XGIMI has won the hearts of mobile cinema enthusiasts with its high-quality portable video projectors, such as the XGIMI Elfin and the XGIMI MoGo Pro (1st generation) that I had the pleasure of testing. This brand is quickly gaining notoriety in the world of video projectors and it shows no signs of slowing down. This time, XGIMI offered to test me and provided the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro as well as a Multi-Angle stand.
The MoGo 2 Pro is an upgraded version of the MoGo Pro, designed to deliver an even more immersive cinematic experience, right in the comfort of your home or anywhere you go. The device is packed with advanced features, including a high-performance home audio system, very respectable picture quality and really effective automatic screen adjustment technology.
With its neat aesthetics and very good performance in its category, this video projector seems to have everything to please.
However, does the MoGo 2 Pro really deliver on its promises? Is this stylish and functional device worthy of being the next addition to your home theater setup? That’s what we’ll find out together in the following detailed review.
Product received free of charge
Unboxing and Getting Started: A Smooth Start with the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro
As soon as you open the box, you can tell that XGIMI has focused on presentation. The MoGo 2 Pro is carefully packaged in a simple and elegant white cardboard box. Inside, you'll find the projector itself as well as a small white box containing its power supply, a remote control with batteries, and all the documentation. Just like with the MoGo Pro, we would have liked to find a carrying case or cover to make it easier to move this portable projector, but it's not included and can be purchased on the XGIMI website.
The XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro itself is a rather elegant object. With clean lines and a combination of plastic and metal grilles in a slightly coppery dark gray, it exudes quality. On the top side, there are no frills, there is a single button to turn the device on and off. The perimeter of the device is made of a metal grille that looks great.
This grid, which covers 3 out of 4 side faces, also passes over the front of the device where the projector output and 3 sensors used by ISA 2.0 technology for image adjustment are housed (which we will discuss in more detail a little further down).
The back side houses the connectivity ports and we find a USB Type-C port used for power, a USB-A port, an HDMI port and a 3,5 mm headphone jack. At the very bottom, XGIMI has positioned a very elegant little window giving a glimpse of the device's new bass system.
Finally, under the device, we find the traditional screw thread allowing the device to be fixed to a stand or to the ceiling.
The first impression given by the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro is decidedly a quality impression and a premium product with elegant shapes and colors… much sexier than the white of the first MoGo Pro!
Getting started is a breeze. Plug in the power, press the power button, and the MoGo 2 Pro comes to life in seconds. The remote control is simple and elegant, with a minimal number of buttons for ease of use. It also has a microphone for using voice commands via Google Assistant.
When you first turn on the projector, you're greeted with a guided setup process that helps you connect the MoGo 2 Pro to your Wi-Fi network and sign in to your Google account. Once that's done, you'll have access to the Android TV interface, where you can download apps, stream content, and more.
What's new with the MoGo 2 Pro?
Before going further into the qualities of the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro, let's start by discovering together the new features of this 2nd version of the brand's portable video projector.
2 x 8W speakers and bass diaphragm
- Speakers: 2 x 8W
- Technologies: Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus
Overall, the MoGo 2 Pro's onboard audio system has been significantly improved over that of the MoGo Pro.
While XGIMI had previously collaborated with Harman/Kardon, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro's audio system marks the end of this partnership. The projector has two in-house 8W speakers to provide significantly higher sound power than the previous generation (2 x 3W for the MoGo Pro v1) and more than sufficient for this type of device. Note, however, that when pushed to the maximum, the sound ends up being a little shrill... but in normal use, the sound offers very good rendering.
This improvement is also explained by the increase in the volume of the speaker resonance box which is 2.1x higher than the previous version. Of course, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro is a little more bulky than the first generation, but this has certain advantages!
More anecdotal, but very nice from an aesthetic point of view, the rear face of the device reveals the bass diaphragm through a very elegant little window.
