Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors in 2024

Justin Caldwell Avatar

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Updated 11:34 pm

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What makes the best ultra short throw projector? It starts with excellent picture quality. An ultra short throw (UST) projector also includes upgraded technology and is more versatile than other types of projectors. They last longer, too, so you can be sure to enjoy your projector for years to come

If you’re looking for something that works great for small rooms, you’ll find that an ultra short throw unit might just be the best projector for your needs. Because they’re compact, they don’t take up a lot of space and are portable. They also work well in varying light conditions as long as you get a model with high lumens.

Keep reading to learn more about how ultra short throw projectors have influenced the market.

Top Ultra Short Throw Projectors

 #1  LG HF65LA Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: This option is built to be an in-house cinema system. This means it has incredibly high lumens, clocking in at 1,000 ANSI. You’ll also enjoy 30,000 hours of battery life which allows you to charge less and watch more.

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  • Strong In-house cinema system
  • 1,000 ANSI lumens
  • 30,000 hours of battery

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  • Parts might wear out

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Just like many of the leading LG projectors, the integration of Bluetooth makes this a great option for those looking for advanced technology in their projection systems. It works perfectly with most sound systems to deliver an immersive experience complete with a full HD resolution. Unfortunately, there have been consumers reporting that their projector wore out a little quicker than they would have liked. This is easily rectified by getting repairs done by the manufacturer. Even if you use this frequently like the best business projector for work purposes, maintenance and repairs can still be covered by the manufacturer.

You can set this projector a short five inches away from the screen and receive up to sixty inches for the image. If you pull it back a little further, you can get up to one-hundred inches of screen space filled up. It provides a big, vivid picture that mimics the cinematic experience you have every time you go to the movies. There is a perfect image alignment offered with the 4-corner keystone technology.

 #2  Optoma CinemaX P2 Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: This extremely bright option allows you to watch your favorite movies and shows in a fuller spectrum of colors. There is also a built-in sound system for this model for your in-house cinema setup. This may very well be the best Optoma projector.

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  • Extremely bright option
  • Built-in sound system
  • Has smart control technology

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  • Contrast might be lacking

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This model offers 4K ultra-high-definition on a big screen. It has HDR10 compatibility alongside pure glass optics and a laser light source. You’ll also enjoy PyreMotion image processing so the picture provided is far better than competing models. The cinematic immersion is furthered by the deep, rich colors provided by a six-segment color wheel. Unfortunately, the contrast might be lacking a little bit according to the reports of some consumers. Nevertheless, comparing Optoma UHD60 vs UHD65 first before settling on this one is a good idea. For more models with laser technology, check out the best laser projectors.

A wide color gamut also ensures that your immersive experience will be filled with stunning imagery. The DCI-P3 color space support allows your projector to pull the best colors possible from the information it receives. You can get up to a 120” image on your projector screen even from just a few inches away, making it highly convenient for smaller spaces. There is also easy image alignment using the SmartFIT app. This great visual performance is sure to make movie watching more appealing, especially if you’re planning to use this as an outdoor projector.

 #3  Epson EpiqVision LS300 Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: BEST FOR VIDEO GAMES

WHY WE LIKE IT: You’ll enjoy a full audiophile 2.1 sound system when you choose this option. It also has full high-definition capabilities, making the stunning picture quality stand out. You’ll enjoy a full spectrum of bright coloration.

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  • Stunning picture quality
  • Full high definition capabilities
  • Audiophile 2.1 sound system

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  • Color accuracy is not great

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You’ll enjoy 3,600 lumens from this super bright projector. It also runs off of 3-chip technology. A laser light source allows the production of dazzling imagery that will provide the wow factor you’re looking for. You’ll get a dynamic contrast ratio of up to 1,500,000:1, which makes this a fantastic option for deeper colors. Unfortunately, the color accuracy might leave something to be desired. This may be a dealbreaker for those who require something with ultra-accurate colors in imagery.

There is a smart operating system from Android TV included in this projector, allowing you to seamlessly stream whichever movies or TV shows you like best. The projection size reaches upwards of 120 inches, with the smaller end being 61. To get 120 inches, you’ll need to have your projector 15.2 inches away from the screen. There’s a built-in speaker powered by 2.1 Sound by Yamaha, as well.

