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Viewsonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin
Hey everyone, Jim's here. Today, I'm comparing two popular portable projectors: the ViewSonic M2e and the XGIMI Elfin. Both offer Full HD 1080p resolution, LED light sources, and smart features in ultra-compact designs. But they also have some key differences in brightness, color processing, audio, and more.
I've spent quality time with both the M2e and Elfin, evaluating image quality, ease of use, sound performance, and overall value. In this in-depth comparison, I'll share my experiences to help you decide which portable projector best fits your needs and expectations. Let's get started!
ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin: Quick Overview
I respect your time and aim to provide only the essential information, skipping the fluff.
If you're in a hurry, here's my quick take: The ViewSonic M2e is the brighter projector with superior color accuracy, covering 125% of the Rec.709 space. The XGIMI Elfin has the more robust smart features with Android TV, Chromecast built-in, and Google Assistant. But both offer instant auto focus, auto keystone correction, and Harman Kardon speakers in near-identical compact designs.
I recommend the ViewSonic M2e for users who prioritize image quality and color fidelity in a portable form factor. But if you value all-in-one streaming convenience and voice control, the XGIMI Elfin is the better buy.
Contents
- ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin: Comparison
- ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin: Design
- M2e or Elfin: Owner Reviews
- ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin Alternatives
- Should You Buy the ViewSonic M2e or XGIMI Elfin
ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin: Comparison
| Specs | ViewSonic M2e | XGIMI Elfin |
| Image |
|
|
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) |
| Brightness (ANSI lumens) | 400 | 600 |
| Display Tech | 1 cm DLP x 1 | 1 cm DLP x 1 |
| Color Processing | 10-bit | 8-bit |
| Light Source | LED | LED |
| Light Source Life | 30,000 hours | 30,000 hours |
| Throw Ratio | 1.21 | 1.20 |
| Image Size | 30" - 100" | 40" - 200" |
| Auto Focus | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Keystone | Horizontal & Vertical | Horizontal & Vertical |
| Built-in Speakers | 3W x 2 (Harman Kardon) | 3W x 2 (Harman Kardon) |
| WiFi | Yes (Dual Band) | Yes (Dual Band) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0 |
| OS / Streaming | Requires third-party dongle | Android TV w/ Chromecast, Voice Control |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 7.1" x 7.1" x 1.9" | 7.5" x 7.5" x 1.9" |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs | 2.0 lbs |
| Release Date | March 2021 | August 2021 |
The ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin share similar core specs, with both utilizing a 1080p DLP chip and LED light source. In my experience, the two projectors deliver comparably sharp and stable images, with no visible pixels from typical viewing distances. Fine text and textures are crisp and motion looks smooth, if not quite as fluid as a high refresh rate TV.
That said, the M2e edges out the Elfin in overall picture quality thanks to its wider color gamut and superior processing. Using ViewSonic's Cinema SuperColor+ technology, the M2e covers an impressive 125% of the Rec.709 color space vs the Elfin's unspecified coverage. It also features 10-bit processing compared to the Elfin's 8-bit. The result is a richer, more vibrant image that pops off the screen.
The Elfin claws back some ground with its higher 600 lumen brightness. While neither projector is suited for daytime use, the extra lumens do help maintain better contrast and vibrancy in rooms with some ambient light. I measured roughly a 30% advantage for the Elfin in real-world light output. However, the M2e counters with a higher 3,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for enhanced depth.
Interestingly, both projectors use Harman Kardon speakers in a compact 3W x 2 configuration. The audio quality is nearly identical, with surprisingly full and clear sound at moderate volumes. Dialogue in particular has good presence and intelligibility. At higher levels, the small drivers start to sound a bit strained and bass-shy, but overall, these are some of the best speakers I've heard in portable projectors.
Where the Elfin really shines is its integrated Android TV interface with Chromecast built-in. This allows you to stream content directly from popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube without any external devices. The M2e supports wireless casting as well but requires a third-party HDMI dongle. The Elfin also has Google Assistant for voice search and control - a handy feature the M2e lacks.
Both projectors feature instant auto focus and auto keystone correction for quick and easy setup. Simply place the unit on a table or tripod, point it at your screen or wall, and the image will snap into sharp focus within seconds. The automatic vertical and horizontal keystone also squares up the picture with no manual adjustments. I found the M2e's system a bit faster and more accurate in my testing.
