Short throw projectors are sought after for their practicality. In fact, they allow a very large image size to be projected at a very close distance from the projection screen or wall. However, we must not give in to quality and we must carefully analyze all the options before making a decision.
In this comparison, we first list the short throw projector models and then the ultrashort throw models to help you make the right choice. If you want, you can take a look at our guide with the Cheapest 4K projectors of this 2022 or even the best-selling mini projectors to get an idea of the price ranges and other possibilities within the world of video projection.
What is a short-throw projector?
Table of Contents
Ultra Short Throw projectors use a lens assembly that allows the projector to be positioned up to 5 times closer to the screen than a standard projector. Place the projector on a table or move closer to the screen to increase the projection size in areas where conventional lighting is not available.
Can I use an existing ceiling mount or tripod? Yes. There are several brackets made for Short Throw projectors that allow you to attach them to existing tripods or ceiling mounts.
Ultra Short Throw Projectors 2022
First, let’s take a look at some of the Ultra short-throw projector models that are performing better this year. Then we will look at those that have an even shorter focal length, which makes them ultrashort projectors.
Ultra Short Throw Projectors | Comparison Table 2022
| Image | Title | Brand | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optoma GT5600 Ultra Short Throw Gaming and Movie Projector, 3600 Lumens for Ambient Lighting, Easy Setup with Auto Keystone, 100-in Image from Only a Few Inches Away | Optoma | Check Price | |
| Epson Home Cinema LS100 3LCD Ultra Short-Throw Projector, Digital Laser Display with Full HD and 100% Color Brightness (Renewed) (V11H879520-N) | Epson | Check Price | |
| WEMAX Nova Short Throw Laser Projector – 4K Resolution UHD HDR10 Display – Smart Laser Projector for Movies, Video, Gaming, High FPS Rate – Voice Command Remote – 5K+ Apps Wireless Connectivity | WEMAX | Check Price | |
| Hisense 120L5F 4K UHD HDR Ultra-Short Throw Laser TV Projector with LTS120AFA 120" ALR Display Screen Bundle with 2 Years Extended Protection Plan | Hisense | Check Price | |
| Optoma CinemaX P2 Ultra Short Throw 4K UHD Laser Projector for Home Theater | 3000 Lumens | Superior Image with Laser & 6-Segment Color Wheel | Smart | Integrated Soundbar | Works with Alexa & Google | Optoma | Check Price | |
| 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser TV Home Theatre Projector, 2500 ANSI Lumens,HDR10, Built-in Harman Kardon Soundbar, Ultra HD Smart Laser Projector for Movies&Video&Gaming, Easy Installation | VAV | Check Price | |
| EliteProjector Ultra Short Throw Projector, 8k 4K 1080P IPX2 DLP Portable Home Theater, 1500 LED Lumen, 8Wx2 Speaker, Water Resistant, Video Movie Camp Sport Music Gaming, MosicGO | Elite Projector | Check Price | |
| ViewSonic PX706HD 1080p Short Throw Projector with 3000 Lumens 22,000:1 DLP Dual HDMI USB C and Low Input Lag, Stream Netflix with Dongle | ViewSonic | Check Price | |
| ViewSonic PS700X 3300 Lumens XGA Ultra Short Throw Projector with Horizontal and Vertical Keystoning with HDMI USB and VGA | ViewSonic | Check Price |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Ultra Short Throw Projectors | 2022 Reviews
1. Optoma GT5600 Ultra Short Throw Projector
- ULTRA-SHORT THROW: Experience a large 100 diagonal image projected from only inches away with an ultra-short throw lens; ultra short throw projectors allow placement close to the screen or wall providing easy cable management and an unobstructed projected image from foot traffic or objects
- INCREDIBLE PICTURE QUALITY: Enjoy bright, razor-sharp images with 3, 600 lumens, 20, 000: 1 contrast ratio, and 1080p resolution
- EASY IMAGE SET-UP: The auto keystone sensors and four-corner correction ensure a sharp, detailed image for quick, trouble-free set-up; when the projector or table is bumped, the image will refocus instantly
- LONG LAMP LIFE: Enjoy up to 15, 000 hours of lamp life enabling an average of 4 hours of viewing time every day 10+ years
- FULL 3D: The GT5600 displays true 3D content from almost any 3D source, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest-generation game consoles. Support for 144Hz rapid-refresh rate provides ultra-smooth flicker-free images; 3D glasses required
- SCREEN MIRRORING: Enjoy content from iOS or Android mobile devices on the big screen with USB display connectivity
- GO WIRELESS: Share wireless presentations and images with Optoma HDCast Pro 1080p HDMI MHL Multimedia Stick, sold separately; WUSB adapter required, sold separately
2. Epson Home LS100 3LCD Ultra Short-Throw Projector
- Two-year projector limited and 90-Day lamp limited
- Transcendent viewing experience — place the projector just inches from the wall and get sharp, life-size images in Full HD resolution up to 10 diagonal — with no long cables, no shadows, and no glare — for a modern entertainment solution that won’t detract from your décor.
