10 Best Short Throw Projectors

The Epson EH-LS500B Android TV Edition is a solid choice for a home cinema short-throw projector. It boasts a 4K PRO-UHD resolution, which means you get very clear and detailed images, enhancing your viewing experience significantly. The brightness of 4000 lumens ensures that your content remains vivid and clear, even in well-lit rooms, which is particularly useful for daytime viewing or in rooms with windows.

One of the standout features is its ultra-short throw capability, allowing you to place it very close to your display area (65-130 inches) while still getting a large, immersive image. This is ideal if you have limited space. The Android TV integration provides easy access to streaming services, games, and apps, making it versatile for various entertainment needs. Connectivity includes three HDMI inputs and Bluetooth, letting you connect multiple devices like a sound system, gaming console, or additional streaming devices.

However, at 9.3 kg, it is on the heavier side, so it's not very portable. The built-in Wi-Fi is a nice touch, facilitating easy setup without extra cables. Durability is another plus with a laser light source rated for up to 20,000 hours in Eco mode, likely giving you years of daily use without needing a replacement. One minor drawback could be the price, but the high specs and features make it highly suited for users seeking a high-quality home cinema experience with minimal space requirements.

The BenQ TK700STi stands out in the short-throw projector category, especially for gaming and home entertainment purposes. With a throw ratio capable of projecting a 100-inch image from just 6.5 feet away, it’s ideal for small spaces. Its high resolution, delivering 4K HDR visuals, ensures sharp and vibrant images, complemented by the bright 3000 ANSI Lumens output which should perform well even in moderately lit rooms. The 96% Rec. 709 color accuracy enhances the cinematic experience with lifelike colors. For gaming enthusiasts, the projector's low input lag is impressive, offering 16ms at 4K/60Hz and as low as 4ms at 1080p/240Hz, making it well-suited for fast-paced games on all major consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Connectivity is robust with HDMI 2.0b support and eARC, ensuring excellent audio and video quality transmission. The inclusion of Google-certified Android TV provides access to a wide range of apps, making the TK700STi versatile beyond gaming, also serving as a hub for streaming content. While the 1.2x zoom and keystone corrections make setup flexible, users seeking more extensive lens shift options might find it slightly limited.

The BenQ TK700STi is a compelling choice for those who want a high-quality projection experience in small to medium spaces, balancing high-performance gaming needs with everyday viewing.

The AWOL VISION LTV-3000 Pro is a noteworthy entry in the short-throw projector market, designed particularly for home cinema enthusiasts seeking a large, high-quality screen experience. Its ultra-short throw capability allows for a massive 150-inch display from close distances, making it ideal for home setups where space might be limited. The 4K resolution ensures an incredibly sharp image, and when combined with technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10+, it offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, even in well-lit rooms.

A standout feature is its brightness, which allows for clear viewing during the day. The projector's triple laser technology enhances color range significantly, catering to those who prize vivid, true-to-life image quality. Coupled with Dolby Atmos for sound, the LTV-3000 Pro provides an immersive audio-visual experience, ideal for movie nights or 3D content.

However, the projector's substantial weight of 14.7 kg might be a consideration for portability if frequently moving the device. Additionally, while it includes a Fire TV Stick 4K Max for smart features, those looking for a built-in smart interface might find this a slight inconvenience. Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI support, but users should ensure their setup accommodates these connections. The power efficiency is a bonus, as it uses significantly less energy compared to traditional LED TVs, which might appeal to eco-conscious users.