Dell 1420X

amazon Dell 1420X reviews

With good image quality, high brightness, the Dell 1420X is suitable for meeting rooms with multiple light sources and convenient for the educational environment.

The Dell 1420X is one of two enterprise-class business projectors. Both models (Dell 1420X and Dell 1430X) feature prominent high-brightness designs suitable for the environment, Auxiliary light, Small distance coefficients are suitable for limited projection rooms.

In terms of looks, the Dell 1420X also has a square block design with slightly rounded angles that look quite simple. Occupying almost the entire front of the machine is the large heat sink with a heat sink inside. Similar to the 1430X model, the Dell 1420X is also equipped with a silver-lined compact camera body that fits neatly into the device’s neat appearance. This lens has a focal range of 18.18 – 21.84mm (1.2x optical zoom), a distance factor of 1.64 – 1.97. With this distance factor, the Dell 1420X can display a 38″ frame from a distance of just 1m and a maximum of about 180″ at a distance of 8m.

In terms of technology, the Dell 1420X also features DLP 3D Ready projection technology (0.55 “DLP chip) combined with its proprietary BrilliantColor color technology. This combination not only gives the Dell 1420X the ability to display 3D content (from compatible sources), but also promises to deliver true image quality suitable for a variety of uses. . In addition, with a brightness of 2700 ANSI Lumen, 2400: 1 contrast ratio, the Dell 1420X is also suitable for environments with multiple light sources in the crowd room.

Due to the user-oriented design of small and medium enterprises, the Dell 1420X only supports 1024×768 pixel resolution and 4: 3 standard frame rate. Video signal inputs are also limited to the most basic level, including S-Video, Composite Video, and two VGA inputs. In addition, to meet the needs of slide / video presentations with sound effects, the Dell 1420X is equipped with a TRS (3.5mm) audio input connector and a 2W speaker.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the Dell 1420X projector is a straightforward process. The projector comes with a quick start guide that walks users through the initial setup process, making it easy for even first-time projector owners to get started. Once you’ve placed the projector on a flat surface or mounted it using the optional ceiling mount kit, you can easily connect it to your video source.

The projector has multiple connectivity options, including VGA, HDMI, S-Video, composite video, and audio inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices such as laptops, desktop computers, DVD players, and gaming consoles. The presence of both VGA and HDMI ports allows users to switch between analog and digital sources with ease. The Dell 1420X also includes an audio output jack for external speakers, though the built-in 2-watt speaker is sufficient for smaller rooms.

For installation flexibility, the projector supports both front and rear projection modes, as well as ceiling and desktop setups. You can also use the adjustable front foot to change the height and angle of the projector, making it easier to align the image with your screen or wall.

The Dell 1420X’s keystone correction feature further simplifies setup, allowing users to adjust image distortion when the projector is not positioned perfectly perpendicular to the screen. The vertical keystone correction feature provides up to ±30 degrees of correction, which is adequate for most setups.

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Dell 1420X 3D Ready DLP Projector – 720p – HDTV – 4:3: Buy it now

In general, with a size of 290×90,82×238 mm, weight of 2.6 kg, the Dell 1420X does not appear to be heavy and occupies a lot of space when moving or when installed with ceiling mount. The number of ports on the Dell 1420X not much, but also quite “fit” for business needs. To prepare for the testing process, Test Lab connects the Dell 1420X to the computer through the VGA interface via the cable that came with the device. At a distance of about 1.8 meters, the maximum zooming focal length (1.2x), Test Lab captures a frame of about 113cm (56 “) wide. After a warm-up period of about 30 minutes, Test Lab begins the testing process with the machine’s default settings for resolution, color, contrast, brightness, color mode and display mode. Marketing (preset).

