Expert Comparison Review: ViewSonic IFP6552 Vs BenQ RM6503 Vs Promethean ActivPanel 9 Pro Interactive Screens

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All right, so we're diving into interactive whiteboards today. We've got a lot to unpack with these three: the BenQ RM6503, ViewSonic IFP6552, and the Promethean Active Panel 9 Pro. Spec sheets, comparisons—you’ve given us the works.

Yeah, there's a lot to consider with these, that's for sure.

It can be overwhelming for sure. So, let's break it down and help you figure out which one of these might be the perfect fit.

Sounds like a plan. Let's cut through the jargon.

Exactly. And you know, one thing that jumped out at me, just looking at the BenQ, is how much they focus on germ resistance.

Oh, yeah. That's huge these days,

right? Like their nano-ionic silver coating, which kills 99.9% of germs. It’s kind of mind-blowing when you think about it. 99.9%. Especially with younger kids. That's got to be a game-changer.

Totally. And it's not just about immediate health concerns either. Think about durability. Schools need to check that these boards can survive anything, right? Sticky fingers, the works.

Mhm. Oh, for sure. It’s got to be tough. So, it's not just about being a whiteboard; it's got to be ready for anything. And speaking of which, let's talk about how we actually use these things. All three of them have multi-touch capabilities—pens, fingers, erasers. The basics are covered. But then BenQ goes on about their “Vellum Touch.” They say it reduces parallax.

Yeah, parallax. That’s where what you're touching on the screen

doesn’t quite line up with where your finger actually is. Yeah,

it can be a little disorienting. Sounds like BenQ is going for a really natural pen-and-paper feel. Interesting. So, they’re each tackling that problem in their own way. Fascinating. Meanwhile, the Promethean is all about speed—instant this and five-millisecond response time that.

Yeah. When you’ve got a classroom full of students, that instant feedback can make a huge difference.

Oh, absolutely. And it's not just about one student at a time anymore, is it? BenQ boasts a ridiculous 40 touch points.

40? Wow.

40? That’s a lot of fingers. Are we saying goodbye to single-file whiteboard lines?

I think so. It really points to this shift towards collaborative learning. Like, imagine groups of students all working together on the same digital canvas. Pretty cool.

It's amazing to think about how lesson plans will change, right? But okay, it's not just about how many fingers can touch the screen. ViewSonic is really pushing their soundbar and beam-forming microphone. They definitely care about audio quality

and rightfully so. Think about hybrid classrooms. Remote learning is here to stay, so making sure those students who are joining remotely can hear everything crystal clear is crucial. It's about creating a good experience for everyone.

Absolutely. Nobody wants to struggle to hear the lesson, whether they're in the classroom or across town. Speaking of things that are maybe not as flashy, connectivity. This is where the Promethean Active Panel tries to set itself apart with built-in Wi-Fi 6. Now, some people might be thinking, Wi-Fi 6—is that really necessary?

That's a good question. And you're right, it might seem like overkill right now, but think about it: a class doing a virtual field trip in the metaverse or students collaborating on a big 3D modeling project. That’s where having the newest Wi-Fi standard makes a huge difference. And schools rely so heavily on good internet now. It’s about being future-proof, you know?

It's about having a strong foundation for all the cool stuff.

Exactly.

And while we’re on the subject of small details that can make a big difference, BenQ also makes a big deal about having a front-facing USB-C port. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure why that was such a big deal at first, but I’m ready to be convinced.

Well, it's all about being practical. Imagine you're a teacher just about to start a lesson. Instead of reaching behind the display and messing with cables, you’ve got the USB-C port right there. Easy to access, plug-and-play,

no hassle.

Oh, yeah. Those cables can be a real pain. I've been there. Teachers have enough to worry about, right?

Totally. Anything to make their lives easier, especially in those first few minutes of class. So, we’ve talked about hardware, but we can’t forget about the software side of things. That’s where these interactive whiteboards can really shine—or not, as the case may be. ViewSonic is really banking on their MyViewBoard ecosystem.

Yeah, they’re making it out to be like the one-stop shop for teachers—lesson plans, cloud storage, all kinds of interactive tools. Looks like they’re trying to keep everything in one place.

Exactly. It’s that classic closed-ecosystem approach. You get the convenience, everything works together, but you’re kind of stuck in their world.

Yeah. Like, if you've already got your favorite educational apps and tools, you might not want to give those up.

Exactly. And that’s where Promethean is taking a different route. They’re really pushing their ActiveSync software, which is all about real-time device sharing.

So instead of locking you in, they’re making it easy to connect whatever you’ve got. Bring-your-own-device kind of thing.

Yeah, it seems that way. They’re definitely targeting classrooms where students are using their own laptops, tablets—all that. It makes it super easy for them to share their work on the big screen.

It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, learning happens everywhere, and we’re here to bring it all together.” It’s almost like these displays each have their own philosophy of education. You’ve got the all-inclusive package versus the build-your-own approach.

I like that. It’s not just about the tech specs. It’s about finding the right fit for how you want to teach.

Exactly. And speaking of specs, we should probably at least mention the display quality itself. All three are boasting 4K Ultra HD resolution, which is pretty much the standard these days, but there are some differences, right?

Like, the BenQ and Promethean both hit 400 nits of brightness, while the ViewSonic is a bit dimmer at 350. Might not seem like a big deal, but in a bright classroom, you might actually notice it.

Oh, definitely. And BenQ is really highlighting their 30,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio—deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, all that.

Yeah. If you're showing presentations, videos, anything where those visuals really matter, that could be a deciding factor.

But, you know, all this fancy tech is great, but how easy are these things to actually set up? I’m imagining some poor IT person having to wrestle with these things. It’s a good point, and that’s where those little details that don’t always get a lot of attention—like VESA mounting compatibility and clearly labeled ports—matter. You want to make it as easy as possible for the IT department.

Absolutely. The last thing you want is for this amazing technology to be stuck in a closet somewhere because nobody can figure out how to use it.

Exactly. And while we’re thinking about practicality, we should probably mention the environmental impact, too. None of the manufacturers are really bragging about being eco-friendly, but it is worth noting that they all have LED backlighting and they’re designed to be energy efficient,

which is good for the planet and good for the school budget. It’s a win-win. So, we’ve talked about a lot—germ-resistant coatings, touch screens that can handle 40 fingers at once, Wi-Fi 6—it’s clear that these are not your parents' whiteboards.

Not even close.

They’re powerful tools, and each one has its own strengths, its own personality. You could say

they do. We’ve got the BenQ, the health-conscious collaborator, all about hygiene and letting everyone get in on the action. Then there’s ViewSonic, the all-in-one solution, keeping everything nice and tidy within their ecosystem. And of course, there’s Promethean, the tech-forward innovator, pushing the limits with Wi-Fi 6 and seamless device integration.

I love those summaries. They really get to the heart of it. But I think the most important question is what matters most to you? What kind of learning environment do you want to create?

That’s what it comes down to. And to help you answer that, it’s worth digging a little deeper into those software ecosystems. What kind of lesson-planning tools are essential for you? Do you like the idea of a closed ecosystem, or do you need more flexibility? Those are things to think about as you’re making your decision. It’s in those details that you’ll find the true potential of each of these interactive whiteboards—or maybe some potential frustrations, too. Good luck with the decision-making process, and remember, the future of learning is interactive.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Tags: Interactive screens

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