HP mp3220

Some industry experts predict that by the end of this year, the SVGA projector will become an endangered species, soon to be replaced by higher-resolution XGA models. In fact, it's already happening. Hewlett-Packard's mp3220 is a 4-pound projector that delivers not only a high-resolution image but one bright enough to shine in nearly any kind of environment.

Unlike most of the black and gray projectors on the market, this HP model sports a creamy white exterior with a dark gray control panel. The exterior's easy-grip coating and light weight makes it easy to tote the projector with one hand. Most of the time, however, you will want to use this model's nicely designed cushioned carrying case, which has an ample number of pockets for cables.

As is often the case with HP products, this projector is equipped with several nice extras. For example, it comes with a handy card showing the function key sequences to activate the external monitor connector on a wide range of laptops. Also, its lens cap is permanently attached to the projector body. Just swivel it out of the way at showtime, without any fear of losing it.

The tiny remote control is better than most. It features mouse emulation, enabling you to advance through a PowerPoint slideshow, but offers no laser pointer.

In our lab tests, the mp3220 was quite bright: 2,041 lumens, brighter than the average SVGA projectors. It also showed a good amount of contrast. The one downside for this model is its small image size. To produce a 60-inch image, we had to position the mp3220 more than 8 feet away from the wall. We liked that it is ready to go quickly and won't hold you up when it's time to dash to your next appointment. Its average warm-up/cool-down time was a mere 46 seconds.

The HP mp3220 represents an excellent combination of performance, features, price, and portability. Bargain hunters may want to splurge for the extra resolution, brightness, and features.