The JMGO PicoFlix is the newest addition to the growing market of portable projectors, designed with the convenience of mobility in mind. With its compact size and built-in features aimed at users who want to enjoy multimedia experiences on the go, this projector stands out for its integrated rotating gimbal design. Let's go through its key features and capabilities, as well as its limitations to understand how it functions and where it fits in the portable projector landscape.
The PicoFlix is designed to be a travel-friendly device, with dimensions similar to that of a large water bottle. Measuring approximately 9.5 inches (24 cm) in length and 3.1 inches (8 cm) in diameter, and weighing 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs), it is light enough to be carried in a backpack, making it a suitable companion for outdoor adventures like camping or even for use in various indoor settings.
One of the most unique aspects of the PicoFlix’s design is its horizontal orientation, which sets it apart from other cylindrical portable projectors like the Samsung Freestyle. Instead of standing upright, the PicoFlix is placed on its side, with an integrated rotating gimbal that allows users to adjust the projection angle with ease.
The gimbal enables the projector to rotate up to 127 degrees, providing greater flexibility in setup and placement. This feature allows users to project images onto walls, ceilings, or any other suitable surface without worrying about the device falling over or needing a bulky stand.
The PicoFlix uses an LED light source that produces up to 450 ANSI lumens of brightness, making it most effective in dark environments. While this brightness level is slightly lower than some competitors in the same size range, it is sufficient for casual viewing in dimly lit conditions. The projector supports full 1080p resolution and can project images up to 150 inches (381 cm) in size, though optimal performance is achieved on smaller screens.
In addition to its resolution and brightness, the projector covers 124% of the Rec.709 color space, which enhances its ability to produce accurate colors. It also supports HDR10 for improved contrast and depth in the projected images.
Features like automatic keystone correction and screen alignment ensure that the picture remains properly aligned, even if the device is placed at an angle. These automatic adjustments help eliminate the need for manual fine-tuning, making the PicoFlix user-friendly for non-technical users.
Another notable feature of the JMGO PicoFlix is its integration of Google TV, which allows users to access a range of popular streaming services directly from the projector. This includes Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and other applications available via the Google Play Store. The device is equipped with Wi-Fi 6, ensuring faster and more stable internet connections when streaming content, even in remote areas where users rely on mobile hotspots.
The PicoFlix also includes a variety of physical connectivity options, such as an HDMI 2.1 port with eARC support, two USB-A ports, and a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. These options allow users to connect external devices like thumb drives, gaming consoles, or laptops to expand the projector's functionality beyond streaming.
The projector is powered by a built-in 10,000mAh battery, which JMGO claims can provide up to 4.5 hours of video playback when the device is set to Eco mode. However, this figure is subject to variation depending on brightness settings, and users can expect shorter battery life when using higher brightness levels. For extended use, particularly when away from power sources, users may need to carry additional battery packs or recharge the device via USB-C.
In terms of audio, the PicoFlix features a built-in 10W speaker that supports Dolby Audio. This speaker is sufficient for casual viewing, though users seeking a more immersive sound experience may prefer to connect external speakers via Bluetooth 5.4, which the device also supports. For those who only intend to use the projector for audio playback, such as when streaming music, the battery life extends to around seven hours.
The PicoFlix’s aluminum alloy casing is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, adding to its appeal as a device for outdoor use. Whether you’re heading out for a camping trip or simply want a compact projector for home use, its sturdy construction ensures that it can handle some rough handling without significant damage.
The JMGO PicoFlix is available for $599 on Amazon, positioning it in the same price range as competitors like the Samsung Freestyle and Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro.