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Optoma ML550 Review | 85 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£470
  • Avg. price in US: ~$480
  • ANSI lumens: 500
  • Native panel resolution: 1280x800
  • Throw ratio: 1.5:1

Optoma ML550 review. Compare 85 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among projectors and if it is worth buying.

4.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the projector's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best projectors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.7

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the projector's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, brightness, contrast, connectivity, gaming features, smart features, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare projectors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

42.0%

5.0

Image Quality

22.0%

4.2

Projection & Lens

12.0%

5.0

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

5.0

Audio & Features

8.0%

2.3

Connectivity

6.0%

6.2

Design & Power

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the projector.

When it matters: When you want to know how a projector performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    ?

    Input lag

    25.0%

    10

    Refresh rate

    20.0%

    7.2

    Output Resolution

    10.0%

    1.0

    HDR10 support

    10.0%

    1.0

    Audio output power

  • 5.6
    Portable

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Weight

    20.0%

    ?

    Has A Built-In Speaker

    15.0%

    1.0

    Bluetooth connectivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Wi-Fi connectivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Smart TV features

  • 3.6
    Home theatre

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.2

    Output Resolution

    25.0%

    1.0

    HDR10 support

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dolby Vision support

    15.0%

    1.8

    ANSI lumens

    10.0%

    7.2

    Audible noise

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £470

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Optoma ML550 is an ultra-portable LED projector featuring a native WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution and 500 ANSI lumens of brightness in an incredibly compact 0.38 kg frame. Utilizing DLP technology and a long-lasting LED light source rated for 20,000 hours, it offers a high 10,000:1 contrast ratio and versatile connectivity including HDMI/MHL, a microSD slot, and 1.5GB of internal memory for laptop-free presentations. Its main strengths are its extreme portability, high brightness-to-size ratio, and its ability to natively view Office files and PDFs directly from USB or internal storage. However, its small 1W speaker provides limited audio quality, it lacks a physical optical zoom, and some users may find the focus prone to shifting slightly as the unit warms up.

Technical Specifications of Optoma ML550

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the projector's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, brightness, contrast, connectivity, gaming features, smart features, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare projectors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

42.0%

?

Image Quality

22.0%

?

Projection & Lens

12.0%

?

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

?

Audio & Features

8.0%

?

Connectivity

6.0%

?

Design & Power

4.7
Optoma ML550 has a technical score of 4.67 points, which is lower than 91.6% of projectors.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the projector.

When it matters: When you want to know how a projector performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the projector.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Optoma ML550 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 55.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the projector's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a projector with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.7

Overall score

40.0%

8.0

Price

5.7
Optoma ML550 has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.7 points, which is lower than 63.3% of products in this category.
ANSI lumens
What it is: Brightness output measured in ANSI lumens.
When it matters: When you watch with ambient light or on a large screen, higher brightness matters.

Importance: HIGH

500
Optoma ML550 reaches 500 ANSI lumens, dimmer than 77.6% of projectors and equal to 3.4% of projectors.
Contrast ratio
What it is: Ratio of brightest white to darkest black displayed by the projector.
When it matters: When you watch movies in a dark room, stronger contrast matters.

Importance: HIGH

10,000:1
Optoma ML550 has a contrast ratio of 10000:1, higher than 44% of projectors and equal to 6.8% of projectors.
Native panel resolution
What it is: Native resolution of the display panel or imaging device.
When it matters: When picture sharpness matters enough that you want to know the projector's true native imaging resolution, not just supported input formats.

Importance: HIGH

1280x800
Optoma ML550 uses a native resolution of 1280x800, lower than 74.6% of projectors and equal to 7.8% of projectors.
Output Resolution
What it is: The resolution the projector can actually display through its imaging system.
When it matters: When you want to know the actual image detail the projector can put on screen rather than just the source format it accepts.

Importance: HIGH

1280x800
Optoma ML550 supports output resolution up to 1280x800, lower than 75.9% of projectors and equal to 7.9% of projectors.
Projection technology
What it is: Projection imaging technology used by the projector.
When it matters: When color character, contrast behavior, and overall image personality matter before you compare brightness alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

DLP
Show more
Throw ratio
What it is: Ratio between projection distance and image width.
When it matters: When room size and screen size have to match properly instead of guessing whether the projector will fit the space.

