While the casing may look different, the underlying chassis of the PJ256D — including the interface connections, the lens, and zoom and focus optical controls — are identical to the Toshiba.

However, there are significant differences, including electronics. ViewSonic’s menu system is more like the Optoma’s, and the projector also comes with the best remote control of the duo. It has mouse controls and a built-in laser pointer and it’s much easier to use than Toshiba’s clunky and confusing design.

The PJ256D is the pick of the two, although the lead is slim. The Toshiba had slightly better image quality and costs less to boot but both projectors used similarly-priced lamps ($573) which last for 2000 hours. This leads to an expensive price per hour rating at 29c. Note also the lack of automatic keystone correction, which is included with the Toshiba.

Although the ViewSonic couldn’t quite match the Toshiba in most quality tests, it locked onto the incoming VGA signal much better, which meant crisper text, especially with small font sizes. Video quality is average, but photos have a bit more detail in dark areas. Dark, undersaturated colours cost the PJ256D points, but if your presentations mainly consist of text and charts, it’s fine.

With a travelling weight of 1.7kg (including the bag, remote control and necessary cables), it’s the lightest here, but only has a 12-month warranty. However, the 0.1kg heavier Dell costs almost $600 less. Also, the superior image quality and longer warranty make it the one to choose.