10 Best Short Throw Projectors 2021

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Updated Oct 20, 2021

Projector Model		Price	Our Verdict
BenQ HT2150ST 1080p		$$$	Best Overall
Optoma GT1080Darbee 1080p		$$	Best in Response Time
ASUS P3B 800-Lumens		$$	Best Ultra-Short Throw Projector
BenQ W1080ST 1080p 3Dr		$$$$	Best for Large Projections
LG PF1000UW		$$$$	Best Features in a Projector
ViewSonic PJD5553LWS 3200 Lumens		$$	Best Energy-Saving Projector
ASUS S1 200 lumen		$	Most Portable
Optoma GT5500 1080p		$$$$$	Best in Connectivity
LG Electronics PH450UG		$$	Best Value For Money
Epson PowerLite 435W WXGA		$$$	Best for Ambient Light Projection

Are you in need of the best short throw projector for your presentation or entertainment needs? Whatever your intended purpose is, installing the right projector can make or break your display, and that’s why it’s important to use the best product on your first go.

Kinds of Projectors Based on Throw Distance

Throw distance refers to the amount of horizontal distance required between the projector and the screen to display a specific image size. It determines the range of sizes if the projector has an adjustable zoom lens.

This serves as one of the main differences between projector equipment. Knowing the required projector-to-screen distance to accommodate the projection system makes it easier to look for the exact kind that you need.

Long Throw (Standard Throw)

This type of projector requires at least 6 feet of available space between the location of the projector and where the screen is mounted to. This is turn may project images of 80 inches or larger.

Short Throw

This makes use of lenses that can display larger images from shorter distances. The best short throw projector has the ability to project a 100-inch image even at a distance of about 4 feet from the screen.

Ultra-Short Throw

This type of projector has a unique lens/mirror assembly that can display an image of up to 100 inches from about 2 feet or less. Another characteristic of ultra-short throw projectors is that they don’t have a zoom capability, and so the projector must be positioned to match the screen size and desired image size.

The lens and mirror assembly that is built into a projector both determine the throw distance capability of the projector. Both the short throw and ultra-short throw projector are used in schools, conference rooms, and gaming areas. At the same time, it can also be used for a home entertainment setup.

TV vs. Projector

Most households have a TV as the primary visual equipment for their entertainment setup. However, it isn’t the only device that allows you to watch TV shows, enjoy Blu-Ray movies or stream online video content – the other option is a video projector and screen setup.

While the TV is encased within a single frame, a video projector requires two pieces to make it work – a projector and a screen. Using these two devices means that they need to be placed at a specific distance from each other to be able to produce a specific image size.

The main advantage of using the best short throw projector is that the images can be displayed in various sizes depending on the projector-screen placement. Compared to a TV, the best sort throw projector needs to be placed at a location that is the most convenient spot in your home to allow family and friends to enjoy movies and videos.

Since the image size depends on the distance between the projector and the screen, using a long throw projector would definitely require bigger room space. In other words, forcing a large screen projector in a small room may not be as convenient and effective in displaying images. That’s why it’s important to know the dimensions of the space where you plan to install the projector and screen.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of using the best short throw projector is flexibility. With a TV, you can only have the same screen size. Projectors, on the other hand, may be adjusted to make the image larger or smaller depending on your preferences.

In addition, projectors take up a significantly smaller space than conventional TV sets. If you want to watch HD videos in the biggest screen size possible, the TV set would be so huge! In contrast, the projector is extremely compact and portable, but it can display a 100-inch screen size without having to worry about extra space in your home.

Video Projector Buying Guide: Choosing The Best Short Throw Projector

Before you decide to purchase a video projector, you need to be aware of its core technologies and essential features. Here are some factors to consider in choosing the best short throw projector:

Purpose

The video projector can be used for various purposes. You can use it for school lectures, company presentations, gaming, or film screening. With projectors available in different types and models, make sure to choose the projector that can handle whatever purpose you intend to use it.

In short, the best short throw projector will be defined by how you’re going to use it.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

If you prefer using the best short throw projector outdoors, you may want to choose a product with the highest brightness, as well as exceptional resolution and contrast ratio. That way, you can enjoy magnificent picture quality – considering, of course, that you have a good projection screen and a high-quality sound system.

You also need to know that using the projector indoors may emit some level of noise when operating in a small room. This mostly comes from the internal fan as well as the normal running operation of the device.

Note that a projector advertised to be designed for outdoor use can still work well when used indoors.

Transportability

If you intend to use the projector in your home, then transporting it will not be a problem since it will be placed in a fixed position. However, if you often need to conduct business presentations, then you may want to have the kind that would not be too much of a burden when traveling.

Cost

The price of the projector depends on the brand and its features. Assess your budget and check if you can stretch it enough to buy the best short throw projector.

As with any product, though, never make a decision solely on price. On one hand, buying the cheapest product on the lot may cause you some future problems particularly on quality and durability. On the other hand, choosing the most expensive product doesn’t guarantee that it’s the best short throw projector in the market.

