Modern technology has come a long way when it comes to the projector, and it has modernized the features in many ways that have led many people to shift from TV. Apart from video quality improvement, the major upgrade they have done is that they have reduced the space needed for achieving a large screen.
The major upgrade came in the form of a short-throw projector that has revolutionized the market. It can not only achieve 100inch from 4 to 5ft away but also deliver exceptional video quality without any distortion.
So if you are thinking of transforming your room in the small apartment into a mini-movie hall, then getting the best short throw projector would be a smart move. Our team has come up with a list of top short-throw projectors that will not only treat you with terrific performance but also exceptional durability.
Before you jump into the reviews, it would be better if you can go through the following comparison table that depicts how one projector is different from others. We have highlighted all the essential details so that you can easily understand them.
Table of Contents
Best Short Throw Projectors: Our Top Picks
| IMAGE | NAME | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Optoma GT1080HDR |
| |
 | ViewSonic PJD7828HDL |
| |
 | BenQ MW632ST |
| |
 | Epson Home Cinema |
| |
 | ViewSonic PS501X |
| |
 | Optoma EH200ST |
| |
 | Asus P3B |
| |
 | BenQ HT2050A |
| |
The 8 Best Short Throw Projector of 2024
1. Optoma GT1080HDR 4K UHD Short Throw Projector
Immerse yourself in the world’s true-to-life cinematic and gaming visual with Optoma GT1080HDR 4K short throw projector. It is a specialized model with Full HD native resolution and 50000:1 contrast ratio, and together they crisp and clear image quality. However, it is the HDR10 technology with 4K support that makes the main difference by allowing you to explore stunning 4K visuals for all the movies and games.
With the combination of a 6-segment color wheel and REC.709 color profile, the color accuracy it brings in all the images is simply incredible. Whether you use the device in a dark or semi-lit room, you will always be treated with bright and lucid image quality, and it is due to the mammoth 3800ANSI lumens.
Enjoy all your favorite games with buttery smooth visuals and zero screen stuttering, and the credit goes to 8.4ms fast response time along with a 120Hz refresh rate. However, the main highlight is the terrific throw ratio of 0.5:1, so you can expect to achieve a maximum screen size of just 11.3inch. With that being said, it comes with an extensive screen size that traverses from 36.2inch to 307inch and allows you to utilize it for different purposes.
When it comes to longevity, this 4K ultra-short-throw projector gets a lamp life of 15000hours; thus, you can expect it to last for a minimum of 5+ years. In terms of connectivity, it is quite flexible, and you will find HDMI, VGA, RS232, USB, and audio ports that support most of the devices, including 4K inputs. Once you purchase this projector, you will get a 1-years limited labor and part warranty coverage along with a 3-month warranty on the lamp.
What We Liked:
- Silky smooth images.
- Exceptional image quality.
- It can simply get a large screen from a short distance.
- Ideal for gamers.
What We Didn’t Like:
- It faces rainbow effects.
2. ViewSonic PJD7828HDL Full HD Short Throw Projector
ViewSonic PJD7828HDL is undoubtedly a widely popular device that transforms every room into a mini-theater with the help of DLP technology and 1080p native resolution. This short distance projector is backed by SuperColor technology that ensures accurate color production in not only all the images but also an extensive color coverage.
Experience breathtaking sharpness and brightness while watching movies or playing games, and the credit goes to the blend of 3200lumens and 22000:1 contrast ratio. With full HD 3D support, you can also explore many top-notch 3D movies like Avatar, Tron, Madagascar, and many more. While playing any multiplayer game, you will get an edge over other players because it comes with a 16ms fast input latency that negates any delay.
By keeping in mind the need for users living in small apartments, ViewSonic has engineered a throw ratio of 1.15-1.5:1, allowing you to achieve a large screen. Despite having a short throw distance, you can easily toggle between a 30inch and 300inch screen size to cater to different crowds.
The availability of wider zoom, 40-degree keystone correction and flexible mounting facility make the setup and mounting process totally straightforward. If you are watching a movie alone or with your wife, then the inbuilt 10-watt speaker with Sonic expert will give you an exclusive audio experience.
