A projector that fits in a backpack. 5 things you should know about Samsung The Freestyle [TEST]

The test of The Freestyle projector coincided with my weekend trip out of town. So I had the opportunity to check this equipment “in the field”. At this point, I can confirm right away that the title of this text is not exaggerated. The Freestyle actually fits in a backpack. And I know this because when packing, I threw it into my backpack along with the laptop, power bank and chargers.

How did Samsung’s equipment fare during the tests? Here are 5 things you should know about it.

1) Compact and stylish

As I mentioned at the very beginning, we are dealing here with a very compact projector. The Freestyle weighs only 0.83 kg, and its dimensions are 103 x 172 x 95 mm. The Samsung device has been equipped with a useful stand that allows us to set the lamp at different angles. If we really want, we can even project the image on the ceiling

The Freestyle has been equipped with two ports – USB-C (power connector) and microHDMI. Next to them there is also a physical microphone switch that allows voice control of the device.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

There is also a lamp on the front panel four touch buttons to control the projector. I must admit that using them is not very convenient. Fortunately, the projector was included remote – very similar to the one found in Samsung TVs.

When it comes to design, The Freestyle looks very stylish and minimalist at the same time. Interestingly, to the device we can buy a special adapter, which will allow us to mount it in the bulb socket, thanks to which the projector can be hung just under the ceiling.

The Freestyle has built-in 5W speaker. Needless to say, I was surprised by how purely, and at the same loudly this kid is playing. What’s more, it copes well with surround sound. However, if we need a stronger hit, The Freestyle can easily be paired with any Bluetooth speaker.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

2) Automatic mode could work better

The Freestyle offers auto focus and auto keystone correction. So in theory when the projector is turned on we should get the best possible picture from the spot. In practice, however, it is different – sometimes the projector simply lost focus, and the automatic mode could not cope with it.

Therefore, I strongly recommend self-calibration of the image. It’s an extra 2-3 minutes of “fun”, but the game is worth the candle. In my tests, it never happened that the image in automatic mode looked better than in manual mode.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

3) You don’t need to connect it to any device

The Freestyle is not only compact but completely standalone projector. We do not have to (although we can) connect it to any external device. This is due to the fact that this equipment works under control system and has built-in Smart TV features.

In practice, this means that we can install the same applications on this projector as in the case of Samsung TVs. So there is Netflix, HBO Max, Spotify, Viaplay, YouTube, Prime Video and dozens of other VOD apps (and more).

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

It’s just a pity that the Tizen system in The Freestyle doesn’t work like that quick and responsive, as in the case of televisions, which is certainly influenced by the application not very efficient SoC.

However, if you want to connect the projector to another device then – except for the microHDMI connector – we also have a whole range of wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi Direct, Apple AirPlay 2 mirroring With Android if DLNA.

In the case of a wired connection with Playstation 5 be Xbox Series X/S it is worth remembering to equip yourself with an HDMI-microHDMI cable or a suitable adapter.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

4) Good but not great image quality

The Freestyle has been equipped with lamp LED, who works in technology DLP. The maximum brightness is 550 lumens, and the resolution is 1920×1080. According to the manufacturer’s specification, the projection diagonal ranges from 30 to 100 inches.

However, keep in mind that the larger the screen, the less detailedand at the same darker there will be a picture. It is a pity that Samsung did not focus on 4K resolution here – in this case 100 inches would make more sense, and with FullHD it is only art for art’s sake.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

It doesn’t change the fact that in a well-dark place room The Freestyle can “throw” a really eye-pleasing image on the wall, and the presence of HDR10 technology is an additional flavor here, which enhances slightly too faded colors.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

It positively surprised me too low input lag, which is about 60ms. There is no approach to the top Samsung TVs The Freestyle, but compared to other projectors it performs very well. You won’t have any problem with playing a tournament in FIFA on this device.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

5) The lack of a built-in battery is a bit shocking

When it comes to negative surprises, the biggest one is probably the lack of a built-in battery, which is quite the case with a compact projector disqualifying. Yes, using the USB-C port The Freestyle can be connected to an external power bank, however, not for everyone – equipment with a minimum power of 50W is required.

The second possibility is equipping yourself with a dedicated powerbank from Samsung. It has capacity 32,000mAhwhich translates into about 3 hours of operation of the device. What’s more, this powerbank can be cleverly connected to the base of the projector itself.

Samsung The Freestyle photo by DM

So where is the catch? We have to pay about PLN 800 for a powerbank for The Freestyle. OK, considering its specification, it’s not a terrible price. However, I will insist that the battery should be included with the projector, which alone costs over 3.5 thousand. zlotys.