The home entertainment sector, particularly the screen projector market, is already fiercely competitive, with multiple brands vying for dominance. Things are set to heat up more following Roku’s first-ever smart home projector launch. Announced in collaboration with Aurzen, a Chinese projector brand, famed for manufacturing the first-ever trifold projector, Roku’s D1R Cube portable projector is the first to run the Roku TV OS. Though priced at $250 on Amazon, it’s currently available for $169 with a discount code, valid until the coupon expires on October 1.
First spotted by CNET, this collaboration between Roku and Aurzen promises to redefine affordable big-screen experiences. Unlike Roku’s former projector, which required a Roku Streaming Stick, the D1R Cube integrates Roku’s intuitive interface directly, offering a seamless way to enjoy movies and shows.
“Compatible with 4K input, this projector is perfect for creating a massive 40 to 150-inch screen for your home theater and outdoor movie nights,” Aurzen states. This is a significant step forward for those seeking a high-quality projection solution without the complexity of additional hardware. Speaking of hardware, the D1R Cube features the standard traits of a portable projector. My friend at Android Authority highlights its portability, pointing to its 4lbs weight and accessories like a kickstand and a tripod mount that offer flexible placement, both indoors and outdoors.
The Aurzen D1R Cube also shines on the technical front, making it a compelling option for home theater enthusiasts. D1R Cube delivers a crisp 1080p Full HD resolution with support for 4K input, ensuring sharp visuals for streaming modern content. The projector offers a brightness of 330 ANSI lumens and performs admirably in dimly lit environments, though it’s not designed to compete with bright daylight settings. Other features include advanced autofocus and auto keystone correction that instantly adjust for a sharp, aligned screen. “Roku’s software makes content discovery seamless, offering an intuitive experience that places your favorite entertainment front and center,” Anders Steele, Director of Public Relations, tells me.
“When setting up your Roku projector, ensure that you are also logging into your Roku account to seamlessly connect your devices digitally,” a Roku spokesperson advised, adding, “This will allow for wireless connectivity with your Roku Smart Home.” Another highlight of the projector is its supreme audio performance. The D1R Cube is equipped with dual 5W speakers, delivering a combined 10W of Dolby Audio-certified sound. This provides a robust listening experience without immediately requiring external speakers. For private viewing, “Bluetooth private listening and automatic updates help keep the experience fresh and hassle-free,” the Roku representative adds.
From a connectivity standpoint, Aurzen D1R Cube offers an array of options, including HDMI and USB ports for external devices like gaming consoles, dual-band Wi-Fi for smooth streaming, and Apple AirPlay for effortless screen mirroring from iOS devices. The projector also supports voice control through Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri, and the Roku mobile app transforms your smartphone into a convenient remote with voice search capabilities.
In spite of all these features, the showstopper is the integration of Roku’s operating system. “Roku’s intuitive UI and personalized home screen allow users to effortlessly stream from popular apps or discover free content on The Roku Channel,” the Roku spokesperson tells me. Unlike modern-day projectors reliant on Google TV or proprietary interfaces, the D1R Cube leverages Roku’s ecosystem, granting immediate access to streaming giants like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video, alongside over 500 free live channels via The Roku Channel. “The team at Roku is constantly testing new features to learn more about how they can better the experience for users,” the spokesperson shares.
Available in gray, white, or green colors, the projector is designed to blend into various aesthetics. Since the D1R Cube excels in darker environments, its 330-lumen brightness may not suit well-lit rooms, positioning it as a strong entry-level option rather than a high-end home theater solution. Nevertheless, for users seeking an affordable, portable projector with the convenience of Roku’s streaming platform, the Aurzen D1R Cube stands out.
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