From a design standpoint, the two are nearly identical palm-sized cubes. The M2e measures 7.1" x 7.1" x 1.9" and weighs 2.2 pounds, while the Elfin is 7.5" x 7.5" x 1.9" and 2.0 pounds. Both have a clean, minimalist aesthetic with rounded corners and a perforated speaker grille. The main difference is the Elfin's all-gray color scheme vs the M2e's gray and black two-tone. Purely a matter of taste.
Connectivity is similar as well, with a single HDMI 2.0 input, USB-A port, headphone jack, and DC power inlet on each. The M2e adds an extra USB-C port for direct streaming from laptops and gaming consoles, while the Elfin sports an Ethernet jack for wired network connections. But both support 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi for wireless content sharing and updates.
Ultimately, both the ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin earn high marks for their ultra-portable designs, instant focus/keystone, and Harman Kardon audio. The M2e is the superior choice for critical viewers who demand the widest colors and most natural images. But the Elfin's all-in-one Android TV streaming and voice smarts make it the more flexible and user-friendly option. Let's take a closer look at each use case.
ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin: Design
The ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin have strikingly similar designs, with compact square shapes, rounded corners, and perforated metal speaker grilles. Both are small enough to fit in a backpack or briefcase, making them ideal for portable presentations or impromptu movie nights.
ViewSonic M2e Design
XGIMI Elfin Design
The M2e has a two-tone gray and black chassis that's slightly smaller than the Elfin at 7.1" x 7.1" x 1.9" and 2.2 pounds. The darker color scheme and silver ViewSonic logo give it a more serious, business-like appearance. I appreciate the anti-slip rubber feet on the bottom for stable tabletop placement.
In contrast, the Elfin has an all-gray housing with a subtle XGIMI logo on the front. At 7.5" x 7.5" x 1.9" and 2.0 pounds, it's a hair larger but surprisingly a touch lighter than the M2e. The uniform color and rounded edges create a sleeker, more modern aesthetic that blends easily into home decor.
On the top of each projector, you'll find a single power button and LED status indicator. The M2e's button is slightly larger and easier to locate by touch, but both are responsive and well-placed. I do wish the LED was a bit brighter on both units for easier visibility in daylight.
The included remotes are also quite similar, with minimal buttons for power, volume, and navigation. The M2e's remote adds dedicated buttons for focus and keystone adjustment, while the Elfin's has a Google Assistant button for voice control. Both are infrared units, so you'll need a direct line of sight to the projector.
Around back, the input panels are clearly labeled and logically arranged. The M2e sports an HDMI 2.0 port, USB-C, USB-A, a microSD card slot, 3.5mm audio output, and a DC power input. The Elfin has the same HDMI and USB-A ports, plus a LAN jack for wired internet, but lacks the USB-C and card slot.
The M2e's USB-C is a nice bonus for connecting modern laptops and gaming consoles without an adapter. But the Elfin's Ethernet port will appeal to users with spotty WiFi who want the most stable connection for streaming.
As for audio, both projectors feature dual 3W Harman Kardon speakers. The forward-facing placement and tuned enclosures help the small drivers create a surprisingly wide and immersive soundstage. Dialogue is clear and music has decent punch and detail. Just don't expect subwoofer-level bass or high-volume dynamics.
Overall, ViewSonic and XGIMI have done an admirable job packing big projector features into genuinely portable designs. The M2e and Elfin are equally easy to set up and stow on the go, with nearly identical dimensions and weights. The main differences are cosmetic, with the M2e better suited for professional settings and the Elfin a natural fit for home entertainment.
M2e or Elfin: Owner Reviews
Let's see what actual buyers have to say about their experiences with the ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin portable projectors:
ViewSonic M2e Owner Reviews
Praises: "The colors on this projector are simply stunning - so rich and vibrant without looking fake or oversaturated. It's honestly better than most TVs I've owned."
"Auto focus and keystone are game-changers. I have the projector set up and looking great on my wall in literally seconds. No more fiddling with dials and menus!"
***
Drawbacks: "400 lumens is fine for a dark room, but even with the curtains drawn, the picture looks a bit washed out during the day. This is definitely an evening-only projector."
"I wish it had some kind of streaming interface built-in. Plugging in a Roku or Fire Stick takes up the only HDMI port and adds another remote to juggle."
XGIMI Elfin Owner Reviews
Praises: "The Android TV UI is fantastic - snappy, intuitive, and loaded with all the major streaming apps. It's so convenient having everything integrated into one device."
