Pros
- Exceptional image quality with Dolby Vision
- Very clever auto configuration
- Loud and powerful audio
Cons
- No Android TV version of Netflix
While we’ve seen the likes of HDR10+ dynamic metadata supported on JVC and Samsung projectors, it’s rare that we’ve encountered Dolby Vision on a projector. That’s no longer the case with the release of the XGIMI Horizon Ultra.
The Horizon Ultra is a smart portable projector, a step up from the Horizon Pro in terms of looks (more stylish), and practicality (a new motorised shutter to protect the lens). It can be placed on a table but also comes with a tripod mount for some more flexibility, which is welcome. The connectivity provided is very good, with an eARC HDMI for connecting a soundbar to the projector, optical, 3.5mm out, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth among the options provided.
The Horizon Ultra supports Android TV 11, but as is often the case with projectors, this interface does not come with a dedicated Netflix app. This isn’t XGIMI’s fault but lies with Netflix not certifying their app for projectors. Nevertheless you can install other major streaming apps, and we like the big and bold interface which suits a large screen that a projector can produce.
We also like the Intelligent Screen Adaptation technology that provides auto focus and keystone correction, along with its obstacle avoidance, which adds convenience to using the projector. The Ultra can also adapt for different wall colours, so if your wall isn’t white, then don’t fret as with this feature you can still get accurate colours.
The performance is one we found to offer excellent contrast, as well as rich and deep colours. It doesn’t come with a native 4K chip, instead using a Full HD chip and upscaling the image to 4K. At 2300 ANSI lumens it’s one of the brightest portable projectors we’ve tested, although the JMGO N1 Ultra is brighter still at 4000 lumens.
With Dolby Vision the Horizon Ultra delivers more convincing blacks, and retrieves more detail from the darkest parts of the image for an image that’s more reflective of how films and TV shows are meant to be seen. With brighter content, it’s capable of showcasing warm, but natural colours, marking this a definite step up from the Horizon Pro.
The Harman Kardon sound system is excellent in our estimation, able to fill a room with ease and showcasing some good stereo separation. Bass is pretty good for a portable projector, though it obviously can’t go as deep as a subwoofer could. For £1749 / $1699, it’s an excellent home cinema in a box solution.
Reviewer: David Ludlow
Full Review: XGIMI Horizon Ultra