In the end, and considering the type of device, the sound result is very satisfactory both in terms of bass and treble with a clear and precise sound. The system is also compatible with the Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Digital standards.
A smartTV with Android TV11
Like all XGIMI devices, the MoGo 2 Pro is not just a simple video projector. In fact, it is a real multimedia center that acts as a smartTV by embedding version 11 of AndroidTV.
Despite the small size of the device, it is therefore self-sufficient and replaces three devices : a projector, a broadcast source (computer, smartTV, etc.) and an audio speaker.
I won't go into detail about AndroidTV, but this Google operating system for smart TVs does the job very well. Easy to configure and relatively flexible to use, it allows you to install a large number of applications and you can therefore slip MyTF1, FranceTV, MyCanal, Prime Video, YouTube, Molotov… or even OQEE if you are a Free subscriber and connected to your Freebox.
Regarding Netflix, it's a bit more problematic, as the official app from the Google Play Store doesn't work on the device due to restrictions. But don't panic though, because XGIMI explains how to get around the problem in a short guide that comes with the device. I also wrote a slightly more detailed article on how to install netflix on xgimi.
Portability
- Dimensions: 161 x 119 x 108 mm
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Internal battery: no, but possibility to connect an external battery via USB-C port
The MoGo 2 Pro was designed by XGIMI as a portable projector. With its weight of 1.1 kg and its very reasonable dimensions (161 x 119 x 108 mm) it is easily transportable in order to be used everywhere: in all the rooms of the house, on your vacation spot, indoors and outdoors.
A little bigger and heavier than the MoGo Pro (146 × 105.5 × 94.5 mm and 0.9 kg), this 2nd generation has however been the subject of sacrifices. Indeed, exit the internal battery which allowed to use the projector in total autonomy, XGIMI has favored the audio and video at the expense of total nomadism. If the dimensions of the device keep its status of portable video projector, this absence of battery can be experienced as a lack. But for my part, I find that the choice is wise to prioritize performance. Especially since nomadism is not completely compromised since the USB-C input of thedevice is designed to accommodate any external battery of at least 65W. Good idea, because this should satisfy a large majority of users!
Small detail, the power supply of the charger of the XGIMI MoGo pro has been moved to the socket, which is rather more pleasant. In the previous version, the power supply box was more conventionally positioned halfway along the power cable.
I mentioned it above, but one of the real strengths of this device in terms of portability and its integration of 3 devices in 1. So yes, in the middle of the wilderness you will need an external battery to power the device, but on the other hand no need for a computer or a sound bar, the MoGo 2 Pro integrates all that! And it's really practical.
Finally, as with version 1 of this projector, XGIMI does not include the protective cover in the accessories provided, you will have to pay (€69). Too bad for a device sold for its portability.
Image quality and brightness
- Brightness: 400 ISO lumens
- Standard resolution: 1920 1080 pixels x
- Image Size (recommended): 60″ to 120″
Good news, one of the weak points of the MoGo Pro has been (partially) addressed in this version 2. Indeed, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro offers a brightness of 400 ISO lumens, which is 100 better than its predecessor. So, of course, we should not expect miracles, but it is still a significant progress and one that is felt in practice.
While the brightness of this projector is perfectly suited to a dark room, its use in broad daylight or in a room that is too bright is a little more complicated despite its 400 lumens. Therefore, to be able to really enjoy it in good conditions, you will have to achieve sufficient darkness conditions: wait until nightfall, close the shutters or reduce the distance between the wall and the projector (1m50 or less) to ensure adequate brightness. For comfortable projection in all circumstances, it will be better to opt for larger devices such as the XGIMI Horizon and its 2200 lumens.
If the lighting (or rather darkness) conditions allow it, the size of the projected screen can reach a respectable diagonal of 120″ (about 300cm), by positioning the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro at a distance of 320 cm. However, to really take advantage of this device, it is better to move the projector a little closer to the screen in order to obtain sufficient brightness and more vibrant colors.
