When it comes to ultra short throw (UST) projectors in 2025, one model stands out above the rest — XGIMI AURA 2. Crowned with the prestigious EISA Award 2025 for Best UST Projector, this next-gen home theater solution blends high-performance visuals with sleek design and intelligent features. If you’re serious about immersive home entertainment, this is the UST projector to beat this year.
Best Projectors According to the Experts 2025
XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro | XGIMI AURA 2 | Hisense PL2 | Hisense C1 |
 $449.99
|  $2 294.99
|  $1 997.97
|  $1 997.97
|
4.5 (110 reviews) | 4.4 (132 reviews) | 4.3 (159 reviews) | 4.6 (89 reviews) |
Why the XGIMI AURA 2 Was Named Best UST Projector by EISA
The European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) jury praised the XGIMI AURA 2 for delivering an uncompromising cinematic experience in a compact UST format. Featuring 4K DLP optics, Dual Light 2.0 laser technology, and support for Dolby Vision and IMAX Enhanced content, the AURA 2 produces truly stunning visuals.
The jury highlighted its ability to excel across the board — whether you’re watching movies, live sports, or gaming. Its 2300 ISO lumens brightness, combined with crisp detailing and superior color handling, makes it a top contender not just in darkened home theaters but also in well-lit living rooms.
Our Expert Review & Rating
Overall Rating: 4.7 / 5
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Picture Quality |  |
| Sound Quality | |
| Smart Features | ☆ |
| Ease of Use | |
| Design & Build | |
| Value for Money | ☆ |
Verdict:
The XGIMI AURA 2 is hands down the best UST projector in its class. With effortless setup, world-class image performance, and built-in Harman/Kardon speakers that truly impress, this projector delivers more than most competitors in this price range.
XGIMI AURA 2: Full Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) |
| Brightness | 2300 ISO Lumens |
| Contrast Ratio | 1,000,000:1 |
| Laser Technology | Dual Light 2.0 |
| Throw Ratio | 0.177:1 (100” image from just 17.8 cm) |
| Audio | 4x Harman/Kardon speakers with Dolby Atmos & DTS-HD support |
| Smart System | Android TV with voice control |
| Auto Adjustment | Autofocus, Auto Keystone, Wall Color & Flatness Adaption |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth |
| Special Features | Eye Protection Sensor, Eco Mode, Art Mode, Screen Alignment Assist |
| Price | $3499 USD (MSRP) |
What Makes the XGIMI AURA 2 Special?
Ultra Short Throw Simplicity
Project a 100” screen from less than 18 cm from the wall — ideal for tight spaces or minimalist setups.
Built-in Harman/Kardon Sound
You won’t need a soundbar — the AURA 2’s built-in speakers deliver clear, punchy audio with Dolby Atmos decoding.
Realistic & Vivid Colors
Thanks to its Dual Light 2.0 laser engine and wall color adaption, you get vivid color accuracy, even on colored walls.
Fully Automated Setup
Auto focus, auto keystone correction, and Intelligent Screen Adaption 5.0 eliminate the setup guesswork. Whether you’ve moved the projector or you’re using an uneven wall, it calibrates in seconds.
Eye Safety & Energy Efficiency
Built-in sensors shut off the laser instantly if anyone gets too close — ideal for families. And with Smart Dynamic Sensing, it dims when not in use to save energy.
New XGIMI Releases
XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro Outdoor Projector | XGIMI Elfin Flip Portable Projector | XGIMI Halo+ Portable Projector |
 $499.99
|  $399.99
|  $289.99
|
4.5 (110 reviews) | 4.2 (508 reviews) | 4.4 (22 reviews) |
What People Are Saying
The XGIMI AURA 2 boasts a 4.4/5 rating on Amazon from over 130 global reviews — and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
Highlights from Real Owners:
- “True 4K picture with brilliant color and amazing sound. Outperformed Epson, Hisense, and AWOL in my testing.”
- “Smallest footprint, best fan noise levels, most responsive smart features.”
- “Best sound system built into any projector I’ve tested. No need for a separate audio setup.”
- “Performs great even in rooms that aren’t pitch black.”
- “Auto-focus and auto-keystone are game changers. You move it slightly, it adjusts automatically.”
A Few Considerations:
- One user noted the remote could use more intuitive buttons (e.g., a visible input selector).
- A few would have preferred Google TV over Android TV.
- Brightness, while impressive, may not be ideal in very brightly lit rooms.
Final Thoughts – Is the XGIMI AURA 2 Worth It?
If you’re looking for a future-proof UST projector that ticks all the boxes — design, performance, safety, sound, and smart features — the XGIMI AURA 2 is the top pick for 2025. It’s more than a projector — it’s a centerpiece for your home entertainment.
Whether you’re upgrading your media room or diving into the UST world for the first time, this is the projector to beat. And at under $3500, it’s an incredible value for what it delivers.
Buy it if you want:
- Effortless home cinema setup
- Premium audio & visuals in one device
- Automatic calibration with safety features
- A beautiful, modern projector that fits any space
