First impression of the Divoom Timebox Mini
With the Divoom Timebox Mini the speaker function becomes a minor matter. In combination with a total of 121 LEDs, which can be addressed in different ways via the Timebox app, the Timebox Mini is a real media hub.
Design and workmanship
The Divoom Timebox Mini is available in a total of 7 different colors. The outer, rubberized frame, which also contains the control buttons, is highlighted in color. The 121 LEDs on the front are discreetly hidden behind a plastic cover. At the top are the volume buttons with the central play button. The button for brightness adjustment is located on the right side of the case, underneath the power button and, in turn, underneath a small microphone. On the back there is an AUX IN and an AUX OUT, as well as the micro USB charging socket. The entire loudspeaker measures just 90 x 91 x 38 mm and weighs 292 g. The processing is not objectionable. The Timebox Mini is delivered in a compact cardboard box which, in addition to a USB cable, also includes a 3.5mm audio cable and multilingual operating instructions.
Commissioning and App
In order to be able to use the gadget to its full extent, you need the Timebox app, which can be downloaded from both the Google PlayStore and the Apple AppStore. Thanks to the support of Bluetooth 4.0, the loudspeaker can be connected to a smartphone or tablet in just a few steps. At the same time, you can also establish a connection via the AUX input without having to rely on Bluetooth. It should be noted that in addition to the music function, only the clock displays and the previously defined PixelArt are displayed without an existing Bluetooth connection.
To use the app you first have to create an account, which also serves to save the speaker settings in the cloud. The Timebox App is the control center of the Timebox Mini, via which the LEDs and other functions can be controlled. The app makes it possible, among other things, to address the LEDs individually and to create your own motifs by drawing on the touchscreen of the connected smartphone or tablet. Those who prefer to draw on the creativity of others can choose from a selection of ready-made motifs and animations. There are a total of 6 main modes to choose from.
Clock display: Displays the current time in 12 or 24 hour format. The color display can be customized. Unfortunately there is only one watch design.
Weather display: Displays the current temperature and plays a weather animation. For example, when it rains, a cloud with raindrops will appear.
Full Spectrum Light: A lamp function in which the light color and brightness of the LEDs can be adjusted. In addition to the conventional light mode, an “anti-insect mode”, a “plant mode” or a “sleep mode” can also be selected.
The Lite Brite: Choice of different rainbow patterns.
Equalizer: Visual equalizers that react to the music being played.
Pixel type: Selection from different motifs and animations. Motifs from other users can also be downloaded.
In addition to the motifs and animations, there are also more extensive features, such as an alarm function, an appointment planner, various games and also various background sounds that can be played at the push of a button. You can find an overview of the functions and main modes in this video:
The app worked well in practice and is clearly structured due to the subdivision of the individual functions. The notification reception function proved to be particularly useful. If an app notification is received on the paired smartphone, a message appears in the form of the respective app logo. Unfortunately, notifications can not be received for every app. You are limited to a selection made by Divoom. However, the most important social apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter are included. The “chat” function of the Timebox Mini is also entertaining, with which you can send friends your own pixel creations to their Timebox.
display quality
The "display" consists of 11 x 11 LEDs, so a total of 121 LEDs. The color strength and brightness of the LEDs are convincing and can even be adjusted within the timebox settings. The 8-bit retro look of the Timebox Mini is particularly interesting. For customization you can choose from hundreds of colors and control each of the 121 LEDs individually.
sound quality
The 5W loudspeaker of the Timebox Mini delivers a powerful sound. At maximum volume it is not a problem to fill a normal sized room with it. There were no distortions or other noises during the test. The timbre is comparatively warm and the sound is mainly center-weighted. In view of the size of the loudspeaker, the bass comes across appropriately and the highs are also sufficiently emphasized. What the loudspeaker could use, however, would be a bit more dynamic. The sound can best be compared with the JBL clip 2. The integrated microphone also does a good job and is sufficient to use the Timebox as a hands-free device.
Battery life
The Timebox Mini is equipped with a 2500 mAh battery. The runtime is very different depending on the application. With just displaying the clock and receiving notifications, a running time of 36 hours was possible. If you activate changing motifs quickly, the running time drops to less than 24 hours. The maximum music playback time at medium volume was 8 hours. The battery was charged after 3 hours.
Pete
What's the difference between the Timebox and the Timebox Mini? Is the Mini just smaller?