Importance: MEDIUM

1.5:1
Min throw distance
What it is: Minimum distance required between projector and screen.
When it matters: When room depth is limited and you still need a large image from a short placement distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

0.55 m
Optoma ML550 needs a minimum throw distance of 0.55 m, shorter than 86.3% of projectors and equal to 0.8% of projectors.
Max projection size
What it is: Maximum supported image size for projection, measured diagonally.
When it matters: When you want a cinema-size picture, maximum projection size matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

100 inch
Optoma ML550 supports projection sizes up to 100 inch, smaller than 92.4% of projectors and equal to 6.6% of projectors.
Zoom ratio
What it is: Optical zoom capability expressed as a ratio.
When it matters: When projector placement is not ideal and you need optical zoom to frame the image correctly.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Motorized zoom
What it is: Motorized control of the optical zoom function.
When it matters: When the projector position is fixed but screen size or framing still needs to be adjusted from a distance.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not have motorized zoom. 16.3% of projectors have motorized zoom.
Show more
Input lag
What it is: Time delay between input signal and displayed image, measured in milliseconds.
When it matters: When gaming responsiveness matters and you want controls to feel more immediate on fast titles.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Auto low latency mode (ALLM)
What it is: Automatically reduces input lag when gaming.
When it matters: When you play fast games, lower latency matters.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not support ALLM. 20.3% of projectors support ALLM.
Variable refresh rate (VRR)
What it is: Support for variable refresh rate to reduce screen tearing.
When it matters: When gaming matters and you want the projector to handle variable frame rates with less tearing or stutter.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not support VRR. 1.9% of projectors support VRR.
HDMI version
What it is: Version of the HDMI standard supported.
When it matters: When source devices push newer HDMI features, refresh rates, or bandwidth levels that older ports may limit.

Importance: LOW

1.4
Optoma ML550 supports HDMI 1.4, older than 54.6% of projectors and equal to 34.1% of projectors.
Max HDMI bandwidth
What it is: Maximum bandwidth supported by HDMI inputs, measured in Gbps.
When it matters: When newer consoles, gaming PCs, or media boxes need more HDMI throughput than older projectors can handle.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
N. of HDMI ports
What it is: Number of available HDMI input ports.
When it matters: When you need a console, streamer, set-top box, and another source connected at the same time without swapping cables.

Importance: LOW

1
Optoma ML550 has 1 HDMI port/s, fewer than 54.6% of projectors and equal to 42.2% of projectors.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Support for Wi-Fi network connectivity.
When it matters: When the projector should handle network features, updates, or streaming functions without needing wired Ethernet only.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not support Wi-Fi. 52.7% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Supported Wi-Fi standard version.
When it matters: When wireless stability and throughput matter for streaming, updates, or projector ecosystem features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Support for Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
When it matters: When you plan to pair wireless speakers, headphones, remotes, or other accessories directly with the projector.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not support Bluetooth. 50% of projectors support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Supported Bluetooth version.
When it matters: When wireless accessory compatibility and connection quality matter beyond Bluetooth being a simple checkbox.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
Smart TV features
What it is: Includes built-in Smart TV functions or operating system.
When it matters: When you prefer built-in apps and streaming convenience instead of adding an external media stick or box.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not have smart TV features. 43.8% of projectors have smart TV features.
Operating system
What it is: The built-in software platform that runs the projector interface, streaming apps, and smart features.
When it matters: When you care about which apps are available, how modern the smart interface feels, and whether the projector includes a built-in streaming platform.

Importance: LOW

none
Android OS

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Dedicated smartphone app
What it is: Availability of a dedicated smartphone control app.
When it matters: When you want setup, input switching, or basic control handled from your phone without always reaching for a remote.

Importance: LOW

yes
Optoma ML550 comes with a dedicated smartphone app. 64.5% of projectors come with a dedicated smartphone app.
EZCast app.
Remote control
What it is: Comes with a dedicated remote control for operation.
When it matters: When you want easier everyday control without extra gear, built-in convenience features matter.

Importance: LOW

yes
Optoma ML550 includes a remote control. 1.6% of projectors include a remote control.
Show more
Light source type
What it is: Type of light source used by the projector.
When it matters: When maintenance expectations, startup behavior, brightness stability, and long-term running costs all matter in the buying decision.

Importance: LOW

led
Optoma ML550 uses led light source technology, more advanced than 33.1% of projectors and equal to 39% of projectors.
Laser Light Source
What it is: Whether the projector uses a laser light source instead of a traditional lamp.
When it matters: When lower maintenance, faster startup, and a lamp-free light engine matter over the long term.