 #4  JMGO O1 Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: BEST FOR HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO

WHY WE LIKE IT: You’ll be able to project a screen of up to 100 inches with this model. It features a unique operating system called Luna OS that is specific to this brand.

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  • Provides up to 100” screen size
  • Has the Luna OS system
  • Specialized sound system

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  • May have lower brightness

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The native 1080P resolution provides fantastic imagery and dazzling color. If you’re looking for massive screen size, this option is the right choice. It can project up to 100” when it’s only 10.6 inches away from your projector screen. This makes it a great option for tight spaces where a long distance between the projector and screen just isn’t doable. However, this projector still seems to struggle with overall brightness. It has lower lumens than some other competing models.

The Luna OS system provides a few features such as a music visualizer, a digital art gallery, and even more. You’ll be able to easily share pictures or information with your projector because of this. This projector offers both companion mode and movie mode so that you can choose how the experience you need at the moment. There is an impressive Dynaudio sound system built into this projector so you can experience audial immersion alongside the brilliant image displays.

 #5  Xiaomi Mijia Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: BEST FOR ENTERTAINING GUESTS

WHY WE LIKE IT: You’ll be able to enjoy full high-definition capabilities with this super bright model. It produces 5,000 lumens so you can see even when the room has some ambient lighting. It also runs on the unique MIUI TV OS.

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  • High-definition capabilities
  • Produces 5,000 lumens
  • Runs on the MIUI TV OS

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  • Lacks some basic features

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This projector allows you to experience up to 150 inches in screen size. This is massive compared to most competing models, especially for a short-throw option. The full high-definition viewing capabilities allow for dazzling imagery just like you see in the cinema. The projector itself is black and white, which should match almost any home’s aesthetic. Some basic features do seem to be missing, however. It doesn’t switch to the default HDMI port when you start it up, for example.

There is also a voice assistant included in this system. You’ll receive a Bluetooth remote control so you have full control over the screen no matter where you are in the room. No more having to walk all the way up to your projector to pause streaming or change a setting. Instead, you can make all adjustments from the comfort of your chair. There are approximately 25,000 hours of life included in this option.

 #6  Gobran FH3 Ultra Short Throw Projector

Award: BEST FOR VALUE

WHY WE LIKE IT: This option is compatible with your favorite streaming systems. It also has high-definition capabilities so you can enjoy gorgeous full-color imagery. The light-emitting diode technology they use provides fantastic lighting.

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  • Compatible with streaming systems
  • High-definition capabilities
  • Uses light emitting diode technology

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  • Doesn’t come with a carry bag

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This highly portable option is ready to travel with you wherever you go. You’ll enjoy a native 1920 x 1080P resolution, which is great for those who want a truly cinematic experience. It uses the latest in full-screen technology so the corners are as clear as the center of the image, and there is minimal blurring. Unfortunately, if you want to travel with this projector you’ll have to buy your own carry bag. It doesn’t come with an option for transportation. In cases like this, you may want to compare standard projectors vs mini projectors to see which one is best for your needs.

The 8,000 lumens provided ensure that the image is always bright and crisp. It also boasts a 10,000:1 high dynamic contrast ratio. This will provide colors that are deep and accurate and extra sharp imagery. It supports digital zoom so you can adjust the screen size as you see fit from 100% down to 50%. The latest SmarEco technology minimizes the consumption of power for your lamp. That ensures that it has far longer longevity than competing models. But, to find models that last even longer, you’ll want to look into the comparison of laser projectors vs lamp.

Beginners Guides to the Best Ultra Short Throw Projector

What are the Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors

Simply put, an ultra short throw projector is a device that can project images on a screen at a closer distance than a regular projector. Generally speaking, the closer a traditional projector is to the projection screen, the smaller the image will be. However, an ultra short throw projector can project a larger picture, even at a close distance. In fact, with a very wide lens, you can place it just above or just below your screen and still get great image quality.

Ultra short throw projectors are great solutions for small rooms or spaces where you don’t have a place to mount a long throw or standard projector. Even if you have a larger space, an ultra short throw projector sits close to the projection site, doesn’t take up a lot of real estate, and is a great solution for nearly every room.

