Want movie nights or gaming marathons but short on space? Short throw projectors offer big entertainment without taking up much room. Unlike regular ones needing lots of space, these work from just a few feet away. Perfect for small apartments, studios, or bedrooms.
But with so many options, picking one can be tough. Here’s what to focus on:
- Throw Ratio: If you have a cramped-up space, then consider a lower ratio (0.4-0.5). Conversely, higher ratios (0.8-1.0) offer larger screen projection for a minimum room depth of 10-12 feet.
- Resolution: Look for Full HD (1920 x 1080) for clear visuals. Some projectors offer 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) for even better detail.
- Brightness: Brightness (measured in lumens) affects how well you see the picture in different lighting. A 2,000-lumen projector is fine for dark rooms, but go for higher lumens (3,000+) for well-lit spaces.
In further sections, we’ll present various short-throw projectors, detailing their features and specs. Plus, a “Buying Guide” to help you pick the perfect one.
Best Short Throw Projectors 2024
| Short Throw Projectors | Screen Size | Throw Distance | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BenQ Short Throw Projector | 100 inch | 4 Feet 9 Inches | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| AWOL VISION LTV-2500 | 150" / 381 cm | 13 Feet 1 Inch | Check On Amazon | |
| ViewSonic Smart LED 4K LED Projector | 100 inch | 8 feet 9 inches | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Optoma Short Throw Projector | 120 inch | 4 feet 4 inches | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Epson Short Throw Projector | 150 inch | 2 Feet | - | Check On Amazon |
| LG Short Throw Projector | 120 inch | - | - | Check On Amazon |
Best Short Throw Projector Reviews
1. BenQ Short Throw Projector
The BenQ TH690ST projector is ideal for gamers, offering a high-quality, immersive experience.
It features a 1080p HDR display that is also compatible with 4K, ensuring vivid colors and clear visuals. Its short throw capability allows for a large 100″ display from a close distance, fitting well in small spaces.
The projector provides smooth gameplay with its low latency feature, making it compatible with popular gaming consoles. It also includes a game mode for enhanced performance. With its durable 4LED technology, it promises long-lasting vibrant colors. The BenQ TH690ST is a great choice for gamers looking for a premium setup.
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Brightness: 2300 lumens
- Display Type: 4LED
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Throw Ratio: 0.69 ~ 0.83
- Contrast Ratio: 500,000:1
- Lamp Life: 20000 hrs
- Projector Size: Compact, suitable for gaming setups
- Connectivity: HDMI
- Projection Distance: 100″
Pros
- Vibrant colors and high contrast ratio.
- Ensures smooth and responsive gameplay.
- Long LED lamp life reduces maintenance.
Cons
- Limited zoom capability.
2. Awol Vision Short Throw Projector
The AWOL VISION LTV-2500 projector enhances your home cinema with its advanced triple laser technology, offering clear 4K UHD visuals and immersive Dolby Atmos sound.
This projector provides a vivid, lifelike picture quality and supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, making every scene rich in detail. Its compatibility with Dolby Atmos brings exceptional audio that surrounds you, enhancing the viewing experience.
The LTV-2500 operates quietly and eliminates the rainbow effect, ensuring a comfortable watch. Capable of projecting up to 150 inches, it offers a superior viewing experience with excellent contrast and color accuracy, perfect for any entertainment occasion.
Specifications
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
- Brightness: 2600
- Display Type: Triple Laser
- Refresh Rate: 60-120Hz
- Throw Ratio: 0.25:1
- Contrast Ratio: 2500:1
- Lamp Life: 25000+hrs
- Projector Size: Designed for home cinema setups
- Connectivity: HDMI
- Projection Distance: 80″-150″
Pros
- Triple laser technology ensures vibrant colors
- Built-in Dolby Atmos for immersive, theater-quality sound
- Quiet operation and free from rainbow effects.
