I have been using the Joybee GP1 mini projector for a couple of weeks now, and I can say that I’m impressed with its overall performance. Though there are some minor shortcomings, the Joybee GP1 mini projector is doing its job well. The entire experience is detailed below:

Joybee GP1 Mini Projector Package

BenQ Joybee GP1 Mini Projector comes with the following accessories:

• AC Adapter and power cord
• Remote Control
• Small padded bag
• Multi Input Cables
• Disk containing user’s manual
• Quick Start Guide , safety Manual and Warranty Card
• Aside from that, BenQ is kind enough to include a 2GB Sandisk Cruzer flash drive, containing sample videos and other documentations to help the new user get acquainted with the new GP1 projector.

Getting familiar with the GP1 Mini Projector

The GP1 mini projector is presented in a box like appearance with an elegant glossy black top and white exterior. On top of it lies a control panel consisting of buttons with blue back light, and a focus ring that would let you adjust the focus of the projected image easily.

The lens, though not covered, is a bit recessed protecting it from dusts and accidents. An air vent and the remote sensor is also found in front of the projector. At the back you can find the USB reader, a multi input socket, which at first I thought the same as the one in the Ipod. An audio output socket which is applicable only when using the USB reader. In case you need to adjust the height of the projected image, there is an adjuster foot and tripod screw located at the bottom of the projector.

Testing the Mini Projector

A first time user like me, need not feel intimidated when using this projector. I’m so lazy to read the entire manual to get started, so just like some other gadgets that came to my hands, I started operating the Joybee GP1 simply by following the menu on the screen. Button symbols in the control panel are straight forward so getting started navigating through the menu is really hassle free. I first tested it using the USB reader, connected my Fujitsu Handy Drive to watch a movie. Upon plugged in, the projector searched for the source which will take a few seconds, you will then have an option to view Photos, Movies or go to projector Settings.

Depending on the option chosen, the projector will automatically go to the location where images or movies are located. So if your external storage contains other folders and files, you don’t have to browse through all these. This is of course limited if you have different folders for images and movies, I guess the projector will go to the first location it identifies as the location of the files needed. As seemless as connecting to the USB reader, connecting the Joybee GP1 mini projector to my laptop is effortless. When using my laptop, the projector suggested a recommended display settings which I find unnecessary when just viewing a movie. But in situations where you are to display text that must be readable at some distance, it is recommended to follow the suggested display settings.

I also successfully connected my Canon camera by using an A/V cable supplied in my camera package, done by connecting it to the corresponding socket of the multi-input cable. In effect, the projector works as a large view finder, depending on which camera mode you choose. Browsing through images will still be controlled on the camera, not by the projector. Connecting your IPOD touch or iPhone is also possible, though I wasn’t able to test it since the Ipod dock accessory is not included in my test package. This is sold separately.

Joybee GP1 Image Projection and Sounds

At about 5.5feet distance from the mini projector, the projected image measures approximately 48inches diagonal. At normal room lighting, I could still see the projected image, but in poor quality. You would appreciate it more in dim light or better, no lighting at all.

In a dark room, the colors are so vivid and clear. Though, the projection quality can’t be matched with the bigger projectors, I find it tolerable considering the portability this mini projector offers.

The built in speaker is just so-so for me. At a highest volume level, there are times that I can barely hear the sound coming from it.  It is ok when you are alone and the room is so quiet, but when tried with all your family members in the room, at a medium noise level, you can hardly hear it. In this case, just use a separate speaker and everything will be great.

Here are shots taken on different room lighting condition:

Captured from the movie Horton

Captured from the movie Horton

Captured from the movie When Love Begins (with light coming from other room)

Lights ON

Lights OFF

Joybee GP1 Adjustments and Settings

The projector is also armed with different settings for the user to fully enjoy using the product. Wall color correction, keystone adjustment, different picture modes among others, are the one’s that I find very useful. Simply use the remote or the control panel buttons when browsing through the menu. When using the remote control, the upper group of buttons are dedicated to control the projector menu, while the lower group is used when using the USB reader.

Joybee GP1 Portability

With the Joybee Gp1 Mini projector alone, it would be easier to place it in any shoulder bags. But including the AC Adapter, which of the same size as of that of a laptop, the power and the multi-input cables, it would need an extra space to fit all the needed accessories.

But definitely, it is much much easier to carry the mini projector around considering you can use it without a computer. I think it would be much easier if the supplied bag can accommodate all the needed accessories and the projector

Likes: Small enough to carry around; bright, vivid color in low lights; PC less operation; easy, hassle free setup; Can connect on multiple devices;

Dislikes: Multi-input cable is too short, limiting source and projector location; Unresponsive control panel buttons; Weak built in speaker sound.

My say: Having been using it for a couple of weeks now, I can say that I’m impressed and satisfied with its features and capabilities. The BenQ Gp1 mini projector gives a user quite a lot of projector usage, from on the go business presentations to a vast array of entertainment applications. At a price of $499 (at the time of the review), others find it expensive, but taking into account its features,quality, usage and portability, the price is just right for it.

Joybee GP1 Product Rating (1-5, with 1 is the lowest):

• Ease of use: 4
• Picture quality: 4
• Portability: 4
• Features: 4
• Value: 3.5

For Joybee GP1 Mini Projector specifications, please visit my Gp1 Mini Projector Unboxing Post

For more information about BenQ Gp1 mini projector, please visit BenQ at http://www.BenQ.us

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