Epson EF-72

In a portable projector market largely dominated by DLP technology, Epson takes the opposite approach with the EF-72 Lifestudio Flex Plus. This 4K PRO-UHD model relies on 3LCD technology and an RGB LED light source to deliver a soft image, accurate colors, and zero rainbow effect, all in a compact 4 kg format, dressed in oak wood and acoustic fabric. It includes Google TV, a Bose sound system, and a swivel stand that lets it project onto a wall, a ceiling, or even the floor.

An object that doesn’t look like a projector

The EF-72 does not try to disappear into a corner: it embraces its presence. The cubic body (190 × 190 × 249 mm) is topped with a light oak-finish panel, while the sides are covered with gray fabric that conceals the Bose speakers. The whole unit rests on a unique metal stand, a monopod that can rotate 180° and tilt 90° backward and 15° forward. This stand raises the projector and leaves space under the base where Epson has housed touch-sensitive LED lighting: by tapping the top of the unit, you activate ambient light with adjustable colors. The effect is pleasant for creating an atmosphere before a viewing session, even if one may regret that this lighting cannot be controlled from the remote.

The result looks more like a living room lamp than a projection device. This is a deliberate choice by Epson: the Lifestudio Flex is a projector you place on a coffee table or a piece of furniture, not one you mount on the ceiling of a dedicated room.

3LCD technology in a portable format

The optical engine is based on three 0.62-inch LCD panels (Triple Core Engine), illuminated by an RGB LED light source. Each panel continuously processes a primary color (red, green, blue), which produces identical brightness in white and in color: the stated 1,000 lumens apply to both measurements, whereas some DLP projectors show a gap between these two values. This simultaneous operation of the three panels eliminates the rainbow effect, a phenomenon that bothers a significant portion of viewers with single-chip projectors.

Color rendering is one of the strengths of LED 3LCD technology. Recorded measurements show coverage of around 84% of the DCI-P3 color space, which matches current HDR content well (HDR10 and HLG are supported). On the other hand, BT.2020 coverage remains more limited, around 62%, a result typical of LED light sources and lower than triple-laser models. The 10-bit video processing ensures smooth gradients and good handling of dark scenes.

The 4K PRO-UHD resolution deserves clarification. The LCD panels are native Full HD (1920 × 1080), and it is a pixel-shifting mechanism that multiplies the displayed resolution. This process, used by Epson on its high-end models such as the EH-QB1000, produces a real gain in sharpness on screen, but does not equal a native 4K panel. In practice, the result is convincing on 4K content, with a level of detail clearly superior to Full HD.

1,000 lumens: bright, but for a dim living room

With 1,000 lumens, the EF-72 works well indoors with moderate lighting or outdoors in the evening. Images remain readable and contrasted on a reasonable diagonal (up to 100-120 inches), and the stated dynamic contrast ratio of more than 5,000,000:1 contributes to relatively deep blacks for an LCD projector. In broad daylight or in a very bright room, the limits appear: the image loses intensity and blacks become washed out. This is the compromise inherent to the portable format and LED light source. It should be kept in mind that brighter competing laser models are also bulkier, noisier, and more expensive.

The projected image size ranges from 76 cm (30 inches) to 381 cm (150 inches), with a fixed throw ratio of 1.20:1. There is no optical zoom: adjustment is done via digital zoom (up to 3.33×) or by physically moving the projector. For a 100-inch image, you need about 2.65 meters of distance.

Integrated Bose sound that delivers on its promises

The “Sound by Bose” audio system includes two 5 W speakers, accompanied by passive radiators that reinforce the bass. The result is above what portable projectors usually offer: dialogue is clear, musical reproduction is decent, and the bass has real presence, even if it remains limited by the compact size of the unit. Four sound modes are available (Cinema, Dialogue, Music, and Standard), and Dolby Audio compatibility improves spatialization.

For an evening movie in a medium-sized living room, the integrated audio is sufficient. For more demanding use or a large space, using a soundbar or external speakers remains preferable. The HDMI eARC port allows the audio stream to be sent to a compatible system. Bluetooth 5.2 works both ways: it allows you to connect headphones or a wireless speaker, but also to use the EF-72 as a standalone Bluetooth speaker from a phone.

Google TV and near-instant startup

The EF-72 includes Google TV, which gives it access to the full range of streaming platforms (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV+, YouTube) without needing to connect an external device. The interface is fluid, Google Assistant responds to voice commands, and the Chromecast function lets you stream content from a phone or tablet. Wi-Fi 6 ensures a stable connection for high-definition streaming.

