For a frequent business traveler the right tools can make or break a trip. I was recently contacted about a new device that could possibly be a gamechanger: the Touchjet Pond, a projector that is like a tiny Android computer, making any flat surface into a giant interactive touchscreen. I have to admit, I was intrigued. Here are my thoughts.

The good:

The Pond is super small. It fits in the palm of your hand, and the carrying case that holds the device, 2 styli, and remote mouse is about the size of a noise-canceling headphones case. It has a charger included, but can be used for a couple of hours without being plugged in (big plus!).

Set up out of the box is easy. Connecting to wifi, setting up your email, etc. is all pretty standard. The screen can be huge or relatively small. When it’s smaller, it’s incredibly crisp. You lose a little of that when you make it bigger, but not as much as I expected.

Because it’s basically a tablet with the screen projected on the wall, you can download all of your normal Android apps.

For business, there are tons of great apps to use—Whiteboard, Simplemind, not to mention actual Office apps. The two included styli make it easy for a group to collaborate together. The other extremely helpful option: connect it to your laptop and use the projector function. (I can’t tell you how often I’ve gone to do a presentation and the darn projector isn’t working.)

Because I downloaded Netflix, Hulu, and Sling, we have been able to use it for some super fun movie nights and football games. (The Mini Warrior asks to watch Mickey on the wall now, instead of the TV).

Once you’ve figured out how to use the stylus, games are really fun (and more active!). We’ve also used it outside on the back of our house. The picture was huge (like 11’x7’), and while not super-crisp it was completely watchable.

Observations:

Adding a wireless keyboard makes things so much easier, and increases functionality exponentially. In fact, with the keyboard I was able to use it as a computer—typing emails, writing reports, and creating presentations. There’s a built-in speaker, but we added a Bluetooth speaker when watching movies and TV to help boost the sound. These additions aren’t necessary, but make the user experience even better.

I’m not familiar with Android operating system so took a little while to learn. That’s definitely not the Pond’s fault though! Also, it took a few tries to figure out how to use the Stylus without blocking the projector.

I ended up stacking it on some books to get it at the right height, so in future models I think a kickstand would be helpful.

Finally, I really, really wish it came with a case to protect the actual projector (like an Otterbox), rather than just a carrying case. I am constantly afraid I’m going to drop it!

Bottom line:

Yes, it’s pricey. But the combined functionality of a giant interactive touchscreen and a projector, not to mention the enormous portable TV, and it fits in the palm of your hand?  The Touchjet Pond is totally worth it. It’s a great supplement to your laptop, and depending on your company and the type of programs you need, it could even replace your computer on certain trips. Add in the fun parts—giant TV anyone?—and you’ve got a real winner.

The Touchjet Pond is available for $599.

Edit: It looks like the Pond is also available on Amazon for $399.

Touchjet provided the Pond to Road Warriorette for review at no charge, but all opinions are her own.

Be sure to check out my page with products I recommend for travel!

****************************************************************************
Have a travel question or suggestion? Send it to RW @RoadWarriorette.com.

Follow Road Warriorette on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest!

This post may include affiliate links. Thanks for your support!