# Aurzen BOOM Air: An Affordable Portable Projector
Earlier this year, I had the chance to evaluate a top-tier 4K projector costing $1500. When an updated version of a mini projector emerged for testing at a price below $300, I expected it would fall short. Nonetheless, I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of this budget-conscious choice, the Aurzen BOOM Air.
## Value for Your Money
The Aurzen BOOM Air is listed at $299.99, but it is frequently available for $199.99 with an additional 10% discount. My general impression is that this projector provides excellent value for its price, making it an appealing buy for those looking for a large screen experience without the steep cost.
This projector can project a sizable image with vivid colors and sharp resolution onto a blank wall, negating the need for a conventional TV. However, like most projectors, its performance shines in darker settings. While high-end projectors usually require at least 4000 ANSI lumens for optimal brightness in well-lit rooms, the Aurzen BOOM Air delivers only 300 ANSI lumens. This limitation renders it unsuitable for HDR content but effective in dim environments.
## Advantages of a Portable Projector
The primary attraction of the Aurzen BOOM Air is its portability, enabling users to create a large screen experience virtually anywhere. Key features that enhance usability include:
– **Integrated Google TV**: Access to all major streaming applications, including Apple TV.
– **HDMI Input**: Compatibility with devices such as the Apple TV 4K.
– **USB-C Power Input**: Capability to use portable battery packs for off-grid use.
– **Auto-Focus and Auto-Sizing**: Automatically adjusts to positioning changes.
The design of the Aurzen BOOM Air is functional, featuring a base that can sit on a table or be mounted. The projector can pivot to project in different angles, including downward or upward.
For outdoor lovers, the Aurzen BOOM Air is perfect for movie nights in nature. It can be powered by a portable battery and utilized with a mobile hotspot, ideal for camping or backyard parties.
## Important Considerations
Despite its strengths, the Aurzen BOOM Air has certain limitations typical of portable projectors. It offers three brightness settings: low, medium, and high. While the high setting delivers the best image quality, it also raises fan noise, which might be distracting.
The projector comes with a built-in 10W speaker, sufficient for basic audio needs. However, for a more immersive experience, connecting a Bluetooth speaker or using the 3.5mm audio output is advisable. For my setup with the Apple TV 4K, I connected it to a HomePod mini for better sound quality.
Coming from a high-end projector, my expectations for the Aurzen BOOM Air were tempered. However, when paired with a superior audio source, it can provide an impressive cinematic experience for under $300.
In conclusion, the Aurzen BOOM Air emerges as a budget-friendly choice for those in search of a portable projector that maintains quality. Whether for indoor activities or outdoor movie nights, it presents a compelling mix of features and performance at an affordable price.
