The Aurzen ZIP Tri-Fold redefines portable projection by folding into a device smaller than your smartphone yet producing a 720p, 100 ANSI‑lumen image up to 120″. With a Z‑shaped gimbal stand, Time‑of‑Flight zero‑lag auto‑focus, 1.5 hours of battery power, and one‑tap screen mirroring over USB‑C or wireless cast, ZIP brings big‑screen entertainment and productivity anywhere—no Wi‑Fi required. In this in‑depth review, we’ll dissect its design, performance, real‑world uses, expert feedback, comparisons, pricing, and who should (and shouldn’t) buy.
Table Of Content
Quick Verdict – ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Pros:
- Truly pocket‑sized: Folds to 84×78×26 mm, weighs 280 g
- Instant focus: ToF auto‑focus & vertical keystone correction deliver sharp, distortion‑free images
- One‑tap mirroring: USB‑C DisplayPort and CastPlay wireless via AurzenHub app—no Wi‑Fi hassles
- Built‑in gimbal stand: Z‑fold design offers flexible projection angles on any surface
- Battery operation: 5 000 mAh gives 1.5 hr runtime; optional accessory case extends to 3 hrs
Cons:
- Low brightness: 100 ANSI lumens best in dim settings; outdoor daytime use limited
- 720p resolution: Good for movies but not for text‑sharp productivity at large sizes
- Short battery life: Under two hours without optional MagPlay mount accessory
- Single input: One USB‑C port; adapters required for HDMI devices
Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (folded) | 84 × 78 × 26 mm (3.3 × 3.1 × 1 in) |
| Weight | 280 g (9.88 oz) |
| Display Technology | DLP® with 720p native resolution |
| Brightness | 100 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 1.09:1 (2 m distance → 2 m wide image) |
| Auto‑Focus & Keystone | Time‑of‑Flight (ToF) zero‑lag focus; automatic vertical keystone correction |
| Audio | Dual 1 W stereo speakers |
| Battery | 5 000 mAh; 1.5 hr playback; USB‑C fast charge |
| Connectivity | USB‑C (DisplayPort Alt Mode); Bluetooth 5.4; optional wireless CastPlay dongle |
| Smart Control | AurzenHub app for iOS/Android: mirroring, vertical mode, brightness & focus adjustments |
| Supported Devices | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS via USB‑C or CastPlay |
| Accessories | Wireless HDMI CastPlay, MagPlay mount (adds 3 hr battery) |
| Price | US $399.99 ($399.99) |
| Warranty & Support | 30‑day returns; 1‑year warranty; lifetime support |
Real‑World Use Cases & Benefits
- Travel‑Ready Movie Nights: Unfold ZIP on a hostel wall or hotel ceiling for a 100” big‑screen experience—no cables or Wi‑Fi needed.
- Mobile Presentations: Connect a laptop via USB‑C for sharp slides at client sites or coffee shops; auto‑focus ensures readability.
- Portable Productivity: Mirror your desktop to a virtual monitor on any flat surface; AurzenHub’s vertical mode lets you read documents in portrait.
- Outdoor Entertaining: With ambient‑low settings and optional MagPlay mount, host backyard movie screenings after sunset.
- Gaming on the Go: Hook up a Switch or Steam Deck via USB‑C for a larger playfield—ToF focus adapts as you shift perspectives.
User Testimonials & Social Proof
“I took ZIP on vacation—setting up a 90” screen in my rental was effortless, and focus was instant.”
— Jessica, Verified Buyer
“As a freelancer, I love bringing presentations to cafes without hunting for outlets—the gimbal stand rocks.”
— Kevin, Digital Nomad
Across Aurzen’s site, ZIP enjoys a 4.5/5 average from over 150 reviewers, highlighting portability and ease of use.
Expert Insights & Industry Commentary
- TechRadar: “ZIP’s tri‑fold design with ToF auto‑focus is a standout, beating bulkier pico projectors on convenience.”
- CNET: Notes that 100 ANSI lumens suits indoor, low‑light usage but falls short for bright conference rooms.
- Engadget: Praises AurzenHub’s one‑tap mirroring, calling it “as intuitive as plug‑and‑play,” though highlights the need for multi‑port adapters.
Comparison with Top Alternatives
| Feature | Aurzen ZIP Tri‑Fold | Anker Nebula Capsule 3 | XGIMI MoGo 2 | AAXA P7 Mini |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 720p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
| Brightness | 100 ANSI lumens | 300 ANSI lumens | 300 ANSI lumens | 600 ANSI lumens |
| Battery Life | 1.5 hr (+3 hr with MagPlay) | 4 hr | 2 hr | 1.5 hr |
| Focus & Keystone | ToF auto‑focus & v‑keystone | Manual focus; digital keys | Auto‑focus & keystone | Manual |
| Speakers | Dual 1 W | 5 W | 3 W | 3 W |
| Connectivity | USB‑C DP, CastPlay dongle | HDMI, USB, Wi‑Fi | HDMI, USB, Wi‑Fi | HDMI, USB, AV |
| Portability | 84×78×26 mm; 280 g | 106×100×106 mm; 342 g | 110×87×140 mm; 900 g | 182×133×63 mm; 1.4 kg |
| Price | $399.99 | $549 | $499 | $379 |
ZIP leads on compactness, auto‑focus, and design innovation, while competitors offer higher brightness or longer battery.
Pricing & Value Analysis
- Retail Price: US $399.99
- Optional Accessories: Wireless CastPlay dongle ($49), MagPlay mount ($79) extends playtime to 4.5 hrs
- Trial & Warranty: 30‑day money‑back; 1‑year coverage; free US/CA/EU/UK shipping
- Value Proposition: For under $400, ZIP delivers unmatched pocket‑size portability, instant focus, and versatile projection modes—ideal for on‑the‑go lifestyles.
Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Buy
Ideal for:
- Travelers, digital nomads, and on‑the‑go creatives craving big‑screen experiences anywhere
- Small business owners and educators needing quick setup for presentations
- Movie buffs who want impromptu screenings without lugging a full projector
- Tech enthusiasts intrigued by innovative foldable design and ToF auto‑focus
Not ideal for:
- Users requiring bright daylight or large‑audience venue projection (100 lumen limit)
- Audiophiles seeking high‑wattage sound—ZIP’s 1 W speakers are basic
- Gamers demanding ultra‑low latency for competitive play (wireless lag may apply)
FAQs
Q: How do I mirror my phone without Wi‑Fi?
A: Use the AurzenHub app and included USB‑C dongle for CastPlay—tap “Mirror,” and ZIP projects instantly, no network needed.
Q: Can I project vertically for social media shorts?
A: Yes—vertical full‑screen mode in AurzenHub rotates the image for portrait content seamlessly.
Q: How long does fast charging take?
A: USB‑C fast‑charge fills the 5 000 mAh battery in 1 hour, yielding 1.5 hr playback.
Q: Is there an HDMI input?
A: Not directly—use a USB‑C to HDMI adapter, or opt for the wireless HDMI CastPlay accessory.
Final Verdict & Next Steps
The Aurzen ZIP Tri-Fold packs innovative tri‑fold design, instant ToF auto‑focus, and big‑screen versatility into a truly portable form. While best suited for dim environments and mobile use, its pocket‑size footprint and flexible projection modes make it a standout gadget for frequent travelers, presenters, and casual cinephiles.
