Convenient Smart Home

Formovie Xming Episode One review: Beaming, blazing just like that

Wonderful, powerful, yet portable projector

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It’s been almost two years since the 50-inch TV I bought from *redacted* with my hard-earned money got unresponsive — and died eventually. To make it worse, it was already way past its warranty period.

Instead of buying a new unit, I thought I can survive without one. After all, I have several devices I can choose to use — a smartphone slab, hybrid foldable, gargantuan tablet, and even the all-rounder MacBook Pro with its brilliant 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display™️. 🤧

Yet I was wrong. I still keep searching for big screens when it comes to consuming content.

But maybe the heaven is on my side. Formovie personally reached out and decided to offer the Xming Episode One for an in-depth review. Of course, I didn’t hesitate and grabbed the opportunity right away.

It’s also a fresh take for me as I have never ever used a projector in the entirety of my life.

For whom?

ICYMI, Formovie is an innovative brand from China with smart projectors and laser TVs as their specialty.

To make it even more interesting, the brand was co-founded by Xiaomi and Appotronics — making them a part of the vast Mi ecosystem alongside other brands.

And if that isn’t enough, they have bagged awards from prominent design competitions such as Red Dot Design, iF Design, CES Innovation, Good Design, among others.

Sleek and on fleek

With design awards in mind, Formovie’s Xming Episode One has a quirky design with a straightforward purpose of being a projector on the go.

It might not be the most premium projector ever made, especially with its choice of materials, but its roundedness makes it overall appealing. This goes most especially for first-time projector users like me.

Seeing it for the first time never felt intimidating. And to make it even a lot more inviting, it weighs at just 1.2 kilograms (2.8 pounds).

I also love those intricate details in orange — body edges, logo placeholder, decals, speaker grilles.

Portable whenever, wherever

With the projector’s actual heft already stated, now is the best time to brag about its utmost portability.

Like this projector review, my recent trip to South Korea was also a first. I then thought, why not bring the Xming Episode One with me? After all, Formovie has assured me that the projector is travel-friendly.

✅ Check-in Luggage

*For demonstration purposes only. The projector was packed in a separate storage bag for utmost safety.

Since the projector isn’t equipped with any type of battery, it’s very safe to store it in your check-in luggage wherever you go, whenever you want to.

✅ Backpack

I recently bought Nike’s 37L Utility Elite 2.0 Backpack. For enthusiasts, you might be aware that it has a dedicated shoe compartment.

*For demonstration purposes only. The projector was packed in a separate storage bag for utmost safety.

While the bag has a lot of space for my storage woes, that particular compartment is where the Xming Episode One comfortably sits and fits.

✅ Crossbody Bag

This adidas Y-3 bag has been my go-to for smartphones and other handy essentials I bring out and about.

To my surprise, the product fit like a glove. There’s even an extra space for my smartphone — or pretty much any other item I want to store inside.

✅ Shoulder Bag

Last but definitely not the least, here’s a HK$ 59 (US$ 7) shoulder bag I purchased from GU in my last Hong Kong trip.

Even with its thin strap, the Episode One’s lightweight body simply made it like I’m bringing nothing.

And as the bag has an extra zipped compartment, I was even able to store the power adapter and remote control inside.

Tiny yet mighty

The Xming Episode One may be light in weight, but it’s heavy in terms of the hardware packed inside.

First, its 150 ISO Lumens delivers bright visuals. And with a combination of 1500:1 Contrast Ratio, any type of content will look enticing — more on that later.

As for audio, it features two 3W speakers that are also Dolby Audio certified. And if that would not suffice, there’s also a 3.5mm audio port for you to connect your dedicated surround sound speaker setup.

But, if the very messy wired connection is one of your pet peeves, you can instead pair your wireless speakers thanks to its seamless Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

There’s even an HDMI 2.1 port if you wanted to project content straight out of your laptop, PC, or even the gaming console that’s very close to your heart.

