With a dynamic capsule-shaped design that can be pivoted to face pretty much anywhere, the Zebronics Zeb PixaPlay 54 is far from those boring box-shaped projectors of yesteryear. It feels refreshing, artistic, and worthy of placing on a mantelpiece from which it can cast images and videos onto a wall. The pivoting capsule design feels fairly similar to a conceptual projector we saw back in 2018 or more recently, the $900 Samsung Freestyle. At practically a third of the price, the Zeb PixaPlay 54 feels like quite the deal, although it does come with its fair share of compromises – none too drastic if you ask me. You get exactly what you’re paying for… if not more, considering the projector has a few nifty features like auto-keystone, multiple connectivity options, and the ability to cast a 140-inch screen on any wall you point it at!
Designer: Zebronics
The Zebronics PixaPlay 54 LED projector is an intriguing entry-level option for those looking to enhance their home entertainment setup without breaking the bank. Positioned within the Indian market, this projector aims to deliver a solid viewing experience while keeping the price tag accessible. Despite its marketing claims of 1080p support, the PixaPlay 54’s native resolution is 720p, which is a crucial consideration for potential buyers who prioritize image clarity and detail (even more so considering the Freestyle does output 1080p). This slight dip in resolution might be a drawback for some, but it doesn’t negate the fact that the PixaPlay 54 can still provide a satisfactory visual experience for casual movie nights or presentations. Personally, 1080p at a slightly higher price would absolutely seal the deal.
The Zeb PixaPlay 54’s internal light source outputs up to 3,800 lumens of brightness. This should suffice for most indoor settings, ensuring that images remain vivid and clear even in rooms that aren’t completely dark. Moreover, the LED light source is touted to have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, translating to years of use without the need for a replacement bulb. This longevity is a significant advantage, especially for users who plan on using the projector frequently. However, it’s important to note that while the brightness is commendable, the native resolution may not fully leverage this feature, leading to a trade-off between sharpness and luminosity.
The cylindrical pivoting shape is perhaps the projector’s biggest visual highlight, which not only gives it a modern appearance but also allows for practical adjustments. The adjustable stand is a thoughtful addition, enabling users to tilt the projector to achieve the optimal viewing angle without the need for additional mounts or tripods. Automatic keystone correction further enhances the user experience by ensuring that the projected image remains rectangular and undistorted, even if the projector isn’t perfectly aligned with the screen. The inclusion of a lens adjustment wheel allows for fine-tuning the focus, which is essential for achieving the best possible image clarity given the projector’s native resolution limitations.
Connectivity options on the PixaPlay 54 are robust for its price range. The device supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1, offering a range of wireless connection possibilities, from streaming content directly from your smartphone to mirroring your laptop screen. Considering its positioning as a smart speaker, it DOES come with its own OS, although you won’t find every app you need. Personally, as a Zebronics projector user myself, I find it easier defaulting to an Amazon Fire Stick for seamless content. The projector also features various ports, including HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, and AUX, which provide ample options for connecting external devices such as gaming consoles, laptops, and sound systems. The built-in speakers are a convenient feature, though they may not deliver the audio depth that dedicated external speakers can provide. Your best bet is to pair an external speaker with the projector – preferably using the aux to avoid any audio lag.
The Zebronics PixaPlay 54 is competitively priced, with an introductory offer bringing the cost down from ₹27,999 ($333 USD) to ₹10,999 (approximately $131 USD). This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for a versatile projector without the premium price tag. Don’t expect to turn your home into an IMAX studio, given the 720p output… but rather revel in the fact that your projector looks like a million bucks, and gives you a whopping 100-plus-inch display on command!
