The XGIMI Vibe One’s two built-in 3-watt JBL speakers deliver clear enough audio for casual viewing, but bass is limited. During busy action scenes, dialogue can become difficult to hear, and the soundstage feels highly localized. It works well as a compact Bluetooth speaker, but its audio performance cannot match that of the best dedicated portable speakers.
Battery life is the biggest drawback
With the average movie now lasting 114 minutes, the XGIMI Vibe One’s claimed 1.2-hour battery life is a serious limitation. Even reaching that maximum requires Eco mode, which significantly reduces brightness. In standard viewing modes, you’ll need to keep the projector plugged in for movies or shows longer than an hour.
This short battery life is the Vibe One’s most significant flaw, limiting its usefulness as a truly portable projector. Consider portability a convenient bonus rather than the main reason to buy it. For more than two hours of battery life, you’ll need to spend at least $100 more or choose a model such as the Soundcore Nebula Mars 3 ($1,149). It offers up to five hours of battery life and 1,000 ANSI lumens of brightness.
Should you buy the XGIMI Vibe One?
Despite its technical limitations, the XGIMI Vibe One is an enjoyable and versatile compact projector. It is not bright enough for daytime viewing, its built-in speakers are merely adequate, and the battery cannot power most full-length movies. However, at $250, it delivers Google TV, Full HD resolution, autofocus, automatic keystone correction, and extensive customization options. Its stylish design also allows it to function as a Bluetooth speaker and lamp.
Photo: Chris Haslam
The XGIMI Vibe One is not the best portable projector and cannot replace a dedicated television, but it makes an excellent secondary screen for movie nights in a spare room, children’s sleepovers, or outdoor viewing on a garden wall after dark. Keep the battery as a backup power source rather than relying on it for full-length viewing, and close the curtains or wait until nightfall for the best picture quality.
Source: www.wired.com