Choosing the right interactive screen can significantly impact how we teach, learn, and conduct business. In this comparison, we explore the features, usability, and applications of three leading products: the ViewSonic IFP6552, the BenQ RM6503, and the Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro.
By detailing their capabilities and differences, we aim to help you make an informed choice that best suits your educational or business needs.
Product Overview
ViewSonic IFP6552 - 65" Interactive Flat Panel
The ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP6552 is a 65" interactive whiteboard with 4K Ultra HD resolution, and 33/20 touch points depending on OS.
BenQ RM6503 - 65" Interactive Screen
The BenQ RM6503 is a 65" interactive display with Germ-resistant screen and pens, 4K UHD resolution, and up to 40 touch points.
Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro 65" Interactive Display
The Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro 2022 is a 65" interactive panel with 4K UHD resolution, and up to 20 touch points. It boasts features like ActivSync technology for remote screen sharing and security measures.
Usability and Applications
Education:
ViewSonic: The ViewBoard IFP6552 display fosters a collaborative learning environment. Its responsive touchscreen allows for dynamic presentations and interactive lessons. Students can actively participate from their seats by solving problems directly on the screen or interacting with multimedia resources. The myViewBoard ecosystem empowers teachers to seamlessly integrate quizzes, polls, and various educational software, keeping lessons engaging.
BenQ: This germ-resistant screen prioritizes hygiene in classrooms, especially crucial for younger students. However, its true strength lies in fostering collaboration. The high touch points (up to 40) allow multiple students to interact simultaneously, perfect for group activities like solving math problems or conducting science experiments.
Promethean: This powerhouse display creates an immersive learning experience. The high touch accuracy and responsive interface enable a natural learning style, where students can drag and drop elements or write answers directly on the screen. The user-friendly ActivPanel OS makes integrating technology into lessons a breeze for teachers, even with limited technical knowledge. Ample storage and RAM ensure smooth operation of various educational applications.
Business:
ViewSonic: This display transforms meeting rooms into interactive hubs. Built-in microphone and front-facing soundbar ensure clear audio for both in-person and remote participants. Compatibility with multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, Chrome OS) allows seamless integration into any corporate IT environment. Teams can leverage the display for video conferencing, real-time data sharing, and brainstorming sessions, with the ability to annotate directly on shared documents or digital whiteboards, boosting productivity and collaboration.
BenQ: This display enhances collaborative efforts in workshops and training sessions. The bright, clear display ensures clear visibility of content even in well-lit conference rooms. The front USB Type-C port offers hassle-free connectivity for laptops and other media sources, facilitating easy sharing of presentations or digital content. The interactive capabilities allow teams to work together on projects, with participants annotating directly on the screen – ideal for brainstorming and strategy sessions.
Promethean: This display serves as a dynamic tool for presentations and collaborative projects. The large, high-resolution screen makes it a perfect focal point for boardrooms and strategy meetings, enabling detailed data analysis and interactive reports. Software compatibility allows running business analytics tools, project management software, and other enterprise applications directly on the screen, fostering a more interactive decision-making process. The precise touch control and ability to run design software smoothly make it a valuable tool for design and development teams, allowing for real-time sketching and blueprint modifications during meetings.
Softwares & Features
| Specification | ViewSonic IFP6552 | BenQ RM6503 | Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | ViewBoard OS based on Android 9.0 | Android 9.0 | ActivPanel OS |
| Software Included | myViewBoard Suite for annotation and sharing | EZWrite 5 Interactive Software | Whiteboard, Annotate, Timer, Spinner, Screen Share |
| Cloud Services | Yes, integration with popular cloud services | Cloud integration for easy access to files | Access to cloud-based lesson planning and storage |
| Security & Management | AES-256 Encryption, Device Management | Account Management, OTA Updates | Device Management, OTA Updates, TPM |
| Multimedia Support | Media player, Screen sharing | Media player, Screen recording | Media Player, Screen Capture, PDF Reader |
| Gesture Recognition | Multi-gesture support | Multi-gesture support | Advanced gesture support |
| Accessories Included | Stylus x 2, Remote Control, Cables | Stylus x 2, Remote Control, Wall Mount, Cables | Stylus x 4, Remote Control, Wall Mount, Cables |
| Special Features | Front-facing soundbar, Beamforming microphone | Front USB Type-C, Germ-resistant screen | Wi-Fi 6, Subwoofer, Advanced touch resolution |
- Software: ViewSonic's myViewBoard Suite appears to be the most comprehensive offering, while BenQ's EZWrite 5 focuses on ease of use. Promethean offers a good balance with basic tools and cloud access for lesson planning.
