Convenient Smart Home

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

Wonderful, powerful, yet portable projector

Published

November 29, 2024

Vincenz

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 ✈️

Convenient Smart Home

Why an air conditioner became my first real priority after moving out

The Samsung Compact Window-Type Inverter Air Conditioner helps turn a new space into something that finally feels like home.

Published

December 30, 2025

MJ Jucutan

I’ve always loved the idea of independence and the romance of having a place that was entirely mine.

What I did not anticipate was how exposed I would feel once I was alone with my thoughts and everything I was trying to carry forward after a difficult season.

There was no one else to absorb the discomfort when things felt off. Every decision landed squarely on me, and I had to figure things out while I was moving on after life took a lot from me and gave me multiple heartbreaks.

I moved out because I needed distance from what hurt and I needed room to heal in my own time. But living alone also made me more honest about my needs.

When you come home tired and emotionally spent, there’s no distraction from how your space makes you feel.

That was when it clicked for me that comfort is not indulgent. It’s essential, especially when your body works hard and your mind never fully switches off.

This is how an air conditioner became a bigger decision than I ever thought it would be.

Choosing things that fit my life

In my new place, every item felt like a small commitment. I wasn’t just filling a room; I was building a routine and a home that felt safe enough to rest in.

I wanted things that really worked with me. Practical, yes, but also gentle in the way they existed in the space.

Out of plenty of air conditioning units, choosing the Samsung Compact Window-Type Inverter Air Conditioner, 1.5 HP, immediately felt right.

The size made sense for condo living, especially in a room where I’m constantly aware of how much space I have left.

It fits neatly into the window and stays visually quiet, which I appreciate more than I realized I would.

There’s something comforting about an appliance that doesn’t ask to be noticed. It feels like a calm roommate that shows up, does its job, and never gets in the way.

Instant relief for a worn-out soul

Training days take a lot out of me. There are days when my body feels heavy and my thoughts move slower than usual.

On those days, heat and humidity feel personal, like another thing asking more from me when I have nothing left to give.

What I noticed right away was how quickly the room changes when I turn the air conditioner on. The relief is immediate!

My space becomes breathable and balanced within minutes, and suddenly I’m not fighting the environment while trying to recover.

The airflow reaches the entire unit, which matters more than people think in smaller spaces. The temperature stays consistent through the night, and that consistency has quietly changed how I sleep and how my body recovers.

This unit stays quiet, even on humid nights when I expect it to struggle. There is no disruptive hum and no sudden noise that pulls me out of sleep.

I started getting uninterrupted eight hours of sleep, with my sleep score averaging around 90.

That kind of rest felt healing in ways I didn’t know I needed.

When you start thinking long-term

Living alone also means facing your monthly bills without sharing the responsibility.

It changes how you think about energy use very quickly, especially when you are trying to rebuild your life with intention.

The inverter technology helps keep electricity consumption consistent, which gives me peace of mind over time. I rely heavily on the timer feature, especially on days when my schedule revolves around training and recovery.

I like knowing I can come home to a cool space without leaving the unit running unnecessarily. It feels thoughtful, and I have learned that thoughtful appliances make solo living feel far less overwhelming.

They remove small worries before they grow into bigger ones.

Making a place feel like home

What I love most is how this air conditioner supports the routine I’m slowly building for myself.

On recovery days, it keeps the room comfortable enough for my body to reset properly. On some evenings, it helps the space feel settled, making it easier to disconnect and just be with myself.

In a season where I am learning how to heal, that sense of calm feels grounding. Living alone has taught me to pay attention to how my environment affects my energy.

When your space supports you, everything feels more manageable. The Samsung Compact Window-Type Inverter Air Conditioner has become part of that support system.

It no longer feels like an appliance. It feels like one of those quiet decisions that made this new chapter easier than I expected.

For anyone living solo and trying to build a home that feels calm, functional, and genuinely supportive, the Samsung Compact Window-Type Inverter Air Conditioner 1.5 HP fits naturally into that story.

It brings ease into everyday routines and helps turn a new space into something that finally feels like home.

Moving Out, Moving In is a Match Home series that features hands-on stories and reviews of appliances and home technology that support everyday living, comfort, and the process of settling into a new space.

Accessories

Thoughtful gift ideas for modern living: 2025 holiday gift guide

Gift ideas that feel intentional and considered

Published

December 20, 2025

Chay Lazaro

The best gifts aren’t impulse buys nor extravagant. This year’s holiday gift guide is about giving with intention. Each pick was chosen not as a novelty, but as something that adds value to your loved ones’ lives. They support routines, encourage rest, create shared moments, elevate everyday comforts, and provide peace of mind. These are the kind of gifts that feel considered, personal, and truly meant for the person receiving them.

Peace of mind, wherever the day goes

OrbitKey Travel Sling (3L), US$89.90

This sling is designed for moving through the day feeling organized and secure. Along with its compact, structured layout, it includes RFID-protected pockets that help shield cards and personal information from digital theft. It’s ideal for both commuting and traveling and comes in Black, Stone, and Terracotta.

Statik TireHero Smart Tire Pump, US$69.99

This is the kind of gift that helps people feel prepared rather than reactive. Compact and easy to use, it quickly inflates tires at home or on the road. A small tool that offers real reassurance, it’s especially useful for drivers and cyclists alike.

