In 2024 Netflix changed its protocols and licensing standards to be more stringent, meaning that a lot of existing devices could no longer natively stream their content. XGIMI’s existing Halo+ projector was one of those, meaning that now those who wanted to use Netflix had to use either a separate streaming “stick” (like an Amazon Fire stick) or use casting from their phone. So XGIMI is back with a new version of the Halo+ that has beefed up its protocols to get that vaunted Netflix certification. Unfortunately their naming convention is pretty confusing, as they currently are marketing it as the XGIMI Halo+ (New). Alternately you might find it as Halo+ Netflix. Either way, I think we can agree that they could have come up with a better way to provide some market distinction over the older Halo+, that, at least for the moment, continues to be sold as well. Fortunately things take a turn for the better when you start to look at the product itself, as this is a premium portable projector with a lot of great features. It isn’t cheap (about $800 USD at retail, though sales do reduce that price), but it has a lot of great things going for it. You can find my full thoughts in the video review here, or check out my review summary below.

Specs

• Specs:
• Compact – 171.5 (6.75”) x 113.5 (4.46”) x 145 mm 2.7” (5.7”)
• Weighs 1.6kg (3.5lb)
• LED Projector with 700 ANSI lumens
• Native 1080P
• HDR10, HLG
• Has HDMI (ARC), USB-A, Headphone ports
• Dual band WiFi 5
• 16GB internal storage
• 25,000 LED hour lifetime (17 years @ 4 hours)
• Standard Google TV menu and setup
• Can do handsfree voice control with remote
• 2x 5W Harmon/Kardon audio
• 59.5 Wh battery = 2.5 hours runtime (eco-mode)
• Can project from 40-200” display | 1.2:1 throw ratio
• Has autofocus and auto keystone corrections

Test Scenarios

• Shared photos with group of recent trip to Japan
• Movie nights

What’s Great:

• Seems brighter than other projectors I’ve tested in the 700-900 lumen range
• Easy to set up
• Color and Contrast quite good (better color accuracy than cheap projectors)
• HDR performance is very good
• Battery life is sufficient to watch a typical movie
• Premium build (feels VERY tough) and great visual aesthetic
• Easy to mount
• More picture controls than cheap projectors
• Seemed to have no lag when using Bluetooth
• Decent sound
• Has standard ¼” threading for mounting on tripod or stand
• Included tilting stand works well
• Has basic physical controls on top
• Fast processor.  Loads very quickly (they claim 6sec boot time)
• Netflix Certification

What’s Not:

• External power brick (cable routing can be a pain)
• Remote isn’t backlit
• Casting from iOS requires installing app (MagiCast)
• Defaults to ECO mode when running on internal battery
• Auto keystone doesn’t always work perfectly
• WiFi and USB specs are dated
• Case not included

Conclusion

Projectors like the XGIMI Halo + Netflix occupy an interesting niche.  There are more portable options on one end and brighter options on the other.  But the Halo+ hits a sweet spot for two applications:  1) portable movie watching (camping, beach, travel) or 2) a compact solution for watching in a mostly dim room.  700 lumens isn’t a lot, but the Halo+ seems to be maximizing those, and frankly it isn’t much dimmer than the cheaper unit rated at 1600 lumens that I’ve been using.  There are cheaper options out there, but this is one of the best portable projectors you can get and is well worth considering.

Purchase the XGIMI Halo+ New @ XGIMI US: (there will be a 20% off sale from March 24th-32st, reducing the price to $639 USD.) | XGIMI CANADA:

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