Dell S718QL Review: 4K UHD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector for Business & Education
The Dell S718QL is one of the first business and education projectors to combine ultra short throw design, a laser light engine, and true 4K UHD resolution in one package.
Unlike traditional projectors that require several feet of distance, the S718QL can sit just inches from the wall or screen, delivering a massive 100″+ image without casting shadows. This makes it a great choice for classrooms, boardrooms, and conference spaces where space is limited.
First Impressions at Trade Shows
I first saw the Dell S718QL at Infocomm in Las Vegas, where it impressed even under tough ambient lighting conditions. Paired with the right UST projector screen, the image stayed sharp and bright. Later at CES in Las Vegas, in a controlled hotel suite with better lighting, the visuals looked even more cinematic.
Why It Stands Out
Ultra Short Throw (UST): Big-screen projection from just a few inches away.
Laser Light Source: Up to 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation.
4K UHD Resolution: Crisp detail for business presentations, data, and video.
Business Ready: Works well in rooms with ambient light, making it versatile for real-world environments.
Ideal Use Cases
The Dell S718QL is designed for:
Business presentations in boardrooms and meeting rooms
Classroom teaching with minimal setup space
Education environments that need reliable, low-maintenance projectors
Final Verdict
The Dell S718QL 4K UHD UST laser projector delivers a solid balance of brightness, resolution, and practicality. With the right screen, it competes strongly with other business projectors in its class and brings real 4K clarity to short-throw setups.
| Dell Specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| Technology | DLP (1) |
| Native Resolution | 2716×1528 x 2 |
| Brightness (Manufacturer Claim) | 5000 |
| Contrast | 100,000:1 |
| Zoom Lens Ratio | |
| Lens Shift | |
| Lamp Life | |
| Weight | |
| Warranty | |
I began testing the Dell S718QL in my home theater after Eric calibrated it as best as possible. I pushed it with all types of content—spreadsheets, websites, and movies—under different lighting conditions, even stretching the image to a massive 124” diagonal.
Performance in Different Environments
Next, I moved it downstairs to pair with my Screen Innovations ALR screen designed for ultra-short throw projectors. In much brighter rooms, the combination delivered sharp, vibrant images. (You’ll see plenty of photos throughout this review—but keep in mind, if the pictures look good, the real projection looks even better.)
Key Highlights of the Dell S718QL
Ultra-Short Throw Design – Produces a massive image from just inches away.
Laser Light Source – Rated for 20,000 hours at full power, far outlasting lamp-based projectors.
True 4K UHD Resolution – Perfect for both business and entertainment.
Brightness – Dell claims 5,000 lumens, enough for boardrooms, classrooms, or even small auditoriums.
Why Laser is a Big Advantage
Unlike lamp projectors, which start losing brightness within the first few hundred hours, the laser light engine in the S718QL maintains brightness over time. That means lower maintenance, more consistent performance, and better long-term value.
Final Thoughts
The Dell S718QL isn’t just bright—it’s versatile, easy to set up, and built to handle both business and home theater needs. Combined with the right UST projector screen, it becomes a serious contender for those who want big-screen 4K projection in rooms with ambient light.
Dell S718QL – Warranty and Key Features
The Dell S718QL Ultra Short Throw Projector does more than deliver a sharp 4K UHD picture—it also comes with a reliable warranty that gives buyers peace of mind.
Warranty That Stands Out
2 years parts and labor – standard coverage.
Rapid replacement program – Dell ships you a replacement unit if something goes wrong. This is the same strong coverage that Epson projectors are known for.
Extended warranty options – available for 3, 4, or 5 years.
20,000-hour coverage – the rapid replacement program lasts as long as the laser light engine. Even at nonstop 24/7 use, that equals about 27 months of continuous projection.
For businesses and schools that rely on consistent uptime, this warranty is a huge value.
Dell S718QL Highlights
Laser Light Engine – 5,000 lumens brightness, stable over time.
20,000-hour lifespan – rated until 50% brightness, with no lamps to replace.
Ultra Short Throw Design – projects a massive image from just inches away.
True 4K UHD Resolution – 8.3 million distinct pixels on screen.
HDR Support – compatible with 4K HDR content (limited to Rec.709 color space).
Connectivity Options – three HDMI inputs, LAN with Crestron compatibility.
Built-in Audio – two 6-watt speakers, plus Bluetooth support for wireless audio setups.
Smart Features – PC-free presenting with Microsoft Office file support and split-screen mode (HD only).
Installation – optional wall-mount kit available.
Price – MSRP $5,999, but available for around $4,999 street price.
Final Thoughts
The Dell S718QL combines high brightness, long laser life, and flexible features in a professional-grade projector. For businesses, classrooms, or even home theater enthusiasts, it offers excellent value, especially when paired with a UST projector screen for the best results.