Formovie X5: Projector Review

Hey everyone, Jim here from Gagadget. Today we're taking an in-depth look at the new Formovie X5, a compact 4K laser projector that promises huge performance at a reasonable price.

I've spent the last few weeks putting it through its paces to see if it lives up to the hype. Let's dive in!

Table of Contents:

• Formovie X5: Key Specifications
• X5 Laser Projector: Design
• Formovie X5 DLP Projector: Unboxing & Setup
• X5's Picture Quality Analysis
• Formovie X5: Gaming Performance
• Formovie X5's Audio Performance
• Formovie X5 UHD Alternatives

Formovie X5: Key Specifications Review

Here is a review of the key specs for the Formovie X5 Projector:

The X5 packs an impressive feature set into its compact chassis. Headlining is the laser phosphor light engine, rated for 2,450 CVIA lumens. While not an exact ANSI equivalent, real-world performance is very bright - easily enough for daytime viewing on screens up to 150 inches. The 0.47-inch DLP XPR chip and color wheel deliver razor-sharp 4K with excellent DCI-P3 color. Onboard processing includes HDR10 and HLG support.

Unlike traditional long-throw projectors, the X5's ultra-short throw lens can cast a massive image from just inches away. A 100-inch diagonal picture requires only 8 inches of distance, while a 150-inch screen needs just under 20 inches. This opens up placement options impossible for standard projectors. Coupled with the compact 8.3 x 6.7 x 8.5-inch dimensions, the X5 is uniquely flexible.

X5 Laser Projector: Design Review

Stylistically, the X5 is a handsome unit. The white plastic shell features a perforated wraparound grille hiding the Denon stereo speakers. Up top, a distinctive circular air intake surrounds the recessed lens, which is protected by a sliding cover. I appreciate the fabric-like texture on the top panel - it resists fingerprints and adds a premium touch.

On the back, you'll find a solid selection of inputs. Dual HDMI 2.1 ports handle 4K/60 signals, with eARC on HDMI 1 for lossless audio passthrough. There's also a USB 2.0 port for powering streaming sticks, a 3.5mm audio out, digital optical out, and a LAN Ethernet jack. Wireless duties are handled by integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The included remote is compact and easy to navigate, though I do wish it was backlit.

One welcome design choice: the X5 can be ceiling mounted, rear projected, or even used on its side for portrait-orientation images. That flexibility is rare among UST projectors and makes the X5 more versatile for business and artistic installations. Just be aware that there's no horizontal or vertical lens shift, so precise placement is key.

Formovie X5 DLP Projector: Unboxing & Setup

Setting up the X5 is quick and painless. In the box you'll find the projector, power cord, remote with batteries, and a basic multi-language startup guide. Once placed and plugged in, the X5 boots to the FengOS home screen in under 30 seconds.

If you've used an Android TV device, FengOS will feel very familiar. The stripped-down interface is divided into three main sections for Apps, File Explorer, and Settings. However, all menus and content descriptions are in Chinese, making it largely unusable for English-speaking regions. Formovie says a global version with customized Android TV is coming soon, but early X5 adopters will want a separate streaming device.

Projector controls are straightforward, with common adjustments for Brightness Mode (Day, Night, View, Silent), Color Mode (Standard, Movie, etc.), and manual focus. The automatic geometric correction works well to square up the image, but I suggest avoiding digital keystone and zooming to preserve 1:1 pixel mapping. The X5 also lacks a movable lens cover, so be careful to avoid bumping or scratching the exposed glass during handling.

X5's Picture Quality Analysis

In real-world viewing, the Formovie X5 impresses with its bright, sharp, and color-rich image. Fine details in native 4K content remain crisp edge-to-edge, a benefit of the precision ultra-short-throw lens. Upscaled 1080p HD looks nearly as detailed, with pleasingly smooth gradients and minimal compression artifacts.

The expanded DCI-P3 color gamut brings a noticeable boost in saturation over basic Rec.709 projectors. In La La Land on UHD Blu-ray, the vivid reds, purples, and blues of the opening dance number really pop off the screen. Skin tones remain lifelike throughout, a sign of accurate color balance. Only the most demanding eyes will notice the X5's color isn't quite as nuanced as pricier tri-laser designs - for most viewers it's an excellent balance of vibrance and realism.

Subjectively, native contrast is decent but not exceptional. In a darkened room, letterbox bars and deep shadows are more dark gray than inky black. Bright highlights maintain solid pop and resist clipping, though high-APL scenes can look a bit flat. While no match for the best long-throw projectors, contrast is respectable and slightly above average for a living-room-friendly UST. The dynamic laser dimming also helps expand perceived dynamic range without excessive pumping artifacts.

