XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro 4K RGB Triple Laser Home Projector vs Smart Projector with GoogleTV 14.0

Price Comparison

The XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro 4K RGB Triple Laser Home Projector is priced at £1799.00, significantly higher than the Smart Projector with GoogleTV 14.0, which retails for £399.99. This stark contrast in pricing reflects the differences in features, performance, and intended use between the two projectors. While the XGIMI is designed for high-end home cinema enthusiasts seeking top-tier visuals and advanced gaming features, the Smart Projector positions itself as a more budget-friendly option for casual users wanting a decent viewing experience with integrated smart capabilities.

Visual Performance

When it comes to visual performance, the XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro offers an impressive 4100 ISO lumens brightness, which is ideal for vibrant, lifelike visuals even in well-lit environments. In contrast, the Smart Projector delivers a brightness of 2500 ANSI lumens. While this is sufficient for many viewing conditions, it may struggle slightly when competing with ambient light compared to the XGIMI. The XGIMI also boasts a superior contrast ratio of 20,000:1, enhancing depth and clarity, particularly in darker scenes. This makes it a more compelling choice for those who prioritise visual fidelity.

Gaming Features

The gaming capabilities of the XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro are notably advanced, featuring a 1ms response time and 240Hz refresh rate, which is highly beneficial for competitive gaming. Its support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) further enhances its performance, ensuring seamless gameplay. On the other hand, the Smart Projector is designed for a more casual gaming experience, equipped with a 60Hz refresh rate and MEMC technology that helps smooth out motion during fast-paced action. While both projectors cater to gamers, the XGIMI clearly stands out for serious gamers looking for top performance.

Smart Features

In the realm of smart features, the Smart Projector with GoogleTV 14.0 excels with its integrated Google TV platform, offering access to over 10,000 apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. Its built-in 2+32GB memory facilitates smooth navigation and access to content. The XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro also incorporates Google TV, but its additional processing power and features cater more to a premium experience rather than being solely app-focused. Therefore, if ease of access to streaming content is a priority, the Smart Projector might be the more convenient choice.

Setup and Flexibility

The XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro provides significant flexibility in setup, featuring lossless optics with lens shift and optical zoom capabilities. This means users can adjust the image size and position without compromising clarity, making it easier to fit into various room configurations. In contrast, the Smart Projector, while user-friendly, lacks similar advanced optical features. Its fixed setup may limit placement options, particularly in smaller spaces. This flexibility in the XGIMI makes it a better option for those who may need to adjust their projector's location regularly.

Audio Experience

The audio experience is another crucial aspect to consider, and the Smart Projector offers a built-in 40W Dolby sound system, providing a decent audio output for casual viewing. However, the XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro does not specifically highlight its audio capabilities, suggesting that users may need to invest in external sound systems for a more immersive experience. Therefore, for users who place a high value on audio quality alongside visual performance, the Smart Projector may edge out slightly in this category.

Design and Portability

In terms of design, the Smart Projector is likely to be more compact and portable, making it suitable for outdoor gatherings or travel. The XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro, while also portable, is generally designed for a more permanent setup in a home theatre environment due to its size and advanced features. If portability is a key factor for users looking to move their projector between locations frequently, the Smart Projector may be the more practical choice.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro and the Smart Projector with GoogleTV 14.0 ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are a home cinema enthusiast or a serious gamer seeking high-end performance, vibrant visuals, and flexibility in setup, the XGIMI HORIZON 20 Pro is worth the investment at £1799.00. Conversely, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers good visual quality, smart features, and decent audio for casual viewing, the Smart Projector at £399.99 presents a compelling value.