Introduction
Sony's latest entry into the projector space is here, and it comes in a wonderfully tiny package. The MP-CL1 ($349, £229, AU$499) is Sony's first pico projector, offering an extremely portable projection solution for users on the go. Due to its tiny form factor, the MP-CL1 is in firm competition with other mini-projectors such as the LG Minibeam PH300 ($449, £290, AU$603) and the ZTE SPro ($400 £270, AU$530).
If you're a professional road warrior, the MP-CL1 combines a number of features that make it an attractive option for impromptu presentations. At 7.2 ounces (210 grams), it is much lighter than the LG PH300 (15.2 ounces), and even the already-tiny ZTE SPro (14.1 ounces).
Despite its small size, the MP-CL1 still manages to pack in handy features like Wi-Fi connectivity and laser projection with autofocus. At least on the surface, the only place where the MP-CL1 appears to be lacking in comparison is when it comes to its paltry lumen count of 32.
On paper, the MC-PL1 looks like a great contender in the portable projector space, but let's take a closer look at its performance, look and feel.
Design
Packaging is often the least recognized part of opening any new gadget, but I thought Sony's presentation with the MP-CL1 deserved a mention. The projector comes packaged in a fairly nondescript black, book-like box simply emblazoned with the Sony logo up front. The thick, smooth stock combined with a magnetic hinge makes for a premium feel that rivals Apple's attention to packaging detail.
And that premium feel carries over to the projector itself. The chassis is largely made up of matte black aluminum, with the only plastic appearing in the very front and back of the device. The construction overall feels very sturdy, with the only point of contention being those two plastic pieces, which I could see being troublesome if the projector was dropped.
The top of the MP-CL1 is adorned only with a Sony logo at the back, along with power and battery indicators at the front. The right side of the projector is made up of smooth, unbroken aluminum, while the left side features one USB port, a 3.5mm audio jack, a mini HDMI port, a micro USB charging port, and buttons for power and moving around menus.
On the front of the MP-CL1, you'll find another Sony logo, along with the recessed projector lens. Moving around to the bottom, this is where things get a little messy with a speaker grill and all of the regulatory information and stickers – although this side of the device will remain hidden most of the time anyway.
And now for the real draw of the MP-CL1: its size. Upon first look, it would be easy to mistake the projector for a slightly overgrown smartphone. The MP-CL1 measures in at a very pocketable 3.0 x 5.9 x 0.51 inches (77 x 149.5 x 13mm). Compared to the ZTE SPro, which measures 4.7 x 4.7 x 1.1-inch (120.6 x 120.6 x 28.5mm), the MP-CL1 is a tad longer, but its rectangular shape and thinner profile is much more pocket-friendly.
Specs and performance
The MP-CL1 features a laser projection system that is rated at just 32 lumens and projects in a rather odd native resolution of 1920 x 720. Although the MP-CL1 won't win any awards for its brightness, which falls far short of the LG PH300's 300 lumen rating, the laser projection system can make for a sharper image with no need for manual focus controls.
Specs
Additionally, Sony's MP-CL1 sports an impressive contrast ratio of 80,000:1, a 3000mAh battery rated at 2-hours, and the ability to mirror a smartphone or tablet over Wi-Fi, along with an HDMI connection that is MHL compatible, meaning you can connect practically any other HDMI device for streaming and mirroring over a hardwired connection.
Below is the Sony MP-CL1 configuration sent to TechRadar Pro:
- Projection system: Laser
- Resolution: 1920 x 720
- Brightness: 32 Lumens
- Contrast ratio: 80,000:1
- Projection size: Up to 120"
- Video inputs: mini HDMI, USB
- Audio outputs: 3.5mm jack
- Dimensions: 3.0 x 5.9 x 0.51 inches
Performance
It may be a bit surprising considering its small form factor, but the MP-CL1 sports some impressive image quality. Although the resolution is a bit of an oddball at 1920 x 720, I found that HD video was pleasant to watch. However, a full HD resolution still may be preferable for image purists.
Upon booting the projector up for the first time, colors were fairly poppy, but I did find the picture to be a tad warmer than I'd like. The colors weren't horribly off, and it's mostly a subjective matter, but a quick jaunt to the settings menu allowed for a bit of tinkering. However, some might find the number of picture settings to be a bit limiting, with Color, Hue and Saturation being the only three options.
The MP-CL1's brightness, 32 lumens, was of particular concern for me initially. Sure enough, I found that the projector is definitely not an option for brightly-lit rooms. However, it performed admirably in dim lighting, and impressed me quite a bit with its sharpness and clarity in true, dark environments. It seems that the laser projection system in this little guy really makes a difference as far as brightness is concerned.
