TCL's latest portable projector, the PlayCube, has been touted as more enjoyable to use than a Rubik's Cube. The device is designed specifically for camping projection, and its unique 90-degree rotating design allows it to be easily positioned to get around obstacles.
While the PlayCube may not have all the bells and whistles of other portable projectors on the market, such as better color adaptation or improved stereo sound, it makes up for these shortcomings with its impressive brightness, battery life, and portability.
One standout feature of the PlayCube is its ability to run for hours without needing a recharge. In fact, the device has been clocked at running for an impressive three hours and one minute in the brightest mode, which is no small feat considering its compact size.
However, the PlayCube's battery life can be inconsistent, with some users experiencing wild shifts in runtime over time. This may be due to TCL's power management system, which puts the projector into a state of "sleep" when not in use, but also drains energy through the fan spinning periodically.
Another area where the PlayCube falls short is in its audio quality. The device's 5W speaker produces a fine but mono soundtrack that can get a bit muddy at times. While it's loud enough to fill a room, the sound lacks fullness and warmth, making it less enjoyable for music fans.
To make up for this, users can connect headphones or self-powered speakers via the audio jack or Bluetooth, which allows them to enhance their viewing experience. Additionally, the PlayCube can be used as a Bluetooth speaker, although this feature doesn't turn off the fan, which may be annoying for some users.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the PlayCube is an impressive portable projector that offers a great balance of brightness, battery life, and portability at an affordable price point of $799.99. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its unique features and capabilities make it well worth considering for anyone in need of a reliable portable projector.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, TCL's competitor Xgimi Halo+ is currently available at a discounted price of $449, although it comes with some drawbacks, such as improved stereo sound but shorter battery life.
While the PlayCube may not have all the bells and whistles of other portable projectors on the market, such as better color adaptation or improved stereo sound, it makes up for these shortcomings with its impressive brightness, battery life, and portability.
One standout feature of the PlayCube is its ability to run for hours without needing a recharge. In fact, the device has been clocked at running for an impressive three hours and one minute in the brightest mode, which is no small feat considering its compact size.
However, the PlayCube's battery life can be inconsistent, with some users experiencing wild shifts in runtime over time. This may be due to TCL's power management system, which puts the projector into a state of "sleep" when not in use, but also drains energy through the fan spinning periodically.
Another area where the PlayCube falls short is in its audio quality. The device's 5W speaker produces a fine but mono soundtrack that can get a bit muddy at times. While it's loud enough to fill a room, the sound lacks fullness and warmth, making it less enjoyable for music fans.
To make up for this, users can connect headphones or self-powered speakers via the audio jack or Bluetooth, which allows them to enhance their viewing experience. Additionally, the PlayCube can be used as a Bluetooth speaker, although this feature doesn't turn off the fan, which may be annoying for some users.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the PlayCube is an impressive portable projector that offers a great balance of brightness, battery life, and portability at an affordable price point of $799.99. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its unique features and capabilities make it well worth considering for anyone in need of a reliable portable projector.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, TCL's competitor Xgimi Halo+ is currently available at a discounted price of $449, although it comes with some drawbacks, such as improved stereo sound but shorter battery life.