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Struggling with limited space but still want a cinematic experience?
Short throw projectors are your saviors.
A short throw projector has a throw ratio of less than 1.0.
Similarly, UST projectors have a throw ratio of less than 0.4.
Beyond the throw ratio, the short throw and UST projectors are the same as regular projectors.
When it comes to resolution,4Kprojectors are becoming increasingly affordable.
However, a 1080p model can still provide a satisfying viewing experience if you’re on a tight budget.
The projector’s brightness is a key consideration, especially to your room’s lighting conditions.
For dark rooms, a brightness rating of 500 to 1,000 ANSI lumens is optimal.
Projectors with over 2,000 ANSI lumens are perfect for well-lit rooms.
Remember, the size of the projected image should also be considered while deciding the required brightness.
You need higher brightness for larger images.
Also, if you want a good HDR experience, its better to have higher brightness.
Youll come across two types of light sources in projectors:lamps and lasers.
Lamp-based projectors are more affordable, but the lamps have a shorter lifespan than lasers.
Epson
However, laser-based projectors can run longer and be more efficient.
Not all short throw or UST projectors have these.
We only recommend the best products based on our research and expertise.
Optoma
It has no distracting rainbow effect or color issues that plague DLP projectors and delivers excellent color performance.
It also has a decentcontrast ratioandcolor gamut.
The LS800 also comes withAndroid TVonboard, giving you access to a vast library of apps for streaming content.
Elite Projector
There are three HDMI 2.0 ports, all of which can handle 4K at 60Hz.
Unfortunately, the LS800 is quite big and not easy to move around.
It lacks full-color calibration support, so purists wont be happy.
BenQ
If you’re looking to save money, consider theEpson EpiqVision Ultra LS300.
Additionally, the LS300 doesn’t support a 120Hz refresh rate, which may be a consideration for gamers.
Its not exactly a budget model, but youll be hard-pressed to find a cheaper high-quality projector.
Hisense
It lacks a popular smart TV operating system like Android TV.
However, Optoma has a built-in media player that supports a wide range of video formats.
That said, youll need the companysEZC wireless USB adapterto get Wi-Fi connectivity.
AWOL Vision
ML1080ST is also a great option for gaming and comes with a dedicatedGame Modethat provides low input lag.
There is also an HDMI 2.1 port to connect your favorite video game console.
You also getHDR10 and HLGsupport to enjoy HDR content.
Epson
Another benefit of the Optoma ML1080ST is its portable size.
Its easy to carry and can be powered with a compatible battery bank.
If you want a 4K resolution, you’re able to consider theNomvdic P1000.
Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 shines as a UST projector with its excellent picture quality, high brightness, and rainbow-artifact-free image.
Its about $300 more expensive than the Optoma offering but can be significantly brighter at 2300 ANSI lumens.
It also has built-in Wi-Fi but lacks a smart TV operating system.
The Optoma ML1080ST is an excellent short throw projector for those looking for an affordable option.
Optoma
It produces lifelike colors and supports HDR.
Its also ratedIPX2to handle light rain and splashes.
While this isnt much, it will deliver a good-looking picture in low ambient light or dark environments.
Elite Projector
The built-in 37,200mAh battery can handle up to two hours of video projection.
The projectors built-in USB ports can also charge mobile devices if needed.
Two HDMI 1.4 ports connect streaming devices, gaming consoles, computers, and other devices.
Andrew Heinzman / How-To Geek
Moreover, gamers will appreciate its relatively low input lag.
There is also a basic 2 x 8W stereo speaker setup.
However, you’re free to connect an external speaker using the built-in 3.5mm audio jack.
Hisense
Overall, there is much to like about the Elite Projector offering.
you’re able to also set it up in minutes.
Unfortunately, there is no built-in smart TV platform, so you must rely onstreaming devices.
AWOL Vision
Both are excellent compact projectors that deliver a wonderful experience.
While the ML1080ST is limited to full-HD resolution, the P1000 supports 4K.
The Elite Projector MosicGO Sport is an all-in-one solution for your portable short throw projection needs.
It comes with a portable screen, a projector with a built-in battery, and a tripod for mounting.
It supports up to 4K resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate.
The X500i also uses a full-HD DLP chip, delivering 4K resolution using pixel shift technology.
Plus, there are RPG and FPS-specific game modes to provide a fine-tuned video and audio experience.
Picture quality is excellent, and theX500i provides 84% coverageof the DCI-P3 color space.
While the color gamut isnt as impressive as an RGB laser projector, the X500i still delivers vibrant colors.
The installation process is a bit of a hassle, though.
Of course, you could always plug a streaming gear into one of the two HDMI ports onboard.
BenQs impressive X500i is an easy pick for gaming enthusiasts.
It offers incredibly low input lag for responsive gaming and supports up to a 240Hz refresh rate.
The PX2 Pro is also rated for 2,400 ANSI lumens of brightness.
As a result, itll be suitable for most ambient light conditions.
Hisense also says you might use it to project up to a 130-inch image.
It also comes with the Google TV operating system, which gives you access to all popular streaming services.
Plus, you’re free to connect your Blu-ray or DVD player using the HDMI ports.
Speaking of HDMI, there are two HDMI 2.1 and one HDMI 2.0 port.
You also get Wi-Fi and Ethernet for internet connectivity.
For example, you only need a 48cm distance from the screen for a 130-inch image.
Sadly, some peoplemay notice rainbow artifactsbecause the projector uses a DLP chip.
But otherwise, its a solid 4K UST projector for anyone.
It also delivers a fantastic picture quality and supports Dolby Vision HDR.
So, whether or not you place this projector in a light-controlled environment, youll get excellent visual performance.
It can deliver up to a 150-inch image and has a 4K resolution enabled by pixel shift technology.
Picture quality is amazing, and youll be pretty happy with the projectors visual abilities.
You also get 3D support, and the company graciously includes two 3D glasses in the box.
The UST projector excels in connectivity, supporting Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Ethernet.
If the AWOL VISION LTV-3000 Pro is out of your budget, you might also consider the companysLTV-2500.
AWOL VISION LTV-3000 Pro has almost everything you may want in a top-notch UST projector.
FAQ
What does short throw mean in terms of projectors?
Is a short throw or long throw projector better?
Do short throw projectors need a special screen?
Short throw projectors dont need a special screen.
you might use the same screen with short throw, ultra short throw, and long throw projectors.
But youll need to carefullychoose a screenregardless of which projector you have to get the best results.
Can a short throw projector replace a TV?
However, a projector can be an excellent alternative to a TV if you want a cinematic viewing experience.