However, you won’t get mind-boggling lamp life with this short-throw home theater projector as it can only last up to 10,000hours. But you will get a 3-years limited warranty, and a 1-year lamp warranty and this warranty covers most of the damages. It may be a compact projector designed for portability, but the rear section flaunts HDMI, MHL, USB, RGB, VGA, video-in, D-Sub, and audio ports for a seamless connection.
What We Liked:
- Top-notch image quality with excellent brightness.
- It is ideal for multiplayer games.
- Short throw lens.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Light black levels.
- It doesn’t get full calibration.
3. BenQ MW632ST WXGA Short Throw Projector
If you are looking for the best short throw projector that will be worth every penny, then one that deserves your attention is BenQ MW632ST. Crafted for super-sized viewing, this device gives you a massive 30-300inch screen size range along with 60-120inch clear image size.
However, the feature that makes it interesting is the 0.72-0.87:1 short-throw ratio, making sure you can easily set it up in a small place. Despite staying close to the screen, it will always project high-quality images with fine detailing as it is engineered using DLP with native 1280X800 native resolution.
Whether you watch movies in 60inch or 120inch, the 3200 ANSI lumens with a 13000:1 contrast ratio will always treat your eye with precise detailing and texture clarity. Moreover, the Infographic mode enables the projector to bring great detailing in texts and graphics so you can easily use it for presentation purposes.
The 30bits display color gets the job done and brings out excellent color depth during movie sessions and presentations. While going for a large screen size, you might face image distortion, so Benq has given keystone adjustment and 1.2x zoom to rectify all the errors during setup.
With a maximum lamp life of 10,000hours, this short-throw device will continue to entertain you for a minimum of 4years with daily usage. The whole body is adequately ventilated, and it also gets a modern cooling system, so the chance of overheating is quite minimal. It will surely impress with the loads of ports it has on offers that include D-Sub, RCA, HDMI, MHL, RS232, USB Type A&B, and audio. Blessed with 3-years warranty coverage, you won’t spend a single penny for repairing during the specific time period.
What We Liked:
- Clear data images.
- Accurate color and bright images.
- It is loaded with ports.
- Exceptional short throw capability.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Rainbow artifact issue.
4. Epson Home Cinema 1060 Full HD Short Throw Projector
Epson 1060 can be described as a classic home theater projector whose main motto is to provide an extensive screen movie session without biting much space. This projector with 1.02-1.23:1 throw ratio can assist you in achieving a wide screen for your movies without needing you to arrange a big place.
By large screen, we meant a screen size range of 30-300inch which will help you to use it at home, outdoor, garden, etc. With USB Plug ‘n Play, automatic keystone correction, and manual focus, you can set this projector without much hassle. During the setup, you can comfortably connect varied types of streaming devices with the help of HDMI, MHL, RCA, D-Sub, USB Type-A & B, and audio 3.55m ports.
You should judge this device based on its look because the combined performance of Full HD resolution and 3LCD technology can put many short throw projector 4K support to shame. Even if you are watching a movie in a semi-lit room, you won’t ever get poor quality, and the praise goes to the 3100ANSI lumens with a 15000:1 contrast ratio.
The color reproduction up to 1.07 billion is really efficient as the projector churns out all the color from video to create a mesmerizing output. It also comes with an inbuilt speaker, but we would recommend you to install an external speaker if you are looking for good audio output.
However, we were disappointed by this device’s 7500hours max lamp longevity, especially given its expensive price tag. But it has a good build quality and gets a proper ventilation system throughout the body. A great thing about this projector is that you will get a 2-years limited warranty once you buy it and from then you won’t have to think about any damage or repair costs.
What We Liked:
- Numerous connection options.
- Decent short throw distance.
- Top-notch visual output.
What We Didn’t Like:
- It is quite expensive.
5. ViewSonic PS501X XGA Short Throw Projector
Getting a multipurpose projector for both home and office usage with short-throw capability can be tricky, but ViewSonic PS501X can help you to solve your problem. It is a straightforward machine that houses 3500ANSI lumens and 1024X768 native resolution to create a stunning view on the screen with pinpoint detail.
However, it is the SuperColor technology that takes the visual quality to the next level and brings out all the color textures to showcase beautiful visuals. The clarity in the movies and data images is really fantastic, and it is mostly due to the 22000:1 contrast ratio.
Experience buttery smooth visuals with the ultra-low 16ms input latency that make sure you get fast frame action without any blurry effect. While watching a movie or offering a presentation, you can bring a change by utilizing the Full HD 3D visual support through the HDMI port.