Importance: LOW

no
Optoma ML550 does not use a laser light source. 28.1% of projectors use a laser light source.
Lamp life
What it is: Expected operational lifespan of the lamp in standard mode, measured in hours.
When it matters: When you care about running costs and maintenance intervals, light-source lifespan matters.

Importance: LOW

20,000 hours
Optoma ML550 offers lamp life of 20000 hours, shorter than 34.3% of projectors and equal to 27.5% of projectors.
LED light source life.
Lamp life (eco mode)
What it is: Expected operational lifespan of the lamp in eco mode, measured in hours.
When it matters: When you care about running costs and maintenance intervals, light-source lifespan matters.

Importance: LOW

20,000 hours
Optoma ML550 offers eco-mode lamp life of 20000 hours, shorter than 32.8% of projectors and equal to 19.5% of projectors.
Eco mode rating.
Operating power consumption
What it is: Average power consumption during normal operation.
When it matters: When electricity use and heat output matter because the projector runs for long sessions or frequent daily use.

Importance: LOW

65 W
Optoma ML550 uses 65 W of power, less than 80.8% of projectors and equal to 6.4% of projectors.
Normal mode power draw.
Show more

Optoma ML550 vs the average projector

  • Smartphone app support
    Optoma ML550 supports smartphone app control, while the average projector does not. 35.6% of projectors support smartphone app control.
    EZCast app.
    What it is: Availability of a dedicated smartphone control app.
    When it matters: When you want setup, input switching, or basic control handled from your phone without always reaching for a remote.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 supports smartphone app control, while the average projector does not. 35.6% of projectors support smartphone app control.
  • 0.51 m shorter throw distance
    Optoma ML550 has a lower throw distance than the average projector (0.6 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.
    What it is: Minimum distance required between projector and screen.
    When it matters: When room depth is limited and you still need a large image from a short placement distance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 has a lower throw distance than the average projector (0.6 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.0.55 m vs 1.06 m
  • 10 degrees greater vertical keystone correction
    Optoma ML550 offers more vertical keystone correction than the average projector (40 degrees degrees vs 30 degrees degrees). The average projector offers 30 degrees degrees of vertical keystone correction.
    What it is: Range of vertical keystone correction supported.
    When it matters: When the projector sits too high or too low relative to the screen and vertical image correction becomes necessary.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 offers more vertical keystone correction than the average projector (40 degrees degrees vs 30 degrees degrees). The average projector offers 30 degrees degrees of vertical keystone correction.40 degrees vs 30 degrees
  • 41.2% higher refresh rate
    Optoma ML550 has a higher refresh rate than the average projector (120 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.
    What it is: Number of screen refreshes per second, measured in hertz.
    When it matters: When motion clarity matters for gaming, sports, or fast-moving video instead of slower cinematic content only.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 has a higher refresh rate than the average projector (120 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.120 Hz vs 85 Hz
  • 1 more audio input ports
    Optoma ML550 has more audio input ports than the average projector (1 vs 0). The average projector has 0 audio input ports.
    What it is: Number of analog audio input ports available.
    When it matters: When you connect several devices at the same time, port count matters.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 has more audio input ports than the average projector (1 vs 0). The average projector has 0 audio input ports.1 vs 0
  • 87.7% lighter weight
    Optoma ML550 is lighter than the average projector (0.4 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.
    What it is: Total weight of the projector including lamp and lens.
    When it matters: When you move the projector between rooms or setups, lower weight matters.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 is lighter than the average projector (0.4 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.0.38 kg vs 3.1 kg
  • 168.9 W lower power use
    Optoma ML550 uses less power than the average projector (65 W vs 233.9 W). The average projector uses 233.9 W of power.
    Normal mode power draw.
    What it is: Average power consumption during normal operation.
    When it matters: When electricity use and heat output matter because the projector runs for long sessions or frequent daily use.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 uses less power than the average projector (65 W vs 233.9 W). The average projector uses 233.9 W of power.65 W vs 233.9 W
  • Includes memory card slot
    Optoma ML550 includes an external memory slot, while the average projector does not. 34.9% of projectors include an external memory slot.
    microSD slot.
    What it is: Slot for external memory devices such as USB drives or SD cards.
    When it matters: When you want to play stored media directly from removable storage instead of always connecting another playback device.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 includes an external memory slot, while the average projector does not. 34.9% of projectors include an external memory slot.
  • 41.2% higher refresh rate
    Optoma ML550 has a higher refresh rate than the average projector (120 Hz vs 85 Hz). The average projector has 85 Hz of refresh rate.
  • 0.51 m shorter throw distance
    Optoma ML550 has a lower throw distance than the average projector (0.6 m vs 1.06 m). The average projector has 1.06 m of throw distance.
  • 10 degrees greater vertical keystone correction
    Optoma ML550 offers more vertical keystone correction than the average projector (40 degrees degrees vs 30 degrees degrees). The average projector offers 30 degrees degrees of vertical keystone correction.
  • Includes memory card slot
    Optoma ML550 includes an external memory slot, while the average projector does not. 34.9% of projectors include an external memory slot.
  • Smartphone app support
    Optoma ML550 supports smartphone app control, while the average projector does not. 35.6% of projectors support smartphone app control.
  • 1 more audio input ports
    Optoma ML550 has more audio input ports than the average projector (1 vs 0). The average projector has 0 audio input ports.
  • 87.7% lighter weight
    Optoma ML550 is lighter than the average projector (0.4 kg vs 3.1 kg). The average projector weighs 3.1 kg.
  • 168.9 W lower power use
    Optoma ML550 uses less power than the average projector (65 W vs 233.9 W). The average projector uses 233.9 W of power.
  • 194.5 mm narrower width
    Optoma ML550 is narrower than the average projector (105 mm vs 299.5 mm). The average projector has a width of 299.5 mm.
  • 88 mm lower height
    Optoma ML550 is shorter than the average projector (39 mm vs 127 mm). The average projector has a height of 127 mm.
  • 106 mm thinner body
    Optoma ML550 is thinner than the average projector (39 mm vs 145 mm). The average projector has a thickness of 145 mm.

