We were familiar with the Screeneo U5, an ultra-short-throw projector from Philips that has been quite successful, and here comes an even smaller and lighter version. The Screeneo UL5 Smart is really compact with its dimensions of 20.6 x 9.4 x 8.6 centimeters and a featherweight of just over 1 kilo. Even so, it is capable of displaying a crisp and clear image up to 120 inches diagonally.
The Screeneo UL5 Smart uses a throw ratio of 0.23:1, which allows you to achieve a 120-inch image by placing the projector just 61 centimeters from the projection surface. Philips still recommends a distance of 56 centimeters to ensure the best possible image quality.
This model projects at a resolution of 1080p and incorporates display technologies such as AI-based autofocus and HDR10, although its maximum brightness is 550 lumens. In fact, the projector will be more comfortable in the evening or in low-light environments.
Not only does the Screeneo UL5 Smart promise to project quality images, but it also offers some connectivity and audio features. The projector has built-in Dolby speakers, but you can also connect external speakers via Bluetooth. In terms of connectivity, the UL5 is equipped with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth 4.2 and runs on Philips’ Android-based LuminOS operating system.
The operating system includes streaming applications such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and YouTube by default. No need to download them, just make a mess to watch your favorite content.
In terms of ports, the UL5 has an HDMI 2.1 port, a USB Type-A port, and two USB-C ports, one of which allows for data and video transfer. The projector’s compact and portable design is also a big plus, although it does need a wall outlet to operate, as it doesn’t come with a built-in battery. This portability, combined with the ability to project images onto all sorts of surfaces, including floors or desks when placed vertically, could produce the craziest ideas beyond just home entertainment.
Philips chose to launch this new projector through a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, a method that is becoming increasingly common among manufacturers. This choice allows the brand to gauge the audience’s interest in a niche product before marketing it on a larger scale. The success of this campaign is already confirmed, as Philips exceeded its funding target of 3,122% just a few days into the campaign.
For campaign contributors, the Screeneo UL5 Smart is priced at $751 (about €699), which is 46% less than the expected retail price of $1,396. The first deliveries are expected as early as next month, with expanded availability expected in October.