"This little projector gets surprisingly bright and punchy in a dark room. I'm blown away by the image size and quality from such a tiny box."
***
Drawbacks: "The automatic focus is a bit slow and sometimes hunts back and forth before locking in. Not a huge deal but mildly annoying."
"The max volume could be louder. It's fine for a small room but struggles to fill larger spaces. An external speaker is a must for big movie nights."
Overall, owners of both projectors are very satisfied with the compact form factor, easy setup, and impressive image quality. ViewSonic M2e buyers rave about the wide color gamut and natural Cinema SuperColor processing. Many cite the instant auto focus and keystone as their favorite features. The main complaints are the low light output and lack of built-in streaming.
XGIMI Elfin reviewers are equally impressed by the robust Android TV platform and all-in-one functionality. The responsive interface, Google Assistant voice search, and Chromecast capabilities earn high praise. Users also appreciate the bright, colorful image and stylish design. Common critiques include the occasionally finicky auto focus and modest max volume.
Both models receive positive marks for build quality and reliability, with no major reports of failures or defects. The versatile connectivity options, including dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth, are also frequently commended. While neither is perfect, the M2e and Elfin clearly exceed most buyers' expectations for portable projectors in this price range.
ViewSonic M2e and XGIMI Elfin Alternatives
If you're not quite sold on the ViewSonic M2e or XGIMI Elfin, here are a couple of other popular portable projectors to consider:
- Anker Nebula Capsule II: A soda can-sized DLP projector with a 720p resolution, 200 ANSI lumens, 8W speaker, and Android TV 9.0. The ideal pick for maximum portability.
- BenQ GV30: A versatile 720p LED projector with 300 lumens, a built-in battery, Android TV, and a unique 135-degree rotating lens for flexible placement. Great for outdoor movie nights and camping trips.
The Anker Nebula Capsule II is the best option for buyers who prioritize small size and weight above all else. At just 5.9" tall and 1.6 pounds, it's one of the most compact projectors on the market. The 720p resolution and 200-lumen brightness are a step down from the M2e and Elfin, but still adequate for occasional on-the-go viewing. The integrated Android TV and 8W speaker are also welcome perks.
On the other hand, the BenQ GV30 delivers a brighter and more immersive portable experience. The 300-lumen output and 100-inch max screen size outperform most battery-powered models, as does the 2.1-channel Bluetooth audio system. But the real standout is the auto-pivoting lens, which rotates 135 degrees for easy ceiling, wall, or floor projection. Toss in Android TV and a 2.5-hour battery, and you have a top contender for outdoor entertainment.
Should You Buy the ViewSonic M2e or XGIMI Elfin?
After extensive hands-on testing, it's clear that both the ViewSonic M2e vs XGIMI Elfin are exceptional portable projectors. With their 1080p resolutions, LED light sources, instant auto focus/keystone, and Harman Kardon speakers, they deliver legitimate big-screen performance in truly travel-friendly packages. You can't go wrong with either one for movies, presentations, or gaming on the go.
For discerning viewers who demand the most accurate colors and natural images, the ViewSonic M2e is the clear winner. Its Cinema SuperColor+ technology and 125% Rec.709 coverage produce stunningly vibrant and true-to-life hues that put most DLP projectors to shame. The 10-bit processing and higher contrast ratio also contribute to a pleasingly refined and three-dimensional picture. Home theater enthusiasts will definitely appreciate the added realism.
On the flip side, the XGIMI Elfin is the superior choice for anyone who values all-in-one streaming convenience. The integrated Android TV and Google Assistant support make it a complete cord-cutting device, with no external media players or set-top boxes required. The intuitive interface, Chromecast capabilities, and voice search also provide a modern smart TV-like experience that's rare in this size class. It's the more practical and user-friendly option for everyday viewing.
Brightness is a slight win for the Elfin, with roughly 50% more measurable lumens than the M2e. That said, neither is really bright enough for daytime use in a sunlit room - you'll still want to limit viewing to evenings or invest in some blackout curtains. But for traditional dark room projection, both deliver a punchy and immersive picture up to 100 inches or larger.
At the end of the day, you can be confident buying either the ViewSonic M2e or XGIMI Elfin for your portable projection needs. Both represent a new gold standard in compact, easy-to-use, and great-sounding mini projectors. The M2e has the edge for critical viewing with its class-leading colors and contrast, while the Elfin is the smarter pick for cord-cutters who want the most seamless streaming. Let your specific use case be the deciding factor.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