Right after I powered on the device, it barely made any sound. The aircon’s hum was even louder.

Smart at heart

Overall aesthetics, utmost portability, and hardware are just parts of the overall story. What truly makes (or breaks) a product is how it can deliver features based on what it has promised to consumers.

Other projectors may already have this feature but I love how the Episode One has a focus sensor. This helped me a lot during my first set-up in a crammed hotel room.

I don’t have a proper location to place it other than the room’s teeny-tiny table. But, after stacking some travel magazines and brochures I’ve collected in the airport, it performed its auto keystone correction as well as auto-focusing function after placing the projector in its awkward, tilted position.

There’s even a handy-dandy smart obstacle avoidance — which avoided that clothes rack beside the bed as well as that small LCD TV mounted at the right side of the room.

But what ultimately enticed me with the Xming Episode One was that, it runs Google TV and Netflix straight out of the box.

This just means I don’t need an additional Chromecast, Android TV box, or any other unnecessary feature like wireless casting just to enjoy the full benefits of Android and its vast app ecosystem.

Other projector brands have serious compatibility issues mainly because they equip their projector units with their proprietary (and bug-infested) OS.

This remote control was very reminiscent of that bundled with my old Android TV. 👀

Setting it up was easy-peasy. It only took me under ten minutes to make everything work. Just make sure you have a fast Wi-Fi connection to make everything buttery smooth.

That aforementioned smart Android TV got updated to Google TV — making the overall look and feel familiar for me

Having Google TV as the primary OS also meant I have all the other necessary apps for entertainment.

Whether that’s YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV, they all ran well without hiccups.

Spotify and TikTok weren’t installed right away but are both supported — in case you wanted to use those platforms on a bigger screen.

Wonderful and powerful

Now with everything in place, overall usability and performance come last.

#NewJeansNeverDie!!!

I may not be able to measure the exact size of the screen the Episode One has projected onto the wall but I can assure you it looked crisp and clear.

That’s probably with its 1080p Full HD resolution. Other brands only offer 960p or 540p for the same value.

Gawon’s visuals look more admirable even in such a large, projected screen

And for comparison’s sake, I can tell is how it’s larger than the 50-inch TV I’ve mentioned in the very beginning.

So is Ella Gross’ with her cat-like fierceness…

And with that in the topic, the Xming Episode One can display between as small as 40-inch and up to a max of 120 inches. It will just depend on how near or far you place the product away from the wall.

Finally, I tried the actual audio output with YouTube Music.

As expected, it’s not the best among the rest. But, for such a small form factor, its surprisingly loud with an acceptable level of highs, mids, and lows.

I even minimized it below 20 percent when I played songs before midnight kicked in. Although I still think some type of hum or buzz was heard from the room next to me.

What’s in it for you

Here’s everything you’ll get if you wanted to own the Formovie Xming Episode One.

@gadgetmatch Wonderful, powerful, yet portable projector. Meet the Formovie Xming Episode One! 📽️ #Formovie #Projector #Fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ original sound – GadgetMatch

Is the Formovie Xming Episode One your GadgetMatch?

The Formovie Xming Episode One retails for US$ 299.99 / EUR 299. Although as of this writing, it has a slashed price tag of just US$ 199.99 / EUR 199.

It’s currently being sold in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, as well as other major European regions.

As a refresher, we are bringing back GadgetMatch’s dating app-like matching feature where we choose to recommend or refuse a product by swiping.

Swipe Left if you want a more budget-friendly projector without minding the compromises.

Swipe Right if you’ve been wanting a power-packed yet portable projector without spending a premium.

From where I stand, I’m Super Swiping the Formovie Xming Episode One as it was able to exceed my expectations in a projector this portable.

✨ It’s like GOLD 🎶

Obviously not in a literal sense. Figuratively, Formovie’s Xming Episode One is like gold as it’s hard to find one in such a niche market.

