Budget 4K Projector Replaces TV: Is the Roku-Powered Aurzen D1R Cube the Real Deal?

As home entertainment evolves, the humble television is facing stiff competition from an unlikely contender: the budget 4K projector. At the center of this shift is the Aurzen D1R Cube, a Roku-powered projector retailing for just $170 on sale, which has garnered unexpected praise for its performance, ease of use, and value. According to recent user reviews and technical assessments, this compact device is not merely a novelty — it’s a legitimate alternative to traditional TVs for casual viewers and budget-conscious households.

Unlike high-end projectors that demand dark rooms and complex calibration, the Aurzen D1R Cube delivers a surprisingly bright 1080p (with 4K upscaling) image even in moderately lit environments. Its integrated Roku OS eliminates the need for external streaming boxes, offering direct access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more through a streamlined interface. Users report that setup takes under five minutes, and the built-in speaker, while not audiophile-grade, is adequate for casual viewing — a feature that complements its plug-and-play appeal.

While the Aurzen D1R Cube doesn’t match the contrast ratios or native 4K resolution of premium models like the Xgimi Horizon S Max — which ZDNET notes nearly doubled contrast performance and carries IMAX Enhanced certification — it punches well above its weight class. The Horizon S Max, reviewed in January 2025, offers superior image fidelity and HDR performance but retails for over $1,000. For those unwilling to invest at that level, the Aurzen presents a compelling trade-off: slightly reduced sharpness for massive screen size at a fraction of the cost. As ZDNET’s home entertainment analyst observed in a related piece, “The line between TV and projector is blurring, especially when software and accessibility are prioritized over raw specs.”

Interestingly, the rise of budget projectors coincides with broader trends in consumer electronics. The popularity of Android tablets like the OnePlus Pad Go 2 — which ZDNET praised for its 12.1-inch display and media-centric design — suggests a cultural shift toward larger, immersive screens that prioritize experience over traditional form factors. Consumers are increasingly seeking flexible, space-saving solutions, and projectors like the Aurzen D1R Cube fit perfectly into this paradigm. Whether mounted on a shelf, placed on a coffee table, or ceiling-mounted, it transforms any wall into a cinematic canvas without requiring permanent installation.

Audio integration remains a limitation. While the built-in speaker suffices for background viewing, serious home theater enthusiasts may still require external sound systems. However, advancements in Bluetooth audio, such as Sennheiser’s BTA1 Auracast receiver — which enables seamless, low-latency audio streaming from TVs to headphones or speakers — can easily bridge this gap. When paired with the Aurzen, users can enjoy private, high-quality sound without disturbing others, making it ideal for apartments or shared living spaces.

Notably, the Aurzen D1R Cube’s success lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t promise cinematic perfection; it promises accessibility. For renters, students, or anyone seeking a secondary entertainment hub, it’s a revelation. Unlike bulky TVs that demand wall space and wiring, this projector can be packed into a backpack and set up anywhere. Its limited zoom and fixed focus are minor compromises in exchange for its price point and plug-and-play convenience.

As the market for affordable home entertainment expands, the Aurzen D1R Cube may not replace every TV — but it’s redefining what a TV can be. In an era where convenience, flexibility, and value reign supreme, sometimes the most powerful innovation isn’t the biggest screen, but the one you can move with one hand.