- Ultra bright laser technology — with a powerful 4, 000 lumens of equal color and white brightness (1) for 100% Color Brightness, plus Instant ON/OFF.
- Deep Black contrast ratio — features an extraordinary contrast ratio up to 2, 500, 000: 1, for exceptionally deep blacks and brilliant, vivid colors. Focal Length: 4. 2 mm
- Advanced 3-chip design — 3LCD technology ensures no color wheels, no white segments and no rainbow effect. Dimensions Including feet- 19. 4 x 17. 2 x 7. 4 inches (W x D x H)
- Included Components: Power Cord, Remote Control, Quick Setup Guide
- Power Source Type: Corded Electric
3. WEMAX Nova Short Throw Laser Projector
- 4K UHD LASER PROJECTOR – Superior Resolution might be an understatement. With 4K UHD and bright 2100 ANSI lumens (5000 lumen light source), you get 4x resolution of full HD or 1080p. Nova is built with industry-leading patented ALPD 3.0 and TI DLP technology. ALPD allows for light to be used more efficiently for finer detail across a wider color gamut and deeper vibrance for breathtaking video resolution. Short throw projector reduces eyestrain by diffusing light without losing picture quality.
- MAX 150-INCH PROJECTOR SCREEN SIZE - With the WeMax Nova laser projector, you can choose from four different projector sizes. A massive screen size of up to 150” will be the center piece of your home theater. Choose the right size for your setting beginning at 80 inches, 100 inches, 120 inches, and 150 inches to project from. The 8-Point keystone correction dials in image quality, making micro-adjustments for the perfect home cinema experience.
- POWERFUL SOUND – The Nova laser projector offers more than just stunning picture quality; it also boasts powerful 30W DTS HD speakers by Dolby Audio. This stereo provides crystal-clear audio precision-tuned to accentuate the home theatre experience. If you already have a home cinema sound system, the Nova laser projector can be connected via HDMI output for the best audio experience.
- SMART PROJECTOR, 5K APPS BUILT-IN – The Nova is a smart projector that comes loaded with thousands of apps at your fingertips powered by Android TV. Stream your favorite shows from Hulu, HBO Max, Showtime, Disney+, and many more. Use the voice command button to tell Nova what you want to watch. NOTE: Netflix is supported but requires a Fire TV stick or similar streaming device.
- MULTI-DEVICE VIDEO COMPATIBLE – Wireless casting to Nova with Bluetooth connection, compatible in projecting from iPhone, Android, iPad, Laptop, tablets, and other streaming devices. Recommend pairing with Fire TV stick for Netflix workaround. Multiple HDMI video slots, USB, built-in casting for video mirroring. Connect soundbar or stereo system flawlessly via HDMI.