Apart from HDMI, you will find HDCP 1.4, composite, D-Sub, USB, RS232, and audio out for connecting various types of devices. Incorporating a short throw lens, this super short throw projector delivers a 0.61:1 throw ratio to give you extensive visual experience in a small space. It may have a short throw lens, but you will get a massive 40-300inch image size range, which is more than sufficient for entertainment and presentation.
This high-lumen short throw projector is known for its longevity, and 15000hours of lamp lifespan serves as the primary proof. Since it is designed for presentation, you can use an Interactive Whiteboard module to change the projector into an interactive device. Unlike others, it utilizes Signal Power On and Direct Power On the facility to start projection within a few seconds.
What We Liked:
- High lumens and accurate color.
- Accurate detailing in the data images.
- Flexible connection options.
- Simple setup and usage.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Lacks automatic keystone.
- Poor audio.
6. Optoma EH200ST Full HD Short Throw Projector
Optoma EH200ST is a hidden gem in the market that is highly appreciated by experts for its impressive short throw distance and stunningly beautiful image quality. With the capability to throw 100inch diagonal images from just 3.5ft away, this device will solve all your problems regarding the projector set up in your small room.
However, you will get a projection distance of 1.64-11inches and a screen size range of 45.3-300inches that will let you use it for different situations. You might not need any external speakers while enjoying a movie alone as the 10-watt speaker delivers not only a soothing audio quality but also a decent volume output.
If you go through most short-throw projector reviews, you will find this device in almost every list, and its top-of-the-line Full HD quality serves as the proof. Along with full HD resolution, it also gets a bright 3000ANSI lumens of brightness and a 20000:1 high contrast ratio to bring out high definition image quality on the screen.
Get to view incredible color output in all the frames as this projector is capable of reproducing all the cinematic colors in REC.709 color gamut. Like every other short-throw laser projector, it also offers complete 3D compatibility from various sources, and that too at a 144Hz refresh rate.
A great thing about this device is that it has all the standard connectivity options like two HDMI, MHL, USB mini-B, 3D Sync, and audio. However, correcting images might be a little problematic as you will only have a 40-degree keystone correction and manual focus. Lastly, you will find a 1-years limited part and labor warranty for this device, but what makes it interesting is the 90-days lamp warranty.
What We Liked:
- Impressive short throw capability.
- The image quality doesn’t get affected in a semi-lit room.
- Decent audio quality.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fixed zoom.
- Poor autofocus.
7. Asus P3B WXGA LED Short Throw Projector
Asus P3B is simply one of a kind short-throw LED projector that has been engineered to deliver a comprehensive view HD experience while staying close to the screen. Even though it comes with a 1280X800 native resolution and 800ANSI lumens, the crisp and clear visuals won’t give you any room to complain.
The 100000:1 contrast ratio brings out exceptional clarity in all your movies and pampers you with a mesmerizing viewing experience. Many customers have commended it for its lively visual output, and it has been made possible by the projector’s 100% NTSC color gamut coverage.
Offering the exclusive 0.8:1 short-throw ratio, this projector facilitates you to watch movies or play games in any room without thinking about the setup area. It may be a compact portable device, but it holds the prowess to create a diagonal image of 200inch from just 3.44m away. Another factor that has attracted a lot of customers is the 12000mAh battery backup that will not only give 3-hours of backup but will also act as a power bank.
The portable CD case-sized construction makes it extremely comfortable to carry, and it only weighs 750g so you won’t have much problem lugging it to other places. Importantly, the compact body also houses a two-level flip-down stand that allows you to adjust the height without requiring any further tweaking easily.
One segment where this device can outclass even the best short throw projector 4K is lamp longevity as it comes with 30000hours of max lamp time. You can also explore 3D contents in this projector as it comes with 3D Ready facility.
What We Liked:
- Easy to carry.
- Top-notch visual performance.
- Huge battery backup.
- It takes a small space for setup.
What We Didn’t Like:
- It needs external speaker support.
- Lacks a lens shift.
8. BenQ HT2050A 1080p Short Throw Projector
Another popular short throw projector from the house of BenQ is HT2050A, which not only looks good but also performs like a pro when it comes to projection. Geared with Full HD native resolution and 2200ANSI lumens, this projector showcases a theater-like image quality with sharp detailing.