Cons
- May require a controlled lighting environment
3. ViewSonic Short Throw Projector
The ViewSonic X10-4KE is a portable projector that offers 4K UHD resolution for an immersive viewing and gaming experience. It features built-in Harman Kardon speakers for high-quality sound and provides a large screen projection of up to 200 inches. The projector uses solid-state LED technology for long-lasting use and supports HDR for vivid, lifelike colors. Its portable design and short throw lens make it easy to set up in any room, ideal for movies, gaming, and streaming. The X10-4KE also includes frame interpolation for smooth action scenes and offers various connectivity options, making it a versatile choice for home entertainment.
Specifications
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
- Brightness: 2400 ANSI lumens
- Display Type: LED
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Throw Ratio: 0.8
- Contrast Ratio: 3000000:1
- Lamp Life: 30000 hrs
- Projector Size: Portable with carry handle
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-C
- Projection Distance: Up to 200 inches
Pros
- Portable design with a carry handle
- Built-in dual Harman Kardon speakers
- Long lamp life and LED technology
Cons
- The brightness may be lower compared to other models.
4. Optoma Short Throw Projector
The Optoma GT1090HDR projector is a versatile choice for home cinema and gaming, thanks to its reliable laser light source and short throw capability.
It provides up to 30,000 hours of operation without the need for lamp or filter changes, making it maintenance-free and durable with its IPX6 dust resistance. Capable of projecting a large 120″ image from just over 4 feet, it suits small spaces well.
The projector delivers clear, vivid visuals with HDR10 and HLG support and remains bright at 4,200 lumens, suitable for any room lighting. It also offers flexible connectivity, including dual HDMI, accommodating various entertainment devices.
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p) with 4K HDR input
- Brightness: 4,200 lumens
- Display Type: Laser
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Throw Ratio: 0.5:1
- Contrast Ratio: 300,000:1
- Lamp Life: Up to 30000 hrs
- Projector Size: Compact, suitable for various setups
- Connectivity: HDMI, 3.5mm audio out
- Projection Distance: 120″ image from 4’4″ away
Pros
- High brightness levels.
- Short throw ratio allows for large.
- The laser light source offers long-lasting operation.
Cons
- The projector’s fan noise could be noticeable in quiet environments.
- You may notice the fan noise from the projector in quiet settings.
5. Epson Short Throw Projector
The next product on our list of the best short throw projectors is the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300.
This projector stands out for its ultra-short throw feature, meaning it can project large, 150″ images from a very close distance, making it perfect for any home entertainment setup. One of its key features is its support for 4K content, which is enhanced by Epson’s 10-bit HDR color processing, ensuring true-to-life visuals. The projector also boasts a sleek design that complements any room’s décor.
For connectivity, it offers multiple HDMI ports, making it easy to connect to various devices such as streaming platforms and gaming consoles. Additionally, it comes with Yamaha’s built-in audio, providing a rich sound experience that is perfect for movies, gaming, and more. Overall, the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300 combines style, performance, and convenience to offer users a superior viewing experience.
Specifications
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K support)
- Brightness: 4,000 lumens
- Display Type: 3LCD
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Throw Ratio: 0.16 ~ 0.40
- Contrast Ratio: 2,500,000:1
- Source: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Lamp Life: 20000 hrs
- Projector Size: Sleek and compact for modern homes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Projection Distance: Projects up to 150″ from just a few inches away
Pros
- Ultra-short throw capability
- High brightness level ensures vibrant images
- Built-in Yamaha sound system offers superior audio quality
Cons
- Audio quality not so good
6. LG Short Throw Projector
The LG CineBeam HU715Q is an ultra-short throw projector that excels in delivering 4K UHD resolution for a cinema-like experience at home.
It’s capable of projecting an 80-inch image from just inches away, suitable for various room sizes, and can go up to a 120-inch display. The projector features powerful 40W stereo speakers and a Quad Woofer for high-quality audio.
Its sleek design is enhanced by functionalities like Apple AirPlay 2 & HomeKit compatibility, making it easy to connect with iOS devices. Ideal for those seeking premium visuals and sound in their home entertainment setup, the HU715Q offers a compelling combination of performance and convenience.