Projectors are not as widely available as TVs. There aren’t much choices either no matter which consumer bracket you belong to.

As frustrating as it seems, you either have to pay a lot for a projector that’s rock solid in terms of look and performance or sacrifice overall build and quality for the less-expensive option. There’s barely any in between.

I sound like a broken record for always saying that this was my first ever projector review. But, that doesn’t mean I haven’t seen other projectors prior this.

That said, I can attest that the Xming Episode One delivered a stand-out audiovisual quality even with its small size. Its output can even beat those cheap smart TVs ranging between 32 to 60 inches.

And the fact that you can scale it up twice by 120 inches and still bring it anywhere you want to are just two of the greatest feats this product has. That overall flexibility is something you cannot do in flat screen panels that are already fragile to begin with.

Lastly, the projector’s smart software and set of features make it a very convenient plug-and-play device. Its user-friendliness and overall experience fully complete this large puzzle.

The Formovie Xming Episode One rightfully deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval for everything it offers in such form factor and value. It is a projector that’s wallet-friendly, user-friendly, and travel-friendly altogether ✈️

Accessories

Father’s Day gift guide: Gadgets for every kind of dad

Dad deserves a gift that won’t collect dust after Father’s Day

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As we get older, Father’s Day shopping gets a lot easier when you stop thinking about the typical dad gifts. Especially since it’s not always your dad you’re shopping for anymore. It could be your grandfather who insists he doesn’t need anything. Maybe it’s your brother who just became a dad and is running on three hours of sleep. Maybe it’s your father-in-law.

Whoever it is, here are some of my favorite picks to give them this year. Spoiler alert: there are no “World’s Best Dad” mugs included in this list.

For the dad who wants a smarter home

Some of the best tech is the kind you stop noticing because it just runs in the background. The Baseus X1 Pro dual security camera is one of those. It combines a dual-lens design with a wide 210-degree field of view and 300-degree motion tracking, allowing it to cover areas that would normally require multiple cameras.

What makes it stand out is its ability to track two subjects at the same time. Unlike traditional security cameras that can lose sight of one person while following another, the X1 Pro’s dual-lens system can independently follow both, creating a more complete picture of what’s happening around his home.

Its dual 3K cameras capture plenty of detail during the day, while color night vision and 8x zoom make it easier to identify visitors, vehicles, and other activity after dark.

The included solar panel means less maintenance for dad. As little as 20 minutes of direct sunlight can provide enough power for a full day of operation. It’s also got local storage with no monthly subscription fees.

You can get the Baseus X1 Pro for as low as US$119.99 using the code X1PROPRNO1 until June 30th.

And then there’s the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Mini, which solves one of the most ignored chores in any home: cleaning windows. Dad can attach it, let it run, and something everyone’s been avoiding for months just disappears from their mental checklist.

From large glass panels to smaller apartment windows, the compact robot cleaner uses intelligent WIN-SLAM 4.0 navigation to map out the most efficient cleaning path and avoid missed spots. Multiple cleaning modes let you choose between a quick refresh, deep cleaning, edge cleaning, or targeted spot cleaning depending on what the glass needs.

Hard-to-reach windows become less intimidating for dad to clean. Whether it’s a second-story window, a glass door, or a large mirror, the Winbot stays securely attached while it works, turning a tedious chore into a hands-free task.

You can get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Mini for just under US$240.

For the dad who’s always in the kitchen

Every family has someone who treats grocery shopping like strategy. If that sounds like your dad, then the FEPPO compact food vacuum sealer is a great addition to the family.
It keeps food fresher longer, makes bulk buying from Costco more practical, and turns freezer storage a lot more organized.

Unlike traditional countertop vacuum sealers, the FEPPO is compact, cordless, and rechargeable, making it easy to store when not in use. Despite its size, it delivers strong suction and can seal food in just a few seconds with a single button press.