The CinematicColor technology, on the other hand, gets all the colors to give you a spectacular visual experience with accurate color reproduction from the content. Experience an epic gaming experience with the projector’s low input lag and special Game mode. It also employs a 15000:1 contrast ratio that ensures efficient clarity and contrast in all your movies and games.
Like another 4K ultra-short-throw projector, it also delivers an immersive sounding experience by offering a powerful 10-watt speaker that delivers delicate details, clear voices, and deep bass.
The best thing is that you can enjoy the cinematic experience in the comfort of your small apartment, and the credit goes to a 1.15-1.5:1 short-throw ratio. Meaning you just have to arrange 2.5m of space from the screen to get a 100inch wide viewing output. While setting up the projector, you might face some abnormality, but you won’t have to worry as you will have 1.3X zoom, keystone correction, and lens shift.
This device has all the necessary interfaces to host numerous devices, and you will find D-Sub, Composite, Component, HDMI, USB, RS232, and audio. Unfortunately, you will be slightly disappointed by its lamp life as it can only make up to 7000hours. This award-winning device can work for a long time without facing overheating, and the multiple vents efficiently dissipate all the hot air.
What We Liked:
- Smooth gaming with minimal lag.
- It has all the image correction options.
- High-quality images.
- Accurate colors
What We Didn’t Like:
- Expensive lamp replacement cost.
Finding the most appropriate short-throw projector can be a little tricky, so we have also come up with some topics and FAQs that will solve all the air of confusion.
What is a short throw projector?
A short-throw projector is a modernized projection system that stays close to the screen and projects a large screen size without any deformation or distortion. They are slightly smaller than conventional models with a throw ratio between 0.4:1 and 0.8:1. This type of projector utilizes a wide-angle lens along with modern technology that allows the device to achieve 100inch from 4-6ft away easily.
The whole projection system is designed in such a way that it can deliver bright, color-rich, and fine image quality without any pixelation. However, the quality of the video varies from model to model, and nowadays, you can even find 4K resolution in short-throw units.
Apart from the throw distance, they carry the same type of feature that you will find in a regular model. These units come in various price ranges, and you will even find some models that cost somewhere near $150. Short throw models are perfect for those people who can’t afford to organize an ample space for projection and require something that can be set up in a small room.
Some of the models are easily portable, so you can easily carry them anywhere you want without causing any hassle. A great thing about this type is that it negates the shadow issue, which is familiar in regular units.
Why do you need a short throw projector?
A short-throw projector is ideal for those users who don’t have large space in their home or any other place to meet the large space requirement of regular projectors. A short throw projector facilitates you to get a cinematic experience at large screen sizes in your small room without needing a large space for setup. Short-throw projectors are also recommended for projection mapping because you need to keep the projector close to the target surface to ensure minimal loss of detail and light.
They just need to be placed 4 to 8ft away from the screen so you won’t have to face shadow problems while you are in the middle of the movie. Moreover, you won’t need extension cables or large wires during setup and avoid cable tangling issues.
Short throw projectors are usually smaller than regular models, and some of them even come with palm-sized shapes; thus, they give you optimum portability features. The biggest perk of owning a short-throw model is that they deliver crisp and bright images from a close distance without showing any signs of pixel blur or distortion.
They come with widescreen size options and all the usual features that you would need to enjoy a great visual experience. They even get extended lamp longevity with excellent build quality; thus, you can expect them to give you service for a very long time.
Things to consider when buying a short throw projector
While deciding to buy a short throw projector, you must have wondered what the things you need to consider to get the ideal short throw projector. Well, you won’t have to worry as we have listed out all the vital factors that you should consider while buying a new short throw projector.
Throw Ratio
When you are getting a short throw projector, the first thing you need to consider is the throw ratio. The favorable range for the short-throw ratio is between 0.5:1 and 1.0:1, and you can effortlessly get a large screen size from a few feet away. However, if you have minimal space for setup, we suggest you go for a throw ratio below 0.5:1. With an ultra-short throw ratio around 0.4:1, a projector can cost you more than the usual price of short throw models.
Projection Size
While getting a short throw model, you should never compromise on the projection or screen size. Different models come with different screens, and you should choose the max screen size that would fit your requirement. Generally, a screen size range of 30-300inch would serve all kinds of purposes. However, if you don’t require a large screen and would mostly use it within your house, then a 30-150inch would be a great choice.
