Canon LV-X4

Since Canon uses LCD technology rather than DLP, the LV-X4 is noticeably bigger than most DLP models. It's also the heaviest on test at 2.8kg - slightly above the weight limit we set for this Labs. However, you'll hardly notice the extra weight over the Optoma or InFocus units once it's packed in the bundled carry case.

And the Canon has a trick up its sleeve to offset some of its bulk: a 1.6x optical zoom. This might not sound much more than others on test, but it makes a big difference in use. With an image size of 40in being available from just 1m away, the Canon lets you project huge images even in small rooms.

Although the LV-X4 is rated at 1,500 ANSI lumens, it appears brighter than the similarly rated Dell. We found uniformity wasn't perfect across the image, and focus wasn't pin-sharp in the corners either. Also, in the colour fades we saw some banding, where transitions should have been smooth. The greyscale fade was one of the best, though, with discernable differences right up to each end of the scale.

Thankfully, the shortfalls didn't ruin the quality of presentations - business charts were bright and sharp with powerful colours. Text was also sharp with no ghosting on even large black fonts on a white background. Contrast, though, was poor (as with most current LCD projectors) and this showed up not only in photos and movie clips, but also on dark screens where blacks looked distinctly grey.

Matters weren't helped by the fact that the menu adjustments are coarser than other models - we found keystone correction particularly annoying to use. Also, the fan is noisy (49.4dBA) in general use and there are only standard, high-contrast, blackboard and custom modes. The blackboard setting means the LV-X4 can be happily used to project onto blackboards in classrooms, and there's a keylock function to disable the onboard buttons, but the lack of sRGB or photo presets is slightly disappointing.

Fortunately, there's a good range of interfaces at the rear. One VGA input can also accept component sources, while the other can be switched to be an output. S-Video and composite sources are catered for, as are RCA and mini-jack audio. The USB port allows the remote to be used to control slide shows and also the mouse. Note that only a VGA video cable is provided.

The three-year exchange warranty is welcome, but running costs aren't the cheapest at 13.5p per hour. Ultimately, the Canon isn't the most portable unit this month, or the best for quality. However, if you need large images from a short distance, it's the best choice here.