Startup is one of the best-designed aspects of the EF-72. When powered on, the projector automatically starts focusing, corrects keystone distortion (±20° horizontally and vertically), detects obstacles on the projection surface (frames, shelves), and adjusts the image size accordingly. In practice, intervention is rarely needed: you turn it on, wait a few seconds, and the image is ready. It is real everyday convenience, especially if the projector regularly moves from one room to another.

Epson also offers its Projection Studio app, which lets you control the projector from a phone and create interactive visual atmospheres.

Video games, in relaxed mode

The EF-72 supports ALLM mode (Auto Low Latency Mode), which automatically reduces latency when it detects a game console. The refresh rate can go up to 240 Hz in 2D, which benefits the smoothness of fast scenes. Measured latency in PC/Game mode is around 35 ms in 1080p at 120 Hz and 56 ms in 1080p at 60 Hz. These values are suitable for occasional gaming, solo games, and co-op titles. Competitive online players will look for a projector with lower latency.

Connectivity, however, somewhat limits the possibilities: a single HDMI port (ARC/eARC) means you have to switch between sources if you connect both a console and a player. The USB-C port can power the projector via an external battery (USB-PD 100 W or 140 W), which opens the door to mobile use without a wall outlet, but it does not transmit a video signal.

The Lifestudio range: where the EF-72 stands

The EF-72 is the high-end model in the Lifestudio range in the category of classic portable projectors (excluding ultra-short-throw). It succeeds the EpiqVision Mini EF22, from which it takes the 1,000-lumen brightness but adds 4K resolution, a redesigned look, the swivel stand, and ambient lighting.

Compared with the EF-61W (Lifestudio Pop), which remains Full HD with 700 lumens and weighs 1.6 kg, the EF-72 gains in image size, sharpness, and sound power (10 W versus 7 W). It is also heavier (4 kg) and bulkier, which makes it a “semi-portable” device: easy to move from one room to another, but less suited to long journeys.

The LED light source offers a stated lifespan of 20,000 hours, which eliminates any lamp replacement over the lifetime of the device. The 5-year warranty (or 12,000 hours) covers both the projector and its light source, with an Epson after-sales service network physically present in every European country.

Technical Specifications

Image and projection

• Technology: 3LCD with Triple Core engine
• Resolution: 4K PRO-UHD (4K enhancement)
• Brightness: 1000 lumens (color and white)
• Contrast: greater than 5,000,000:1
• HDR compatibility: HDR10, HLG
• Video processing: 10-bit
• Frequency: up to 240 Hz (2D)
• Image size: from 76 cm to 381 cm (30 to 150 inches)
• Throw ratio: 1.20:1
• Zoom: digital (1 – 3.33x)
• Keystone correction: automatic (±20° horizontal / vertical)

Light source

• Type: RGB LED
• Lifespan: up to 20,000 hours

Audio

• Audio system: Sound by Bose
• Power: 2 x 5 W stereo with passive radiators
• Formats: Dolby Audio
• Modes: Cinema, Dialogue, Music, Standard
• Audio connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2

Connected platform and streaming

• System: built-in Google TV
• Voice assistant: Google Assistant
• Built-in Chromecast
• Direct access to streaming platforms (Netflix, etc.)

User experience

• Dedicated gaming mode
• Frame interpolation (improved smoothness)
• Automatic image adjustment
  • Automatic keystone correction
  • Obstacle detection
  • Screen fit
• Instant startup and setup

Connectivity and networks

• HDMI (ARC / eARC)
• USB-A / USB-B (service)
• USB-C (mobile power)
• Headphone output
• Wi-Fi 6
• Bluetooth 5.2

Installation and design

• Built-in stand
  • Rotation: 180°
  • Tilt: 90°
• Flexible projection: wall, ceiling, floor
• Use: indoor and outdoor
• Finish: Oak

Durability and comfort

• Certification: TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort
• Low maintenance (long-life LED source)
• Warranty: 5 years or 12,000 hours

Box contents

• Epson EF-72 projector
• Remote control (with batteries)
• Power cable
• Quick start guide

General information

• Power consumption
  • Normal mode: 111 W
  • Eco mode: 82 W
• Noise level
  • Normal mode: 28 dB
  • Eco mode: 22 dB
• Dimensions: 190 x 190 x 249 mm
• Weight: 4 kg