DLP (1) Archives - Projector Reviews

The NexiGo Nova Mini is a smart portable DLP projector that currently sells for $599. The Nova Mini can display full HD (1920x1080) resolution and it supports HDR10 and HLG and the projector's laser light source can deliver 1200 lumens of brightness.

The Nova Mini is also equipped with Scene Adapt Engine (SAE) that dynamically adjusts laser light source brightness and contrast frame-by-frame, and delivers deep blacks and sharp details even in darker scenes. With SAE, the projector's dynamic contrast ratio is 15,000:1.

Due to its Google TV operating system, users have access to a wide range of streaming services and smart apps. On the audio side, the Nova Mini has a high quality built-in speaker system. While the Nova Mini does not have a built-in battery, its USB-C Power Delivery PD capable so it can be powered by a compatible USB power bank (100 W or higher), making it more versatile for outdoor or mobile use

To simplify installation, the Nova Mini features auto setup functions such as autofocus, auto keystone correction, auto screen detection, and intelligent obstacle avoidance.

Over the past few years, NexiGo has expanded its product lineup beyond webcams and accessories to include a growing range of projection solutions aimed at home entertainment and portable use. The company has introduced several laser and LED projectors that combine compact design with smart streaming platforms.

The NexiGo Aurora Pro, for example, is a high-performance 4K ultra-short-throw projector that integrates Dolby Vision HDR and advanced audio for a true home theater experience. The TriVision Ultra serves as another flagship offering, designed to deliver bright images with laser technology in a compact chassis, targeting users who want large-screen projection without committing to traditional installation.

Portable projectors have grown increasingly popular as more users look for affordable ways to enjoy large-screen entertainment without being tied to a dedicated theater space. The Nexigo Nova Mini fits into this growing category, combining compact dimensions, integrated smart features, and laser light source technology in a design that emphasizes portability and convenience.

The Nova Mini is a small yet capable projector for everyday users who want big-screen viewing at home, in a dorm, or even outdoors.

NexiGo Nova Mini

Current Retail Price: $599

Ratings Based On Comparable Models

Color Reproduction

Brightness

Contrast

SOUND

Pros

+ Good Contrast/Black Level

+ Good Color Reproduction

+ 1200 Lumens

+ Google TV with a Netflix certification

+ Easy setup AUTO modes

+ Includes advanced color adjustments

+ 8 watt sound fills your room

Cons

- No Built-in Battery

- Remote is not backlit

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OVERVIEW

The Nova Mini is a smart laser projector that delivers native 1080p resolution while also supporting 4K input signals. It uses an ALPD laser light source and has a rated brightness of 1200 lumens, making it one of the brightest portable projectors available.

In addition, the NexiGo Nova Mini is equipped with a dynamic laser dimming feature, which is rare on compact portable projectors. Originally engineered for use in the Aurora Pro ultra-short-throw projector, Scene Adapt Engine (SAE) is a proprietary algorithm that combines real-time frame-by-frame analysis with predictive machine learning to make rapid brightness adjustment. The result is deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and a dynamic contrast ratio of 15,000:1.

The Nova Mini supports high dynamic range content mastered in HDR10 or HLG. It is also compatible with 3D content, but you need to purchase a pair of 120Hz active shutter 3D glasses. NexiGo offers DLP Link 3D glasses (BOCJQQHMGS) which can be purchased from the NexiGo website or their Amazon store.

The Nova Mini runs on Google TV, allowing users to stream directly from services like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Disney+, and others without requiring an external device. It also supports wireless casting from compatible Android and iOS devices.

Due to its built-in dual 5-watt speakers, the Nova Mini can function as a standalone entertainment solution, though it also provides audio output options for external systems. One of the Nova Mini’s strengths is its ease of setup. The combination of autofocus, automatic keystone correction, and a straightforward menu system allows users to begin viewing within minutes.

The inclusion of Google TV ensures that streaming apps are available immediately, removing the need for an external device. The remote control is lightweight and includes dedicated buttons for common streaming platforms as well as voice control through Google Assistant.

