Xgimi Horizon S Max: The Ultimate Projector for Bright and Vibrant Images

In the rapidly evolving world of home entertainment, projectors are becoming increasingly popular as a viable alternative to traditional televisions. The Xgimi Horizon S Max is a shining example of this trend, offering a compelling combination of brightness, design, and performance. While it has some minor drawbacks, this 4K projector is an impressive piece of technology that could very well replace your TV, especially if you’re looking for a cinematic experience at home.

A Design That Stands Out

One of the standout features of the Xgimi Horizon S Max is its thoughtful design. Unlike its predecessor, the Horizon Ultra, the Horizon S Max comes equipped with a built-in rotating stand. This integrated gimbal-like stand offers 135 degrees of vertical and 360 degrees of horizontal adjustment, making it incredibly easy to position the projector for optimal viewing. The design is reminiscent of the JMGO N1 Ultra and N1S Ultimate projectors, but Xgimi has taken it a step further by ensuring the mounting system is sturdy and reliable.

The sliding lens cover is another noteworthy feature. Not only does it add a touch of elegance, but it also protects the lens from dust, ensuring the projector remains in top condition over time. On the back, you’ll find a minimalistic selection of ports: two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI (eARC) port, and a power button. While this minimal port selection may be sufficient for some, it does fall short when compared to competitors like the JMGO N1 Ultra, which offers additional HDMI and audio options.

Brightness That Impresses

When it comes to brightness, the Horizon S Max truly shines—literally. With a dual light source delivering 3,100 ISO lumens, it’s one of the brightest projectors in its class. This is a significant upgrade from the Horizon Ultra’s 2,300 lumens and places it on par with the more expensive JMGO N1S Ultimate. The projector can display images up to 200 inches with a throw ratio of 1.2:1, making it ideal for both small and large spaces.

The image quality is equally impressive. Whether projecting onto a white wall or even a colored surface, the Horizon S Max delivers vibrant, sharp, and detailed visuals. A new feature that adjusts color balance based on wall color ensures consistent picture quality, regardless of the projection surface. Watching movies in Dolby Vision is an immersive experience, with rich colors and deep contrasts that bring scenes to life.

However, like most projectors, the Horizon S Max performs best in low-light conditions. While it’s bright enough to be visible during the day, drawing the curtains will significantly enhance the viewing experience.

Sound That Surprises

The Horizon S Max is equipped with dual 12W speakers that deliver surprisingly robust audio. For a small to medium-sized room, the built-in speakers are more than sufficient, providing clear and loud sound without the need for external audio equipment. That said, audiophiles or those seeking a more immersive sound experience may find the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack limiting. Connecting a soundbar via the single HDMI port is an option, but it’s worth noting that this limits your ability to simultaneously connect other devices, such as a gaming console.

User Experience: Smooth But Not Perfect

Running on Android TV 11, the Horizon S Max offers a user-friendly interface with access to a wide range of apps and services. The setup process is straightforward, and features like keystone correction and autofocus work quickly and reliably. Built-in Chromecast support, Bluetooth 5.1, and WiFi 5 ensure seamless connectivity for streaming and device pairing.

However, the software isn’t without its quirks. Occasionally, there’s a slight lag between remote input and the user interface, which can be mildly frustrating. The remote itself is well-built but lacks dedicated buttons for quick access to popular streaming apps, a feature that would have enhanced convenience.

One of the most glaring omissions is the lack of native Netflix support. Unlike competitors like JMGO, which have addressed this issue in their latest models, Xgimi has yet to offer a solution. While you can use a streaming stick to access Netflix, the absence of built-in support might be a dealbreaker for some.

The Competition and Value Proposition

Priced at $1,900, the Xgimi Horizon S Max positions itself as a premium option in the projector market. It competes directly with models like the JMGO N1 Ultra and N1S Ultimate, both of which are similarly priced but offer varying features. While the Horizon S Max lacks some of the connectivity options and software refinements of its rivals, it excels in brightness and image quality, which are arguably the most important factors for a projector.

For those who prioritize picture quality and ease of setup, the Horizon S Max is an excellent choice. The integrated gimbal-like stand is a game-changer, making it one of the most convenient projectors to use straight out of the box. Additionally, Xgimi sweetens the deal by including a free dongle and stand with every purchase, addressing the Netflix issue and adding extra value.

Final Thoughts

The Xgimi Horizon S Max is a testament to how far projector technology has come. Its combination of brightness, design, and performance makes it a compelling alternative to traditional TVs, especially for movie enthusiasts and those looking to create a home theater experience. While it’s not without its flaws—such as the limited port selection and lack of Netflix support—these are relatively minor inconveniences in the grand scheme of things.

If you’re in the market for a high-quality projector under $2,000, the Horizon S Max should be at the top of your list. It’s a versatile and capable device that delivers an impressive viewing experience, making it well worth the investment.