The thing about movie nights is they don’t always wait for the perfect setup. Sometimes, the best ones happen on a whim—a bare wall, a cozy blanket, and an idea that snowballs into something unforgettable. TCL’s Projector A1 isn’t just a device for entertainment; it feels like a partner in those spontaneous moments, ready to transform any ordinary evening into an extraordinary experience. It’s not about replicating your living room; it’s about making the world your living room.
TCL has long been synonymous with redefining big-screen entertainment through its affordable, high-performance TVs. Now, the brand takes a fascinating pivot, stepping into the mobile projector market with the A1, its first portable all-in-one solution. Imagine the freedom of carrying your cinematic experience from one room to another—or even outdoors. This small yet promising device offers a new way to explore TCL’s visual prowess, albeit in a more compact and versatile format.
Designer: TCL
The A1 is TCL’s answer to consumers who crave flexibility without sacrificing quality. Equipped with a Full HD LED projection engine, it delivers visuals up to 120 inches diagonally. While its 360 ISO lumens brightness might not rival high-end home projectors, TCL promises optimized visuals, thanks to their “patented optics system.” But don’t let that technical jargon overshadow the reality—this little device thrives in dimly lit spaces, where its color accuracy and sharpness come alive.
Setting up the A1 is a breeze. Designed with portability in mind, the unit comes with a handy aluminum VersaGrip handle, doubling as a stand for vertical adjustment. Its autofocus and auto keystone correction make it refreshingly user-friendly. No tedious tinkering here—just position, plug, and play. TCL even adds a quirky touch with side-mounted LED lights that sync to your favorite tunes. For a first projector, the A1 tries to make a lasting impression.
The A1 comes with Google TV built into the box, eliminating the need for extra streaming devices. Access platforms like Netflix, Chromecast content from your smartphone, or find entertainment using Google Assistant. This integration transforms the projector into a self-contained entertainment hub. For wired connectivity, the A1 includes HDMI and USB ports, offering compatibility with external media devices. Bluetooth 5.1 support further extends its versatility, allowing the projector to double as a standalone speaker.
However, the projector does come with its share of compromises. The lack of a built-in battery is notable, requiring access to a power outlet to operate. For a device marketed as mobile, this tether can feel limiting. In fact, for its size, you’d expect a built-in battery (after all Anker’s Nebula projectors do include batteries on their larger portable projectors). In truth, the “portable” claim feels tied almost entirely to its ingenious VersaGrip handle, which doubles as a stand. While the handle is a clever touch for easy carrying and angle adjustment, the need to keep it tethered to a power source does put a damper on its freewheeling ambitions. It’s portable, sure—but only as far as your nearest outlet.
The A1 represents TCL’s exploration of uncharted territory, a step away from the gargantuan TVs it’s famous for. It’s a calculated risk, catering to a growing audience that values mobility and adaptability over sheer screen size. To offset this risk, TCL’s priced the A1 at $499.99, positioning it as an entry-level contender in the mobile projector arena. It’s not aiming to outshine flagship models but to provide accessible, reliable quality for everyday use.
So, is the A1 groundbreaking? Not quite. But it’s a thoughtful device that hints at TCL’s ambition to diversify its portfolio while staying true to its ethos of making great tech accessible. It’s not trying to be the brightest or most powerful projector out there. Instead, it focuses on delivering an enjoyable, fuss-free experience for the casual viewer, making big-screen entertainment feel less like a commitment and more like a whim.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of taking your TV night wherever you please—or if you’re simply curious about what TCL’s first foray into mobile projectors looks like—the A1 is worth considering. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start, and an interesting one at that. For now, TCL invites you to dim the lights, kick back, and enjoy the show, wherever life takes you.