Resolution
With great screen size and short-throw ratio, you also need an excellent resolution that would deliver impressive image quality on the large screen. You will have a lot of choices for resolution, but the image quality increases with an increase in resolution. 4K serves as the ideal choice when it comes to getting sharp and clear image quality. However, you can also go for Full HD and HD image quality if you don’t have a high budget.
Brightness and Contrast
Depending upon the light condition where you will set up the projector, you need to choose a brightness level. For your living room or bedroom where you won’t have much light intrusion, a 1000-2000 ANSI lumen of brightness is more than adequate. However, if you think that the projector would be affected by ambient light, then it would be best to go for a model with a brightness between 2000-3500 ANSI lumens. The contrast ratio is another factor that decides the image quality of your projector, and the higher the contrast ratio figure, the better will be visual quality. If you mostly use the projector entertainment and gaming, then you shouldn’t settle below the 15000:1 contrast ratio. For official purposes, a 10000:1 contrast would do the job as it will deliver clear and sharp data images.
Connection Facilities
To connect different types of streaming devices, you need a short throw projector that comes with all the necessary connection facilities. In general, a regular short throw projector offers HDMI, AV, VGA, USB, and a 3.5mm audio port for connection. However, if you think you also need to project through mobile, then look for MHL connectivity. For a hassle-free and wireless connection, a projector with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support would serve as a great deal.
Warranty
You should never overlook the warranty coverage of your projector because it will cover all the damage and repair costs within a particular period. The warranty limit also depicts the reliability of the product. In general, a short throw projector gets a minimum one-year warranty, but it would be great if you can get a 5-years warranty.
FAQs
Question: Are short throw projectors better?
Answer: Short throw projectors serve as a better option when you need to set up a projector in a small place. A short throw projector can simply gain a widescreen size from just a few feet away so you won’t have a problem in a congested area. Most importantly, they deliver sharp and bright images, which gives them an edge over ordinary projectors. This projector type is available in all ranges so anyone can own them. They perform like any other regular projectors, so we can say a short throw projector should be a better deal if you have space issues.
Question: How do I convert a standard projector to a short throw?
Answer: Converting a normal projector to a short throw unit is an expensive and tricky process, but if you get all the necessary tools, you can easily do it by yourself. The main thing you will need is a wide-angle lens along with some screws, aluminum pipe, and installation hardware. First, you need to dismount the previous lens and place the wide lens in that place. Then use the support tool to fit the lens in the designated place properly. Finally, you will have to use the screws and bolt to secure the installation and then calibrate the lens for optimum view experience.
Question: Are short throw projectors brighter?
Answer: Short throw projectors are sometimes brighter, but it doesn’t mean that they are always more vivid than normal projectors in the market. Generally, they produce bright and vibrant image quality since they are placed close to the screen, and hardly any light is lost during the process. This type of projector carries almost the same kind of features as a standard projector so that you would find equally bright projectors.
Question: How far can a short throw projector work?
Answer: The maximum throw distance from the screen depends upon the maximum screen size your short throw projector offers. A short throw projector can come with a maximum 150inch screen size while the other can go up to 300inch. However, the maximum distance that a short-throw model can maximum goes up to is 8-10ft depending upon the largest screen size. If a short throw projector comes with a maximum throw distance of 15ft, then it is not an actual short throw model. On the other hand, an ultra-short throw model can go up to a maximum throw distance of 5ft.
Conclusion
We hope our guide will pave the path for you to the most appropriate short throw projector that you can easily install in your room. A short-throw device serves as the perfect option for entertainment in an apartment where space is a huge issue. Not only do they give you a top-of-the-line image quality, but also make sure you get the super-size viewing from a few feet away.
Our list contains projectors ranging from HD, full HD to 4K resolution with different choices of brightness and contrast, so you won’t have any problem when it comes to selection. Since we have only put forward all the top brands so you won’t have to worry about the reliability and durability of the devices. For your convenience, we have also given numerous vital information that will make the purchase easier for you.
My name is Henry Larson and I have been associated with research and development of projectors throughout my professional career. I used all my experience and expertise to create this blog so that I can guide people to get the best projector of their choice. For any further assistance, you can get in touch with me through email or comments.