Although, some areas might benefit from a long-throw projector. In that case, you’ll want to compare short-throw vs long throw projectors to learn the major differences.

Ultra Short Throw Projectors vs. Standard Projectors

Compared to traditional projectors, an ultra short throw projector uses a wide angle lens that allows it to project an image from only a short distance away. They also come equipped with laser technology that gives you more vibrant colors in bright rooms.

Other types of projectors may use traditional or wide angle lenses, but they don’t use anything nearly as wide as a UST projector, which is why they don’t work from short distances. Some also come equipped with lamps or bulbs instead of laser or LED lighting, so the images aren’t as crisp and the unit generally requires a completely dark room.

Laser or LED lights make them last longer than other types of projectors, so maintaining a beautiful picture is easier and they’re slightly more convenient. However, all of this updated technology also makes them quite a bit more expensive in most cases.

Ultra short throw projectors offer great picture quality and take up a fraction of the space of regular projectors when they’re not in use. They are often the best solution for modern homes and families.

How Ultra Short Throw Projectors Work

While all projectors send light through the lens to the screen, the light coming from an ultra short throw projector is reflected off of a mirror, which directs the picture to the screen. These devices typically don’t have the ability to zoom, so you have to position the projector physically to match the size of your screen.

The throw distance refers to the amount of space between the projector and the screen. Ultra short throw projectors use a very wide angle lens to project a better picture over a shorter distance. What that means is that even when the projector is incredibly close to the wall or screen, it can still throw a large picture onto the viewing surface. This makes the device a great space-saving option for small rooms.

Why Should You Buy a New Ultra Short Throw Projector?

For every sports enthusiast, TV binger, movie lover, gamer, and for those who enjoy things like golf simulators, there’s nothing better than watching your favorite content on a 120-inch screen at home. An ultra short throw projector is perfect for achieving this goal.

These devices have far fewer limitations than you find with flat screen TVs or even the so-called short throw projectors of yesterday. They make the perfect solution for those wanting to enjoy the occasional movie night but live in a small apartment.

If you opt for a model with laser technology and high lumens, you’ll find them to be incredibly functional, even when the room isn’t dark. And because they’re so small, they’re also easy to move from room to room.

Is an Ultra Short Throw Projector Worth Buying?

  • They’re great for small spaces: Ultra short throw projectors are capable of producing images up to 100 inches in size from a distance of two feet or less. Even in the smallest of spaces, you can still create a large, clear, bright image without worrying too much about placement.
  • They’re easy to install: There’s little to no complexity when it comes to installing these because you don’t need a ceiling outlet like you would with a traditional projector. You also won’t need to find a solution for running incredibly long HDMI cables from the source to the projector. The unit can sit close enough to any components you need, eliminating these problems.
  • Your room doesn’t have to be completely dark: These ultra short throw projectors were designed to be used in any room, not just a dedicated home theatre. For a normal projector, rooms with more windows and bright light might be a problem if they don’t have a high lumens rating, but UST projectors were made for well-lit rooms. They’re built with an extra bright light source that has a brightness of 2000 ANSI lumens or more.
  • They last longer than traditional projectors: UST projectors last longer than traditional projectors that use bulbs or lamps. The laser and LED light engines are rated for a minimum of 20,000 hours. It also takes these light sources longer to lose brightness, so you won’t notice color shifting or dim pictures.

Why an Ultra Short Throw Projector May Not Be For You

  • They’re expensive: If you’re having a hard time finding it in your budget to afford an ultra short throw projector, then it’s likely not a good option for you. The price is high and there are cheaper projectors. Many of the best ultra short throw projectors will set you back several thousand dollars, although you may still find one at a reasonable price.
  • Installation can be awkward: Up front, installation may seem like a piece of cake. After all, you don’t need to install a ceiling outlet or hide a bunch of long HDMI cables. But the projector has to be placed on a low table about 18-24 inches in front of the screen, which means you’re putting an obtrusive object farther out into the room, which may seem awkward.
  • You may need a special screen: Once you get your ultra short throw projector set up, you can project it on nearly anything, but you’ll get a much better experience if you purchase a screen that’s specifically designed to reject ambient light from other sources. This will increase the cost of your equipment setup.
  • They can be noisy: Because these UST projector models generate so much heat, they’re cooled by a fan. However, that fan makes quite a bit of noise, meaning you need to find a unit that has speakers loud enough to compensate for the added noise.

