Xiaomi Smart Projector L1 review

Full review

Xiaomi's Smart Projector L1 is the straightforward entry point to its projector range. It combines a 1080p LCD panel with an Android TV based system and a compact 1.2 kg body. The brightness claim of 200 ISO lumens is low, so it is only really suitable for a dark room, and the 60 to 100 inch sizes Xiaomi recommends are a sensible ceiling.

A throw ratio of 1.2:1 is shorter than many rivals, so you can get a large picture without placing it far from the wall. This helps in small bedrooms and flats. Setting up is meant to be simple, and the system on board gives you access to the usual streaming services through the Android TV app store, which is a real benefit over proprietary systems with smaller catalogues.

The two 3 W speakers support Dolby Audio, but they are small units and will struggle in anything larger than a bedroom. Bluetooth output to a separate speaker is a worthwhile upgrade.

Xiaomi's pages do not give HDR support, input lag or the full port list in the sources we could read, so we have marked them as not stated. That makes it a poor fit for games consoles and for anyone who wants to know exactly what they can plug in. If your priority is the easiest route to a big picture with proper streaming apps and you can control the light in the room, the L1 is a sensible low-cost choice.