The included kit comes with 10 reusable BPA-free vacuum bags and three storage containers. The bags and containers are washable and reusable, s not only are you saving space in the fridge or freezer, you’re also helping reduce waste.

I also like that FEPPO designed it with a detachable water tank that collects excess moisture during the sealing process, making cleanup simpler and helping keep the machine running smoothly over time.

It doesn’t look exciting on paper, but once it’s part of dad’s kitchen routine, they’ll wonder how they managed without it, and thank you later.

Get the FEPPO Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food for under US$70.

For the dad who needs any excuse to be outdoors

Some dads are indoors dads. Others will take any excuse to be outside. The OGERY F11 camping fan is one of those small upgrades that makes outdoor time noticeably more comfortable—not just for them but for the whole family. Whether it’s camping trips, backyard BBQs, RV adventures, or just surviving peak summer heat, it’s a gift dad would surely appreciate.

What makes it stand out is its versatility. The adjustable tripod lets it work as either a floor fan or desktop fan, while the massive 30,000mAh battery can keep air moving for days on lower settings. It also doubles as an LED lantern and emergency power bank, perfect for camping camping and even power outages.

Dad will love the wide-angle oscillation and the included remote control so he can sit back and relax while cooling down.

The OGERY F11 Camping Fan is available for US$89.99.

The SJCAM C400 action camera is for the dad who is always doing something worth remembering: biking, fishing, hiking, skiing, traveling, or just being the unofficial family photographer.

It captures 4K video through a wide 154-degree lens, making it easy to record everything from scenic landscapes to fast-moving action. Built-in 6-axis image stabilization helps keep footage smooth even when the camera is mounted to a bike, helmet, or backpack. Its battery life is rated to last up to seven hours so his adventures get documented before needing a top up.

The C400 also supports features like slow motion, time-lapse, and wireless app control, making it equally useful for adventure loving dads or one who simply wants a hands-free way to capture family memories.

Get the SJCAM C400 Action Camera for US$179.99.

And the Kiwibit smart bird feeder turns into something unexpectedly addictive. It’s the perfect gift for the dad who enjoys slowing down and appreciating the little things.

The built-in camera captures 4K video and 8MP photos through a wide-angle lens, allowing you to watch visiting birds up close and even check in after dark with infrared night vision. Two-way audio also lets you listen in on the activity happening outside.

For dads who enjoy learning, Kiwibit’s AI can identify more than 10,000 bird species and send alerts whenever a new visitor arrives. The companion app automatically creates galleries and summaries, making it easy to keep track of backyard regulars.

The feeder itself is thoughtfully designed, too, with a solar-powered roof, removable battery, and a dual-compartment seed hopper that can attract a wider variety of birds. It’s the kind of gift that would keep delivering small moments of joy long after Father’s Day is over.

The Kiwibit Bird Feeder is available in two gorgeous colors: Sage Pine and Autumn Clay and is on sale at just under US$180.

For the dad who treats his car like a second home

Cars collect everything. The FEPPO cordless vacuum handles the everyday mess: crumbs, dust, snack debris, pet hair, and whatever else somehow finds its way into the car. Powered by a brushless motor, it delivers strong suction while remaining cordless and easy to maneuver around tight spaces like dad’s car.

What makes it particularly useful for busy households is its thoughtful design. The anti-tangle brush helps prevent hair from wrapping around the roller, while a multi-stage HEPA filtration system captures fine dust and allergens before recirculating cleaner air.

Long battery life means it’s ready for quick cleanups without constantly needing a recharge. The different attachments make it easy to clean around the house or car.

The best part is you can get the FEPPO Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for under US$200.

The STATIK TireHero tire inflator is the tool you never think about until you reallyy need. It lives in the glove box until the exact moment it saves you from a low-pressure warning, a road trip delay, or a late-night stop at a gas station air pump.

