The top of the line model in Epson's third generation of ultra short-throw interactive projectors, the Epson BrightLink 485Wi, makes Epson's earlier models look like design prototypes. This new generation projector is more compact, less physically imposing in a tabletop mount, and more practical for room to room portability on a cart.

The 485Wi adds some slick new features too. Most notably, it automatically calibrates the pen and projector, and it extends its interactive whiteboard features beyond computers to include image sources like DVD players, document cameras, and iOS devices.

Like Epson's earlier models, the 485Wi is LCD-based, which means it can't show the rainbow artifacts that are always a concern for DLP projectors. And unlike most DLP interactive projectors, it maintains its full 3100 lumen brightness even when you turn on the interactive feature.

Beyond that, the 485Wi offers 1280x800 resolution, near excellent data image quality, and better video quality than most data projectors. It costs more than some of its competition, at $2,199 street price, or $1,699 with an education discount. However, it comes with some extras that help justify the price, including two interactive pens rather than one, and your choice of either a tabletop mount or wall mount.

Strong Points