ASUS Zenbeam L2 Review

The ASUS Zenbeam L2 brings big-screen entertainment wherever you go. With its portable design and impressive big-screen visuals, this projector boasts a built-in 10W sound system enhanced by Smart AMP technology and Harmon Kardon tuning. Compatible with various devices and operating systems, it seamlessly casts content from smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, or laptops onto a large screen, whether connected wired or wirelessly.

Highlights

• Built-in 10W speakers
• 120-inch image at three meters
• Instant autofocus and H/V keystone and four-corner correction
• 1080p FHD with 120% sRGB, 4K HDR compatibility & 960 ANSI Lumens
• HDMI & USB-C Connectivity
• Android TV box with preloaded Netflix
• 3.5hr Built-in Battery 65Wh, 6-cell

Specifications

View full specifications here.

Packaging

The ASUS Zenbeam L2 comes in an stylish ASUS-branded cardboard box with product graphics and logos on the sides. The contents of the package includes:

• Carrying Bag
• Adaptor
• Power Cord
• Warranty Card
• QSG
• Remote Control
• AAA battery
• Android TV Box

Design & Build

The ASUS Zenbeam L2 boasts a compact and portable design, measuring a mere 132 x 172 x 132 mm and weighing approximately 1.6 kg.

Featuring excellent build quality, the Zenbeam L2 feels robust and just right in terms of weight, offering a premium feel without sacrificing portability. Its sleek design features a leather carrying handle, complemented by understated blue and charcoal finishes that exude professionalism.

The top cover, magnetically attached, can be detached to insert the included Android TV dongle. This dongle connects via a mini-HDMI port and a micro-USB port, drawing power.

Included with the projector is a TV box that seamlessly integrates with Android TV, putting you in control of your entertainment. With a quick and hassle-free setup, accessing your favorite content from streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video becomes effortless using the accompanying remote control. Plus, for on-the-go convenience, the TV box neatly fits within the Zenbeam L2.

The projector’s circular chassis showcases dotted cutouts, with ventilation meshes positioned at the top. The front houses the projection lens and incorporates four buttons for functions like input source, auto keystone adjustment, navigation via a four-directional knob, and a back button.

Near the base, you’ll find a Type-C port for powering the projector, a Type-A port for charging devices connected to the projector, and another versatile Type-C port supporting DisplayPort and compatible connections with laptops and devices, including Power Delivery. Additionally, there are HDMI and 3.5mm audio-out ports for further connectivity options.

Features & Performance

The ASUS Zenbeam L2 offers a native output resolution of 1080p and a brightness of 960 LED lumens, featuring an LED life rated at 30,000 hours in normal mode. This projector also supports 4K output and HDR10, ensuring exceptional image quality.

Regarding audio capabilities, the Zenbeam L2 boasts a 10W output enhanced by Smart AMP technology and Harmon Kardon tuning. While it includes a 3.5mm line-out for external speaker connectivity, the volume might be inadequate for immersive entertainment experiences.

Connectivity options are abundant, with HDMI and Type-C ports providing flexibility for various sources like laptops and gaming consoles. Additionally, the Zenbeam L2 supports Google Chromecast, enabling wireless mirroring of Android phones. The included streaming dongle, powered by Android TV, grants access to a diverse range of apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and more. Integration with devices like the “Amazon Fire Stick” through HDMI is seamless within the Android TV ecosystem. However, wireless streaming requires you to sign in to your Google account.

The short-throw lens allows for a 40” image projection from just 1 meter away, catering to smaller rooms or confined spaces. Even projecting a 120” image only requires 3 meters of distance. In dark indoor settings, the 1080p resolution with 4K HDR10 support and 24-bit color depth delivers detailed and crisp images, covering 120% sRGB color gamut.

However, with a maximum brightness of 400 ANSI lumens, the Zenbeam L2 might struggle in bright environments, especially with screen edge clarity. Optimal performance requires using the projector in darkened rooms.

Image clarity remains consistent at various angles, thanks to effective geometric and four-corner corrections alongside horizontal and vertical keystone adjustments. The built-in focus sensor automatically adjusts focus based on the distance between the projector and the screen.

Battery life, rated at approximately 3.5 hours in low-power mode, might fall short, providing around 1.5 hours in practical usage. Supplementing with a power bank is advisable for extended wireless usage. Alternatively, connecting to a power source is always an option for uninterrupted usage.

Additionally, voice command support via Google Assistant adds convenience. A standout exclusive feature, the ASUS Light Wall, transforms any room by offering 26 built-in content options, turning walls into virtual windows with vibrant effects, creating a cozy ambiance with natural-looking light and playful designs.

Verdict

The ASUS Zenbeam L2 projector offers impressive portability, excellent image quality in dark environments, and versatile connectivity options. Its compact design, coupled with Android TV integration and 10W audio, makes it a convenient entertainment hub. However, its limited brightness hampers performance in well-lit spaces, and the battery life might fall short for extended use without a power source.

The ASUS Zenbeam L2, while not topping the projector charts, stands as a reliable option for portable entertainment. It simplifies achieving ideal screen sizes and viewing distances effortlessly, enabling seamless streaming from mobile, tablet, or laptop devices. And unlike a fixed smart TV, its portability allows hassle-free relocation to any desired location.