Beyond inflating car tires, it can also handle bike tires, sports balls, paddleboards, air mattresses, and other inflatables, making it surprisingly versatile for road trips, camping, and family outings. It even doubles as a portable power bank for charging a phone in an emergency and includes a built-in flashlight for nighttime use.

It’s a practical gadget that may not feel exciting when dad unwraps it, but becomes invaluable the first time he actually needs it.

The STATIK TireHero is available for US$59.99.

For the dad who brings people together

Some of the best gifts will keep on giving. The XGIMI MoGo 4 portable projector turns any blank wall into a movie screen. Dad can set up backyard movie nights, World Cup watch parties, or casual weekend hangouts without needing a dedicated entertainment room.

What makes the MoGo 4 special is how portable it is. About the size of a tumbler, it’s easy to toss into a bag for camping trips, vacations, or visits with family. The built-in battery provides up to 2.5 hours of viewing time so you can enjoy a movie without needing to plug it in. It’s also got a 360-degree adjustable stand and automatic image correction to make setup almost effortless.

Despite its compact size, it delivers Full HD 1080p visuals, built-in Harman Kardon speakers, and Google TV with licensed Netflix support.

The XGIMI MoGo 4 is now US$469.

The Liiton American Peaks whiskey decanter set is for dads who have had a stressful year. It helps them slow down, unwind, and appreciate the ritual of pouring a drink at the end of a long day.

Inspired by some of the most iconic mountain ranges in the US, the set includes a crystal decanter and four whiskey glasses featuring detailed 3D mountain impressions molded into the base. Beyond looking beautiful on a bar cart, the mountain design helps chill and aerate the drink. Place the glass in the freezer and in just 18 seconds he gets a drink that stays cold until the last sip, thanks to its proprietary X1 Crystalline Chill Charge System.

Made from heavy lead-free crystal with a weighted base, the glasses feel substantial in the hand and elevate everything from bourbon to tequila. The included gift-ready presentation box also makes it feel like a truly special Father’s Day gift.

And because the set includes four glasses, it’s just as much about sharing a drink with friends and family as it is enjoying a quiet moment alone.

The American Peaks Whiskey Decanter Set is available for under US$130.

For the dad who likes to express himself

The INKWON TAG is probably the most unexpected product in this entire list. This pocket-sized printer can create stickers, temporary tattoos, iron-on transfers, and photos directly from a smartphone. Paired with the INKWON app, it can turn almost any image into something physical within minutes.

That’s where it gets fun. One day it might be custom stickers for a water bottle. Another day it’s temporary tattoos for his kids. It can even be used to create personalized shirts, tote bags, and keepsakes. For dads who enjoy making things, it’s the kind of gadget that sparks creativity long after Father’s Day is over.

The INKWON TAG starts at US$199.

Not every gift needs to change someone’s routine. Some just make it slightly better.

The Baseus MC2 open-ear earbuds are for dads who always have something playing in the background. Unlike traditional earbuds, the open-ear design lets them enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks while staying aware of traffic, conversations, and everything happening around them.

They’re lightweight enough to wear for hours, offer impressive battery life, and deliver surprisingly rich audio despite their compact clip-on design.

The Baseus MC2 open-ear earbuds are currently on sale for US$59.99.

Then there’s the Posh Tech Hunt distressed leather Apple Watch band, which transforms one of the most common pieces of tech into something with a little more character.

Made from genuine distressed leather, it develops a worn-in look over time that feels more personal. It’s a simple upgrade, but one that can make an Apple Watch feel less like a gadget and more like an everyday accessory. It’s available for US$35.

For the dad who’s focused on staying well

The Merach NovaRow R50 rowing machine is one of the best examples of low-impact fitness that can stick. It’s a full-body workout that engages his legs, core, back, shoulders, and arms, all while being easier on his joints than running or other high-impact exercises.

What makes it work isn’t intensity; it’s consistency. The movement is smooth, the setup is simple, and the Merach app adds guided workouts, performance tracking, and scenic rowing routes that make it easier to show up again tomorrow.