In other words, you need to weigh the rest of the factors and just take price as one of the considerations.

Aspect Ratio

This refers to the shape of the image that you are projecting. A standard TV has an aspect ratio of 4:3. Meanwhile, a widescreen HDTV uses 16:9, the same as with most modern projectors.

What’s great about picking the best short throw projector is that you can customize the aspect ratio based on your media file. You may stretch or compress the screen horizontally to accommodate the aspect ratio of the video.

Screen Resolution

If you’re looking for the best short throw projector for business presentations, you can go with a low resolution, such as an 800×600 pixels. However, if you plan to project HD movies or play video games in high definition, you definitely need a resolution of at least 1920×1080 pixels.

Similar to TV sets, you can also look for 4K projectors, but expect these products to be more expensive than lower-resolution projectors.

Brightness

The projection brightness depends on the environment where you will be using the device. To determine the brightness of a particular projector, check for the lumens rating. One thousand lumens or less may be adequate for a business projector used in a small, dark room.

If your projector is used for viewing movies outdoors or in wider spaces, consider looking for a rating of at least 5,000 lumens or higher.

In short, the best short throw projector will allow you to view projected images clearly in whatever lighting condition you have.

Contrast Ratio

Contrast is the difference between the darkest and the brightest parts of the picture. The higher the contrast ratio, the better is the picture quality and depth of difference between light and dark.

However, you also need to understand that ambient light will come into play. A contrast ratio that works well in dimly lit rooms may not be as crisp as in an outdoor setting. Fortunately, most modern projectors have a feature that allows you to adjust the contrast ratio.

Video quality will also affect the impact of contrast ratio in even the best short throw projector. A high contrast ratio won’t matter if the video that the projector is displaying is of low quality.

Connectivity

Most projectors nowadays have VGA ports, while others have additional USB ports that you can use to directly play videos, show PowerPoint presentations, or play video games. Additionally, having WiFi support can be very useful for streaming from YouTube, Netflix, and other kinds of online video services.

Zoom Range and Lens Shift

Knowing the zoom range and lens shift capabilities will allow you to change the throw distance and be able to change the size and position of the images.

Sound System

The best short throw projector may work for standard reports in office meetings, but you cannot use the device by itself if you plan to use it for watching videos. It needs other devices to be able to maximize the projector.

You definitely would want a high-quality sound system if you are using the projector for watching movies and playing games to have that seamless viewing experience.

Projector screen

The projector screen is also an important part of choosing for your video projector. The quality of the picture also depends on the surface of the screen. If you are planning to use it when you are traveling for a business presentation, then a roll-up screen may be the most appropriate kind for you. If you plan to have it positioned permanently, then you might also consider purchasing a specialized paint to protect the wall where the screen is positioned.

Short Throw Projector vs. Long Throw Projector

Purchasing a new projector can also be a daunting task. It’s more than merely picking out features and consider some factors. For someone who may not be too knowledgeable about this kind of optical device, it might take days or months before you can finally decide which one to choose.

In most cases, you are bound to arrive at only two choices: short throw projector or long throw projector. Only by knowing their unique features and stark differences will you finally be able to pick the best short throw projector or the long throw variant.

The throw capabilities of a projector refer to the amount of distance that you’ll need to display an image between the projector and the screen to be able to get the display size that you desire. The difference in a projector’s throw distance is determined by the type of lens that is used.

Long throw projects require 6 feet or more of space between the projector and where the screen is mounted in order to be able to provide an image at 100%. They are perfect for large halls or exhibition space applications such as business presentations. If you move the projector and screen closer, the image will shrink, making them useless if you squeeze it in a tightly-spaced room.

Short throw projectors, on the other hand, have lenses that can create larger pictures even from a shorter distance (about 4 feet or less). The upside of this type of projector is that it can be used in small rooms and can still provide a 100% image quality that you desire with the help of the lenses. Therefore, short throw projectors are ideal for small-spaced homes or compact viewing areas.

However, this may also come with a cost since short throw projectors are generally more expensive. Ultimately, the shorter the throw distance, the less chance that someone is going to ruin the display on the screen.

Your decision will eventually be narrowed down into two factors: viewing space and portability.

Most long throw projectors are a lot cheaper than the best short throw projector. However, choosing a long throw projector in a cramped-up space may not be ideal. If your purpose of using a projector is for presentations outside of a home theater, then a long throw projector may be a better option.

Short throw projectors are also generally smaller in size than long throw projectors, although the latter may come in the latest models in more compact sizes. If you want to bring your projector anywhere you go or if you want the installed projector in your home to be inconspicuous, then you might find the solution in short throw projectors.

Where To Use Short Throw Projectors

Short throw projectors are perfect for small rooms or apartments and work best for watching and gaming. Although short throw projectors are more expensive than long throw projectors, it might be cost-effective for presentations.