4. Hisense 120L5F Ultra-Short Throw Laser TV Projector
- Hisense 120L5F 4K UHD HDR Ultra-Short Throw LASER TV Projector with Hisense LTS120AFA 120 ALR Display Screen
- 100/120” ALR Screen. 100” Hard, 120” Soft | X-Fusion Laser Light Source | 2,700 ANSI Lumens | 4K UHD HDR Picture Quality | HDR 10 Compatible | Pure Color | 30W (15W x 2) speaker
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: 120L5F Screen | Remote Control | Quick Start Guide
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Hisense 120L5F 4K UHD HDR Ultra-Short Throw LASER TV Projector | Hisense LTS120AFA 120 ALR Display Screen for 120L10E 4K UHD Smart Laser TV Projector | 2 Years Extended Protection Plan
5. Optoma CinemaX P2 Ultra Short Throw Projector
- 4K UHD plus HDR10: Enjoy a high-quality, cinematic home theater experience with 4K Ultra HD, HDR10 technology and an incredible 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio
- 6-SEGMENT COLOR WHEEL: Experience richer colors and enhanced brightness with the six-segment color wheel; The RGBRGB color wheel brings accurate cinematic color to your home, reproducing movies, TV and games the way the director envisioned it
- BRIGHT, RELIABLE LASER: Laser technology delivers outstanding brightness up to 30,000 hours of light source life that maintains stunning image quality throughout its lifespan; 3,000 lumens of brightness enable lights-on viewing in a variety of rooms, any time of day
- ULTRA-SHORT THROW: The CinemaX P2’s space-saving, ultra-short throw design provides convenient placement for a huge screen experience – up to 120 image from only inches away
- EASY IMAGE SETUP: Using Optoma’s SmartFIT app, ensure easy place and play using your smartphone; the auto geometry correction system allows hassle-free image alignment; auto focus enables simple setup
- VOICE ASSISTANT COMPATIBLE: With the Alexa smart home and custom skills or Google Action, control your CinemaX P2 projector with intuitive voice control using Amazon Echo and Google Home devices
- IFTTT SUPPORT: Seamless connectivity with thousands of other smart devices; for example, the CinemaX P2 can be programmed to mute when your smart doorbell rings
- PREMIUM SOUNDBAR BUILT IN: An integrated 40W soundbar produces detailed sound with superior dialogue clarity; the combination of two full-range drivers and two woofers deliver smooth mid-range frequencies, crystal-clear vocals and deep bass
- GAMING MODE: By bypassing the image processing and motion compensation engine, the CinemaX P2 provides a pure, direct path from the video source to the projection screen for more responsive gameplay
- PEACE OF MIND: The CinemaX P2 includes a 2-year parts and labor limited protection on the projector and a 5-year or 12,000 hour light source protection (whichever comes first)
6. VAV 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector
- Ultra Short Throw: Cast a 100 image from only 7.2 away from the wall! With a space-saving design, quick and easy setup, and the ability to adjust your projection from between 80 to 150 on the fly, you can enjoy a cinematic experience from the comfort of your own home!
- 4K resolution with HDR10: Feast your eyes on awe-inspiring visuals with deeper colors, higher contrast, fuller saturation, and sharper imagery. The VAVAs 3000:1 native contrast far exceeds the standard 2000: 1 native contrast found in movie theaters.
- Home Theater with ALPD 3.0: Patented state of the art technology doubles the light efficiency of standard projectors. Enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows anywhere in your home, day or night.
- Integrated Harman Kardon Soundbar: Built-in stereo surround speakers provide high-fidelity sound with 60W of power. Lossless dts-HD and Dolby Audio prevent distortion and create a superior audio experience.
- First Class Customer Service: Register your product after receiving your short throw projector to extend your warranty from 12 to 24 months. VAVA’s Customer Service and Technical Support team will provide you personalized assistance to resolve any issues over telephone or email, worry-free and confusion-free.
7 EliteProjector Ultra Short Throw
- 【FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY】: Low input lag at 17ms; DLP technology; 1000 ANSI lumens (1500 LED Lumens); 20,000:1 contrast ratio; native Full HD (1920X1080); OSRAM 25,000 lamp life LED. Wireless MSS 8W x 2 sound system with high efficiency Class D amp to enhance dynamic range; aluminum diaphragm for fast response and smooth high to 20K Hz; SpeakerGuard overload protection.
