[REVIEW] Wanbo X2 Max: An improved version of an affordable projector with FullHD resolution

The contents and quality of the packaging have not changed

Like the previous model, the Wanbo X2 Max comes in a package measuring 25 x 14 x 27 cm and weighing 2 kg. Wanbo still maintains the high quality packaging of the projectors in the form of two boxes and internal foam padding.

The projector is thus excellently protected against impacts and rough handling by transport companies. We find standard equipment in the package. In addition to the projector, there is a remote control, a power cable and a brief manual.

Batteries for the remote control are not included in the package.

Classic projector design

In terms of design, the Wanbo X2 Max resembles classic projectors that we all know well. In the front part, there is an LED lamp, which is the dominant feature of the entire projector, and the brand logo. An inconspicuous sensor for automatic focus is hidden in it.

The only physical button we find on the projector is located in the upper part. It is used to turn the projector on or off. There are individual ports at the back, namely 1 x USB 2.0, 2 x HDMI, AV IN and 3.5 mm audio port.

The bottom side is equipped with a thread for a tripod, and on the sides of the projector, grilles for ventilation and speakers have found their place. If we were to place the Wanbo X2 Pro and X2 Max side by side, they would be indistinguishable. In terms of design, they are completely identical.

On the bottom, there is a kind of tilting support missing, which would be used to tilt the projector itself upwards. We assumed that something like this was already a matter of course, but here the manufacturer decided only for a tripod thread.

Image quality and size

The only significant difference between the older model X2 Pro and X2 Max is the resolution, which has increased from 720p to FullHD, i.e. 1080p (1920 x 1080 px).

As for the size of the picture, it is between 40 and 120″, depending on the distance from the wall or canvas. In the enclosed user manual, there is a clear table that defines the specific size of the image according to the mentioned distance.

The lowest possible distance from the screen or wall is 1.33 m, when we get a 40-inch picture. If we place the projector closer, it cannot focus. At a distance of 2 m, the image is 60", at 2.67 m it is 80", at 3.33 m already 100" and at the maximum distance of 4 m the image is 120". Similar to the minimum resolution, the maximum also represents the limit of focus. At a distance greater than 4 m, the projector can no longer focus.

The brightness remained the same as the X2 Pro model, 450 ANSI lumens. As we mentioned in the Wanbo X2 Pro review, this luminosity is ideal for watching content in a shaded room or in the evening after dark. During daylight, the image is relatively bright and the colors are therefore washed out. However, it is enough to create a slight dimming and the overall viewing experience will be greatly enhanced.

Sharpness is good, but only when positioned perpendicular to the wall or canvas. If we already place the projector at a slight angle, we need to adjust the image using the so-called corrections (keystone), which is also related to the decrease in sharpness.

Unfortunately, we do not have a correction for all four years separately. We can only change the position of individual pages, for example, tilt the entire image. However, it is sufficient in most cases, but correcting all four corners separately is more convenient and accurate.

System and graphical interface

Wanbo X2 Max runs on the Android operating system in the older version 9. The graphical interface resembles the layout of individual elements on Android TV.

Here we find several pre-installed applications such as FileManager, SpeakerModel, Chrome, Miracast, YouTube, Netflix, OfficeSuite, EShareServer, Prime Video, M Player and iMirror. A couple of application stores are used to install other applications - the official Google Play Store and the manufacturer's App Store.

In addition, there are also many links to install various applications, for example, to multimedia content in various applications. The system is the same as in the case of almost all the latest projectors from the Wanbo brand.

Unfortunately, Netflix does not have official support, so the resolution is limited, but in the case of a projector with a maximum resolution of 1080p, this may not be such a problem.

As for fluidity, the projector at this price is of course no rocket. The system is often slightly sluggish and occasional hiccups are a daily occurrence. However, it is nothing terrible and we would rather take it for granted in this price category.

Hardware and connectivity

We are glad that even a low-end projector can automatically focus the image. We don't have to turn any wheel, but if we don't like the result of the automatic focus, we can control it manually using the buttons on the remote control. However, we personally had no problems with the automatic focus.

On the hardware side, the manufacturer does not specify a specific processor or memory type. We only have an indication of their capacity. Wanbo X2 Max received 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage.

WiFi in version 6 with support for both frequency bands, 2.4 and 5 GHz, is not quite a standard feature of such cheap projectors. There is also Bluetooth, this time in version 5.0.

In terms of physical connectivity, we remain with the traditional equipment, which is 2 x HDMI, 1 x USB, AV-in and a 3.5 mm headphone port.

Remote control, noise and sound quality

The remote control is the same as for almost every Wanbo projector. It is all white with black buttons that are rubberized and press comfortably. It contains all important buttons for easy and quick operation.

As for the sound, we can find a pair of 5W speakers in the equipment, which belong to a kind of weaker average. They lack bass, but the volume is sufficient. However, we definitely recommend connecting external speakers or a soundbar.

Many people are concerned about the noise level of cheap projectors being too high. Yes, they are usually noisier. The Wanbo X2 Max reaches a level of 35 dB, but during normal viewing, if we are not sitting right next to the projector, we did not notice it at all.

Wanbo X2 Max: Final review

The Wanbo X2 Max is a slightly improved model of the outgoing Wanbo X2 Pro. Despite the designation Max, it has the same dimensions and is completely unrecognizable at first glance. The only real difference is the higher resolution, which has increased from 720p to FullHD, 1920 x 1080 px.

The brightness remains unchanged, 450 ANSI lumens. WiFi in version 6 and a convenient remote control will please. As for the image quality, it is good, but due to the lower brightness, it is necessary to shade the room at least slightly.

For a relatively low price, you get a slightly improved basic model for a less demanding user.