A projector is an important tool for any company particularly, when doing a PowerPoint presentation about a marketing campaign, illustrating projections, and in presenting new projects, products, and services.

It is also the ideal choice for a classroom setup. Most lessons today make use of projectors to help children in learning their lessons. Being able to actually see what a book may only describe in words makes it easier for students to understand the lesson.

The best short throw projector models can be used both inside the classroom and other places where the teacher may deem acceptable to hold classes.

How To Get The Most Out Of The Short Throw Projector

Owning a projector is an investment. Having said that, you need to take care of the unit so you can use it for a long time. You can extend the life and maximize the features of your projector by following these tips:

1. Let the projector cool down normally. If you shut it down quickly, it can ruin the projector’s components.
2. Make sure that the projector has cooled completely prior to packing it back. The heat may cause the lamp filaments and other wires to break.
3. Just as you would treat any device or appliance, keep it clean. Make sure that you clean air filters to prevent the projector from overheating when used. The increase in temperature can cause a lamp meltdown or an explosion.
4. Don’t block the fan vent. That way, you allow air to flow around the projector to prevent it from overheating.
5. Turn the projector off when not in use. A sudden surge of electricity may damage its components.
6. Never touch the lamp. It may cause a nasty burn when you touch a hot lamp. Similarly, touching a cool lamp can leave oil residue that can develop into a black spot once the projector is turned on.
7. Be sure to check on the lamp timer so can accurately track the lamp life.
8. Only buy genuine lamps. You definitely want to save as much as you can, but if it can cause damage to the device, you may end up having to spend more.
9. Check on the brightness. You may only need to adjust it to full brightness if you are using the projector outdoors.
10. Never fail to read the manual. Make sure that you follow the instructions to avoid damages or accidents.

When shopping for a video projector, be certain and confident that you are aware of the size of the room and the position where the projector will be placed in relation to the screen. Additionally, determine how close the projector is to the people since the fan can be a bit distracting when the projector is running.

Top 10 Best Short Throw Projector Models

Projector Model		Price	Our Verdict
BenQ HT2150ST 1080p		$$$	Best Overall
Optoma GT1080Darbee 1080p		$$	Best in Response Time
ASUS P3B 800-Lumens		$$	Best Ultra-Short Throw Projector
BenQ W1080ST 1080p 3Dr		$$$$	Best for Large Projections
LG PF1000UW		$$$$	Best Features in a Projector
ViewSonic PJD5553LWS 3200 Lumens		$$	Best Energy-Saving Projector
ASUS S1 200 lumen		$	Most Portable
Optoma GT5500 1080p		$$$$$	Best in Connectivity
LG Electronics PH450UG		$$	Best Value For Money
Epson PowerLite 435W WXGA		$$$	Best for Ambient Light Projection

BenQ HT2150ST 1080p Home Theater Projector Short Throw – Best Overall

The BenQ HT2150ST Gaming Projector is an excellent choice of projector for serious gaming. It has a rapid input lag of 16 ms with minimal fan noise, a fully saturated and balanced color, ample light output, and short throw lens. It has a 1080p resolution that helps to create a fantastic viewing experience.

Color, Brightness and Image Quality of BenQ HT ST Series

One of the outstanding features of BenQ HT2150ST is the RGB color wheel. This is responsible for outstanding color brightness of the images, and measures up to 100% of white in game mode.

This short throw projector puts up a 100” diagonal image from as far as 5.5 feet. The projector’s default game mode lets you see how clean and sharp the images are. Both the contrast and black levels are good, which works best for watching movies and playing video games.

In a much lower ambient light setting, you can set the default 2.0 gamma to 2.2 and then switch the color temperature setting from Cool to Normal. Doing this allows you to have an exceptionally well-calibrated picture when you use the projector.

You may accessorize the BenQ HT2150ST with a wireless module (at additional cost).

Pros of BenQ HT2150ST Projector:

• Provides bright and sharp images
• Comes with remote control
• Good 3D quality images
• Low lag time to provide a seamless viewing experience
• Produces minimal noise
• User-friendly

Cons of BenQ HT2150ST Projector:

• Doesn’t have 4K resolution
• It does not have any lens which you can use to change the size of the images.

Why Should You Consider the BenQ HT2150ST Projector?

For the price of less than a thousand dollars, this is tagged as one of the best short throw projector models according to buyers. Reviews indicate that the picture quality is excellent, the remote control (with red backlight) is more impressive than other projectors (which use a blue backlight that some users may find it too blinding). With its DLP technology, ghosting or blurring of images is minimal to nil.

Is BenQ HT2150ST Projector for You?

We have the BenQ HT2150ST on our best of list because it excels in not only image quality, but making less noise, and minimal lag time. Not to mention, the BenQ HT2150ST has some pretty stellar customer reviews!

Not recommended for customers looking for 4K. All in all, the BenQ HT2150ST is an impeccable product!