Motion handling is generally very good, with minimal judder or blur. In the opening race sequence of Ready Player One, the X5 maintains excellent sharpness and fluidity as cars zip across the screen. I did notice occasional flicker and moiré artifacts in the trickiest pan shots, but they were infrequent and not overly distracting. Engaging the MEMC Motion Smoothing helps, but I preferred to leave it off to avoid the soap opera effect.

Overall, the X5's image is very strong for the price. It's not a videophile-grade projector and has some limitations typical of DLP, but it absolutely delivers the core appeal of 4K HDR in a bright, flexible, all-in-one entertainment machine. For movie nights, sports viewing, and gaming on a truly big screen, it's an excellent and attainable option.

Formovie X5: Gaming Performance Review

For casual gaming, the X5 acquits itself well. With an input lag of 42.5ms at 4K/60, it feels responsive enough for single-player adventures and sports titles. Fast-paced shooters and fighting games are still best played on a dedicated low-latency display, but most users will find the X5 very playable.

The projector's Game Mode optimizes color and contrast for maximum visibility, and the high brightness keeps graphics punchy even with some room lights on. HDR games really shine here - the neon cityscapes of Cyberpunk 2077 are a great showcase for the X5's wide color and sharp 4K rendering.

Just keep in mind the current 60Hz limit and lack of advanced HDMI 2.1 features like 4K/120 and VRR. Next-gen console owners looking to push the highest resolutions and framerates should opt for a purpose-built gaming projector or a low-lag TV. But for playing your favorite titles super-sized in the living room, the X5 is a great casual option.

Formovie X5's Audio Performance Review

Another pleasant surprise is the X5's integrated audio. The dual 12W Denon stereo speakers deliver fairly full and dynamic sound, with solid stereo separation and even a hint of bass response. It's no substitute for a true surround system, but it's a big step up from most built-in projector speakers.

In Blade Runner 2049 on 4K Blu-ray, the X5 conveyed the film's atmospheric score and immersive sound effects with authority. Dialogue remained clear and intelligible throughout, even in whispered scenes. At higher volumes the speakers can sound a bit thin and exhibit some cabinet resonance, but overall I was impressed.

The projector supports passthrough of Dolby and DTS multichannel audio via HDMI eARC, ideal for connecting a soundbar or receiver. But if you want an all-in-one solution with no extra speakers or wires, the X5 is more than capable for casual viewing.

Formovie X5 Alternatives

In the sub-$2,000 4K UST category, the Formovie X5 has a few notable competitors:

• XGIMI Aura: With a brighter 2,400 ANSI lumen image, Android TV, and an excellent Harman Kardon audio system, the Aura is a strong X5 rival. However, it's a larger unit that requires more space;
• BenQ V7050i: This compact 4K UST matches the X5's 2,500 lumen brightness and adds Android TV with Google Assistant voice control. But it lacks the Denon speakers and costs slightly more;
• Optoma CinemaX P2: An excellent all-around performer with 3,000 lumens, great color accuracy, and an integrated 40W soundbar. But it's considerably bulkier and pricier than the X5.

Ultimately, the Formovie X5 stands out for its unique blend of compact size, high brightness, ultra-short-throw flexibility, and surprisingly good onboard audio. It's not the outright performance leader in any one area, but it delivers excellent versatility and value for the big-screen-curious.

Formovie X5 4K Projector: Final Words

After extensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Formovie X5 4K to anyone seeking a bright, sharp, and highly flexible laser UST projector under $2,000. Its sleek design, ultra-short-throw lens, and integrated speakers make it uniquely suited for living rooms, bedrooms, and other shared spaces where a big-screen experience was previously impractical.

Absolute home theater purists and discerning videophiles will still prefer the ultimate contrast and precision of a long-throw LCOS or DLP model. And serious next-gen gamers should look to a low-latency TV for 4K 120Hz thrills. But for more casual viewing, the X5's excellent all-around performance and all-in-one convenience are tough to beat.

Once the global version with Android TV launches, I expect the X5 to be an even more compelling and user-friendly option. Out of the box streaming, a customized UI, and Google Assistant smarts will complete the package. As it stands, it's an impressive and attainable entry point to 100-inch-plus 4K HDR entertainment, and a great fit for anyone who prioritizes flexibility and ease of use. Highly recommended.

Thanks as always for reading! If you're considering the X5 or have experience with UST projectors, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Until next time, enjoy your home theater journey!

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