Yaber K3 Smart Projector: 1600 ANSI lumens, Google TV and JBL sound explained

The Yaber K3 is a smart home projector with Google TV built in, so it can stream apps without a separate box. Yaber pairs a 1600 ANSI lumen lamp with two 15 W JBL speakers and automatic set-up features, aiming at a living room that is not completely dark.

What 1600 ANSI lumens means

ANSI lumens are a standardised way of measuring a projector's brightness. A higher figure generally means a brighter picture that holds up better against room light. Yaber says its NovaGlow optical technology improves brightness and image quality and reduces the effect of ambient light by more than 30%, and that the projector can be used in daytime without fully closing the curtains. As a rule, projectors still look best in a dimmed room, and a bright image also depends on screen size and surface.

Built-in Google TV

The K3 runs Google TV and Yaber says it gives access to more than 7,000 apps, including streaming services for films, sport and animated shows. A built-in platform means the projector connects to your WiFi and works on its own. Which apps are available depends on your region and the services you subscribe to.

Sound

Yaber lists two 15 W JBL speakers (30 W total) with Dolby sound, an NdFeB full-frequency driver and a passive radiator for better bass, with audio DSP tuning for clear dialogue and fine highs. Built-in speakers are convenient, though you can connect external audio if you prefer.

Automatic set-up

Yaber describes an automatic installation system with:

• Autofocus, which sharpens the image without manual adjustment.
• Automatic keystone correction, which squares up the picture when the projector sits at an angle.
• Obstacle detection, where a front sensor detects an object in the way and adjusts the image to avoid it.
• Screen detection, which resizes the image to fit the display area.

These save time if you move the projector between rooms.

Voice control

Yaber says it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control, and that you can press and hold the remote to speak a search to Google Assistant. Whether you use voice control or the remote is a matter of preference.

Cooling

Yaber names its CoolSwift cooling technology and says it keeps operation stable over long sessions. Projectors have fans, so some fan noise is normal.

Size

It measures about 12.6 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches and weighs 11.2 lb (about 5 kg). It is portable between rooms, but it is not a pocket projector.

What to check before you buy

• Throw distance and screen size: confirm how far from the wall you need to be for the image size you want.
• Resolution: the listing does not give the native resolution; check the manual.
• Room light: a dim room still gives the best contrast.
• Connections: check ports for consoles, laptops or soundbars.
• Surface: a white wall works, but a screen is usually better.
• Apps: check the services you use are available in your region.

The short version

• Smart projector with built-in Google TV.
• 1600 ANSI lumens, with NovaGlow ambient light reduction.
• Two 15 W JBL speakers with Dolby sound.
• Autofocus, automatic keystone correction and obstacle detection.
• Voice control; 11.2 lb.

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