Katarzyna Petru
Optoma has launched a projector in the American market that has been making waves in Europe for several months. The Photon Go is a pocket-sized ultra-short throw projector with three lasers, a battery, and Google TV, that fits in a bag and produces a 100-inch image almost from the edge of a cabinet.
The device measures just 25 x 15 x 6 cm, yet it can project Full HD with a diagonal of up to 100 inches, standing just 25 cm from the wall. It may not be 4K, but it’s still impressive – especially since it covers 110% of the BT.2020 colour gamut, supports HDR10 and HLG, features autofocus, autokeystone, and runs on Google TV with full support for Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video.
What's happening with Europe and Poland?
Photon Go has been available in Europe since February – in Germany it costs around €799, in the UK £899, and in Poland, it can be purchased for around PLN 3899–4199, depending on the store. The price for a UST with triple laser and Android TV is very competitive.
User reviews in Europe are mostly positive, although everyone agrees on one thing: the battery is the biggest limitation. 1.5 hours of viewing is enough for at most one episode of a series or a short film. But the picture quality, sound (20 W with Dolby Atmos), performance speed and simple setup are praised almost everywhere. In Poland, the most appreciated aspects are mobility, quiet operation, and access to Google Cast. Downsides? Aside from battery life – no 4K and too high latency for gamers (27 ms).
What do Americans get?
In the USA, the device has just hit Amazon and B&H Photo with a price of 999 dollars, making it one of the cheapest UST projectors with triple laser on the market. Optoma is mainly targeting people who want a portable entertainment centre: for the holiday house, the garden, a student dorm, a training room, or as a handy screen for holidays.
Not perfect, but damn convenient
Photon Go is a device with a clear mission – not for home cinema, but for cinema anywhere. With power from a power bank, Netflix built into the system, and automatic image adjustment, you simply set it on the table, click “play,” and enjoy the show. If you’re okay with the lack of 4K and short battery life – this could be the best gadget you take outdoors this summer.
