Most modern homes are either fitted with the slimmest TV which stays tethered to a power outlet in the living room. Or, a projector replaces it. But we’ve yet to see a projector as versatile and satisfactory as this one.
This is the Samsung Freestyle. It was one of the most anticipated products to showcase in the CES 2022; one of the biggest trade shows that showcase new technologies around the world. Sure, portable projectors have existed for quite a while, but we felt there hasn’t been a “lifestyle” projector that’s interesting enough to be called a life-changer.
The Freestyle may look like a fad, but we’ve quickly found it to be promising, being capable of several cool stuff and tricks as well as conveniences.
In the past, we’ve tried portable projectors. As we don’t get to review much in the portable projector segment due to the limited options, we were hyped to check out the Freestyle the moment we’ve gotten the chance from Samsung.
Here’s our first impression of the Freestyle projector and what you can expect from it.
Watch our first impression of the Freestyle by Samsung here.
Design
As we’ve already stated, this is a portable device. In a size as big as a mini Bluetooth speaker, you can easily carry this around, throw it into your backpack and set it up anywhere. Whether that’s at your friend’s place or outdoors, it's all doable. Maybe that’s why they call it ‘the Freestyle’.
Assuming you’ve not seen projectors like that before, The Freestyle doesn’t make it clear what it seems to be. If you’re still not sure, this is a 100” portable FHD Smart Projector.
The Freestyle comes in a plug-and-play setup with a 180-degree swivel design. Yeap, that means you don’t need a projector stand for it at all. Just set it down on any surface, have the head face the wall and adjust it to your desired angle for the most comfortable viewing experience with zero effort.
Aside from the lens, the projector has a few touch buttons for operation: power, volume and a pairing button to quickly connect to your Samsung mobile device for a seamless connection.
On the side, you’ll find a USB Type C port, mini HDMI port & a microphone toggle switch.
Audio & Voice Recognition
Although tiny, Samsung did not think to compromise a projector like this in every aspect. In fact, the Freestyle has quite a well thought-after audio system, being fitted with 5W 360 Dolby sound. What’s great as well is that its output section is primed for future add-ons as the speaker is designed to be a modular one.
Not forgetting; there’s also a remote control for the speaker, which has pretty much every command you’d need on there - including the voice assistant button to control Bixby.
Picture Quality
Regarding pictures, the Freestyle has a 100” 1080p display. Visuals look brilliant with colours seemingly nice and punchy as well as great contrast levels.
We even get HDR10 & HLG support on the projector with a contrast ratio of 100,000:1; the dynamic range is quite great.
In terms of the throw distance, it will be about 8.8 ft to get that 100”.
Brightness is said to reach 550 Lumens which is more than enough for relative brighter surroundings. But of course, for the best possible experience, you can achieve more immersive visuals in darkness.
Smart Features & More
Now, this is a smart projector. So you can expect smart features like built-in app support, the ability to download more supporting apps and voice recognition to name a few. This also means being able to enjoy Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime and more.
The interface is Tizen OS which seems pleasant and easy to navigate through.
Not to forget, there’s also an Ambient section that provides effects and features which can serve as a decorative screensaver or night light for your home walls. Just put on some music to play on the Freestyle, set some lights and you can pretty much customise any kind of ambience in whatever room you’re in.
Freestyle Review Coming Soon
What did you think? This is was just our first look at the device, and we’re already quite impressed and excited.
For us, the Freestyle has many good points: massive screen, beautiful visuals and sound.
Even if you don’t want it to be your full-fledged projector, the Freestyle would make a good entertainment unit for your home. We can see it being a cool tabletop device as well when you play host to guests.
Stay tuned for our full review!
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