Formovie Episode One Hardware Review: Projection Excellence?

At Droid Gamers, we test all kinds of mobile gaming gear—but a projector? Now that’s a fresh addition. The Formovie Episode One caught our eye as a smart choice for gamers looking to stream their favorite mobile titles on a bigger screen. Marketed as an affordable alternative in a space usually dominated by high-end, expensive models, this projector delivers on its promise—and then some—despite a few minor trade-offs.

Straight out of the box, you’ll find the projector, a remote control (batteries not included), power cable, and user manual. It feels solid without being overly heavy—just under three pounds—which makes it genuinely portable. While it may not have the premium weight of pricier units, that lightweight design is a plus if you plan to take it on the go.

Port selection is minimal but practical: one USB-A port, one HDMI input, and a single 3.5mm audio jack. Given the budget-friendly price point, this setup works well for most users—though power users might wish for more connectivity options.

Performance-wise, the Episode One shines—literally. With 150 ISO lumens, it’s not the brightest laser projector around, so don’t expect crisp visuals in full daylight. In darker environments, however, the image quality is clear and vibrant. We tested it with movies, TV shows, and mobile games—all played smoothly and looked great when the room was dimmed or dark.

For optimal image size and clarity, we recommend placing the projector at least 10 feet from your wall or screen. Audio output from the built-in speaker is functional but lacks depth—it’s somewhat tinny. For a better experience, pairing it with an external speaker via the audio jack is highly recommended.

The user interface stands out as one of the best in its class. Simple, intuitive, and refreshingly uncluttered, the Episode One is easier to set up and navigate than many more expensive models we’ve reviewed. Its streamlined design actually enhances usability—a rare win in the projector world.

In summary, the Formovie Episode One is an excellent entry-level projector. It doesn’t excel in any single area dramatically, but it performs consistently across the board—making it ideal for casual users, mobile gamers, and anyone dipping their toes into home projection for the first time.

Bonus: Purchase the Episode One before May 27th and receive a free Netflix gift card worth $15 / €15. [ttpp]