Hisense C1

Presentation of the Hisense C1 Projector

The Hisense C1 is an adjustable focal length projector equipped with a 0.47-inch DLP XPR matrix paired with a TriChroma laser lamp composed of three lasers (red, green, and blue). This technology allows it to cover the entire BT.2020 color space used in the production of UHD 4K HDR content. The XPR processing developed by Texas Instruments simulates a 4K UHD image from a native Full HD matrix by projecting two slightly offset images at a very high frequency.

With a brightness of 1600 ANSI lumens, the C1 is best suited for use in a dark or dimly lit room to achieve the best image quality. Its dynamic contrast ratio reaches 2,000,000:1.

In terms of HDR formats, the Hisense C1 supports HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision to fully enjoy content from various streaming platforms. Several image modes are available: Standard, Day Cinema, Night Cinema, Dynamic, Sport, and Filmmaker, as well as a Game mode that activates automatically when a gaming video signal is detected.

Installation and Positioning

Thanks to its adjustable focal length, the Hisense C1 can project a 65-inch (165 cm) diagonal image when placed less than 2 meters from the wall or screen. By moving it back further, up to just over 4 meters, you can achieve an image up to 300 inches (7.62 m). Its projection ratio is 1.2:1.

The C1 includes several automatic functions that greatly facilitate its installation:

• Automatic screen alignment
• Automatic keystone correction
• Automatic focus
• Obstacle detection that resizes the image if an object or person is detected in the projection field

Its compact format allows it to be easily moved from one room to another. It weighs 4.6 kg. Manual image height adjustment is possible thanks to adjustable feet.

Operating System and Applications

The Hisense C1 runs on the in-house Vidaa U 6.0 operating system. This interface is smooth and responsive. It provides access to many popular pre-installed streaming applications like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Molotov, etc. Netflix is available in its native version, which is not the case on all projectors.

Other applications can be downloaded from the integrated app store. The C1 is also compatible with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant for voice control.

Wireless connectivity also allows easy content sharing from a smartphone or tablet via technologies like Chromecast or Apple’s AirPlay 2.

Image Quality

The image produced by the Hisense C1 is sharp, detailed, and uniform across its entire surface. The depth of field is good and the sharpness is remarkable, allowing for clear discernment of textures and facial details.

The colorimetry is generally faithful and natural, although some content may appear slightly less realistic. The range of shades is rich and extensive thanks to the complete coverage of BT.2020 by the TriChroma laser. The colors are vivid without being garish.

The native contrast is decent without reaching that of the best high-end projectors. However, the effective HDR processing, especially in Dolby Vision, delivers an image with beautiful dynamics, deep blacks, and bright, detailed highlights.

The upscaling of Full HD content to 4K is efficient. Motion compensation adds value to fast action scenes and sports broadcasts. Finally, the game mode limits input lag for optimal responsiveness.

Integrated Audio

The Hisense C1 features a 2.0 audio system of 2 x 10W developed in partnership with JBL. It is Dolby Atmos compatible for immersive sound spatialization.

While it doesn’t replace a true dedicated home theater setup, this audio system delivers good quality sound, powerful and dynamic, with clear and intelligible dialogues and bass present without distortion at high volume. It will be perfectly suitable for mobile use without adding external speakers.

Noise and Consumption

Despite its compact size, the Hisense C1 remains quiet in operation. The fan noise is contained to only 34 dB on average in the immediate vicinity of the device and drops to 33 dB at 2 meters distance. It will not disturb listening even if placed near the viewers.

Its power consumption is also controlled, with an average of 102W in Filmmaker mode with a white test pattern. It drops to 64W by reducing the brightness. Reasonable figures for this type of device.

The main strengths of the Hisense C1 projector are:

• 4K HDR image quality with excellent colorimetry thanks to TriChroma laser
• Support for all major HDR formats including Dolby Vision
• Easy and quick installation with automatic adjustment functions
• Adjustable focal length for a large image even in a small space
• Smooth Vidaa operating system with native access to many streaming services including Netflix
• Good quality integrated Dolby Atmos sound in partnership with JBL
• Compact and easily transportable format
• Low noise level and controlled consumption
• Comprehensive connectivity with HDMI eARC and wireless connectivity

Technical Specifications

Image

• Size: 165 - 762 cm (adjustable focal length)
• Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
• Laser Technology: DLP - Triple Laser X-FUSION
• Laser: Yes
• Brightness: 1,600 lumens

Processing

• HDR: Yes
• HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
• Processor: Quad-core
• Geometric Correction: Yes
• Motion Compensation (MEMC): Yes
• Ultra HD Upscaling: Yes
• Wide Color Gamut: Yes
• 10-bit Color Compatible: Yes
• Number of Colors: 1.07 billion
• Decoding Format: VP9, HEVC (H.265)
• Display Modes: Cinema, Sport, Game

Connectivity

• HDMI: 2
  • 1 × HDMI 2.0
  • 1 × HDMI 2.1
  • 1 × HDMI compatible with ARC / eARC
• Audio Output (L / R): 1
• Optical Audio Output S/PDIF: 1
• USB: 2
  • 1 × USB 3.0
• Ethernet (RJ45): 1

Reception and Features

• Smart TV System: Vidaa U 6.0
• Media Player: Yes (Video / Audio / Photo)
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes (Audio, Mouse, Keyboard)
• AirPlay 2: Yes
• Content Sharing (DLNA): Yes
• Screen Sharing: Yes (computer, tablet, mobile)
• App Store: Yes (Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, etc.)
• Backlit Remote Control: Yes

Sound

• Total Sound Power: 2 × 10 W
• Soundbar: Yes
• Surround Effect: Yes
• Dolby Atmos: Yes
• Dolby Audio: Yes
• Equalizer: Yes
• Sound Modes: Standard, Cinema, Music, Voice, Night

Supported Formats

• Video:
  • H.264/AVC (.MKV, .MP4, .MOV, .TS)
  • H.265/HEVC (.MKV, .MP4, .MOV)
  • VP9 (.MKV)
• Audio:
  • AAC (.MKV, .MP4, .MOV)
  • MP3 (.MP3, .MKV)
  • WMA (.ASF, .WMA, .MKV)
  • FLAC (.FLAC, .MKV)
  • PCM (.WAV, .MKV, .MP4, .MOV)
  • AC3/EAC3 (.MKV, .MP4, .MOV, .AC3)
• Image: JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF, WebP, MPO

Energy Data

• Power Supply: 120 V - 60 Hz
• Operating Noise Level: 34 dB(A)
• Light Source Lifespan: 25,000 hours
• Eye Protection Mode: Yes

Physical Characteristics

• Type: Mini connected projector
• Projector Dimensions: 24.5 × 21.6 × 17.9 cm
• Packaging Dimensions: 39.1 × 35.9 × 35 cm
• Net Weight: 4.6 kg
• Weight with Packaging: 8 kg

Included Accessories

• Remote control with batteries (2 × AAA)