The Nova Mini lacks an internal rechargeable battery found in some portable projectors. However, given the projector’s higher brightness, this trade-off is understandable. The Nova Mini does support USB power delivery so can power the projector with a USB battery bank which can deliver at least 20V/5A (100 W).

HARDWARE

CHASSIS

The NexiGo Nova Mini measures approximately 7.8 inches wide, 7.8 inches deep, and 1.96 inches tall, and it weighs about 3.0 pounds. The form factor is rectangular with rounded corners, designed to fit easily into a backpack or be carried by hand. The projector is compact enough to easily move from room to room where AC power is available, such as dorm rooms, living rooms, or backyards.

On top of the projector, there are basic navigation buttons for power and menu access, which make it easy to make setting adjustments when the included remote control is not readily available. The ventilation grilles and speakers are located on the sides of the chassis. On the bottom of the unit, there is a built-in kickstand and threaded screw hole which can be used to tripod or ceiling mount the projector. NexiGo also sells an optional desktop gimbal stand which lets you tilt and rotate your projector up vertically making simple to project onto ceilings, walls, or any surface.

The connections are on the rear of the Nova Mini which include two HDMI 2.1 inputs, one USB 2.0 port, RJ45 network connection and a 3.5-millimeter audio output. The power input supports USB power delivery so the Nova Mini can be powered by the included power supply or a larger USB battery bank.

Wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.0, which allows pairing with Bluetooth speakers or headphones. The Nova Mini also supports Google Cast and screen mirroring so you can stream your favorite entertainment from your phone, tablet or laptop.

The remote control features the most common buttons needed for everyday operation, including a Google Assistant for voice control of the projector and other compatible 3rd party Internet of Things (IoT) devices via Google Assistant. There are also buttons to directly access popular streaming services or the Apps page.

The lens assembly is fixed with a throw ratio of 1.2:1, which means that a 100-inch diagonal image requires a projection distance of around 8.7 feet. The lens is specified with a projection range of 40 to 200 inches, allowing flexibility depending on available space. Below is a table showing the throw distance for several screen sizes.

As expected in this class, the projector does not include optical zoom, relying instead on placement and digital adjustments. The projector includes autofocus, and digital zoom is available for scaling the image. Features like automatic keystone correction and intelligent object avoidance make setup straightforward, particularly in temporary or mobile environments.

Sharpness across the image is consistent, aided by electronic focus adjustment. Edge distortion is minimal, and geometric correction tools such as four-point keystone adjustment help maintain a proper rectangular image even when the projector cannot be placed directly in front of the screen.

The Nova Mini integrates dual 5-watt speakers positioned to deliver stereo sound in small to medium rooms. While the audio system is not intended to replace a dedicated external system, it is adequate for casual viewing. For users seeking more impact, the 3.5-millimeter output or Bluetooth can be used to connect external speakers or soundbars.

The Nova Mini uses the latest Google TV operating system. This platform provides access to over 10,000 apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube TV. Users can browse and play content directly from the projector without needing an external device such as a streaming stick or media box.

In addition to a wide range of smart features, the Nova Mini includes numerous picture adjustments, such as Color Temperature, Gamma, and Multi-point White balance. The projector's out-of-the-box picture quality is very good, but you have all the adjustments needed to fine-tune the image for your space. If you would like to make some quick adjustments to improve the picture quality of your projector in your room, check out our video called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns.

PERFORMANCE

COLOR REPRODUCTION

The Nova Mini offers several preset picture modes designed to optimize the image for different types of content. These include VIVID, STANDARD, SPORTS, MOVIE, GAME and USER modes, with each emphasizing different balances of brightness, contrast, and color saturation.

The MOVIE mode delivered the best color reproduction at the expense of reduced overall brightness, so it is designed for use in darkened environments. The STANDARD mode is designed for general use in a wider range of lighting conditions. This mode is a lot cooler, switching the Color Temperature to WARM noticeably improves color accuracy.

The color reproduction in the MOVIE mode was quite good for a projector at this price point. Out of the box, colors appear balanced and natural, NexiGo also includes picture calibration adjustments found on higher-end models.