ExpressVPN Aircove Go, US$169.90

This pocket-sized router creates a secure, VPN-protected network anywhere, making public Wi-Fi far safer to use. Ideal for travelers, remote workers, or anyone handling sensitive information on the go. It’s small enough to travel with but powerful enough to protect privacy beyond the home.

OrbitKey Foldable Duffel, US$49

Having an extra bag when you didn’t know you need one can remove a surprising amount of stress and unnecessary expenses. This duffle folds down flat for easy storage, then opens into a 55L bag when packing gets too ambitious and you’re being charged at the airport for your overweight suitcase. It’s reliable, flexible, and quietly reassuring to have on hand.

Thoughtful tech for home and productivity

Native Union WEIGHTER, starts at US$19.99

Sometimes the smallest upgrades make the biggest difference. This weighted desk accessory keeps charging cables from slipping out of reach, reducing friction in everyday routines. It’s a subtle but satisfying improvement for someone who works from home or their messy night stand. It comes in Black and Sandstone, and two models: 1 Cable and 3 Cables.

Rocketbook Core, US$38.99

For someone who loves writing by hand but also wants their notes organized digitally, this reusable notebook allows handwritten notes to be stored in the cloud. It’s great for planners, students, even creatives that don’t want clutter. It combines the satisfying tactility of pen and paper and digital convenience.

Nomad Stand One Max, US$159

Built with Qi2 25W, this charger brings calm to the end of the day. With one solid, beautifully weighted base, it charges the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods in one place. It reduces clutter and decision-making, turning charging into a simple ritual.

Lexar SL500 Portable SSD with Magnetic Set, starts at US$105

Extra storage becomes invaluable once someone starts creating, traveling, or documenting more of their life. This portable SSD offers fast, reliable storage with a magnetic sleeve that makes it easy to attach and carry. It’s ideal for backing up photos, videos, and important files without fuss. It’s a practical gift to support that creative in your life and help them stay organized.

Rituals, wellness, and slowing down

Üllo Original Wine Purifier, US$79.99

For someone who enjoys a glass of wine as part of winding down but hates the headaches that come after: Üllo removes sulfites while aerating the wine. It helps enhance the flavor and aroma of wine while being gentler for those sensitive to additives. Add the hand blown Decanter that’s made from ultra transparent lead-free crystal to make any bottle taste fancier.

La Jolie Muse Season of Stories Trio Set, US$60

With artful vessels and clean-burning soy wax, these candles feel as much like decor as they do self-care. The scents are cozy and ideal for winding down or hosting. It’s a gift that invites pause.

LEGO Botanicals, starts at US$14.99

A calming, screen-free build that becomes a beautiful piece of home decor, each set invites someone to slow down and enjoy the process. With flower bouquets, bonsais, and plants to choose from, it’s a satisfying project that brings a sense of completion without the upkeep of real plants. As an added bonus, if you can build it together it turns the gift into a shared memory, so every time they see the finished piece, they’re reminded of the time you spent creating it together.

Small joys, big upgrades

SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, US$135

This device makes an everyday habit feel more intentional. Created with sustainability in mind, it’s a sleek yet practical gift that elevates anyone’s bathroom shelf. It’s got wireless charging and the redesigned travel case powers UV cleaning on the go. It comes in five colors: Winter Fern, Sea Mist, Sunset Bloom, Midnight Black, and Morning Waves.

XGIMI MoGo 4, US$499

This portable projector makes it easy to turn any wall into a big screen. You can give the gift of a quiet solo night for someone who needs to decompress from work, or movie nights shared with their loved ones. It’s great for a cozy home setup this winter or the outdoors when the weather starts to get warmer.

Eve Flare, US$109.95

Lighting is one of the most overlooked features in any space, but is truly transformative. This smart LED lamp creates soft, customizable ambient light that works indoors or outdoors. It’s perfect for someone who just moved into a new apartment, or that person in your life who cares about mood and intentional design.

Liiton American Peaks Whiskey Decanter Set, US$129

This glassware set transforms drinking into a sensory experience, whether on display or in use. It’s a great conversation piece and makes a nightcap more intentional. Place your glass in the freezer and get chilled and aerated whiskey in just 18 seconds thanks to its proprietary X1 Crystalline Chill Charge System. Made from lead-free crystal, the glassware is sculpted with the majestic U.S. mountain peaks: Mount Whitney, Yosemite, Smoky Mountains, Mount Rainier, and The Rockies.

For growing lives and staying connected

loog mini acoustic, US$129

With fewer strings and a simplified design, kids can start playing real songs quickly without feeling overwhelmed. It builds confidence and creativity while introducing musical fundamentals. It’s a gift that supports learning through play.

Instax Mini Link 3, US$99.99

This gift turns fleeting moments into tangible memories. With a few taps, photos on your phone become physical prints that can be shared, saved, and displayed. In an age where taking photos has never been easier, having physical prints encourages reminiscing without increasing screen time. It’s a wonderful gift for families and friends who love documenting life.

Arzopa Digital Photo Frame, starts at US$99.99

Bring warmth to someone’s home without requiring technical effort. This photo frame is great for that loved one who’s moved far away. Photos can be updated remotely, making it easy to feel closer despite the distance. It comes in two sizes: 10″ and 14″, both with a champagne colored bezel.