BENQ HT2150ST User Manual

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Optoma GT1080Darbee 1080p 3000 Lumens 3D DLP Short Throw Gaming Projector – Best in Response Time

One of the drawbacks in projection technology is that the response time may be high. That’s not a problem with the Optoma GT1080Darbee, as it creates bright, high-definition images with a shorter-than-average response time.

Optoma Darbee Image Settings

You have to be particular in choosing the brightness of the projector particularly determining if you are going to place the projector outdoors or indoors. Fortunately, this best short throw projector has a rate of 3000 lumens, which is brighter than the average projector. You can use it at any hour of the day without having to worry about how the images would show up on the screen.

Optoma GT1080 Inputs and Modes

It has HDMI ports that support the latest version of HDCP when using 1080p content. This means that you can play back videos from a Blu-ray disc or other video source without encountering any issues.

The product also comes with 2 USB ports. One is between the HDMI ports – a mini-USB that can be used with the included adapter to connect an external hard drive, flash drive or any compatible storage device. The second USB port is used only for power, thereby allowing you to run TV streaming sticks like Chromecast.

Pros of Optoma GT1080Darbee: 

• Dual layer projection (with 3 LCD displays)
• Throw ratio of o.49 (i.e. if it’s 3.5 feet (106.68cm) away from the wall, the projection will measure 100″ .
• Lumen rating of 3000, higher than other projectors
• Ability to stream full 1080p 3D content wirelessly

Cons of Optoma GT1080Darbee: 

• Lag time is considerably short at 16ms, but some people may find it annoying, considering that the latest projectors have a much shorter lag time

Why Should You Consider the Optoma Projector?

According to buyers, it is one of the best short throw projector units that deliver the right amount of brightness and clarity of images. It also comes with integrated speakers, which can enhance the viewing experience. While the audio quality is pretty decent, users say that it cannot match the sound output of a standalone set of speakers.

In addition, buyers found this short throw projector easy to set-up.

Is the Optoma GT1080Darbee Projector for You?

We’ve narrowed down your search for the best short throw projectors on the market with products like this one because of the outstanding performance in specific ares. When it comes to response time, the Optoma GT1080Darbee is at the top of our list!

Not recommended for customers looking for the shortest lag time! However, the Optoma GT1080Darbee is an amazing addition to your home, office, or educational needs!

OPTOMA GT1080DARBEE User Manual

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ASUS P3B 800-Lumens 1280 x 800 Ultra-short-throw 12,000mAh Battery HDMI/MHL VGA microSD reader USB Portable Wireless LED Projector – Best Ultra-Short Throw Projector

The ASUS P3B 800-Lumens has a long-life LED light source that is considered the best among other visuals. It is capable of delivering sharp output at up to 1280 x 800pixel resolution. This ultra-short throw lens can project images from 25 inches to 200 inches.

What’s the Battery Life on ASUS P3B?

The product contains a built-in 12,000 mAh battery, which not only lasts up to 3 hours of projection time, but surprisingly can also be used as a power bank for mobile devices.

Projection Settings on ASUS P3B

It has 12 physical buttons (including the power button) that can be used to adjust everything from screen size to brightness and volume.

ASUS P3B 800-Lumens Ultra-Short Throw Projector can be used for wireless presentations and media streaming. You can connect various devices using the HDI/MHL or VGA ports, USB drive, microSD memory card of up to 32GB or via the onboard storage. It also comes with a PC-Free Office Viewer and Multimedia Playback to project photos and videos.

Pros of ASUS P3B:

• Lightweight and compact
• Can work as a powerbank
• Exceptional design
• Easy setup
• Built-in speakers provide a great audio experience

Cons of ASUS P3B:

• Color reproduction was not that great. The projector was more ideal for low lighting conditions.
• No Bluetooth or infrared feature
• Limited height adjustment
• The built-in ASUS SonicMaster-enhanced speaker for high-quality sound consumes battery fast when connected directly to it

Why Should You Consider the ASUS P3B Projector?

Setting up was easy and it clearly provides awesome quality images in a moderately lit room. Since it is compact and lightweight, you can bring it anywhere you want to have the business presentation done or watch movies with your friends. The best thing about this is that it doesn’t cost too much despite its amazing features.

Is the ASUS P3B Projector for You?

The ASUS P3B 800-Lumens is on our list because it is one of the most reliable ultra-short throw projectors available right now! Perfect for smaller rooms, board meetings, and incredibly easy to use!

Not recommended for customers who need Bluetooth capabilities. All in all, the ASUS P3B 800-Lumens is our choice for best ultra-short throw projector on the market!

ASUS P3B 800-LUMENS User Manual

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BenQ W1080ST 1080p 3D Short Throw DLP Home Theater Projector – Best for Large Projections

BenQ W1080ST is a convenient alternative for people who place their projectors on top of their tables. It is a short-throw projector that is designed to work in front of the audience and closer to the screen. Because of its short throw quality, you have the option to install the projector to the ceiling so that it won’t occupy floor space.

