Xgimi's Aura 3 series heads to the US with 4K 120Hz, Google TV and Dolby Vision

Xgimi’s Aura 3 ultra-short-throw laser projectors, which debuted in China back in May, are open for pre-order in the US ahead of a Kickstarter launch on 20 October. Kickstarter backers will pay $2,399 for the Aura 3 Max and $2,199 for the Aura 3 Pro. A $50 refundable deposit placed on Xgimi’s US store takes a further $200 off each model, bringing them to $2,199 and $1,999.

Xgimi says the two models are the first ultra-short-throw projectors to output 4K at 120Hz. The series uses two DLPC 8545 display controllers running in parallel to drive the higher refresh rate, and it supports variable refresh rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Dolby Vision gaming. The company quotes input lag as low as 1ms, depending on the picture mode.

The Max is rated at 5,700 ISO lumens with an 8,000:1 native contrast ratio, while the Pro reaches 4,100 ISO lumens and 7,000:1. Both use an RGB triple-laser light source and Xgimi’s Dynamic Dual Iris system, which adjusts light output in real time. Xgimi claims the Max covers 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut.

A 0.163:1 throw ratio lets the projectors cast a 120-inch picture from about eight inches away from the wall, and the Max scales up to 200 inches. HDR support covers Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG, and the series carries IMAX Enhanced certification. The projectors also play 3D content, with two pairs of glasses included.

Google TV runs on both models, with native apps for services including Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube, as well as Google Cast. An 80W Harman Kardon speaker system handles Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X audio. When the projector is idle, Xgimi’s WALL app can turn the projection surface into a digital art display.

Deposit holders will receive a link on 20 October to complete their Kickstarter pledge. Xgimi lists retail prices of $4,999 for the Max and $3,999 for the Pro on its US store and has not announced a shipping date.