- Collaboration: All are equipped for interactive sessions, but ViewSonic's built-in soundbar and microphone might be best for audio-centric environments.
- Security: All three offer standard security features like encryption and device management.
The ideal choice depends on your specific needs. The ViewBoard IFP excels in interactive teaching and collaborative meetings with its comprehensive software and built-in audio. BenQ RM03 prioritizes a user-friendly experience with the front USB Type-C port. Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro offers a well-rounded package with advanced features like Wi-Fi 6 and a potentially smoother user experience with advanced touch resolution.
Display Quality
| Specification | ViewSonic IFP6552 | BenQ RM6503 | Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 65" | 65" | 65" |
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
| Brightness | 350 cd/m² | 400 cd/m² | 400 cd/m² |
| Static Contrast Ratio | 1,200:1 | 1,200:1 | 1,200:1 |
| Dynamic Contrast Ratio | 4,000:1 | 30,000:1 | 5,000:1 |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Color Depth | 10-bit | 10-bit | 1.07 Billion colors (10-bit) |
| Response Time | 8 ms | 8 ms | 8 ms |
| Panel Surface | Anti-glare, Hard Coating (7H) | Anti-glare, Germ-resistant | Anti-glare, Heat tempered glass |
| Viewing Angles | 178° horizontal, 178° vertical | 178° horizontal, 178° vertical | 178° horizontal, 178° vertical |
| Backlight Type | LED | LED | LED |
| Color Gamut | 72% NTSC | 72% NTSC | N/A |
| Operation Hours | 18 hours / 7 days | 18 hours / 7 days | N/A |
- High-Resolution Display: All three displays offer essential features like 4K UHD resolution (perfect for displaying sharp details), a 60Hz refresh rate (suitable for most content), and wide viewing angles (ensuring good visibility from various positions).
- Brightness: Brighter = Better Visibility. For rooms with bright light, prioritize displays with higher brightness. BenQ and Promethean ActivPanel excel here, offering better screen visibility and reduced glare compared to ViewSonic ViewBoard.
- Contrast Ratio: BenQ RM03 boasts the highest contrast ratio for potentially richer visuals, particularly for presentations with graphs, charts, or high-definition videos. However, the real-world difference for basic content might be subtle.
- Color Accuracy: If color accuracy is vital, like in design studios or creative spaces, consider Promethean ActivPanel 9. It mentions 1.07 Billion Colors (often linked to 10-bit color depth), hinting at a potentially wider color range.
While all three displays offer good overall quality; for environments with bright lighting or prioritizing image contrast, the BenQ RM03 might be a good choice due to its high brightness and contrast ratio.
Touch Technology
| Specification | ViewSonic IFP6552 | BenQ RM6503 | Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touch Technology | Infrared | Infrared | Vellum Touch Technology |
| Touch Points | 20-point touch (Windows), 10-point touch (Android) | 40-point touch (Windows), 32-point touch (Android) | 20 simultaneous touch points |
| Response Time | 8 ms | 7 ms | 5 ms |
| Accuracy | +/- 1 mm | +/- 1 mm | +/- 1 mm |
| Object Awareness | Palm, stylus, eraser differentiation | Palm, stylus, eraser differentiation | Palm, stylus, eraser differentiation |
| Gesture Support | Multi-gesture support | Multi-gesture support | Multi-gesture support |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, Android, Linux |
Two primary touch technologies differentiate these displays:
- Infrared (IR) Touch: This well-established technology, employed by both ViewSonic and Promethean, offers several advantages:
- Multi-Object Recognition: IR excels at differentiating between fingers, styluses, and erasers, enabling a versatile user experience that seamlessly transitions between writing, drawing, and erasing.
