The AAXA M8 UST is a compact, ultra-short-throw (UST) portable projector powered by an RGB laser light engine, priced at $529. It delivers a native 1920 x 1080p resolution and supports image sizes from 8 to 200 inches.
With a rated brightness of 1,100 lumens and a dynamic contrast ratio of 2000:1, the M8 UST is built for both entertainment and business use. Its laser light source is rated for up to 30,000 hours, offering maintenance-free performance.
Thanks to its ultra-short-throw design, the projector can sit just inches from the screen, eliminating the risk of shadows or interruptions during use. It also supports tabletop projection by standing upright.
Running an Android-based OS, the M8 UST includes basic smart features and supports select apps from AAXA’s app store. It also allows side-loading apps and content for added flexibility.
Ideal for home movie nights, office presentations, or backyard entertainment, the M8 UST works well in low-light environments with access to power. It supports popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+, and has two HDMI ports for easy connection to streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire, or Apple TV.
The AAXA M8 UST is available now through AAXA and authorized retailers for $529 MSRP
Overview
The AAXA M8 UST is AAXA’s first portable ultra-short-throw (UST) RGB laser projector, expanding the M8 series with a compact device that projects large images from just inches away. Designed for both professionals and casual users, it combines portability, space-saving design, and a full feature set at an affordable price.
The M8 UST delivers 1080p resolution and uses an RGB laser light source rated for up to 30,000 hours. Its ultra-short-throw lens allows it to project images from 8 to 200 inches while placed close to the screen—ideal for small rooms, quick setups, or areas with limited space.
Portability is a key advantage. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor movie night, giving an on-the-go presentation, or using it as a space-saving TV replacement at home, the M8 UST offers flexibility. Unlike traditional projectors, it avoids long cable runs and image disruptions since no one walks through the beam.
It also includes a tabletop projection mode, displaying a 33-inch diagonal image directly onto a flat, light-colored table—perfect for one-on-one presentations or setups without wall space.
The projector features smart capabilities through its Android-based OS, supports apps via AAXA’s app store, and allows sideloading. It includes two HDMI inputs and supports USB and TF card playback through its built-in media player, compatible with various file formats.
Ease of use is enhanced by convenient tools like electronic focus and intuitive corner correction to square the image.
The AAXA M8 UST delivers a rare combination: UST convenience, compact form, and solid performance—ideal for both work and play in nearly any environment with minimal ambient light.
Brightness and Image Quality
AAXA claims the M8 UST delivers 1,100 laser lumens, but this does not equate to 1,100 ANSI lumens. At Projector Reviews, we currently use ANSI lumens for brightness ratings and are gradually shifting to ISO lumens. While the M8 UST doesn’t reach 1,100 ANSI lumens, it’s still bright enough to produce a good-quality image in small to medium-sized rooms with decent light control.
The projector uses a new RGB (red, green, blue) laser light source, which eliminates the need for a color wheel and avoids the rainbow effect seen in some DLP projectors. The laser is maintenance-free and rated to last up to 30,000 hours in ECO mode.
The M8 UST features a 0.23” DLP DMD chip from Texas Instruments with a 4-axis actuator and FPGA to create its 1080p (1920×1080) Full HD image. This chip delivers sharp visuals without smearing or shifting artifacts. AAXA has extensive experience using TI DLP chips and pixel-shifting technology, which helps maintain image clarity and alignment.
However, one drawback is a noticeable screen door effect (visible pixel grid), especially in bright scenes when viewed up close or when projecting large images
Design and Chassis
The AAXA M8 UST’s ultra-short-throw design makes setup simple and convenient. Since it sits very close to the screen, there’s no need to worry about finding a perfect placement in the room or dealing with long cables. You also don’t have to worry about people walking in front of the image or bumping the projector. Once you use a UST projector like this, it’s hard to go back to a standard one.
The M8 UST measures 8.1″ x 4.8″ x 3″ and weighs just 2.78 lbs, making it compact and portable. The control panel is located on the side and uses physical buttons instead of touch controls—an improvement that gives tactile feedback. It has four buttons: OK/PWR, ENTER, LEFT, and RIGHT. However, there’s no HOME button on the device itself, so you’ll need the remote to navigate menus when using HDMI or USB sources.
Inputs and Connectivity
The left side includes:
2x HDMI ports
1x USB Type-C (for screen mirroring)
Optical audio output
USB Type-A port
3.5mm headphone jack
On the right:
TF card slot
USB Type-C power port (for the 20V/3A, 60W power adapter)
It has a built-in 4-watt amplifier for the stereo speakers.
Remote Control
The included remote is slimmer than previous AAXA remotes and much better than their older credit card-style remotes. It’s IR-based, so it needs a line of sight to the sensor on the back, but it worked well from various angles during testing.
Projection and Performance
The projector uses a fixed UST lens and can display images from 8 to 250 inches (16:9 aspect ratio). In tabletop mode, it projects a 33-inch diagonal image. It easily filled a 110-inch screen during tests, showing both movies and business content clearly.