For high dynamic range content, the projector supports HDR10 and HLG, allowing users to benefit from increased detail in highlights and shadows found in HDR-encoded material. Dolby Vision and HDR10+ are not supported, which is expected in this category. The laser light source can reproduce 100% of the Rec.709 color gamut. which covers most HDTV content. I did notice that colors appeared more saturated in HDR mode than in the SDR mode.

I was impressed with the Nova Mini's SDR and HDR color reproduction which was noticeably better than most portable projectors. While most people would be happy with the unit's out of the box image qaulity, you can easily improve the projector's picture quality by making simple adjustments to your projector's BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, and SHARPNESS settings without utilizing the projector's more advanced color adjustments,

Here are links to several free test patterns on the Murideo website and their YouTube channel. Murideo also has detailed written instructions for using its test patterns in the resource section of its website. Also, check out our YouTube video on utilizing several test patterns called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns.

BRIGHTNESS

The Nova Mini has a rated brightness of 1200 lumens. To estimate the projector's maximum brightness, I switched the unit to its brightest mode, STANDARD. I switched the Brightness Mode to Custom and set the Custom Level to 10. I took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the lens.

NexiGo Nova Mini Brightness: 1099 Lumens

The STANDARD mode measured 1099 lumens, which is close to the unit’s rated brightness While the MOVIE mode is the most color accurate, the STANDARD mode offers the best balance of brightness and color reproduction. Due to its rated brightness of 1200 lumens, the Nova Mini can produce a colorful image on screens up to 100” image in dim or dark environments.

In rooms with uncontrolled ambient light, image quality diminishes quickly, as expected with a portable projector in this brightness range. When used in darker spaces, colors appear vibrant, and contrast is reasonably high.

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode	Brightness Measured (Lumens)
USER	1094
STANDARD	1099
VIVID	800
SPORTS	1092
MOVIE	758
GAME	1083

BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE 550
GAMING 504
USER 723
BRIGHTEST 723
TV 723

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode	Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE	550
GAMING	504
USER	723
BRIGHTEST	723
TV	723

As expected, the blacks were closer to gray. Visible contrast improved noticeably when the Scene Adapt Engine (SAE) feature was engaged since the projector continuously adjusts its laser light output and contrast based on the scene being displayed. This feature increases the projector's dynamic contrast to over 15:000:1.

While the Nova Mini can’t match the black level of NexiGo’s award-winning Aurora Pro MKII. Black levels were better than most projectors in this range. In fact, the projector produced better blacks than many DLP home theater projectors that are far more expensive. The Nova Mini did a good job displaying shadow details in the dark areas of the screen.

PICTURE QUALITY

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE 550
GAMING 504
USER 723
BRIGHTEST 723
TV 723

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode	Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE	550
GAMING	504
USER	723
BRIGHTEST	723
TV	723

While the Nova Mini is a Full HD projector, it supports HDR10 and HLG. There are HDR versions of each of the preset picture modes. These modes have their own picture adjustments for brightness contrast, and saturation.

When viewing HDR, I found the MOVIE (HDR10) setting to be a little too warm so I preferred STANDARD (HDR10). Switching the STANDARD (HDR10) mode’s Color Temperature setting from Cool to Standard or the MOVIE (HDR10) mode’s Color Temperature from Warm to Standard delivered the best color reproduction

The projector did a good job to tone mapping most of the challenging scene that I used to evaluate HDR. The Nova Mini does not include any setting to adjust its HDR tone mapping curve, but the default setting looked good on most HDR content. It delivers a good amount of overall screen brightness while still displaying bright highlights.

When viewing HDR, I found the Nova Mini looked best on screens under 100 inches. This ensures that the projector brightness is enough to provide pleasing saturated colors. The Nova Mini deliver a good-looking image whether I was watch SDR or HDR. While the projector supports HDR, and the image looked good, to take advantage of the projector full brightness. I suggest setting your source to SDR, when viewing content on larger screens

The GAME mode prioritizes low latency and responsive input, making it more suitable for console or PC gaming. The Input lag is rated at approximately 27 milliseconds, which is competitive for a portable projector and acceptable for casual to mid-level gaming. While serious competitive gamers may still prefer a dedicated gaming monitor or higher-end gaming projector, the Nova Mini delivers smooth performance for most console and streaming gameplay.

