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Image Quality
This has all the features you need to automatically optimise the image for whatever you are projecting it on. XGIMI call it advanced Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) technology which simplifies usability and set-up. This feature includes auto keystone correction, autofocus, intelligent screen alignment, and intelligent obstacle avoidance.
There is a small pop-out kickstand. It looks like it won’t do much, but the projector already projects the image at a slight upwards angle, and I found that I didn’t need to use the stand at all.
The 900 ANSI lumens rating is only achievable when using AC power. You won’t get this in the standard setting, and when using the battery, the brightness drops further.
The throw ratio is pretty much standard, and it projects a screen much larger than my 65” TV that sits on the wall to the right of my images.
Performance is superb for a portable projector. My photos don’t do it justice, but this is usable in moderate light. I’d still prefer to use my TV in this scenario, but I’d happily use this for any sort of non-entertainment use during the day.
It excels in low-light environments with outstanding image quality and brightness for a portable projector.
If you dial up the power, you will get the increased brightness but a slightly different colour profile. It looks OK to me in real life, but in my images, you can clearly see the green tint. The BenQ projectors also did similar when using the maximum power option. You are best off not using the extra power in low-light environments, but it does make the difference in moderate light.
It is possible to use this for gaming. It dials down the brightness a bit and disables some of the automatic image adaptation features, but you will benefit from improved lag.
Sound Quality & Fan Noise
Generally, portable projectors don’t sound Amazing. The BenQ GV30 and then the BenQ GS50 broke this mould. The oversized design allowed them to have 2.1 audio with a decent woofer capable of producing excellent lows.
The XGIMI Halo+ is also surprisingly good. It has two 5W Harmon/Kardon speakers. So it lacks the oomph from a bigger woofer, but the dual 5W speakers sound excellent.
I swapped between the XGIMI and the BenQ GS50, and I struggled to tell which I preferred. The BenQ definitely gets louder and has more impressive bass, but it seems like 10W woofer also has a habit of muddying the mids. The XGIMI seems crisper and is better for vocals. It could be in my head, but the XGIMI seems to have a better soundstage as well.
One big advantage is that this has HDMI eARC, if you have it plugged into a compatible surround sound soundbar or AV receiver, you will be able to enjoy some of the advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, and Dolby TrueHD.
The XGIMI has a much quieter fan than the BenQ. The BenQ is more consistent with the fan noise, whereas the XGIMI will dual things up a bit over time. The fan noise is still audible, but I find it less intrusive than the BenQ, and this also means I don’t need to dial up the volume louder to try and drown out the noise.
Battery
XGIMI says this should give 2 hours of battery, and during my testing, I would say this is about right. You do need the brightness dialled down to around 50% if you want to achieve this.
My gripe with the DC power connector is exacerbated because you can’t use a power delivery portable power pack to extend the battery. You’d have to rely on a larger and much more expensive portable power station.
Price and Alternative Options
The XGIMI Halo+ is priced at around £749. It looks like a lot of retailers have stopped selling the original XGIMI Halo, but Richer Sounds have it for £699. I think the newer model is worth the extra £50 thanks to the decent number of upgrades.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable Projector, 4K Input Supported,... |
£749.00 | Buy on Amazon |
At the time of writing, the Amazon UK page has a £50 off voucher, making it a fantastic buy.
The BenQ GS50 is definitely the closest competitor, in my opinion. It is physically quite a bit bigger, but that’s partly due to the 2.1 speaker system. I’m inclined to say the XGIMI Halo+ is a better buy when both projectors are at RRP. It is brighter with a superior picture quality, in my opinion. It is a close call, though, and discounts can swing things the other way.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BenQ GS50 1080p Wireless Portable Projector for Outdoor &... |
£699.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Overall
The XGIMI Halo+ is superb all around. At the very least, it seems to be one of the best options on the market for the price/specification.
The only thing I am not keen on is the DC power connector. They annoy me in general but it also means you can’t boost the battery with a PD battery pack.
XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable Projector Review Rating
Summary
The XGIMI Halo+ is superb all around. At the very least, it seems to be one of the best options on the market for the price/specification.
Overall
90%-
Overall - 90%90%
Pros
- Excellent price/specification
Cons
- DC power port
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