Its built-in speakers make it a complete home entertainment projector. Even if you use a clean white wall as a screen, you will definitely enjoy watching your favorite movies or using it for corporate presentations.

Resolution and Image Capacity of BenQ W1080ST

The BenQ W1080ST boasts of a full 1080p resolution and 3D capability. It comes with HDMI 1.4, which allows the BenQ W10180ST projector to support Blu-ray 3D, which makes this product one of the best short throw projector models in the market.

It is also HDTV compatible, thereby allowing you to display images in 480i, 480p, 576i, 567p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p resolutions. It also has various Picture Modes: Dynamic, Standard, Cinema, 3D, User 1, User 2, and User 3. Its contrast ratio is ideal for a family room projector.

It showcases full HD content in sharp 1080p clarity and has the capability to provide high-contrast quality without downscaling or compression when used with Blu-ray, video games, and other HD broadcasting sources.

BenQ W1080ST’s Working Modes and Brightness

The BenQ W10180ST has a SmartEco Mode that adjusts the lamp power to enhance power savings by being able to deliver the best contrast and brightness performance using minimal light. The Eco Blank mode allows you to reduce the lamp’s power consumption by at least 70% when you pause the projector.

The unit’s physical design may not be as great, though, as it still comes as a box-shaped projector. If this doesn’t concern you much, then you’ll probably find the best short throw projector in this product.

Pros of BenQ W1080ST 3D Projector:

• Beautiful image quality with relatively deep blacks and faithful color
• More affordable than other similar projectors
• Allows placement close to the screen
• Decent 3D performance

Cons of BenQ W1080ST 3D Projector:

• Limited setup options with no manual lens shift
• Uses an old 3D system

Why Should You Consider the BenQ W1080ST 3D Projector?

Astonishingly, BenQ W1080ST can display images as large as 135” at only 4 feet from the screen. Its crisp image quality is evident – the colors are vibrant, while brightness and contrast are near perfect.

Users found the audio decent, which you can expect from projector speakers. However, if you want to enhance the audio quality, an external speaker is the best way to go.

Most projector lamps are replaced after using it at least over two years, However, some buyers vouched for the lifespan of the lamps, lasting more than three years.

Is the BenQ W1080ST 3D Projector for You?

BenQ W10180ST makes our list for best short throw projectors because it has the largest, best quality picture! At 135” only a few feet away from the screen, it’s an amazing projector for all your entertainment needs. We don’t recommend this product to individuals who prefer to adjust the picture manually. However, we HIGHLY recommend this product for everyone looking for a huge, high-quality picture!

BENQ W1080ST User Manual

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LG PF1000UW Ultra Short Throw Smart Home Theater Projector – Best Features in a Projector

As one of the best short throw projector brands on this list, this product delivers vivid images even within short distances. At 4 inches from the screen, expect to project as much as 60 inches of display image.

LG Electronics PF1000UW Projector Image Quality and Lamp Life

This projector provides a cinematic view in clean full HD 1080p picture quality. Looking at the image quality, it’s easy to assume that you’re inside a huge home theater, with its natural and rich colors.

The projector lamp has been tested to last at least 30,000 hours. This means that you don’t have to worry having to change the lamp often, even if you use the projector daily.

This plug-and-play device makes installation easy as pie. Just place the projector in an ideal distance from the screen or wall, connect the video source and audio system, and you’re ready to watch your favorite movies.

It comes with wireless connectivity, allowing you to watch premium content from your Android or Windows smartphone or tablet. With its HDMI features, you can easily connect your laptop, game consoles, and other devices.

Another great feature is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect the projector to Bluetooth speakers to improve the viewing experience.

Pros of LG Short Throw Projector:

• Amazing picture quality when viewing in a dark room
• Rich contrast and color saturation on screen sizes up to 80 inches
• Absence of DLP rainbow artifacts
• Tested to run for a lifetime (its lamp lasts up to 30,000 hours)

Cons of LG Short Throw Projector:

• 3D image is quite a bit dimmer than standard 2D projection
• Built-in speakers only produce basic audio
• Fan noise is moderate and a bit louder than other similar home theater projectors

Why Should You Consider the LG Short Throw Projector?

If you are a potential buyer who prefers a display image size between 60” and 100”, LGPF1000U can provide you with a high resolution and contrast, and deep color saturation. According to previous buyers, the device delivers a 1920 x 1080p resolution video image with exceptional color balance. In short, picture quality is amazing.

Users also found its Bluetooth connectivity extremely helpful as well. Another advantage discovered by buyers is its portability, since it is compact and lightweight. You may bring the device along when you travel for your business presentation, and also takes away the hassle of setting it up.

Is the LG Short Throw Projector for You?

The LGPF1000U is our pick for best features because it provides customers with an amazing picture quality, Bluetooth connection, it’s portable, and it runs smoothly! Not recommended for customers looking for a really bright 3D picture, as this product has a bit dimmer 3D option. One of the best short throw projectors for overall features and quality!