Despite the high brightness specifications, Test Lab still decides to test the Dell 1420X in dark rooms and minimize ambient light sources. In the “Presentation” default presentation mode, the 56″ frame of the Dell 1420X has pretty good brightness, sharpness, rich color and depth. The hot colors of the Dell 1420X are very well reproduced, and the white / black colors look quite natural. Even with the default settings, the Dell 1420X can easily pass tests on the ability to display characters, colors, and contrasts with a fairly high score. In particular, the letters 9 still look sharp when viewed from a distance of nearly 2m; Color gradations of about 2% are quite clear, easily distinguishable from the naked eye.

One by one the HD 720, HD 1080i and 1080p movies are often used in test scenarios. The Dell 1420X does not face any hurdle when it comes to fast motion pictures. The only limit that can be seen is the quality and volume of the built-in loudspeaker when it is nearing its maximum level (level 20). Testing through some device configuration items, Test Lab found that the Dell 1420X has an intuitive menu layout, logical grouping, and quite similar to the menu design on Dell monitor models. The physical button system design on the back of the unit is much easier to operate than the buttons on the remote control, just as small as the business card of the device.

Performance in Different Scenarios

Business Presentations

The Dell 1420X is an excellent choice for business presentations. Thanks to its high brightness, contrast ratio, and XGA resolution, text, graphs, and PowerPoint slides are displayed crisply and clearly, even in well-lit rooms. During our tests, presentation slides with detailed charts and small fonts were easy to read, and transitions between slides were smooth. The color reproduction remained consistent, ensuring that branding colors and logos appeared accurate.

Classroom Use

In educational environments, the Dell 1420X performs admirably. The projector’s ability to handle a variety of input sources (VGA, HDMI) makes it easy for teachers to connect laptops, tablets, or other devices. The XGA resolution ensures that educational materials, including text-heavy slides, images, and videos, are displayed clearly. The built-in speaker, while not powerful, is adequate for small to medium-sized classrooms.

The projector’s portability also makes it easy to move between different classrooms or departments. For schools and colleges, the Dell 1420X offers a budget-friendly yet powerful solution for multimedia-based teaching.

Multimedia Playback

While the Dell 1420X is primarily designed for business and educational use, it also handles multimedia playback competently. Videos and movies play smoothly, with decent color accuracy and sharpness. The XGA resolution may not match the crispness of HD or 4K projectors, but for casual viewing, the image quality is satisfactory. The built-in speaker may lack depth, so external speakers are recommended for a more immersive audio experience during movie playback.

The projector’s ability to scale content from different resolutions also means that it can handle lower-resolution video content without too much distortion or loss of quality.

Gaming

The Dell 1420X is not specifically designed for gaming, but it can still be used for casual gaming sessions. The input lag is relatively low, and the projector’s color accuracy and contrast levels are sufficient for most games. However, due to the XGA resolution, some modern games may appear pixelated, especially when compared to higher-resolution gaming monitors or projectors. Nonetheless, for retro gaming or games that don’t require high resolution, the Dell 1420X provides an enjoyable experience.

Lamp Life and Maintenance

One of the advantages of DLP projectors is their long lamp life, and the Dell 1420X is no exception. The projector’s lamp is rated for up to 4,500 hours in normal mode and up to 6,000 hours in eco mode. This means that even with regular use, the lamp should last for several years before needing replacement. Eco mode slightly reduces brightness but significantly extends the lifespan of the lamp, making it a good option for users looking to maximize value over time.

Maintenance for the Dell 1420X is relatively simple. The projector features an easily accessible lamp compartment, allowing users to replace the lamp without the need for professional assistance. Additionally, the air filter can be cleaned or replaced as needed to ensure optimal performance and prevent overheating.

Connectivity and Ports

The Dell 1420X offers a wide range of connectivity options, making it compatible with most modern devices. Here’s a breakdown of the available ports:

• VGA In: Allows for connection to older laptops and desktop computers that use analog signals.
• HDMI: Provides a high-quality digital connection to laptops, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and other HDMI-enabled devices.
• S-Video: An analog video input for legacy devices such as older DVD players and camcorders.
• Composite Video: Another option for connecting older devices that use RCA cables.
• Audio In/Out: Connects external speakers or audio systems for improved sound quality.
• USB Type B: Used for firmware updates and servicing.