Specifications
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
- Brightness: 2,500 ANSI lumens
- Display Type: DLP
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Throw Ratio: Ultra-short 0.22
- Contrast Ratio: 2, 000, 000:1
- Source: WebOS 6.0.1, HDMI
- Lamp Life: 20, 000 hrs
- Projector Size: Compact and stylish for modern homes
- Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Projection Distance: 80″ at less than five inches from the wall
Pros
- Ultra-short throw ratio enables large screen projection in tight spaces.
- Embedded stereo speakers with Quad Woofer deliver high-quality audio.
- Support for 4K UHD resolution ensures razor-sharp images.
Cons
- The brightness might not match up to certain rival models.
Buying Guide for the Best Short Throw Projectors
When selecting the best short throw projectors, it’s crucial to understand the specific features and specifications that can significantly enhance your viewing experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key factors you should consider:
1. Resolution
This determines the clarity and detail of the image projected. Look for a projector with a minimum of 1080p resolution for clear, high-definition images. For even sharper and more detailed pictures, a 4K resolution is preferable, especially for home theaters or professional presentations.
2. Brightness
Measured in lumens, brightness is essential for clear viewing in various lighting conditions. A projector with at least 3,000 lumens is recommended for rooms with ambient light. For darker environments, a lower lumen count might suffice, but higher brightness ensures a vivid image even in well-lit conditions.
3. Throw Ratio
This indicates the distance required to project a certain image size. Short throw projectors have a throw ratio typically ranging from 0.4:1 to 1:1, meaning they can project a large image from a short distance. This is particularly important in small spaces.
4. Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio affects the projector’s ability to display deep blacks and bright whites. A higher contrast ratio means more vibrant colors and a better overall image quality. Look for a projector with a contrast ratio of at least 10,000:1 for good depth and detail.
5. Lamp Life
The lifespan of the projector’s lamp affects its maintenance and long-term cost. LED or laser projectors offer longer lamp life, often up to 20,000 to 30,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
6. Connectivity
Ensure the projector has the necessary ports for your devices, including HDMI, USB, and possibly VGA for older equipment. Wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, is also beneficial for streaming content directly from smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
7. Smart Features
Many modern projectors include smart capabilities, such as built-in streaming apps, voice control, and compatibility with smart home systems. These features can enhance convenience and provide an all-in-one entertainment solution.
8. Screen Size
Consider the maximum and minimum screen size the projector can produce, especially based on the size of your room and the typical viewing distance. A larger maximum screen size offers more flexibility for different spaces and uses.
9. Viewing Room Size
The size of your viewing room can influence the ideal throw ratio and brightness. Smaller rooms benefit from short throw projectors with higher brightness to accommodate ambient light and limited projection distances.
10. Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate is crucial for viewing fast-paced content such as sports or video games, reducing motion blur, and providing a smoother image. Look for a projector with at least a 60Hz refresh rate, though 120Hz or higher is optimal for action-packed scenes.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal short throw projector depends on your needs and budget. Here are 3 top choices based on the provided information:
- Immersive Gaming: The BenQ Short Throw Projector shines with its low input lag (8.3ms @ 120Hz), ideal for fast-paced games. Its 2300 lumens brightness and 2D/3D capabilities enhance the experience.
- Budget-Friendly 4K Home Theater: The ViewSonic Short Throw Projector offers excellent value with 4K resolution, 2400 lumens, and Harman Kardon speakers. Its shorter throw and 125% Rec. 709 color accuracy create a vibrant cinematic experience.
- Premium Ultra Short Throw Experience: The Epson Short Throw Projector delivers outstanding performance with 4K resolution, 4000 lumens, and HDR compatibility. Its Android TV platform, built-in Yamaha speakers, and ultra short throw capabilities make it a feature-packed powerhouse.
Remember, these are just starting points. Consider your priorities, budget, and desired features before making your final decision.