LG PF1000UW User Manual

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ViewSonic PJD5553LWS 3200 Lumens WXGA HDMI Short Throw Projector – Best Energy-Saving Projector

ViewSonic PJD5553LWS offers a wider color range compared to conventional DLP technology. It provides vivid and crisp images in both light and dark environments. It has 5 unique view modes that provide the best possible viewing experience in any environment regardless of ambient light, and it also has a native resolution of 1280 x 800p.

ViewSonic HDMI Connectivity and Integration

This short throw projector has HDMI capabilities that enable you to connect it to other HDMI-enabled devices. It also has the ability to display 3D images using the optional ViewSonic PGD-350 Shutter Glasses (or any other compatible 3D glasses).

Its built-in enlarged speaker chamber (2W) and powerful amplifier can deliver a full 20 Hz-20Khz sound range. With its 0.49 throw ratio, it offers large projection images for smaller rooms. That’s why it’s no surprise that it’s one of the best short-throw projector options in the market.

ViewSonic PJD5553LWS Battery Life and Power Consumption

ViewSonic PJD5553LWS has an energy-saving feature called DynamicEco, which reduces power consumption by up to 70%. The lamp is built to last up to 10,000 hours.

Price-wise, with its advanced features, it is an ideal choice particularly for those who plan to use it for educational and business purposes.

Pros of ViewSonic Short Throw Projector:

• Energy-saving feature (DynamicEco): Up to 70% reduction in energy use
• Compact and lightweight: The device measures 4.1 by 12.4 by 9 inches (HWD), and weighs 4.6 pounds only.
• Various ports for increase connectivity (HDMI, USB, and more)
• Allows the presenter some flexibility in projector placement relative to the screen because of its 1.1 optical zoom lens

Cons of ViewSonic Short Throw Projector:

• Doesn’t come with a carrying case
• Sound is good enough for small rooms only.
• Black level not too good

Why Should You Consider the ViewSonic PJD5553LWS Projector?

Buyers consider this product to be a great outdoor projector, but it can also produce bright and vibrant colors even in a room that isn’t totally dark. The brightness and clarity of the images are superb.

The built-in speaker is average according to buyers. Naturally, if you prefer to have a better audio experience, it’s best to use a Bluetooth speaker or any external speaker.

Is the ViewSonic PJD5553LWS Projector for You?

We’ve put the ViewSonic PJD5553LWS on our list as the best energy saving projector. Not only does it offer lots of connectivity options and a quality picture, but it can also reduce your energy production by 70%! Great for cutting costs in the office and at home! Not recommended for people looking for super high-quality built-in speakers. Overall, our choice for energy saving in an amazing product!

VIEWSONIC PJD5553LWS 3200 LUMENS User Manual

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ASUS S1 200 lumen HDMI/MHL Built-in 6,000mAh Battery Power Bank Short-Throw LED Pocket Projector – Most Portable

When they say that great things come in small sizes, ASUS S1 is not an exception. This so-called “pocket projector” is designed with high functionality and versatile portability in a polished aluminum finish case. Its size and design alone makes this product a shoo-in for the best short throw projector.

ASUS S1 Color, Brightness and Battery Life

It has a LED-based light source with a maximum output of 200 lumens that provides 100% NTSC color saturation and full-color RGB projections. The brightness may not be as great as other projectors, but considering how small and affordable it is, the brightness is not too much of an issue. It has a battery (6000 mAh) life of approximately 3 hours at an average output of 50 lumens.

What’s the Resolution?

Even with its 854×480 native resolution, it can project big screen sizes of up to 100 inches in low-light conditions. It has integrated ASUS SonicMaster speakers that gives true-to-life sound.

The ASUS S1 Mobile LED Projector displays a 41-inch diagonal projection one meter away from the screen or any even flat surface.

Pros of ASUS S1 Projector:

• Maximum LED lamp lifespan of 30,000 hours
• Portable at 342 grams
• Doubles as a power bank for charging other devices such as mobile phones or tablets
• Projects from compatible mobile phones through HDMI port, which supports Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL)
• One of the most affordable short throw projectors in the market

Cons of ASUS S1 Projector:

• Low native resolution at 854 x 480p
• 200 lumens
• Sparse set of connection ports

Why Should You Consider the ASUS S1 HDMI/MHL Projector?

Buyers generally loved the design and compact size of the ASUS S1 pocket projector. Its brushed metal finish is an instant eye-candy according to some users. Meanwhile, it proves to be extremely convenient to take along anywhere you may need it.

Aside from this, it’s packed with great features. For one, its image quality and surprisingly bright colors are so spectacular that you won’t even think that it only has 200 lumens rating.

On top if tall, the product allows you to save big from costly maintenance fees since its lamp life is about 30,000 hours.

Be it for a business meeting presentation, film screenings with family and friends, or educational purposes, the ASUS S1 is one of the best short throw projector variants, particularly for those who are a bit budget-conscious.