Total
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
Connectivity
Audio & Features
Design & Power
  • No HDR10 support
    Optoma ML550 does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
  • 77.3% dimmer image
    Optoma ML550 has lower ANSI lumens than the average projector (500 vs 2,200). The average projector has 2,200 ANSI lumens.
  • 2 bit lower color depth
    Optoma ML550 has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.
  • Low native resolution
    Optoma ML550 has a lower native panel resolution than the average projector (1280x800 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.
  • Lower output resolution
    Optoma ML550 supports a lower output resolution than the average projector (1280x800 vs 1920x1080). The average projector outputs at 1920x1080 resolution.
  • 0.02 inch smaller DMD chip
    Optoma ML550 has a lower DMD chip size than the average projector (0.5 inch vs 0.47 inch). The average projector has 0.47 inch of DMD chip size.
  • 150 inch smaller image size
    Optoma ML550 has a lower projection size than the average projector (100 inch vs 250 inch). The average projector has 250 inch of projection size.
  • Limited HDMI format
    Optoma ML550 supports a less capable max HDMI input format than the average projector (1080p/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz). The average projector supports a max HDMI input format of 4K/120Hz.
  • Older HDMI version
    Optoma ML550 has Old HDMI standard than the average projector (1.4 vs 2.0). The average projector supports HDMI 2.0.
  • Old HDCP version
    Optoma ML550 has Old HDCP version than the average projector (1.4 vs 2.2). The average projector supports HDCP 2.2.
  • 1 fewer HDMI ports
    Optoma ML550 has fewer HDMI ports than the average projector (1 vs 2). The average projector has 2 HDMI ports.
  • No Wi-Fi support
    Optoma ML550 does not support Wi-Fi, while the average projector does. 52.6% of projectors support Wi-Fi.
  • 90% weaker audio output
    Optoma ML550 has a lower audio output power than the average projector (1 W vs 10 W). The average projector has 10 W of audio output power.
  • Basic light source
    Optoma ML550 has Basic light source than the average projector (led vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.
  • 2 dB louder eco mode
    Optoma ML550 has a higher audible noise in eco mode than the average projector (30 dB vs 28 dB). The average projector has 28 dB of audible noise in eco mode.
  • 8 older model
    Optoma ML550 was released earlier than the average projector (2,013 vs 2,021). The average projector was released in 2,021.
    June 2013
  • No HDR10 support
    Optoma ML550 does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
    What it is: Support for HDR10 high dynamic range standard.
    When it matters: When you want the projector to handle mainstream HDR movie and streaming content instead of standard dynamic range only.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 does not support HDR10, while the average projector does. 56.3% of projectors support HDR10.
  • Limited HDMI format
    Optoma ML550 supports a less capable max HDMI input format than the average projector (1080p/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz). The average projector supports a max HDMI input format of 4K/120Hz.
    What it is: Highest HDMI input format supported by the projector.
    When it matters: When you want to confirm the exact signal format the projector can accept from high-end modern sources.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 supports a less capable max HDMI input format than the average projector (1080p/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz). The average projector supports a max HDMI input format of 4K/120Hz.1080p/60Hz vs 4K/120Hz
  • 77.3% dimmer image
    Optoma ML550 has lower ANSI lumens than the average projector (500 vs 2,200). The average projector has 2,200 ANSI lumens.
    What it is: Brightness output measured in ANSI lumens.
    When it matters: When you watch with ambient light or on a large screen, higher brightness matters.