- Broad OS Compatibility: IR technology is known for its compatibility with various operating systems (Windows, macOS, and Android for ViewSonic, with Linux compatibility added for Promethean). This ensures seamless integration with your preferred devices.
- Vellum Touch Technology (BenQ): BenQ takes an innovative approach with Vellum Touch. While specific details remain undisclosed, it likely utilizes a touch layer positioned behind the screen, potentially offering unique benefits:
- Reduced Parallax: Vellum Touch might minimize parallax, the slight lag between touch and on-screen response, leading to a more natural and responsive touch experience.
- Enhanced Durability: Being shielded behind the display, Vellum Touch could offer superior protection against scratches or accidental damage, ensuring long-term performance.
- Touch Points: If your use case involves a large number of simultaneous users, then BenQ's interactive screen takes center stage with the most touch points (40 on Windows, 32 on Android). This translates to a larger "cast" that can interact concurrently, ideal for collaborative brainstorming sessions or classrooms brimming with students.
- Multi-Touch: All three interactive displays boast multi-touch support, allowing for intuitive gestures like zooming, rotating, or swiping. This creates a smooth and engaging experience for everyone involved.
- Responsiveness: All three flat panels report similar response times (around 5-8 ms) and millimetre-level touch accuracy. This ensures a tight performance with precise touch registration, guaranteeing every touch lands exactly where intended.
Overall, BenQ's innovative Vellum Touch steals the show, promising smoother response and superior durability – ideal for high-use scenarios, while the Promethean ActivPanel is ideal for high-speed, precise touch requirements, and the ViewSonic IFP6552 is a reliable all-rounder for standard interactive needs.
Connectivity and Integration
| Specification | ViewSonic IFP6552 | BenQ RM6503 | Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI Ports | 3 (HDMI 2.0) | 3 (HDMI 2.0) | 3 (HDMI 2.0) |
| USB Ports | 4 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1 | 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1 | 4 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.2 |
| Ethernet (RJ45) | 1 (10/100/1000 Mbps) | 1 (Gigabit Ethernet) | 1 (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| Wi-Fi | Optional with LB-WIFI-001 adapter | Included (802.11ac) | Included (Wi-Fi 6, 802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Optional with adapter | Yes (Bluetooth 5.0) | Yes (Bluetooth 5.0) |
| Audio In/Out | 1 Audio In, 1 Audio Out (3.5mm), 1 SPDIF Out | 1 Audio In, 1 Audio Out (3.5mm) | 1 Audio In (3.5mm), 1 Audio Out (3.5mm) |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes (2 x 15W) | Yes (2 x 16W) | Yes (2 x 15W, 1 x 15W Subwoofer) |
| VGA Ports | 1 | None | 1 |
| OPS Slot | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Microphone | Built-in Beamforming Array | Built-in Array | Built-in Array |
| USB Touch Interface | USB-B (Touch) | USB-B (Touch) | USB-B (Touch) |
| RS232 Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
- Ports: All three displays offer a generous number of ports, ensuring compatibility with various devices. However, the BenQ RM6503 takes the lead with 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 for faster data transfer speeds compared to the USB 3.0 ports on the ViewSonic and Promethean.
- Wi-Fi: Connectivity goes beyond cables. While ViewSonic requires an optional adapter for Wi-Fi, both BenQ and Promethean come with Wi-Fi built-in, offering wireless freedom (with Promethean boasting the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard).
- Bluetooth: Both BenQ and Promethean embrace the future with built-in Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connections to wireless peripherals. ViewSonic, however, requires a separate adapter.
For users prioritizing cutting-edge wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 6) and built-in Bluetooth, the Promethean takes the crown. If faster data transfer speeds via USB are a must, then the BenQ RM6503 with its USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports might be the stronger choice.
Conclusion
When selecting an interactive display, the choice depends on your specific needs and environment. ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP6552 excels in fostering collaboration with its feature-rich software. BenQ RM6503 prioritizes hygiene and student engagement, making it a great fit for classrooms. Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro shines with its advanced technology, ideal for those seeking a dynamic and versatile display.
Need Help Finding the Right Interactive Display?
Our team of experts is here to guide you. We understand every learning environment and business setting has unique requirements. Whether for a classroom or a conference room, contact us for a personalized consultation or quote or call us at (800) 992-5279.