One particularly nice feature of the MP-CL1's laser projection system is its autofocus. Oftentimes, one of the most frustrating aspects of setting up a projector is dialing in the proper focus settings so text and images pop. With the MP-CL1, there's no need for a focus control, and I found that the projector kept everything in proper focus no matter how far I moved it from the projection surface.
The MP-CL1 sports two main connectivity options: mini HDMI and WiFi for wireless display mirroring. HDMI performed as you'd expect, properly handling anything I could throw at it. Similarly, display mirroring over WiFi was as simple as casting to the MP-CL1's ad-hoc network from a compatible device.
One thing to watch out for, however, is that wireless display mirroring appears to be limited to certain devices. In particular, while I was able to wirelessly cast to the projector with my Android phone, I was unable to do so with a Mac or iPhone. It's likely this is due to Apple's preference for its own AirPlay standard, rather than Miracast, but it's unfortunate nonetheless.
If you are using a compatible device, however, wireless display mirroring on the MP-CL1 is great. You can project documents, videos, and more right from your device – essentially using your smartphone as a presentation clicker.
As far as the single USB port is concerned, I'm a bit torn on its use. On one hand, it allows the MP-CL1 to be used as an external charger for your other devices, which can come in handy. On the other hand, it doesn't appear to serve any other function. I was unable to use it as a host for a USB flash drive loaded with Office documents, which is a feature you'll find on many other projectors. Still, it's neat that Sony's offering can serve as a portable 3000mAh battery when you need a bit of extra juice.
Although the MP-CL1 performs exceptionally well when it comes to picture quality and performance, one particular pain point is its speaker. It's definitely understandable given the projector's small stature, but sound quality and volume out of the single speaker on the bottom of the device leaves a lot to be desired. I foresee the 3.5mm headphone jack getting a lot of play with either headphones or external speakers.
Finally, Sony estimates that the MP-CL1 will fetch right around 2-hours of continuous projecting time. In my testing, I found that to be just about right, with a couple of different tests involving streaming video and device mirroring coming in right around the 2-hour mark.
Verdict
The Sony MP-CL1 has a lot to offer in a package not much bigger than your average phablet. Yes, it has some major flaws, but we think they're worth the tradeoff for sheer portability.
We liked
Due to its diminutive stature, the Sony MP-CL1 is perfect for anyone giving presentations on the go. Unlike most other portable projectors, you can simply slide Sony's latest offering in your pocket and walk out the door – no bag necessary. Add in a premium feel and attractive design, and this projector packs quite a punch that may earn you some compliments at your next presentation.
Connectivity is limited to mini HDMI and wireless display mirroring, but that seems like a perfect tradeoff for extreme mobility. The included mini HDMI to HDMI dongle eliminates the need to purchase any additional accessories, and display mirroring allows you to simply connect your smartphone and go.
Finally, although I initially questioned how the MP-CL1's output would fare, the picture quality proved to be clear, sharp and bright enough for dim-to-dark environments. Add in keystone correction and no need to manually set the focus, and the MP-CL1's display prowess makes it an extremely attractive offering.
We disliked
As previously mentioned, the extreme portability of the MP-CL1 doesn't come without its drawbacks. Even though the projector is extremely pocketable, you're still going to have to carry around an HDMI cable if you don't have a device compatible with the wireless display mirroring. This means adding a little bit of extra bulk to your bag or briefcase and slightly complicates setup.
Additionally, it would have been great to see Bluetooth on board to make up for the projector's disappointing sound quality. The ability to transmit audio to a Bluetooth speaker setup would be a simple solution, but, as it stands, you're limited to wired speakers to overcome the poor volume on the MP-CL1.
Finally, while the MP-CL1 scores points for packing great image quality into such a small form factor, it still isn't going to trump much more expensive, high-end projectors. If you can get away with giving your presentations in dim or dark rooms, you're all set. However, if you have to take on your next sales pitch in a bright setting, you'll want to look elsewhere.
Final verdict
Sony's MP-CL1 offers great value for those looking for an extremely portable projector. Between its sharp, laser-projected picture, wireless connectivity and $350 list price, the MP-CL1 seemingly beats out similar small form factor projectors in its price range, like the LG PH300 and ZTE SPro. As long as you're willing to acknowledge that the MP-CL1 isn't meant to compete with the big dogs in the projector space, its few shortcomings are fairly easy to look past, especially when considering the ability to simply slip it in your pocket and go.
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