The inclusion of both VGA and HDMI ports ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, from older legacy hardware to modern multimedia equipment. The absence of USB Type A or wireless connectivity options may be a drawback for users looking for more advanced features, but the available ports cover most common use cases.

Audio Quality

The Dell 1420X features a 2-watt mono speaker that is built into the projector. While this speaker is sufficient for small to medium-sized rooms and basic presentation audio, it lacks the power and depth needed for larger rooms or immersive multimedia experiences. The sound can become distorted at higher volumes, especially when playing bass-heavy content such as music or action scenes in movies.

For business presentations or classroom use, the built-in speaker performs adequately, delivering clear speech and basic sound effects. However, for more demanding audio needs, such as watching movies or playing games, we recommend using external speakers. The projector’s audio output jack makes it easy to connect to powered speakers or a sound system for improved sound quality.

Remote Control and On-Screen Menu

The Dell 1420X projector comes with a compact and user-friendly remote control, designed to make operation as convenient as possible. The remote features all the essential buttons required to control the projector, including power, input selection, volume, keystone correction, and navigation through the on-screen menu. The layout is intuitive, and the buttons are clearly labeled, making it easy to switch between inputs, adjust settings, or toggle through presentation modes during use.

In addition to the physical buttons on the projector itself, the remote control allows you to access the projector’s on-screen menu (OSD). The OSD is straightforward and easy to navigate, with a well-organized structure that divides settings into categories such as Display, Image, Audio, and System settings. The menus are clear, with simple text labels and easy-to-understand options for brightness, contrast, color adjustment, aspect ratio, and more. You can also control advanced features like keystone correction and lamp settings through the OSD.

One nice feature of the OSD is the ability to save settings for different environments. For example, you can create separate profiles for daytime use, low-light settings, or multimedia playback. This flexibility allows you to quickly switch between different modes without having to manually adjust settings each time.

Keystone Correction and Image Adjustment

The Dell 1420X projector offers manual keystone correction for vertical adjustments of up to ±30 degrees. Keystone correction is a crucial feature when the projector cannot be placed perfectly perpendicular to the screen, allowing the image to be straightened even when projected at an angle. This makes setup easier in rooms where projector placement is restricted or where the screen is positioned off-center.

In addition to keystone correction, the projector also features manual zoom and focus adjustments, which are located on the lens. The zoom ring allows users to enlarge or shrink the projected image without physically moving the projector, while the focus ring ensures a sharp and clear picture. These features make the Dell 1420X flexible enough for various projection distances, allowing users to achieve the ideal screen size even in small or irregularly shaped rooms.

For further image customization, users can adjust aspect ratio settings to accommodate different types of content. The Dell 1420X supports 4:3 (native), 16:9, and auto aspect ratio modes, ensuring compatibility with both standard-definition and widescreen formats.

Energy Efficiency and Eco Mode

The Dell 1420X projector is designed with energy efficiency in mind. Like many modern projectors, it features an Eco Mode that helps reduce power consumption while extending the lifespan of the projector’s lamp. When Eco Mode is enabled, the projector reduces brightness levels slightly, but in exchange, users can expect the lamp life to extend from approximately 4,500 hours in normal mode to up to 6,000 hours. This can translate to significant savings over time, especially for businesses and educational institutions that use the projector frequently.

Eco Mode is particularly useful in low-light environments where the maximum brightness isn’t necessary, such as dimly lit conference rooms or classrooms with light control. The reduced brightness not only extends lamp life but also reduces the amount of heat generated by the projector, potentially leading to quieter fan operation and lower overall energy costs.

The Dell 1420X also includes auto shutoff and power-saving features that further enhance energy efficiency. For instance, users can set the projector to automatically power down after a specified period of inactivity, preventing unnecessary power consumption if the device is left on accidentally. Additionally, the projector consumes minimal power in standby mode, ensuring that it remains energy-efficient even when not in active use.

