This 4K laser projector’s 100-inch display puts your high-end big screen to shame

Fernando Silva | Dec 12 2024 - 6:06 am PT

When it comes to home entertainment, the XGIMI Aura 2 ultra short throw projector is one of those gadgets that makes you rethink what a home theater can be. I’ve spent the last two weeks with this powerhouse, and spoiler alert: it’s been an incredible experience. Whether you’re a movie buff, a sports fan, or just love having friends over for Netflix nights, the Aura 2 is something special. Let’s dive into why this might just be the next big thing for your living room.

Aura 2 specs

First, let’s talk numbers and features, because this thing is loaded:

Resolution: True 4K UHD for razor-sharp visuals.
Brightness: 2,400 ANSI lumens, which means clear, vibrant images even in moderately lit rooms.
Throw Ratio: Ultra short throw design can project a 100-inch screen from just 11 inches away (that is exactly how I have it set up).
Built-in Sound: Comes with dual 15W Harman Kardon speakers for surprisingly robust audio.
Imax and Dolby Vision support
Smart OS: Powered by Android TV 11, giving you access to apps like Netflix, YouTube, and more (Although I have defaulted to an AppleTV)
Connectivity: 3 HDMI ports (One eARC port which is great for my Sonos Arc Ultra), 2 USB ports, and support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Lamp Life: 20,000 hours—enough to last for years of daily use.
HDR Support: Enhanced HDR10 for richer colors and deeper contrast.
Eye Protection: Integrated eye protection sensors to minimize strain.
Design: Sleek, minimalist aesthetic that blends into any home decor.

What’s in the Box

When you unbox the XGIMI Aura 2, here’s what you’ll find:

XGIMI Aura 2 projector
Power cable
Remote control with batteries included (which is amazing!)
User manual and quick start guide

Everything you need to get started is included, and the setup process is straightforward.

My Setup

Here’s how I’ve integrated the Aura 2 into my home theater setup:

ALR Screen: I use an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen to enhance image contrast and clarity, especially in brighter settings. This is not needed to get great picture quality, but I wanted to make sure I gave the Aura 2 the best possible chance to wow me, and it did. Here is my recommendation for an ALR screen.
Audio: My system includes the Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar and Sonos Sub 4, which, plugged into that eARC port, provide an immersive audio experience.
Apple TV: I’ve connected an Apple TV to the Aura 2 just because I am big on my Apple Home setup. Otherwise, the Android TV OS would have sufficed.

This combination delivers an incredible home theater experience that rivals even high-end setups.

My experience

Setting up the Aura 2 was a breeze. Ultra short-throw projectors like this eliminate the need for mounting or complicated positioning. You just place it on your TV console about a foot away from the wall or screen, plug it in, and let it do its thing. The Aura 2’s adaptive technology automatically ensures the image is in focus and aligned perfectly flat to your wall or ALR screen. It’s as simple as it gets, and within minutes, you’re ready to enjoy a cinematic experience.

I particularly loved that XGIMI included a mechanical lens cover that automatically protects the projector when it’s not in use. It’s a small detail, but it’s one that keeps dust off the lens and gives you peace of mind.

Now, let’s talk image quality. In my setup, I’m using an ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screen, which really helps to maximize contrast and color. However, I tested the Aura 2 on a plain white wall and was pleasantly surprised by how great the picture still looked. XGIMI advertises the Aura 2 as not needing an ALR screen, which is great because even the ALR screens alone can get quite expensive. So while an ALR screen is ideal, it’s not a must-have to enjoy this projector.

Audio is another area where the Aura 2 impressed me. While my personal setup includes the Sonos Arc Ultra and Sonos Sub 4, the built-in Harman Kardon speakers can absolutely hold their own. They’re loud and clear enough to fill a medium-sized room, making this a true all-in-one solution for many people.

As a home theater setup, the Aura 2 shines. It’s perfect for watching movies in stunning 4K, watching my Miami Dolphins in the middle of the day, gaming with minimal lag, or even just streaming your favorite TV shows. Every time I have family or friends over, they are in awe at the size and then always ask, “This is a projector? It looks so good, even with the sun shining through the window”. The Aura 2 is setup in my living room where a good amount of natural light comes in. Even in the middle of the day, when I have all the blinds open and Im watching football, the picture quality is very crisp. The only time I have to start to squint a bit is if I am watching a dark movie like Harry Potter in the middle of the day. Otherwise, it works just as well as a normal TV, if not better, because there is no glare.

Is $2,700 worth it?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: at $2,700, the XGIMI Aura 2 is not cheap. But what does that money get you compared to a traditional TV setup?

For the same price, you could potentially get:

A 75-inch high-end OLED TV (~$2,000)
A decent soundbar system (~$700)

I have also seen a 98-inch Samsung TV for around $2500, but even then, it’s tough to mount and move around; there is glare, and you can’t go larger than 98in if you want to. While these setups are great, it’s hard to match the cinematic experience of a 100-inch (or larger) screen with 4K resolution and ultra-short throw flexibility. Plus, the Aura 2 is a more versatile option, allowing you to move it around and project it onto various surfaces. If you value size, convenience, and cutting-edge tech, the Aura 2 justifies its price tag.

Final take – A worthwhile investment

After two weeks of testing, I can confidently say the XGIMI Aura 2 is worth every penny. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants a premium home theater experience without the hassle of mounting or the limitations of a traditional TV. From its gorgeous 4K visuals to its intuitive setup and thoughtful design (seriously, the mechanical lens cover is genius), the Aura 2 delivers on every front.

If you’re on the fence, consider what you’re getting: a cutting-edge projector that combines stunning visuals, solid audio, and incredible ease of use. Sure, it’s an investment, but for the right person, it’s an investment well worth making.