XGIMI Aura 2 Review: An Exceptional UST Laser Projector That Shines Brightly
If you’re seeking a premium ultra short throw (UST) projector, the XGIMI Aura 2 stands out as a remarkable option. Building on the achievements of its forerunner, the Aura, the Aura 2 brings a more sophisticated design, enhanced brightness, and Dolby Vision compatibility, making it an enticing pick for home cinema aficionados. Here’s an in-depth examination of what positions the Aura 2 among the top UST laser projectors on the market.
A Stylish and Compact Redesign
Upon first glance, the Aura 2 impresses with its sleek design. XGIMI has notably reduced the projector’s dimensions, allowing for easier integration into your living environment. Unlike the previous Aura, which had a bulky design, the Aura 2 is small enough to fit a soundbar directly in front—resolving a common concern for many users of the earlier version.
This projector boasts a premium look with a fabric and metal finish that conveys a contemporary, upscale aesthetic. One of its notable design features is the motorized lens cover, which automatically opens during use and closes when powered down, safeguarding the lens from dust and debris.
Breathtaking Visual Performance
The Aura 2’s primary enhancement lies in its visual prowess. It utilizes a dual laser light source that can produce up to 2,300 ANSI lumens of brightness—significantly greater than its predecessor. This allows for vibrant, clear visuals even in environments with ambient light, a typical challenge for many projectors.
Capable of projecting up to a 150-inch 4K image, the Aura 2 shines in color accuracy, contrast, and sharpness. The addition of Dolby Vision takes HDR content to another level, providing deeper blacks and more luminous highlights. Whether enjoying films, sports, or gaming, the image quality remains consistently impressive.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Running on Android TV 11.0, the Aura 2 offers access to a plethora of streaming applications and services. Although it doesn’t utilize the latest Google TV interface, the user interface remains smooth and responsive. XGIMI also integrates features like XGIMI Wall, which allows users to showcase dynamic backgrounds when the projector is not in use.
For users desiring a more advanced streaming experience, connecting the Aura 2 to an external device such as the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro can unlock further features and enhancements.
The connectivity options are extensive, featuring:
– Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
– 2x HDMI ports + 1x HDMI eARC
– 3x USB-A ports
– 3.5mm audio output
– Optical audio output
– Ethernet port
These features ensure compatibility across a diverse range of devices, from gaming consoles to external audio systems.
Audio That Delivers Impact
The Aura 2 is outfitted with four 15W built-in speakers that produce surprisingly strong sound. While the onboard audio is sufficient for casual watching, audiophiles might still opt for a dedicated soundbar or home theater system via HDMI eARC or optical output for a more enriching experience.
Gaming and Performance
For gamers, the Aura 2 offers a dedicated game mode that reduces latency to 20ms. However, activating this mode disables keystone correction, requiring you to manually adjust the projector’s alignment. Nonetheless, the low input lag makes it a suitable choice for both casual and competitive gaming.
User-Friendliness and Setup
XGIMI has refined its auto-focus and keystone correction algorithms, making the setup process quicker and more user-friendly. The projector also features wall color adaptation, which modifies the image based on your wall’s color to ensure precise visuals—an especially handy feature if you lack a dedicated projector screen.
Worth the Investment
With an initial price tag of $2,699, the Aura 2 is now available for $2,294 on Amazon—a 15% reduction that makes this high-end projector more attainable. While it remains a considerable investment, the performance, design, and features it offers justify the expenditure for dedicated home theater enthusiasts.
Final Verdict: Is the Aura 2 a Wise Choice?
✅ Recommended if:
– You seek a bright, vibrant 4K UST projector featuring Dolby Vision
– You appreciate a sleek design and compact size
– You require robust built-in audio and extensive connectivity options
– You want a projector that excels in both dim and well-lit environments
❌ Consider skipping if:
– You prefer the Google TV interface over Android TV
– You are on a limited budget
The XGIMI Aura 2 is a leading UST projector that excels in almost every aspect. From its stunning image quality and Dolby Vision capability to its elegant design and user-friendly features, it provides a premium home theater experience. If you’re ready to enhance your viewing arrangement,