Noise Levels and Cooling

One common concern with projectors is the noise generated by the cooling fan. The Dell 1420X performs admirably in this regard, with relatively low noise levels during operation. While there is some audible fan noise, especially in high-brightness modes, it is not disruptive during presentations or media playback. In Eco Mode, the fan runs more quietly, reducing the overall noise output.

The cooling system is effective in preventing overheating, even after extended periods of use. The side-mounted ventilation grilles ensure that hot air is efficiently expelled from the projector, while the intake vents bring in cooler air to maintain optimal operating temperatures. As long as the projector is placed in a well-ventilated area, users should experience minimal issues with heat buildup.

Durability and Longevity

Dell has built a reputation for creating reliable and durable products, and the Dell 1420X projector is no exception. Its sturdy construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use in business, educational, or home environments. The projector’s long lamp life, when combined with the energy-saving features, further enhances its durability and longevity.

The lamp replacement process is straightforward, with easily accessible panels that allow for quick and hassle-free changes. Replacement lamps for the Dell 1420X are readily available, and while they are not inexpensive, the extended lamp life in Eco Mode helps mitigate the cost over the long term.

In addition, Dell offers warranty coverage for the 1420X projector, which typically includes one year of limited hardware warranty and technical support. Extended warranty options and protection plans are also available for users who want additional coverage for their device.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High brightness level (2700 ANSI lumens): Ensures clear, bright images even in well-lit rooms.
• Compact and portable design: Lightweight and easy to transport between locations.
• Multiple connectivity options: VGA, HDMI, composite video, S-video, and audio input/output for compatibility with a wide range of devices.
• Long lamp life: Up to 6,000 hours in Eco Mode reduces maintenance and operating costs.
• User-friendly setup and OSD: Easy to navigate menus and straightforward installation process.
• Affordable: Provides good value for money, especially for small businesses and educational institutions.
• Keystone correction and zoom features: Ensures easy setup and image adjustment in various room layouts.

Cons:

• XGA resolution (1024×768): Lower resolution compared to Full HD or 4K projectors, which may not be ideal for high-definition content.
• Limited built-in speaker: The 2-watt mono speaker lacks power for larger rooms or multimedia use, requiring external speakers for better audio quality.
• No wireless connectivity: Lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless presentations and content streaming.
• No lens shift: The absence of horizontal lens shift can make installation more challenging in off-center setups.

Comparison with Competitors

When comparing the Dell 1420X to its competitors in the same price range, it holds its own in terms of brightness, durability, and connectivity options. However, it is important to consider its XGA resolution, which may be limiting for users seeking higher-definition projections.

For example, projectors like the Epson EX3280 or ViewSonic PA503X offer similar brightness levels and XGA resolution but may provide more advanced features, such as improved color accuracy or better overall image sharpness. On the other hand, the Dell 1420X may outperform lower-priced models like the Optoma S334e in terms of overall build quality and ease of use.

For users who prioritize image resolution, it may be worth considering projectors with Full HD capabilities, such as the BenQ MH535FHD, though these models tend to come at a higher price point. However, if brightness and durability are the primary concerns, the Dell 1420X remains a strong contender in its category.

Conclusion

The Dell 1420X projector delivers an impressive blend of brightness, portability, and value, making it a versatile solution for a variety of settings. Its high brightness level and contrast ratio ensure that presentations, educational content, and multimedia playback are clear and easy to view, even in rooms with moderate ambient light.

While the XGA resolution may be a limiting factor for users seeking Full HD or higher resolution projectors, it remains sufficient for most business and educational applications. The projector’s long lamp life, energy-saving features, and easy setup process further enhance its appeal, especially for users looking for a low-maintenance, budget-friendly device.

Overall, the Dell 1420X is a solid performer in its price range, offering a dependable and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re looking for a projector for the office, classroom, or even casual home use, the Dell 1420X provides a practical and cost-effective solution for a variety of projection needs.