Portable tech has always been something I value greatly in my day-to-day life. As a reviewer who also works on the road as a primary job, finding the best tech possible that doesnโt compromise on functionality while still being compact enough to fit into my tech backpack is not always an easy task. So, when JMGO offered the opportunity to check out their PicoPlay projector, I was intrigued to see what all could be offered in a compact form factor.
Only a few short years ago, the thought of having a projector that is not much larger than my typical large coffee from Tim Hortons was unheard of and seemed impossible to me. But JMGOโs PicoPlay projector manages to deliver on that form factor, while offering a handful of features that have made it one of the coolest pieces of tech I have gotten to check out to date.
The JMGO PicoPlay, as mentioned, is a compact projector that additionally functions as a Bluetooth speaker and ambient light projector, making this a great unit for outdoor parties, office meetings and a very flexible unit for those with minimal space available to them. For me, the JMGO PicoPlay Portable Projector’s size was exceptionally useful in my bedroom, where I do not have much space for a TV. Having the ability to display my shows and movies on my bedroom wall was often a use case I found myself taking advantage of.
The JMGO PicoPlay has a maximum light output of 400ISO lumens, which, in lower light or dark rooms, was more than adequate for me to see whatever I was watching. Even during the day, I was often able to see my content with my blinds wide open, although if you have excessive sunlight shining in your window, this will likely greatly affect how well you see what is being played.
“For me, the JMGO PicoPlay Portable Projector’s size was exceptionally useful in my bedroom, where I do not have much space for a TV.”
Donโt let the size fool you, though. Even in its compact size, the JMGO PicoPlay still manages to push out 1080p video in up to a massive 200โ screen size, making sure everyone can see what is being played. While I did not have a projector screen to cast my content onto, watching my content on my white bedroom walls was still a great experience, and I could still make out the smallest of details in videos. Colour accuracy was also quite surprising, given the compact size, offering about 90% DCI-P3 colour gamut, which, while not quite as high as JMGOโs larger N1S 4K I checked out, is still more than adequate for a portable projector in my opinion.
In both Bluetooth speaker mode and projector mode, I was amazed at not only how loud the built-in speakers got, but just how great they sounded as well. Despite just being small 8W Dolby speakers, the audio was exceptionally detailed and sounded great with enough volume to fill my small bedroom, as well as some of the larger rooms in my house. With built-in Bluetooth, one can pair the JMGO PicoPlay with a home theatre or other Bluetooth-enabled speakers to enable surround sound audio and further enhance their listening experience.
While more for show than for practicality, the JMGO PicoPlay also features a customizable circular light strip along one side that can be used for ambient lighting or to add a little extra flair to any room. This can be disabled if you donโt wish to use it, or if you find it too distracting in some environments. I personally found it rather cool. It was fun to use when in Bluetooth speaker mode. Patterns can also be changed by simply waving your hand over the device when in use.
“As an on-the-go companion, the JMGO PicoPlay projector has been awesome to have for its sleek size and shape that makes it easy to slip into my tech bag.”
One of the things that I found made the JMGO PicoPlay exceptionally useful was its Google TV operating system. This allowed me to store any streaming apps I commonly use, such as YouTube, Netflix, or even Plex, on the projector itself, meaning I didnโt even require an HDMI cable connected to a laptop to watch whatever I generally wanted to. While I would still require a cable for use with something such as a DVD player or gaming console, the ability to go mostly wireless was a touch of convenience I greatly appreciated the more I used it.
Another great feature JMGO has built into the PicoPlay is its ability to control it in a number of different ways. Included is a basic remote that can be used to perform any task needed, while also offering shortcuts to a few streaming services. Users can also pair their phone via an app to perform much of the same tasks, in case they do not wish to bring the remote along with them when on the go. Furthermore, for those who want to go a step further, users can also use the touch-sensitive buttons on top of the projector to perform more basic tasks, such as volume control or cycling through menus.
As an on-the-go companion, the JMGO PicoPlay projector has been awesome to have for its sleek size and shape that makes it easy to slip into my tech bag. JMGO themselves even provide a carrying sleeve for it, which, while it doesnโt offer superior protection, is still better than nothing and will at least prevent potential scratching and lens damage when travelling.
I hardly found much of anything to complain about while using it, and have no trouble recommending it to anyone who needs a compact projector, either for their room or when travelling. I hope JMGO will continue to innovate and further build upon what they have here, maybe by finding a way to offer even brighter outputs in a similar size, although time will tell with what they come up with next.
- ๐๏ธ๐-๐ข๐ง-๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ข๐ง๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ฎ๐: PicoPlay integrates a mini projector, immersive Bluetooth speaker, and dynamic ambient light (with Optical Filter). Easily switch between modes to create the ultimate vibe for movie nights, house parties, or chill music sessions with friends.
- ๐๏ธ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐ง๐จ ๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ฌ: Enjoy seamless streaming with built-in Google TVโInstantly access to 10,000+ apps and 800+ free live channels, providing everything you need for endless entertainment.
