In 1974, Steve LaFontaine invented what came to be known as a pioneering home cinema system and in the eighties, televisions paired with Video Cassette Recorders (VCRs) regaled millions of families across the world. Booming multi-channel audio systems with surround sound, laser disks and Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs) followed. Bulky apparatus with speakers and multiple wires were part of the home entertainment units which now seem outmoded, to say the least. Today, sleek and smart projectors have carved a niche in home entertainment with built-in operating systems, compact design as well as the seamless integration of a variety of apps for a comprehensive digital experience.
We offer an overview of five, multi-faceted, standalone projectors that bring you the best of global entertainment and also serve as communication hubs by enabling you to make video calls, send and receive messages and browse the internet.
Formovie Xming Page One
Formovie Xming Page One is a perfect example of a top-tier and versatile multimedia powerhouse that facilitates diverse entertainment needs and offers a rich multimedia experience without a single glitch. Weighing just over a kilogram, it is powered by an Android-based operating system and provides access to thousands of apps via the Google Play Store. Choose from a bouquet of streaming platforms including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. You could browse your favourite podcasts or music on YouTube, chat with a friend on a WhatsApp video call, or savour a blockbuster movie with friends. You can also download and run these apps directly on the projector, eliminating the need for external devices. This stylishly designed projector is guaranteed to exceed your expectations with its portability, built-in speakers, Full HD 1080p resolution, crisp images, vibrant colours and consistent brightness levels in varying lighting. It also offers the convenience of dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, an easy interface and multiple ports such as HDMI and USB.
LG CineBeam
Powered by LG’s proprietary WebOS platform, the sleek, lightweight and minimalist LG CineBeam offers fuss-free user access to pre-installed apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube. It also supports easy navigation screen mirroring. Even WhatsApp video calls can be projected directly onto the big screen. What’s more, LG CineBeam’s remote control has dedicated buttons for Netflix and Amazon Prime. The LG Content Store is brimming with apps that users can download to enjoy a customized viewing experience. It is also compatible with Apple AirPlay 2. The projector is a hot favourite with discerning users because of its flawless 4K UHD resolution, stunning images and true-to-life colours. The HDR10 enhances the contrast quotient and lends pronounced depth to bright and dark images. Integrated speakers with Dolby Atmos emanate immersive sound.
ViewSonic
This portable smart projector packs a big punch with a neverending set of features. Running on an Android platform, it connects users to a wide selection of apps through the Google Play Store. You can also download apps directly from the Google Play Store and conveniently stream video content or relish WhatsApp video chats. ViewSonic’s compact size (it weighs 2.2 pounds) and portability (featuring a foldable stand that simplifies setup) make it adaptable to diverse indoor and outdoor spaces.
As far as image quality goes, the projector offers Full HD 1080p resolution with HDR support to promise vibrant, clear images. It also boasts an LED light source with 1,000 lumens of brightness which makes viewing easier even in moderate ambient light. Speaking of integration, it offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C, to support video, audio, and power transmission over a single cable. The projector also has instant auto-focus technology and the capacity for screen mirroring which allows users to cast their smartphone screens wirelessly.
Epson
This feature-packed, small-sized ( 6.9 x 6.9 x 5.3 inches) but powerful projector fits right into even cramped spaces and thanks to Android TV, provides access to an endless variety of apps and streaming services while offering an uncompromised user experience. There is also the added convenience of Google Assistant. Epson projectors are also well-known for their sterling Full HD resolution, LCD technology, vibrant colours and deep contrast which contribute to a matchless viewing experience. The integrated Yamaha speakers make additional audio equipment obsolete. Other outstanding features include auto-keystone correction and hassle-free setup
BenQ
This family-friendly projector is smart enough to liven up home entertainment and also sturdy enough to be a portable travelling companion with its splash-proof and drop-resistant design. It is perfectly suited for both indoor and outdoor usage and runs on a custom Android-based OS, offering a rich selection of apps and screen mirroring capability. It comes with pre-installed apps like Netflix and YouTube. Its HD resolution delivers a brightness of 500 lumens and its energy-efficient LED light source provides up to 30,000 hours of use. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery that powers on for over three hours.