Last year, we had the chance to test out XGIMI’s MoGo Pro Projector, and while it had an issue or two, that thing absolutely smashed my expectations. So coming into 2022, I knew I had to take it up a notch with XGIMI’s brand-new Elfin Mini LED Home Projector. It features some heavy improvements on some of the features I loved and enhancements in areas that lacked. But my overall feeling on it is pure amazement.

What’s in the Box

If I’ve learned anything about XGIMI, it’s that they are a no-frills company when it comes to unboxings and that’s something I can appreciate. You get the projector itself, a user manual, remote, and power cable. It’s the core essentials when comes to getting started and I’m really glad that there aren’t a bunch of extras that’ll just end up in that box of cables that I never touch anyway.

Aesthetics and Build Quality

I’ve got to say, I really dig the look and form factor of this projector. It’s a pretty portable device that, because of its height and width, is flat enough to be tossed into a laptop bag extremely easily. It also has a fair amount of weight to it and feels extremely durable. No creaking or such when trying to twist it.

When it comes to looks, this thing is a killer. I love that the Elfin features a full white and black design. It just looks incredibly fresh and clean. Having this thing sit around all day until the lights go out is not an eye-sore by any means. It’s subtle yet fits in perfectly with any modern house setup.

Specs and Special Features

• Thin & Compact: Do away with bulky projectors. Elfin’s slim, lightweight build is no larger than a book and slips easily into your bag

• 1080p, 800 ANSI Lumens: Regardless of the content, Elfin provides a bright, clear, and colorful visual experience

• Booming Surround Sound: Two 3W built-in Harman Kardon speakers enhance your favorite videos or music with high-quality sound

• Super-Fast Setup: Elfin's Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA) technology automatically optimizes your display in seconds

• Home Entertainment System: The integrated Android TV 10.0 delivers 5000+ apps, including Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney +

I’ve got to say, XGIMI really went this distance on this one. I thought that the MoGo Pro was amazing but this thing is insane. There are so many features that I never thought I’d see on a projector. For instance, there are speed settings that allow you to make picture speed incredibly smooth. I mean, this is a feature my 4K TV doesn’t even have.

And while I wasn’t a fan of playing games on the MoGo Pro because of its input lag, the Elfin has gamers covered this time around with gaming features built right in. The “boost mode” allows for low-latency gameplay that is basically a lag-free experience. It’s crazy how far projectors have come.

Not to mention the amazing audio that is even stronger in this projector or the fact that the image is somehow even cleared here. XGIMI really does not let up and is obviously striving to put out THE best projectors available.

Functionality

As far as functionality goes, the projector is solid. It receives constant system updates that fix the minor things here and there, and the UI is extremely easy to maneuver and get used to. I actually found the settings and menus somehow better than the MoGo Pro and I even noticed it’s got some beefier hardware inside besides what I’ve talked about.

When it comes to picture quality, this truly is the go-to for anyone that needs a projector. Of course, the screen is gorgeous with gaming as well especially with the boost mode on. But movies like Encanto look absolutely incredible too of course. This is a wildly versatile device that does a lot of things but does them perfectly.

The other thing I found really cool is that you can actually play games installed on it this time around. I tried playing Odd World: New and Tasty on the MoGo Pro but came up extremely short with the projector barely chugging along. This time, the game actually plays really well, and having the option to keep up a Bluetooth controller is pretty stellar. It’s basically a console in and of itself in some cases.

An issue that is remedied with this projector from the last one was the fact that the audio sync is flawless. There is absolutely no difference of time between what you see and what you hear, creating a seamless experience from the output of its audio and visuals.

What It Could Have Done Better

My only complaint about this device is that its external power brick can run hot and it can pose a safety hazard if you have young kids or even curious pets. It’s something that I’ve noticed across XGIMI’s products so far and I’m hoping it can be fixed in the future.

Verdict

I am floored at just how fantastic the Elfin actually is. I was not prepared to actually find a projector that would have me contemplate whether I still needed to even use a TV on the daily. The fact that it not only offers a compact design that looks good and can stand up to some bumps and bruises but also outdoes my 4K TV in multiple areas is just astounding. Honestly, if you’re a gamer or cinephile looking for a new alternative to a cumbersome TV or you’re just looking for a supreme cinema experience, this is the go-to.