You will not discover a smaller projector with this many options

Kodak wants no introduction — it is famend for its high quality pictures gear and projectors. That is why I used to be thrilled to check the brand new LUMA 500 Projector, made by licensee C+A International, which guarantees the most recent options and Google TV OS in a palm-sized package deal. The opposite moveable projectors I’ve tried this yr, just like the Yaber T1 Professional and Dangbei Freedo, favor an elongated capsule-like design with an built-in stand, and I needed to attempt the smaller LUMA 500 with an adjustable tripod to see the way it compares.

The Kodak LUMA 500 is the most recent mannequin within the firm’s moveable projector lineup, with apparent styling cues from our beforehand examined LUMA 150. It could share related exterior options, however efficiency is on one other degree, with improved brightness and determination. It additionally consists of Google TV and built-in streaming apps, making it appropriate for mild leisure in addition to business-oriented use. I spent per week with the LUMA 500 to see the way it performs, and this is what I give it some thought.

4/5

Model

Kodak

Native Decision

1080p

ANSI Lumens

150

Projection Expertise

DLP

Professionals & Cons

• Strong development
• Tiny dimension
• Simple to setup

• Common image high quality
• Low quantity
• Expensive

Worth, availability, and specs

Palm-sized efficiency

Moveable projectors are well-liked as a result of they’ll go wherever, and the palm-sized LUMA 500 is an ideal instance. At 1.2 lbs and 5.2 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches, it could actually comfortably slot in most baggage and is good for street journeys and different out of doors use. The sq. design oozes high quality with a troublesome metallic body that includes a trendy brushed end. You will not want to fret in regards to the lens getting scratched or soiled as a result of it is recessed into the body and surrounded by a refined sq. bezel, which provides some aptitude. The zoom and energy buttons, positioned on the left and proper sides of the projector, function the identical brushed end and have a reassuring tactile really feel. Kodak features a first rate port choice on the projector’s rear, consisting of three.5mm audio, USB-A, HDMI, and a USB-C charging port to attach most gadgets.

The metallic body is sandwiched on all sides with matte black housings. The highest consists of indicator lights and contact controls for navigating the menu. The underside has cut-out air vents for efficient warmth dissipation and customary threads to simply accept the included tripod stand. Talking of the stand, it is compact, but sturdy, with a locking mechanism to maintain the projector pointed on the ultimate viewing angle.

Efficiency-wise, the LUMA 500 makes use of DLP know-how and a 150-ANSI lumen LED mild supply with a 30,000-hour lifespan. It affords 1080p native decision and 4K assist, and may show photos as much as 150 inches. Audio is courtesy of a pair of 1.5W built-in audio system. Alternatively, you may join soundbars or exterior audio system through HDMI ARC, a 3.5mm port, or Bluetooth. For a compact projector, it manages to squeeze in a ten,500 mAh battery, which ought to final lengthy sufficient to observe a film or the massive recreation without having an influence outlet.

What I favored in regards to the Kodak LUMA 500 projector

Versatile connectivity

Proper off the bat, the LUMA 500 appears like a top quality product constructed from sturdy supplies. It is the smallest moveable projector I’ve tried, and I used to be impressed by the sheer variety of options the LUMA 500 packs into its compact dimension. It matches within the slimmest briefcase, providing 1080p decision, onboard contact controls, and a built-in battery. The onboard controls stood out for me due to their responsiveness and intuitive format, and since most bigger moveable projectors forgo them altogether. That mentioned, most customers will want the distant management, which has a typical format with shortcut buttons to YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime.

I respect that Kodak goes the additional mile and throws in all the things required to get began. Other than the projector and tripod, the field features a energy adapter with varied plug adapters for each area and AAA batteries for the distant management. Establishing the projector was a breeze because of its autofocus function and secure tripod. I might additionally entry my favourite streaming companies in just some minutes with Google TV. Its versatility would not finish there; the LUMA 500’s spectacular connectivity choices imply you may forged content material out of your cellphone, hook up with streaming companies through Wi-Fi, or connect your PlayStation 5 through HDMI.

A built-in battery is a must have function on a conveyable monitor for enterprise displays or out of doors film nights, eliminating the necessity for a plug level and the effort of carrying a charging block. Some compact fashions I’ve examined do not trouble with this function, and its inclusion on the LUMA 500 is all of the extra spectacular due to the restricted area obtainable.

What I did not like in regards to the Kodak LUMA 500 projector

Small dimension sacrifices

The LUMA 500’s diminutive dimension is a double-edged sword that forces it to make compromises. Its 150 ANSI lumens of brightness are enough for darkish rooms or nighttime use, nevertheless it is not one of the best for brighter environments. The image high quality is first rate, nevertheless it will not compete with bigger rivals, which have area for extra highly effective {hardware}. I had no points watching exhibits and YouTube movies, though the muted colours will not do justice to gaming.

Sound high quality is one other space affected by the projector’s restricted area. The low general quantity is predicted, given the tiny audio system, and it’ll work for displays and informal viewing. Nonetheless, you may want so as to add a soundbar or exterior speaker if you happen to’re on the lookout for a cinematic expertise.

Nonetheless, I do not suppose these points are a giant deal as a result of the LUMA 500 is not designed for final efficiency and is all about comfort and practicality, which it delivers in spades.

Do you have to purchase the Kodak LUMA 500 projector?

It relies on how a lot portability you want

This mini-projector is designed for on-the-go customers who need the smallest projector attainable to tackle the street with them. It simply achieves its goal by providing simple setup and different handy options in a minuscule package deal. The strong construct high quality makes it ultimate for long-term use on the street, and it is versatile to play from almost any supply, together with your cellphone, streaming companies, and gaming consoles.

I feel the LUMA 500 is value shopping for if you happen to’re on the lookout for a strong moveable projector with first rate efficiency for mild leisure and enterprise or academic displays. It is not low-cost at round $650, and its worth will depend upon whether or not you want the last word portability and flexibility. Higher choices can be found if you happen to’re on the lookout for sensible sound and visuals, however none of them can match the LUMA 500’s tiny footprint.

4/5

Model

Kodak

Native Decision

1080p

ANSI Lumens

150

Projection Expertise

DLP