Philips PicoPix Max Projector Review – Summary: Highlights, Value Proposition, Pros and Cons
The PicoPix Max is a Full HD (1,920 x1,080) DLP projector with a rated lamp life of over 30,000 hours. The PicoPix Max delivered a surprisingly clear and pleasing image in an impressively small package. It is incredibly versatile thanks to the integrated WiFi, battery, and various apps that come pre-installed. The Android-based OS is easy to learn and has an intuitive interface for the many features.
It has the potential to be a powerful tool for both business and pleasure thanks to its numerous options for projecting content. Users can wirelessly cast their content to the projector via Screencast and Miracast, load up to 16GB of content directly onto the machine, or connect a separate device such as an external hard drive or gaming platform via USB, or HDMI connections. The PicoPix Max also has a built-in media player, so almost any popular format of content can be played.
Philips delivers a crisp, clear image, with pleasing black levels, and a variety of viewing solutions in an incredibly portable projector. It is as “plug and play” as things come.
To me, the portability stands out as the most prominent advantage for this projector. There are several times in my life when I would've appreciated a self-contained unit like this with so many possible applications, such as: any gamer that’s ever participated in a LAN party would appreciate not having to carry their TV or monitor to and from their car. And I'm sure most parents can think of a time when they or their kids would’ve appreciated more screen options in their home, this offers a quick and easy solution for an additional screen option.
Also, anyone living in a dorm, barracks, or tiny house would also appreciate having a variety of viewing options comparable to most smart TV’s, but in a package the size of a paperback novel. For those that prefer to bring some of the more luxurious comforts of home with them while camping, it is also an excellent option.
Philips says the PicoPix Max battery is good for up to 3 hours of use on a full charge. I was able to watch 1 hour and 20 minutes of a movie in “Presentation mode”, which is the brightest of the 3 modes. I also had the wireless functionality switched ON and I was playing the sound at a higher volume which probably impacted battery life.
To test the unit's maximum battery life, Philip set placed his sample in "Energy Saving mode" and switched off the unit's Wireless and Bluetooth functions. When fed a video signal via HDMI, his sample lasted for over 4 hours which was better than expected.
The Android OS is a pretty intuitive interface, but I did find it frustrating that I had to exit whatever app I was using before I could access any of the picture adjustment menus.
The touchpad on top of the unit is very sensitive to oils on your hands, and I would think that traditional style buttons would be a warm welcome in exchange for a lower price point.
The PicoPix Max wouldn’t be my first choice for a designated home theater projector, but it is an excellent option for anyone that needs versatility and portability from their projector.
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