The ViewSonic M1 Pro offers HDMI and USB Type-C connection.
Projectors come in various sizes and configurations, tailored for a complete home-theater experience, making them the preferred choice for spacious areas and dedicated home theater setups. Conversely, they can also be compact, portable, adaptable devices that offer entertainment or productivity advantages on the move. This latter use case holds particular intrigue within the realms of home entertainment and productivity, and brands like ViewSonic have played a significant role in championing this often underestimated and overlooked segment.
One of ViewSonic’s latest offerings in the realm of portable projectors is the ViewSonic M1 Pro, available in India for a price of Rs. 68,999. Featuring a projection resolution of 1280×720 pixels, a distinctive design that allows the projector to stand independently and project in various directions, along with an integrated speaker system, the M1 Pro offers a compelling package at its price point. Does it hold the title of the best portable projector currently available? Read this review to find out.
The ViewSonic M1 Pro, which is the spiritual successor to the ViewSonic M1, retains the same core concept of providing completely wireless functionality through its built-in battery. However, the Pro version introduces notable improvements, including a higher resolution, an enhanced speaker system, and an overall improved design. It’s worth noting that these enhancements do come at a notably higher cost.
On the other hand, the M1 Pro is more portable compared to the ViewSonic M2e, thanks to its integrated battery and lighter weight of 0.95 kilograms. While the M2e is primarily a home theater projector with some flexibility in usage scenarios, it doesn’t offer the same level of portability and versatility as the M1 Pro. Consequently, the M1 Pro occupies an intriguing niche, catering effectively to its specialized purpose.
In terms of size, the ViewSonic M1 Pro is not overly large or bulky for a projector, but it shouldn’t be mistaken for a compact device either. Its aesthetics and feel have been enhanced compared to the M1, featuring a fabric-wrapped exterior and more understated design elements. The projector itself includes three buttons for volume control and playback of supported sources. At the rear, you’ll find the Harman Kardon logo, situated just above a well-placed rear-facing speaker system consisting of two 6W drivers.
The power state of the M1 Pro is determined by the swiveling stand, which also acts as a lens protector when the projector is turned off. When it’s powered on, a subtle light beneath the fabric covering indicates its operational status, accompanied by additional indicator lights to display the battery level. The projector has exhaust vents on both sides, and there’s a dial to adjust the lens focus.