- 【FANTASTIC GAMING/PORTABLE CINEMA EXPERIENCE】: Lightweight and compact size; easy to carry around on campus, in your classrooms, ballrooms, exhibit booths or simply bring it with you on the road. Integrated High Capacity Power Bank (37200mAh) Li-Ion Lithium Battery for video connection and charge for laptops or phones and other devices through both USB- C / USB-A port. 37800Ah Power Bank is only on Sport Version.
- 【EASY SETUP/INSTALLATION】: Amazing Quality - IPX2 spill-proof certified to protect from weather changes or party splashes for indoor/outdoor activities use; Two USB Type A and Two Type C for both video connection and charge phone or laptop; With Tripod Stand can be easily set up in no time! Projector Model selection in this MosicGO Series - EliteProjector MosicGO Sport/Lite.
- 【QUALITY ASSURED】: Highly-rated on Projector Central, great choice for your home entertainment/theater/indoor/outdoor parties. Premium projector with quality materials: Made in Taiwan.
- 【LIFETIME PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT】: Industry leading 3-year warranty for products purchased via educational, non-profit, religious or Government ORG; 2-year warranty from date of original purchase. If you have any question, please feel free to contact our US-based customer service team.
8. ViewSonic PX706HD 1080p Short Throw Projector
- SUPERSIZED MOVIES AND GAMES: Immersive theater-like experience in Full HD (1920x1080p) on a screen up to 300-inches
- CINEMATIC COLORS: Exclusive Color technology offers a wide color gamut for beautiful image production in nearly any environment
- SHORT THROW: With a short throw lens, this projector can be placed just inches away from a wall or screen to give you a huge image
- REDUCED INPUT LATENCY and Gaming Mode: Ideal for intense action-packed gaming, this projector delivers smooth images without delay
- LONG LAMP LIFE: Eco Mode allows the lamp to shine bright for up to 15,000 hours
- POWERFUL VERSATILITY: TV projector integrates seamlessly with Roku, Fire TV stick and ChromeCast for effortless programming for education, entertainment or business environments
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY: Supports most media players, gaming consoles, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices with input options such as HDMI, USB Type-C, and more
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: PX706HD Projector, Power Cable, VGA Cable, and Remote Control
9. ViewSonic Ultra Short Throw Projector
- VERSATILE XGA PROJECTOR: Advanced visual features ideal for use in education and corporate environments
- BIG SCREEN PROJECTION: Project 80 inches from 1-feet and 7-inches in 3300 lumens
- EASY SETUP: Simple setup and control, just plug & play your presentations, videos, and pictures
- LONG LAMP LIFE: Dynamic Eco mode allows the lamp to shine bright for up to 7,500 hours
- INDUSTRY-LEADING WARRANTY: 3-year limited parts and labor coverage, 1-year of lamp coverage, and access to our US-based customer service team
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY: Supports most media players, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices with input options such as HDMI, USB, VGA, and more
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: PS700X XGA Projector, Power Cable, VGA Cable, and Remote Control
Which Ultra Short Throw Projector To Buy? | Ultimate Guide
Types of projectors
One of the characteristics of short-distance projectors is the type of lamp it uses, as there are currently several technologies to project images, each with advantages and disadvantages, so you have to choose the right model for your needs.
〰️ LCD projector
One of the most abundant types of projectors today is those that use a projection lamp with LCD technology. These products are a better option if you’re on a tight budget, as they are relatively inexpensive.
The range of these projectors can be just over five feet, and while they have a shorter throw distance than conventional models, they are not ultrashort projectors.
〰️ DLP projector
DLP is a technology that has been around for several decades, although we have to admit that when integrated with new technologies, we get projectors with incredible image quality and greater brightness intensity than LCDs.
The minimum throw range of these projectors is around 1 meter for a 100-inch screen, which isn’t bad at all for a home theater.