With 10 levels of air resistance, it can grow alongside dad’s fitness journey, whether he’s just getting started or looking for a more challenging workout. It also folds for easier storage, making it a practical option for apartments and home gyms alike.

The Merach NovaRow R50 is the priciest item on this list but is an affordable option compared to the Concept2 RowErg. It’s on sale now at US$529.99.

The Amazfit Balance 2 is one I gave to my dad, who’s almost 70. He’s not training for anything nor is he tracking performance. What the smartwatch has done is he is paying a little more attention to himself.

He checks how much he’s moved. He looks at his heart rate. He notices patterns he wouldn’t have thought about before.

At the same time, it scales up for someone who is more active. With over 170 sport modes, recovery insights, golf mapping, scuba support, and up to 21 days of battery life, it’s a great smartwatch no matter the recipient’s fitness level.

Get the Amazfit Balance 2 for US$299.99.

And then there’s the CAVN blood pressure monitor.

Instead of being intimidating or clinical, it’s designed to be simple enough for everyday home use. It’s got a barrel-style design with one-touch operation that removes the hassle of wrapping a cuff properly. Dad can just slide his arm in, press a button, and it does the rest.

It also supports multiple users, stores readings over time, and makes it easier for families to track trends. The large display and color indicators also make it more accessible for older users, too.

The CAVN Blood Pressure Monitor is available for US$179.99.

The Blueair Mini Restful sunrise clock air purifier takes a different approach to wellness by improving the environment dad sleeps in.

It combines a medical-grade air purifier, warm evening lighting, and a sunrise-style alarm clock into a single bedside device. Blueair’s HEPASilent filtration technology removes airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke while operating quietly enough not to disturb sleep.

In the evening, the warm amber lighting helps create a more relaxing wind-down routine, while the sunrise alarm gradually brightens before wake-up time to make mornings feel less abrupt.

Thoughtful extras like soothing wake-up sounds, app controls, and a built-in USB-C charging port make it an easy addition to any nightstand. It’s an all-in-one device for cleaner air, better sleep, and calmer mornings.

The BlueAir Mini Restful is available in Coastal Beige and Midnight for US$199.99.

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Computers

Samsung’s SECRET That Made OLED Even Better

Say hello to the new QD-OLED Penta Tandem display tech by the Korean giant

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Samsung Display just unveiled QD-OLED Penta Tandem technology. This is a next-generation display structure that stacks five emission layers to improve brightness, efficiency, and overall OLED performance.

In this video, we simplify what Penta Tandem actually is, how it works, and show you two monitors that already have the technology — specifically from MSI and Dell.

For more details, check out Samsung Display here.

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Convenient Smart Home

Spotlight: The Tech Behind Every Screen You Use

It’s Not Who You Think!

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TCL CSOT SID Display Week 2026

TCL CSOT is one of the world’s largest display panel manufacturers. However, most people have never even heard of them.

At SID Display Week 2026 in Los Angeles, they unveiled the APEX Pixel Technology across three categories:

  • Super Pixel for smartphones
  • Real Stripe RGB (IJP OLED) for monitors and automotive; and
  • RGBC for TVs
TCL CSOT SID 2026

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Also, THE Michael Josh takes you inside their booth at the Los Angeles Convention Center to break down:

✅ The world-first Super Pixel mobile display (clarity, lowest power, 165Hz refresh rate)
✅ The World’s First Foldable & Portable IJP OLED Monitor Display (28″)
✅ Intelligent Cockpit Display Suite 3.0 — sliding + curved
✅ The World’s Highest Image Quality WHVA Ultra LCD TV Display (85″)

More so, what does it mean when your phone uses Real RGB instead of sub-pixel rendering? Why is inkjet-printed OLED the next big thing in display manufacturing? And what’s a fourth color sub-pixel?

Know all of these in our Spotlight on TCL CSOT’s Display Technologies.

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