Is the ASUS S1 You?

The ASUS S1 is on our top short throw projector list because it provides users with amazing portability options! You can use this for your gaming in the evening, then pop it in a carrying case and use it for work the next morning! All without breaking a sweat! Not recommended for users who need connectivity options, or are looking for a high rating of lumens!

ASUS S1 200 LUMEN User Manual

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Optoma GT5500 1080p 3D DLP Ultra Short Throw Gaming Projector – Best in Connectivity

The Optoma GT5500 is an excellent ultra-short throw projector with its 3,500 lumens brightness, a Full HD (1920×1080), and reasonably short lag time of 34 ms.

Optoma GT5500’s Image Quality

What makes this a great choice is its throw. Despite being so close to a screen, you are still assured of high-quality images. All you need to do is position the projector inches away from the wall-mounted screen, and you get an awesome looking image that’s comparable to any HDTV product.

This may be a perfect choice for different kinds of needs as it allows you to sit closer to the screen without you having to worry about casting shadows. The unit uses a single 0.65″ DC3 DMD DLP Technology by Texas Instruments and a throw ratio of 0.25.

Optoma GT5500 Brightness and Sound

The 3500-lumen brightness is able to provide excellent display images up to 100” when used in a semi-dark room. Its 16-watt mono speakers deliver sufficient sound in a small to mid-sized room. You may use an external set of speakers to achieve better audio quality.

Outstanding Color Quality with Optoma GT5500

The GT5500 offers six predefined picture modes, although the Bright mode has an obvious green bias and a tendency for some colors to be dark and dull. The overall color quality is slightly better for color graphics and games than for photorealistic images. Rainbow artifacts are not much of a problem on the GT5500.

It can accept high definition sources at 24 fps to display videos accurately, typical to all Optoma projectors. It also comes with an Eco Technology feature that provides high contrast, longer lamp life, and energy-saving features that can ultimately reduce power consumption.

It has wireless capability that allows you to connect other devices, thereby eliminating the hassle of using long cables. It also weighs about 10.7 lbs., not at all heavy, which means portability is not an issue.

Pros of Optoma GT5500:

• Large projection size of up to 200 inches diagonally.
• Impressively bright 3500-lumens lamp, which makes it possible to view images even with the lights on
• Provides deep and rich colors
• Multiple port connectivity

Cons of Optoma GT5500:

• Brightness settings may be too distracting when the projector is used for gaming
• High brightness may shorten lamp life since it generates more heat, leading the lamp to last up to 6500 hours of use
• High lag time at 34ms

Why Should You Consider the Optoma GT5500 Projector ?

Buyers found the Optoma GT5500 an exceptional projector considering its price and the image quality that it provides. It is portable and easy to set up, and so you can use it conveniently when doing a business presentation.

Some consumers liked its ultra-short throw, which means that you don’t need to have a huge space in between the screen and the projector to have a display image of 100 inches. It can actually project more than 100 inches, but some buyers complained of eye discomfort.

What’s amazing about the Optoma GT5500 is that it can produce top quality images against any flat, even surface.

In terms of quietness, the noise level is at 28 dB in Eco mode, but can be louder when used in Bright Mode.

Overall, buyers categorize the Optoma GT5500 as part of the best short throw projector list.

Is The Optoma Projector for You?

Optoma GT5500 makes our list for best connectivity options. We love that you can use this projector with a HUGE variety of media players, lap tops, tablets, even smart phones! Not recommended for people who are shopping for a short throw projector with super short lag times. Nonetheless, we love this projector because you can connect it to practically any device!

OPTOMA GT5500 1080P User Manual 

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LG Electronics PH450UG Short Throw LED Projector with Screen Share – Best Value For Money

This short throw LED projector from LG Electronics can produce huge and high-quality images even in small spaces. You only need to position it close to a wall where you can achieve a picture that can measure about 50 inches across. Moving the projector just an inch away may give you bigger images.

LG PH450UG Projector Dimensions and Weight

The PH450UG doesn’t have a cookie-cutter design. Its funky design is finished in futuristic grey and comes equipped with air vents on each side. This won’t take up too much table space since it only measures about 132mm x 200mm x 80.5mm and weighs 1.1kg.

One of its most ingenious features is that it can be unplugged from the power outlet, thanks to a built-in battery that lets the projector run on an internal energy source.

LG PH450UG Projector Brightness and Input Options

It has a 450 lumens brightness with a contrast of 100000:1. What’s surprising is that its LED light engine won’t run hot, but it can emit a mildly warm air. Therefore, it needs to be placed in an area where it is properly ventilated.

The device has a single HDMI input, a USB port, and a mini headphone jack. The HDMI input is MHL-enabled for a direct smartphone connection. Because of this, you can conduct your presentation using your smartphone.

Its built-in micro speakers are driven by a 2x1W digital amp. The sound may not be as great, but its Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to pair with external speakers.

