XGIM Horizon S Max Projector

Highlights

• The XGIMI Horizon S Max is a 2024 flagship 4K projector that builds on the Horizon Ultra’s strengths, adding higher ISO brightness, IMAX Enhanced certification, and the latest iteration of XGIMI’s Intelligent Screen Adaption (ISA 5.0). While it brings serious upgrades in usability and image fidelity, several real-world considerations temper the advertised promises.
• XGIMI claims 3100 ISO lumens, but following trends seen in the Horizon Ultra, actual measured brightness likely falls closer to 1600–1800 ANSI lumens—suitable for dim to moderately lit rooms, but not fully daylight environments.
• The projector supports true 4K UHD resolution through XPR pixel-shifting and benefits from Dolby Vision and HDR10+, giving it strong dynamic range performance when viewing supported content. It also covers 110% of the BT.2020 color space, which, while difficult to verify independently, contributes to vibrant, high-saturation image output.
• The throw ratio is 1.2:1, with an estimated 2.6–3.3 meters needed for 100–150” projection. The absence of lens shift means positioning must rely on digital tools. Fortunately, ISA 5.0 brings advanced AI-driven autofocus, keystone correction, and object avoidance—more reliable than past iterations but still not as precise as manual alignment for critical installations.
• Audio is a strong point, continuing the use of dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers, offering rich midrange and clean highs. Most reviewers consider it adequate for small to medium rooms without external audio.
• There is no confirmed input lag spec, but based on the Horizon Ultra’s performance (~18ms in Game Mode), similar or slightly improved responsiveness is expected—good for casual and cinematic gaming, though not for high-level competitive play.
• Physically, the unit is larger and heavier (~5.9 kg) than most of its class due to its built-in mechanical stand, which provides some flexibility in projection angle. The fan noise stays around 28–30 dB, consistent with previous models and generally quiet enough not to distract during viewing.