by James Fletcher
Portable projectors have always been a little hit and miss, with a number of recent models compromising either on image quality, unit build or functionality. But recently the market has seen a new wave of mini projector technology emerge that could effectively give fixed projectors a run for their money. One such device that’s gained attention recently is the PRIMA Smart Projector, which offers an impressive user experience, matched by quality image projection.
Utilising Digital Light Projection (DLP) developed by US tech pioneers Texas Instruments, the PRIMA has a number of standout qualities that make it worth considering, the first being the unit’s compact form. With a physical footprint that very slightly exceeds that of the iPhone X, the PRIMA is exceptionally practical as a portable device, fitting pretty much anywhere you’d carry your mobile phone, be it the back pocket of your jeans or jacket or your bag of choice. Its sturdy build, offset by a matte black case trimmed with a sexy silver bevel, feels solid in the hand, as do the focus dial and power switch. One nice feature is a sunken projector lens, which protects it from scratches and the elements. Granted, it’s probably wise to transport the unit in the accompanying bag, but for those on-the-fly grab and screen moments, the PRIMA is a robust little beast. Another added bonus is the unit’s weight, which again is comparable to an iPhone X.
But under the hood, the PRIMA really stands out. Texas Instruments not only developed the projection engine for this mini projector, but have managed to deliver a quality of image that simply overshadows those of more recognisable tech brands. In fact the PRIMA projection engine is capable of delivering a 200 inch 1080p image with minimal quality loss, a reputed 80 inch advantage over comparable projectors from the likes of Sony and Philips. In addition to the screen-size advantage, PRIMA also delivers a significantly brighter image, reaching a luminosity five times those of its peers, and just for a sense of scale, two to three times brighter than that of larger portable projectors. It’s a remarkable achievement, benefiting from a superb LED bulb rated at 200 lumens. Equally as impressive are the internal Hi-Fi speakers, which while small – this is a mini projector after all – delivers a decent audio experience, with good depth and no noticeable artifacts usually associated with manufacturing issues.
The PRIMA’s brain runs off Android OS, but also includes mirroring options for iOS and features Dual Band WiFi (2.4G/5G AC), Bluetooth 5.0 – allowing for instant pairing with your home speakers, 4K HD Decoding, 3D support (although this does benefit from a professional projector screen) and an impressive Keystone Correction feature that allows your projected image to remain flat regardless of the units angle, a particularly useful feature when using a tripod in a tight space.
But while all this does sound impressive, today’s tech can easily be rendered obsolete if the user experience isn’t up to scratch. Thankfully, the PRIMA delivers. Coming preloaded with apps to access Netflix, YouTube and Google Play, or your own content stored on the PRIMA’s 8GB of internal storage, the unit features a clean, smart menu easily navigated by the unit’s built-in track-pad, which utilises most of the projector’s top surface, allowing you to switch between arrow navigation or a curser, depending on your preference, with a simple tap. The included remote control is also a real lifesaver if you’re comfortable and don’t exactly feel like reaching over to access the controls.
Additionally, the PRIMA allows an impressive selection of connectivity with the unit’s side panels incorporating an HDMI port, a slot for Micros SD and TF cards, two USB ports, and a headphone jack opening the projector up to gaming consoles, cameras, streaming devices, computers and tablets, and pretty much anything you can think of. And with an exceptional battery life of three hours from a full charge, there’s no risk of the PRIMA cutting you off during a feature length film or gameplay.
The PRIMA Smart Projector is indeed an impressive piece of portable tech, and as far as value for money goes, one of the better options on the market for its price. Its performance and quality should put it at the head of the pack, as it doesn’t take long to see and appreciate the research and development that has gone into crafting the unit. And while it isn’t completely flawless, as the sensitivity of the touch pad can be tricky to begin with, and there is some minimal lag behind the keystone correction function, the PRIMA has set a pretty high bar, and hopefully some new standards, for the mini projector market.