SOUND

The Nova Mini has a high-quality internal 8-watt stereo speaker system that features Dolby Audio technology. The projector sound systems deliver enough output to fill a small to medium-sized room. While the audio system is good for its size, for users seeking more sonic impact, you can use the 3.5-millimeter output or Bluetooth to connect the unit to external speakers or soundbars.

One of the projector’s HDMI inputs also supports ARC (Audio Return Channel), so Nova Beam can send audio to a compatible external audio system or soundbar. We don’t measure fan noise, but NexiGo states 28 dB (Normal), which is fairly quiet. When watching content, I didn’t notice any fan noise from my sitting distance, about 8 feet away.

SUMMARY

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE 550
GAMING 504
USER 723
BRIGHTEST 723
TV 723

Picture Modes: Brightness
Picture Mode	Brightness Measured (Lumens)

MOVIE	550
GAMING	504
USER	723
BRIGHTEST	723
TV	723

In the portable projector market, the NexiGo Nova Mini competes with LED-based models from brands such as Anker Nebula, XGIMI, and ViewSonic. Compared to LED projectors in its price class, the Nova Mini’s use of a laser light source stands out in delivering more brightness. There are some portable projectors that offer higher brightness ratings but they are usually larger or cost more. The Nova Mini provides a balance of affordability and durability that makes it a strong contender for those who prioritize long-term reliability.

The Nova Mini delivers several strengths, including its compact design, long-lasting laser light source, and inclusion of Google TV for streaming convenience. Image quality is solid for the category with balanced colors. It also supports both High Dynamic Range and 3D. Gaming performance is excellent for a portable projector thanks to low input lag and the built-in audio system delivers good sound quality for its size.

Those seeking an all-in-one device with maximum portability may prefer battery-equipped models, but those units won’t be as bright. The Nova Mini is best positioned for users who want a compact projector with reliable performance in controlled lighting and who do not mind relying on a wall outlet or external USB battery bank for power.

The NexiGo Nova Mini represents an affordable entry point into portable laser projectors. It is designed for users who value portability and smart functionality without requiring professional calibration or high-brightness performance.

In dim or dark rooms, it delivers a sharp and colorful image on screens up to 120". Its integration of Google TV makes it easy to stream without extra hardware. While it is not intended for large living room installations or bright daytime use, it serves as a practical solution for casual movie nights, small-room gaming, and travel.

For those seeking a reliable, compact, and straightforward projector that emphasizes convenience and affordability, the Nova Mini makes a compelling case as a portable projection solution.

NexiGo Nova Mini- SPECIFICATIONS

Full Specifications
Projector Model	Nova Mini
Price (MSRP)	$339
Imager Type	DLP
Displayed Resolution	1920 x 1080 pixels
Native Resolution	1920 x 1080 pixels
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)	1200 Lumens
Light Source Type	Blue Laser Phoshor
Contrast Ratio	15,000:1 (Dynamic)
Lens Throw Ratio	1.2:1
Power Zoom/Focus	No
Lens Shift	No
Interchangeable Lens	No
Ultra Short Throw	No
Native Aspect Ratio	16:9 (Widescreen)
4K/120 fps	No
3D	Yes
Speakers	Yes (8 watt)
Noise Level (-db)	28dB
Low Lag Gaming	Yes
Smart Functionality	Yes
Business	Yes
Classroom	Yes
Portable	Yes
Special Features	Google TV OS, Native Netflix App, Easy Setup
Networking	WiFi
Dimensions (WxHxD)	7.8" x 7.8" x 1.9" (198 mm x 198 mm x 51 mm)
Weight	3 lbs (1.36 Kg)
Warranty	1-year Limited

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW

HARDWARE

CHASSIS

PERFORMANCE

COLOR REPRODUCTION

BRIGHTNESS

Picture Modes: Brightness

BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL

Picture Modes: Brightness

PICTURE QUALITY

Picture Modes: Brightness

SOUND

SUMMARY

Picture Modes: Brightness

NexiGo Nova Mini- SPECIFICATIONS

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Reviews

Other Information