It produced a bright, clear image even with a lamp on. However, for images larger than 70 inches, especially in white areas, a screen door effect becomes more noticeable. The projector can be placed on a table, mounted from the ceiling, or set up for rear projection.
Image Adjustment
The M8 UST includes:
Manual four-corner keystone adjustment
Electronic focus (only accessible via the remote)
Image geometry is solid on flat surfaces, though any wall imperfections may affect alignment. Focus is generally sharp, with just a slight softness in the upper-left corner—still very good for a portable model.
Black Level and Shadow Detail
The AAXA M8 UST has a dynamic contrast ratio of 2,000:1, which is relatively low. As a result, black areas appear gray unless you sacrifice detail in darker scenes. This level of performance is consistent with other AAXA projectors in this price range, where users often prioritize color and brightness over deep contrast.
Smart OS
The M8 UST runs a custom Android-based OS (not Android TV or Google TV). It supports popular streaming apps through AAXA’s curated app store, which includes only apps tested for compatibility.
Most preinstalled apps worked, but many are designed for touchscreens. To use them with the remote, you must switch to MOUSE mode. Without it, navigation may not work. While better than older AAXA models, app support is still inconsistent.
For a more reliable smart experience, you can connect a $20 streaming device like Google TV, Fire TV Stick, or Roku via HDMI.
Text and Presentations
Text and presentation content from a computer (connected via HDMI) appeared sharp and easy to read. Even at a 110-inch screen size, text was clearly visible from 25 feet away. The M8 UST handled slides, documents, and graphics well, making it suitable for business presentations.
Sound
The projector features a 4-watt internal stereo system, but no stereo effect was noticeable. It either uses two closely placed speakers or a mono setup. Audio with moderate bass clips above 60% volume.
Fan noise is also quite loud in BOOST mode, which can be distracting, especially during quiet scenes.
Summary
The AAXA M8 UST is one of the few ultra-compact, ultra-short-throw portable projectors available. Its UST design makes it convenient—no image blocking from people walking by and easier placement near the screen.
Its tabletop mode adds flexibility, and the projector delivers a bright image that works well in various lighting conditions. While its color performance isn’t award-winning, it’s good enough for casual use in bedrooms, backyards, or offices.
The built-in smart features are a nice touch, but limited. If strong app performance is important, an external streaming stick is a better option.
Overall, the M8 UST offers solid value through a combination of portability, brightness, and ultra-short-throw convenience.
While it doesn’t match high-end home theater projectors in audio quality or brightness, the AAXA M8 UST stands out thanks to its ultra-short-throw (UST) design, compact size, and ability to display presentations without a PC.
Color performance is slightly oversaturated, and picture adjustments are limited. Still, the M8 UST handles entertainment content reasonably well and excels with presentation materials. The convenience of its UST setup outweighs these drawbacks.
For kids, students, first-time projector buyers, or frequent travelers needing a budget-friendly and space-saving option, the M8 UST is a strong choice. Despite a few flaws, its $529.99 MSRP offers excellent value by bringing UST benefits at a much lower cost than premium models. If portability and easy setup are top priorities, the M8 UST is a smart investment.
PROS
Ultra-short-throw design allows close placement and avoids image obstruction
Bright enough for moderate lighting (700 ANSI lumens in Boost mode)
Durable RGB laser light source (up to 30,000 hours)
Built-in media player for PC-free content playback
Simple, easy-to-navigate menus
Wireless screen casting (Android and iOS supported)
Multiple connection options: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 2× HDMI, USB
4-corner keystone adjustment for image alignment
Lightweight and portable (under 3 lbs) with included power adapter and remote
CONS
Limited picture controls (no full color, hue, or saturation settings)
Colors tend to be oversaturated
Low contrast limits shadow detail in dark scenes
Requires external power—no built-in battery
Internal speakers distort at high volume levels
Noticeable fan noise in all modes
App performance is inconsistent and may require MOUSE mode for navigation
AAXA M8 UST – SPECIFICATIONS
Full Specifications Projector Model M8UST Price (MSRP) $529 Imager Type DLP 0.23 inch Displayed Resolution 1920 x 1080 pixels Native Resolution 1920 x 1080 pixels Brightness (Manufacturer Claim) 1100 LD Lumens Light Source Type RGB Triple Laser Light Source Contrast Ratio 2,000:1 (Dynamic) Lens Throw Ratio Power Zoom/Focus Yes Lens Shift No Interchangeable Lens No Ultra Short Throw Yes Native Aspect Ratio 16:9 (Widescreen) 4K/120 fps No 3D No Speakers Yes Noise Level (-db) Low Lag Gaming No Smart Functionality Yes Business Yes Classroom Yes Portable Yes Special Features Ultra Short Throw, 2X HDMI, USB-C, Smart OS Networking Wireless Dimensions (WxDxH) 8.1“x 4.8”x 3” inches Weight 2.78 lbs. Warranty 1-year Limited