Founded in 1981, TCL (The Creative Life) has become one of the top two television manufacturers globally by offering cutting-edge flat panel displays at competitive prices. TCL has been the number two TV brand in the United States for six consecutive years due to its success with extra-large panel TVs.
This is because TCL has taken the unique position of heavily investing in both LCD panel production and Mini-LED backlight development, making TCL the only truly vertically integrated brand in mini-LED TV. TCL says vertical integration allows them to offer affordable large screens, including a 98-inch and 115-inch QD media LED TV, which provide an immersive viewing experience.
While most of the TCL CES 2025 press conference focused on their latest massive flat panel, I was surprised they closed the session by announcing a new projector called the Playcube, a portable projector targeted toward users who desire a portable theater solution.
TCL is fully invested in the growing trend of ultra-large flat panel TVs but acknowledged that projectors still hold value in terms of compactness and portability. So, while the market for traditional projectors is shrinking, categories like Laser TV, Lifestyle, and portable projectors are growing.
Younger users want to take that large image on the road, whether in the backyard, campsite, or college dorm. To meet the needs of this audience, TCL has ventured into the projector space with products like the A1 and the newly introduced Playcube. In the TCL booth, they included a few lifestyle-based demos to highlight that the Playcube and A1 are designed for portability and ease of use.
TCL A1
Last year, TCL introduced the A1 projector, which is a Smart LCD Projector that retails for $499. The A1 is lightweight, making it easy to move between rooms or take on the go. It combines Full HD resolution with a 360 ISO lumen LED light source and smart capabilities. The projector includes a 16-watt Dolby Audio sound system, and the A! can be utilized as a Bluetooth speaker.
It runs on TCL’s Smart TV operating system, allowing users to directly access popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube through the projector. TCL has prioritized ease of use in the A1 projector’s design. To simplify setup, the projector features automatic screen fit, focus, keystone, and object avoidance.
While it may not rival high-end projectors in terms of advanced features or cutting-edge performance, the TCL A1 stays true to TCL’s philosophy of providing quality technology at an accessible price point. For anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment or casual gaming experience without breaking the bank, the TCL A1 might be worth considering.
TCL Playcube
The newly announced TCL Playcube is a DLP projector with a unique, twistable design. The Playcube is lighter and more compact than the A1 to maximize portability.
While tons of ultra-compact projectors are on the market, the projector needs a battery to be truly portable. TCL says Playcube’s built-in battery boasts a two-and-a-half-hour battery life, enough to last through a blockbuster movie or football game.
While TCL has not disclosed the Playcube’s specs, such as resolution or brightness, I liked the Playcube's ultra-portable, stylish design. Its smart features and sound system make it a good option for bedrooms, dorms, and military barracks. With its built-in battery, you can watch movies or play games nearly anywhere.
The Playcube has a Google TV operating system that allows access to many apps, including Netflix. The projector also supports HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect external devices like gaming consoles. TCL's experience in building televisions translates into a user-friendly interface for their projectors. It also features auto-keystone and auto-focus capabilities, making it adaptable to various settings.
While pricing details for the Playcube were not disclosed, TCL assured me that it would offer great value, aligning with TCL's reputation. The product is expected to hit the market in the summer, making it a great potential Christmas gift.
