Xgimi has been one of the busiest projector brands this year, flooding the market with a seemingly endless stream of new models at almost every possible price point, and now it’s adding two more to its beefy portfolio.
They’re called the Xgimi Elfin Flip Laser and Elfin Flip 4K, and they’re the latest generation of the existing Elfin projector series, which is a line of compact, semi-portable models that aim to provide better-than-decent performance at an affordable price.
According to Xgimi, they offer a "significant upgrade” in terms of both optical and audio performance thanks to some major improvements in the underlying hardware, while retaining that stylish look and compact shape.
In reality, they look a lot more like the Xgimi Z6X device that popped up in China earlier this year, with an integrated gimbal handle that allows the projectors to be kind of folded away when not in use, and take on the appearance of some kind of aesthetic ornamental piece that doesn’t look out of place on a bookshelf.
That said, they’re a lot more powerful than the Z6X. Whereas the older model achieved around 510 ISO lumens brightness, the Elfin Flip Laser and Elfin Flip 4K can reach around three-times that level, with the company claiming 1,600 ISO lumens. That’s because they’re powered by a beefy RGB triple laser light source, the company said. As one might expect, the difference between the two models is resolution, with the Elfin Flip Laser putting out pictures in 1080p, and the 4K model offering images in 4K, of course.
Another difference is that the Elfin Flip 4K comes with VRR and ALLM support, which makes it a much better choice for console gamers looking for a big screen option. However, like most gaming projectors, while it can output at 120Hz, it only does this at 1080p resolution. 4K gaming pictures are locked at 60Hz.
The actual projector unit is almost identical to the original Elfin device, just minus the integrated gimbal handle. Both models run Google TV, which means they can access all of the major streaming apps, and for audio they’re kitted out with a 7-watt Harmon Kardon speaker that features Dolby Audio support. Apparently, this will “eliminate the need for external audio equipment,” though that statement is unlikely to convince true audiophiles.
Other features include things like auto-keystone correction, auto-obstacle avoidance and auto-focus, which are there to ensure the setting up process is as snappy as can be. Simply plonk it down, tilt it up until the picture is at the desired height, and you’re good to go.
As for pricing, they’re pretty competitive given they offer well in excess of 1,000 ISO lumens, with the Elfin Flip Laser listed at £689 and the Elfin Flip 4K going for £869.
Bear in mind that if you’re buying either of the Flip devices, you’re paying for the aesthetics, compactness and portability more than actual performance. Xgimi also sells the Horizon 20 projector, which is now available in four different variants, at a similar price point. The difference is they offer between 3,200 and 6,800 ISO lumens, depending on the model, along with superior colour accuracy. However, they’re much bulkier and lack the convenience of a gimbal-style handle.
Also this year, Xgimi debuted the Xgimi Mira 4K UST model, which is an ultra-short-throw projector for anyone who lacks space, and then there’s its flagship range, the Xgimi Titan Noir models, which are even brighter UST models and deliver even crisper pictures. However, they’re aimed at much more serious home theatre enthusiasts, with prices in excess of £3,000 for the most expensive model.