    Importance: HIGH

    Optoma ML550 has lower ANSI lumens than the average projector (500 vs 2,200). The average projector has 2,200 ANSI lumens.500 vs 2,200
  • 2 bit lower color depth
    Optoma ML550 has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.
    What it is: Number of bits per color channel for color depth.
    When it matters: When you care about accurate tones and refined image quality, color precision matters.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 has a lower color depth than the average projector (8 bit vs 10 bit). The average projector has 10 bit of color depth.8 bit vs 10 bit
  • 150 inch smaller image size
    Optoma ML550 has a lower projection size than the average projector (100 inch vs 250 inch). The average projector has 250 inch of projection size.
    What it is: Maximum supported image size for projection, measured diagonally.
    When it matters: When you want a cinema-size picture, maximum projection size matters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Optoma ML550 has a lower projection size than the average projector (100 inch vs 250 inch). The average projector has 250 inch of projection size.100 inch vs 250 inch
  • 1 fewer HDMI ports
    Optoma ML550 has fewer HDMI ports than the average projector (1 vs 2). The average projector has 2 HDMI ports.
    What it is: Number of available HDMI input ports.
    When it matters: When you need a console, streamer, set-top box, and another source connected at the same time without swapping cables.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 has fewer HDMI ports than the average projector (1 vs 2). The average projector has 2 HDMI ports.1 vs 2
  • Basic light source
    Optoma ML550 has Basic light source than the average projector (led vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.
    What it is: Type of light source used by the projector.
    When it matters: When maintenance expectations, startup behavior, brightness stability, and long-term running costs all matter in the buying decision.

    Importance: LOW

    Optoma ML550 has Basic light source than the average projector (led vs laser). The average projector uses a laser light source.led vs laser
  • Low native resolution
    Optoma ML550 has a lower native panel resolution than the average projector (1280x800 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.
    What it is: Native resolution of the display panel or imaging device.
    When it matters: When picture sharpness matters enough that you want to know the projector's true native imaging resolution, not just supported input formats.

    Importance: HIGH

    Optoma ML550 has a lower native panel resolution than the average projector (1280x800 vs 1920x1080). The average projector has a native panel resolution of 1920x1080.1280x800 vs 1920x1080
Total
Overall
Image Quality
Projection & Lens
HDMI & Gaming
Connectivity
Audio & Features
Design & Power

Graphic comparison of Optoma ML550 and

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Optoma ML550?

  • Ultra-portable palm-sized design weighing less than 1 pound
  • High brightness for its size (500 ANSI lumens) suitable for moderate light
  • Versatile connectivity including HDMI/MHL, microSD slot, and USB
  • Long LED lifespan rated at 20,000 hours with low running costs
  • Onboard 1.5GB internal memory for laptop-free presentations
  • Fewer rainbow artifacts compared to many other DLP projectors

What customers dislike about Optoma ML550?