〰️ Laser projector
To be an ultra-short projector, you need to have a laser light source. This technology allows you to have a screen of just over 100 inches at a distance of less than 50 cm, making it the perfect option for small rooms and conference rooms.
In addition, the laser light is not as affected by ambient lighting, so it has a better color rendering, brightness level, and contrast in broad daylight.
How To Choose Short Throw Projector
Shooting Ratio:
The throw ratio is probably the most important aspect to consider when buying a projector and it is always best to never exceed 1.4: 1. However, the most preferable is to stick to 0.5: 1 to 1.1: 1 and it would be ideal if you could hunt down a model with a throw ratio of 0.4: 1.
Lumen:
According to experts, it would be a smart move to get a projector with more than 2500 lumens.
Resolution:
Resolution is an essential factor and it entirely depends on the type of projector you want to purchase. However, most experts suggest that getting a projector with a minimum resolution of 720p will maximize your chances of enjoying high-quality images when projecting.
Imaging technology:
Currently, most projectors are equipped with DLP projection which is quite efficient in bringing out great quality from a short-range. Increased DLP technology allows the manufacturer to reduce the cost of the projector.
Price:
Last but not least, the price and you should be careful with this factor as there are many brands that try to attract with a low price. These brands basically offer substandard products by attracting with a cheap price, so never fall into that trap.
Frequent questions
Does the projector have optical zoom?
Yes, this projector features 2.1x optical zoom and 1.4x digital zoom.
What is a Short Throw or Ultra Short Throw Projector?
The focal length, an important feature for buying one of the short-throw projectors, actually refers to the distance between the projector’s correct projection and the projection surface. It is directly related to the scope relationship.
This ratio, which each manufacturer must indicate on their video projectors, represents the distance between the projector and the projected image over the width of the image.
Therefore, the more the projection distance increases, the more the projection ratio increases. The more the projection ratio increases, the more the focal length increases.
Therefore, short-throw projectors will have a low throw ratio, and for an ultrashort throw projector, this ratio will be even lower.
We consider approximately the following projection distances for the different types of video projectors:
- Ultra short focal video projector: projection distance between 10 cm and 70 cm. Throw ratio about 0.25
- Short focal video projector: projection distance around 1m. Projection ratio: <1.
- Video projector with normal focal length: projection distance of about 2 meters. Projection ratio between 1 and 2.
Why buy a short-throw projector?
The main advantages of short-throw projectors are essentially their practicality: the projector can be placed very close to the projection surface and thus avoid visible and unsightly cable passages. In addition to the aesthetic side, this allows:
- Faster installation: no electrical channels or cables to travel long distances, no drills, holes in the wall, etc.
- Safe installation: no cables in the passage, no one sets foot on them, no one harms them.
- Discreet installation: it is less shocking to have an electronic device near a wall than in the middle of a room or hanging from the ceiling. In some cases, this type of device is also chosen for aesthetic and decorative reasons.
You will be able to position yourself quite far from the short throw projector. In fact, when projecting a large enough image, a certain distance will be needed to be able to take advantage of it properly. The advantage of not being too close to the projector during projection is that you do not hear the noise of its fans spinning and perhaps even the heat that sometimes emanates from it. Hence, convenience advantage for this type of device.
These short throw projectors require less light energy than other video projectors, as it projects very quickly onto the projection surface, so there is less loss. P or thus saving lamp that is inside, which means less frequent changes.
No element between the projection surface and the video projector. There may be comings and goings in the room, no one will come and cast their shadow on the wall and disturb others during the projection.
There is only one real drawback with this type of device, and that is that they are a bit more expensive than video projectors with equivalent characteristics in conventional focal length. In fact, the technology used by short focal length video projectors is more complex than others, which is essentially what explains their superiority in price.
What short or ultrashort throw projector should I buy?
Once we have analyzed the different types of short and ultrashort throw projectors, it will depend a lot on your budget and needs to buy one or the other.
Within the most economical range, we undoubtedly recommend the OPTOMA TECHNOLOGY GT1080e for the image quality that it emits at such a short distance and, above all, for the very good value for money that we can find this year.
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