For this article I tested several configurations:
- 2m from the wall in broad daylight
- 2m from the wall, shutters partially closed letting in a few rays of light
- 1m from the wall in broad daylight
- 1m from the wall, shutters closed letting in a little light
Clearly, the result is rather a pleasant surprise. The only configuration in which the image was really too pale to really enjoy the device was 2m from the wall in broad daylight.
Of course, to benefit from a bright and well-contrasted image, you will still need to favor sufficient darkness...
Regarding image resolution, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro retains the characteristics of version 1 and offers a Full HD definition (1920 x 1080 pixels) that fully meets expectations. As with the other projectors in the range, XGIMI offers several display modes: film, office, game or custom. The custom mode allows you to manually adjust the brightness, contrast, colors, etc.
ISA 2.0: the intelligent screen adaptation system
Beyond image quality, a very important point for a portable projector that is going to be moved regularly is its ability to adapt to the projection screen.
The MoGo 2 Pro is XGIMI's first projector to feature its new Intelligent Screen Adaptation (ISA) 2.0 system. This screen adjustment technology provides users with automatic keystone correction (autokeystone) and a focus (autofocus) continuously.
Also new, if you have children or pets, you'll be happy to know that ISA 2.0 incorporates intelligent eye protection technology. When someone walks in front of the screen (and therefore into the light beam), the image automatically darkens to prevent glare.
Finally, ISA 2.0 also integrates features already available in ISA 1.0 such as intelligent screen alignment and intelligent obstacle avoidance. These features allow the projector to align the image on the screen optimally, but also to reframe the screen to avoid obstacles. However, when these features are enabled, theautokeystone and the autofocus Continuous are disabled to avoid impacting performance.
And the other features and benefits…
What silence!
- Noise level : <30 dB
In the specifications of the device, XGIMI announces a noise level below 30 dB. I don't have a device to measure the noise level, but it doesn't matter since what counts is the feeling!
And then, clearly, in terms of sound, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro works miracles. In use, it is extremely quiet. When approaching the case, we can hear a slight ventilation noise that fades away as soon as we take our ears off.
Having used lamp projectors for a long time, there is no doubt that we are clearly in another world, the world of silence!
Chromecast / Airplay
As this is a Google technology, Chromecast is of course natively integrated to AndroidTV. It is therefore very simple to share the screen of an Android device on the projector. On the Android device, you will just need to make sure you have the Google Home application.
Regarding sharing the screen of an Apple device, things are a little more complicated (technology war requires ...) but not impossible. Indeed, the projector supports Airplay via third-party applications. So, you just have to install the "Magicast" application on the projector, open it and then you will be able to use Airplay from any Apple device connected to the same wifi network as the projector.
Connectivity
- Inputs: USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.0
- Exits : AUX 3.5mm
- Wireless : Wifi 5 Dual-band 2.4/5GHz, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
On the connectivity side of the MoGo 2 Pro, XGIMI has done things rather well. In terms of physical ports, USB-C is used for power while USB-A allows you to connect an external hard drive or USB key. The HDMI port is very practical for connecting another source: computer, TV box, game console, etc.
At the output, the 3.5mm AUX port offers the possibility of connecting headphones or a HiFi system.
In terms of wireless, it's all very classic since XGIMI offers the Wifi 5 standard, the most widespread today and which does the job very well. We can regret the absence of an Ethernet port but it's really nitpicking and it's been a long time since I connected a box other than Wifi.
The same goes for Bluetooth, which uses the 5.0 standard. It allows you to connect various devices to the projector (starting with the remote control) such as headphones, a speaker, a keyboard, etc.
Remote control
Once again, the remote control of the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro is, in my opinion, one of the weak points of the device and this for several reasons.
First of all, it is very light and made entirely of black plastic. This choice of materials (although classic) and its featherweight offer a low-end rendering that is far from reaching the height of the more "high-end" design of the projector itself.