  • Integrated 1-watt speaker is weak and low-quality for films
  • Focus often drifts during the first 10-15 minutes as the unit warms up
  • Lacks a zoom lens, requiring physical movement to adjust image size
  • Proprietary universal I/O cable is required for VGA connections
  • Noticeable scaling artifacts and soft focus at native resolution
  • Highly limited 3D support restricted to VGA and computer use
  • Remote control can be unresponsive unless pointed at a precise spot

Expert reviews

P
projectorreviews.com
16/07/2013
Optoma ML550 LED Projector Review

The Optoma ML550 LED Projector Review highlights a highly capable pocket projector that packs solid performance into an ultra-compact, travel-friendly package. Weighing a mere 14.1 ounces, this DLP-based unit features a native resolution of 1280x800 and delivers 500 lumens of brightness. The review notes that its standout pros include an exceptional 20,000+ hour LED lamp life,...Read more

P
projectorcentral.com
16/12/2013
Optoma ML550 Pocket Projector Review

The Optoma ML550 is a highly portable LED projector designed for both business presentations and casual home entertainment, weighing just 0.9 pounds on its own and costing just under $500. Its standout features include a rated brightness of 500 lumens (with a measured brightness exceeding 400 lumens) and robust standalone connectivity, allowing users to present without a laptop via...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
27/09/2013
Optoma ML550 Review | Expert Reviews

The Optoma ML550 is an ultraportable DLP projector praised for its incredibly compact, 380-gram design and highly versatile feature set. Its LED lamp generates a bright 500 ANSI lumens, producing vibrant colours, sharp text at a native 1,280×800 resolution, and legible high-contrast detail without requiring a completely pitch-black room. It functions exceptionally well for...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
23/09/2013
Optoma ML550 Review - PCMag UK

The PCMag UK Review rates the Optoma ML550 projector a 3.5 out of 5 (Good), highlighting its impressive balance of high brightness and extreme portability. Weighing just 14 ounces and measuring 1.5 by 4.1 by 4.2 inches, this palmtop model packs a 500-lumen rating and a native 1280-by-800 WXGA resolution driven by a durable DLP chip and LED light source rated for 20,000 hours....Read more

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au.pcmag.com
05/11/2013
Optoma ML550 - Review 2013 - PCMag Australia

In a 2013 review by M. David Stone for ⁠PCMag Australia, the Optoma ML550 earned a "Good" 3.5 out of 5 rating for its innovative balance of extreme portability and upgraded brightness. Built around a WXGA DLP chip, this palmtop projector stands out by delivering a bright 500-lumen rating inside a compact frame measuring just 1.5 by 4.1 by 4.2 inches (HWD) and weighing a mere 14...Read more

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uk.pcmag.com
15/05/2014
Optoma ML550 - PCMag UK

The Optoma ML550 is a highly portable, palm-sized LED projector that offers an impressive combination of low weight and high brightness. Weighing only 14 ounces (1 pound 3 ounces with its power block) and measuring 1.5 by 4.1 by 4.2 inches, it outputs 500 lumens of brightness. This makes it powerful enough to comfortably display a 92-inch diagonal image in a dark room or a 56- to...Read more

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projectorreviews.com
16/07/2013
Optoma ML550 - Summary - Projector Reviews

The Optoma ML550 is a ultra-portable LED projector that delivers a solid performance of 500 lumens in a tiny package measuring 4.1ʺ x 1.5ʺ x 4.2ʺ. Its native 1280x800 resolution handles small 10-point fonts clearly, and it can upscale to 1680x1050 for brief spreadsheet sessions. Major advantages include a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, an exceptional lamp life of up to 20,000 hours, and...Read more

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projectorreviews.com
16/07/2013
Optoma ML550 Projector - Physical Tour

The Projector Reviews physical tour of the Optoma ML550 highlights the 500-lumen pocket projector's durable, compact design, featuring a recessed lens for protection and an efficient cooling system. Pros include the robust, portable build and thoughtful ventilation, making it suitable for mobile use. Projector Reviews Conversely, the unit has a large external power supply, which...Read more

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pcmag.com
05/11/2013
Optoma ML550 Review - PCMag

The Optoma ML550 is a highly portable, 14-ounce, palmtop WXGA DLP projector offering a 500-lumen LED light source with a 20,000-hour life. Key advantages highlighted include PC-free operation via internal memory, microSD, or USB, along with minimal, less distracting rainbow artifacts in data and video. However, the projector suffers from noticeable scaling artifacts that produce...Read more

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travgear.com
23/09/2014
REVIEWED: Optoma ML550 portable LED projector

The TravGear review of the Optoma ML550 highlights it as a highly portable, DLP LED-powered pocket projector that costs £465. Weighing just 380 grams, it is highly optimized for light business travel and backpacking. The pros of this device include its extensive connectivity suite featuring an MHL-ready HDMI port, RGB PC adapter support, a USB 2.0 port, and a microSD slot....Read more

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