives images more depth and better visibility of contours on greens or fairways under various lighting conditions. The LG is better suited for rooms with some natural light, like multipurpose spaces or commercial environments.

Color Accuracy and “Golf Mode” Optimizations

This is where the BenQ LK936ST truly stands out with its dedicated golf mode, which enhances the natural greens and blues seen in golf simulation software. It’s what transports you from your basement or garage to Bandon Dunes, Pebble Beach, or any other course you’re playing.

You get incredible color balance for life-like visuals as it covers approximately 92% of the Rec.709 color gamut. The LG BU53RG has pretty similar accuracy (~95% Rec.709) but without the sport-specific color tuning, which does make a visible difference in image realism.

Now, it’s worth noting that the LG BU53RG is balanced for mixed content, and works really well for watching movies or presentations. Just not quite as good as the BenQ LK936ST when it comes to golf simulation. 

Throw Ratio, Zoom, and Screen Coverage

Another important structural difference between the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG is the throw ratio. The BenQ’s 0.81-0.89 short throw lets you project a 13-15 ft wide image from only 10-12 ft away. It’s perfect for smaller simulator bays or ceiling-mounted setups just above the hitting area.

In contrast, the LG’s 0.94-1.14 ratio requires slightly more distance from the screen, which can be limiting in tight setups but perfect for larger, open rooms or multipurpose installs. Both offer moderate zoom (1.1x-1.2x) for slight placement flexibility. 

Speaking of flexibility…

Lens Shift, Keystone, and Rotation Controls

The BenQ LK936ST has tools to help fine-tune image geometry even when perfect projector alignment isn’t possible. That includes ±60% vertical and ±23% horizontal lens shift, plus 3D keystone and rotation correction.

On the other hand, the LG ProBeam BU53RG provides ±50% vertical and ±20% horizontal shift, along with multi-point warping for curved or uneven surfaces. It’s not quite on par with the BenQ LK936ST, but still a strong choice for non-standard screen shapes or curved enclosures.

Both projectors are fairly straightforward to install, but BenQ LK936ST weighs notably less at only 15.4 lbs compared to the LG ProBeam BU53RG at 21.4 lbs.

Connectivity and Compatibility

You get plenty of features for connectivity no matter which of these projectors you go with. 

The BenQ includes HDMI 2.0b ports, DisplayPort, HDBaseT, RS-232, LAN, and USB-A for firmware updates or power output. You’ll have no issue integrating with simulator PCs and commercial AV systems.

There’s some overlap with the LG ProBeam BU53RG - dual HDMI, HDBaseT, USB, LAN, and audio-out are all available. However, you also get remote management tools which is a nice touch.

The BenQ LK936ST is purpose-built for golf simulation software such as GSPro, E6 Connect, and TGC 2019. It works seamlessly with golf launch monitors like Uneekor, Foresight, and Trackman. 

The LG BU53RG uses LG’s webOS 6.0 so you can tap into screen mirroring, casting, and built-in media playback. But as we’ve touched on throughout this comparison guide, it’s better suited to users who want their simulator space to double as a streaming or entertainment room.

Warranty and Support Experience

You don’t have to stress about longevity with either brand as both stand behind their equipment. Both provide strong 3-year warranties and are quick to offer one-on-one support when something goes wrong.

And when you shop at Indoor Golf Outlet, you can really enjoy peace of mind. We back up your order with unparalleled customer service from A to Z. 

Laser Light Source and Total Cost of Ownership

Each unit features a solid-state laser light engine rated for up to 20,000 hours, translating to years of use without bulb changes. As for cost, the LG ProBeam BU53RG is more affordable at just $3,799 compared to the BenQ LK936ST at $4,899.

So is it worth paying roughly $1,000 more for golf-specific performance? If all you plan on using the projector for is golf simulation, the answer is probably yes. But if you anticipate using the space for other purposes, then the LG ProBeam BU53RG’s versatility could be a selling point.

Shop BenQ and LG Golf Simulator Projectors at Indoor Golf Outlet for the Lowest Prices Online!

We specialize in high-performance golf simulator setups, from projectors and enclosures to launch monitors and accessories. Get in touch with our team today if you’re still on the fence choosing between the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG, and we’ll tell you which is the smarter choice based on your setup, preferences, and budget.

Our team knows the details that make or break a simulator build, which is why we only carry trusted brands like BenQ and LG in the first place. You also get access to the lowest prices online, guaranteed, no matter which brand you go with.

Whether you need the short-throw precision of the BenQ LK936ST or the bright, multipurpose power of the LG ProBeam BU53RG, you’ll find the best deal and world-class support right here. Elevate your golf simulator space today!

Bringing Our BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG Comparison to a Close

Both of these projectors bring serious performance to the virtual tee box, and there is some overlap between them. But the BenQ LK936ST is made for dedicated simulator spaces where short throw distance, precise alignment, and lifelike color accuracy matter most. It’s usually the projector we point our customers towards. 

That said, the LG ProBeam BU53RG has its place as well - and we have sold plenty of these units, too. It all depends on what you’re looking for in a projector. 

Explore other projector comparisons in our blog, such as the BenQ AK700ST vs LK936ST, the BenQ AH700ST vs AK700ST, or even a full-length BenQ AK700ST review. Otherwise, the only thing left to do today is choose between the BenQ LK936ST vs LG ProBeam BU53RG.

Remember, a personalized suggestion is just a click or call away. Get in touch with our experts at Indoor Golf Outlet and we’ll help you narrow it down based on your space, goals, and budget.