Then, the remote control is limited to a very (too) limited number of buttons... so yes, you don't get lost, but this is to the detriment of user comfort. The remote control only has 8 buttons and a directional pad. It's not many and in my opinion not enough. I may seem old-fashioned, but I would love it if XGIMI integrated a numeric keypad into its remote control or at least a +/- button similar to the volume button to change channels quickly. But hey, the brand has chosen simplicity and it's a choice that is identical for its entire range.
Finally, the choice of black color... choice of elegance, but also a color difficult to discern in the dark... if you lose your remote control, you will have to turn everything back on to find it. In addition, the body of the remote control as well as the buttons are black. The latter have white pictograms printed on them, but which are impossible to distinguish in the dark... You will have to familiarize yourself with the buttons before being able to use the remote control in complete darkness.
In short, the remote control, as with the other devices of the brand that I have been able to test, remains my bête noire.
XGIMI Multi-Angle Support
Not much to say about this support sold as an add-on by XGIMI for the MoGo and Halo series devices.
This stand is really well made and helps compensate for a lack of the MoGo 2 Pro. Indeed, it does not have a small kickstand to raise the front of the device to find the perfect projection angle.
If you are using the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro at home, this stand will provide comfort of use by stabilizing the projector and allowing you to orient the projection upwards or downwards according to your needs (adjustable angle of 120°).
What's more, it's elegant and understated and perfectly complements the installation. A real success that will still require you to pay an extra €90!
XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Features
Display and projection
| Projector type: | Portable | |
| Display technology: | DLP | |
| Brightness: | 400 ISO lumens | |
| Lamp life: | 25 000 hours | |
| 3D: | Yes, Frame Packing & Side by Side | |
| Standard resolution: | 1920 1080 pixels x | |
| Projection report: | 1.2:1 | |
| Autofocus: | Yes – ISA 2.0 | |
| Automatic keystone correction: | Yes – ISA 2.0 | |
| Image size: | 40” – 200” (but 60″ to 120″ recommended) | |
| Projection method: | Front, rear, ceiling (front/rear) |
sound system
| Loud speaker : | 2 x 8W | |
| Dolby Digital: | Yes | |
| Dolby Audio: | Yes | |
| Dolby Digital Plus: | Yes |
System
| RAM: | Go 2 | |
| Storage: | Go 16 | |
| Mirror display: | Chromecast built-in | |
| System: | Android TV 11 |
Connection, power supply and dimensions
| Inputs: | USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.0 | |
| Exits : | AUX 3.5mm | |
| Wireless : | Wifi 5 Dual-band 2.4/5GHz, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | |
| Bluetooth: | Bluetooth 5.0 | |
| Noise level : | <30dB | |
| Battery capacity: | No battery | |
| Autonomy: | Ability to connect an external battery via USB-C | |
| Size: | 161 x 119 x 108 mm | |
| Weight: | 1 grams |
Conclusion
Once again, XGIMI hits hard and manages to offer a high-quality product. With this 2nd generation of the MoGo Pro, the brand had to make choices in terms of portability and I think they are relevant. Rather than trying to offer a battery with too little autonomy (around 2h30 on the MoGo Pro), XGIMI preferred to focus on the rest while offering the possibility of connecting the device to an external battery.
As a result, the XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro manages to deliver 400 ISO lumens and a very respectable image quality in conditions of sufficient darkness. The audio system is a real improvement.
Finally, we must not forget that this is a 3-in-1 device that can follow you wherever you go, whether in the different rooms of your house or during your vacations.
A slight disappointment, however, is that the move from version 1 to version 2 was an opportunity for XGIMI to inflate the prices, since it is offered at €599 (i.e. €100 or 20% more than the previous version).
Highlights
- SmartTV with integrated AndroidTV
- Possibility to power the projector with an external battery
- Full HD image
- Very silent
- Intelligent Screen Adjustment (ISA 2.0)
Weak points
- Improved brightness, but still too low in daylight
- No internal battery
- Remote control too simple and all black