Setting it up is easy. You can either use a large screen if you do not have a tight budget. Otherwise, using a plain, white, flat wall can be sufficient enough.

Pros of LG PH450UG Projector: 

• Bright imagery, although there’s loss in sharpness when the image becomes larger
• Cost-effective
• High color vibrancy
• Low operational noise
• 30,000 hours of lamp life

Cons of LG PH450UG Projector: 

• Pictures details are limited to 720p
• Not suitable for rooms with high ambient light; works best in full black-out conditions
• Battery lasts for only up to 2.5 hours and takes around three hours to charge
• May have AV sync issues and limited motion resolution

Why Should You Consider the LG PH450UG Projector?

Considering that the resolution is only 720p, this product will still be able to fulfill your expectations. This is the perfect option for budget-conscious users. Buyers like how the product provides image quality that is good enough for film showings and gaming sessions.

For some buyers, it’s close to becoming the best short throw projector among the lower end variants, which sounds perfect for first-time users.

Buyers also love how you can move it around easily because of its small size and weight. Using it as a tool for out-of-town or destination presentations may be helpful, although image quality may not be that great for corporate functions.

Is This LG Projector for You?

Chosen as our top short throw projector of value, the LG PH450UG really allows you to stretch your money the farthest! Additionally, it has amazing brightness quality, vibrant colors, and a really long lamp life. Not recommended for customers looking for more than 720p picture quality. Get the most out of your money with the LG PH450UG!

LG ELECTRONICS PH450UG User Manual

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Epson PowerLite 435W WXGA 3LCD Short Throw Projector – Best for Ambient Light Projection

The Epson PowerLite 435W provides quality images and a wide range of connection choices that can perfectly fit your needs. Upgrading your home entertainment with Epson PowerLite 435W will definitely make your home a favorite weekend hangout for video games and movies.

Epson PowerLite Resolution

This projector has a 3000-lumen brightness with a native resolution of 1280×800 pixels and a 16:10 native aspect ratio, which is close to the aspect ratio of most laptops these days.

Creating an image as big as 80 inches is possible when you position the projector about 2.7 feet from the screen. An exceptional feature of Epson PowerLite 435W is its ability to achieve an image size of 80 inches even from just a foot away!

Epson PowerLite Unique Design and Whiteboard Connectivity

It is uniquely designed to be used with interactive Whiteboards. As a short throw projector, it allows fewer shadows on the screen especially when using it as a Whiteboard.

Installation is a breeze. It comes with a mount with three adjustable feet under the projector:

• The two in the rear unscrew to raise and lower the projector.
• The button foot in the front aids in raising the image.

Because of the mount, your fear of having the projector accidentally knocked off the table would no longer be a concern.

It has various connectivity options that allow you to connect your devices such as Blu-Ray, smartphones, and external speakers. It is easier to do PC presentations by connecting USB flash drives and you can also do it wirelessly using an optional wireless module. If you intend to hook it up to a network, it has a built-in ethernet port that allows projector functions controlled via the LAN port.

It also has a mic port so you and your friends can enjoy karaoke nights regularly. Its 16W speaker is about 6 watts louder than even the best short throw projector on the market today.

Pros of Epson PowerLite Projector:

• 3000-lumens rating, which delivers a great viewing experience even in ambient light
• Ability to project large images from the projector just a few feet away from the screen
• Built-in teaching aids like graphs and lines for writing
• Capable of wireless connectivity via an add-on module
• Easily accessible lamp and filter when maintenance is necessary
• Compatible with the iPhone and the iPad

Cons of Epson PowerLite Projector:

• Not 3D capable
• No zooming capability (therefore, it is critical that you position the projector correctly without interrupting the presentation or movie)

Why Should You Consider the Epson PowerLite?

The Epson PowerLite 435W has earned high praises from buyers due to its amazing features. Because of its advanced features, expect this projector to be more expensive than similar devices. If you’re looking for high-quality images, this is a perfect choice for the best short throw projector.

Another reason why buyers dub this product as the best short throw projector is its capability to be connected to a network. At the same time, you can plug in your flash drive, game consoles or Chromecast to enjoy the ultimate gaming and viewing experience.

Is This Epson Projector for You?

Epson PowerLite 435W comes in as our best short throw projector choice for best ambient light projection. The powerful 3,000 lumens rating makes for a great picture quality even with a little light pollution. That means you can use this projector more often! Not recommended for consumers looking for 3D projectors!

EPSON POWERLITE 435W WXGA  User Manual

Best Short Throw Projector For You

The short throw projector is emerging as one of the most useful tools in conducting presentations and showing videos for a large audience. By following our buying guide and choosing the factors that matter most to you, we’re confident that you will get the best short throw projector that will address your work or entertainment needs.

If you found this best short throw projector buying guide and products review helpful, feel free to share this with your friends and family. Found a product that you absolutely love? Tell us in the comments section below!

Relevant Reviews:

Best Short Throw Projector Under $500
Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors
Best Portable Short Throw Projectors