How Long Will an Ultra Short Throw Projector Last?

The lasers and LEDs contained in an ultra short throw projector are rated to last about 20,000 hours. If you left your projector on all the time, you could run it for over two years before these components burnt out. However, unlike the lamps in a traditional projector, these lasers and LEDs cannot be replaced, so when they die, you’ll need a brand new projector.

How to Choose the Best Ultra Short Throw Projector

There are a number of key considerations that go into choosing the right projector for you. Keep reading to find out more about how you should decide which UST model to get.

Ultra Short Throw Projector Key Features/Factors

1. How long is my throw distance?

The most important consideration you need to take into account is your throw distance. Laser projectors that have a throw ratio of 0.4 have to be at least 4 feet from the screen in order to project a 10-foot image. You’re looking for UST models that have throw ratios of even less than that if you want your projector to sit nearly flush to the wall. Look for throw ratios of 0.19-0.25 to avoid awkward placement of the unit.

2. What light source should I choose?

Nearly all projectors on the market use bulbs, LED, or lasers. For an ultra short throw projector, you’re looking at LED or laser light sources. However, lasers offer a crisp image, vivid colors, better contrast, and more brightness than LED models. The other advantage to laser light sources is that they shut down immediately when you turn them off and don’t need a cool down period.

3. How many lumens do I need?

For a 10-foot screen in a bright room, you want to look at a minimum of 2,500 lumens of brightness, but 3,500 would offer even more brightness. UST projectors are built for bright rooms, but some work better than others.

4. What resolution should I look for?

A 4K projector will have four times the number of pixels as a 1080P projector. It can provide better picture quality and beautiful colors. However, that’s not to say that 1080P isn’t good; it’s just not as good. If you’re looking to save a bit of cash, 1080P can still give you a good image.

Eventually, though, 8K will overtake 4K, making 4K models even cheaper. However, the difference between 8K and 4K isn’t nearly as drastic as the difference between 4K and 1080P, unless you’re incredibly close to the screen.

5. What kind of sound quality do I need?

Most UST projectors come with an integrated sound like a soundbar or speaker, but not all manufacturers focus on audio quality. If you don’t plan to use an external sound component like external speakers, then you’ll want to find a built-in sound component that has better digital audio.

Hisense projectors have great built-in sound quality, but the best Epson projector is a better option for those with external sound systems. Although, they may not be the best choice for a quiet projector.

6. What inputs and outputs do I need?

Many people don’t consider their inputs and outputs as they should. They just assume there will be enough for all of their external video sources. You need to make sure you have at least 2 HDMI ports, a USB port, ethernet, coax, and an audio port.

7. Should I be worried about how much noise a UST projector makes?

Anything that generates light also generates heat. To cool off the excess heat, UST projectors use fans, which creates noise. This can be annoying, so make sure you look for a projector that is rated at 25 decibels or less.

Ultra Short Throw Projector FAQs

Is an ultra-short-throw projector a good substitute for a big-screen TV?

Most traditional projectors need large, dark rooms to project accurate color and large images. However, ultra short throw projectors seem to have overcome these limitations with greater color accuracy and up to a 100-inch picture or larger in any bright room. Although it’s a good substitute for a big screen TV, you’ll find yourself sacrificing features and performance.

Where do you place a short-throw projector?

An ultra short throw projector needs to be 8 to 24 inches in front of your screen, whereas a short throw projector may need up to 8 feet. That’s a drastic difference between the two, but it depends on the projector you use.

Should I buy a soundbar or speakers?

While projectors have built-in speakers, not every brand focuses on quality. You may find your sound lacking, but that can be fixed with an external sound component.

When would you use a short throw projector?

You’ll need a short throw projector when you don’t have enough space to put the projector farther away from the projector screen. Reducing eye glare and shadows is another reason why ultra short throw projectors work well.

Where do you put the projector screen?

If you’re purchasing a throw projector screen, you’ll want to mount it where the lower third of the screen starts about 46 inches from the floor. Depending on the screen size, the bottom of the screen will probably be 2 to 4 feet off of the ground.

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