Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors Of 2024
In the ever-evolving world of projectors, new models frequently emerge, offering impressive features and capabilities. Whether you’re setting up a home theater, enhancing your gaming experience, or needing a portable option, there’s a projector designed to meet your needs. This guide explores eight standout projectors of 2024, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
8. Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 Projector
Epson’s EpiqVision Ultra LS800 projector showcases its expertise in laser-lit 3LCD technology within a robust UST design. It delivers a remarkable 4000 lumens of brightness, making it ideal for daytime viewing without the need for blackout curtains. While it could benefit from a wider color gamut, it compensates with excellent usability at any time of the day. The LS800’s integrated Yamaha-designed speakers provide a powerful audio experience, sufficient for rooms up to 300 square feet. Its virtual sound mode balances voices, sound effects, and music, offering an immersive pseudo-surround sound experience.
7. Hisense 100L9G Laser TV Plus Projector
The Hisense 100L9G Laser TV Plus is a transformative addition to any living room. It features a tri-color laser light engine, HDMI 2.1 ports with HDR support, and an Android TV interface, alongside powerful 40W speakers. Designed as a laser TV, it includes an ambient-light-rejecting screen available in 100 or 120 inches, enhancing image quality in well-lit rooms. Despite its superior picture performance, the projector’s brightness adjustments can sometimes be overly aggressive, and its motion smoothing may introduce motion artifacts.
6. Nomvdic X300 Outdoor Projector
The Nomvdic X300 is easily recognizable by its portable, not-quite-cubical design. It stands out with features like a short throw lens, 2,300 ANSI lumens brightness, LED light source, native 4K resolution, and decent sound quality, making it perfect for large family rooms or outdoor movie nights. Its short throw lens, coupled with a powered optical zoom, sets it apart from other portable projectors. Additionally, its low input lag makes it a viable option for gaming enthusiasts.
5. BenQ X500i Projector
The BenQ X500i offers exceptional value for a 4K gaming projector. It boasts a state-of-the-art short input lag, with 1080p measured at 16.9ms at 60Hz, 8.5ms at 120Hz, and 4.2ms at 240Hz. For 4K at 60Hz, it records 16.7ms. The projector supports 1440p resolution at up to 120Hz, a popular choice among gamers. It features dedicated modes for different game genres, automatically adjusting picture and audio settings to enhance the gaming experience. Other notable features include an LED light source, 2,200 ANSI lumens brightness, full HD 3D support, and an Android TV 11 dongle for smart TV functionality.
4. Optoma UHZ35ST Projector
The versatile Optoma UHZ35ST projector excels in various applications. As a native 4K model, it’s suitable for home entertainment, gaming, and even business or educational use. Its 3,500-lumen laser-phosphor light source ensures bright and clear images in both well-lit family rooms and office environments. The projector’s compact size and 6.6-pound weight make it easy to transport between locations, enhancing its appeal as a multi-purpose device.
3. Aaxa P400 Native Projector
The Aaxa P400 stands out for its portability and high native resolution of 1080p. Its short throw lens is ideal for tight spaces, allowing for larger images at shorter distances. With a brightness equivalent to 200 ANSI lumens on AC power, it performs well in moderate ambient light, producing a 40-inch image. The 2-watt speaker delivers surprisingly good onboard audio, making it a practical choice for on-the-go entertainment.
2. Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 Projector
The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS650 offers excellent value with slightly reduced features compared to the LS800. It delivers 3,600 lumens of brightness, sufficient for a 120-inch screen in a family room with ambient light. Its three-LCD chip design eliminates rainbow artifacts, and the image quality is nearly indistinguishable from true 4K. Integrated Android TV, HDR and HLG support, and robust onboard audio enhance its appeal. The projector’s short input lag makes it suitable for casual gaming as well.
1. Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 Projector
Topping the list, the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 excels with the shortest throw among UST projectors, allowing for optimal furniture placement. It boasts a 4,000 ANSI lumens laser light source, three-LCD design to avoid rainbow artifacts, and excellent color accuracy and contrast. Gamers will appreciate its low input lag for a 4K-class UST projector. The robust stereo audio system includes two 5-watt speakers and a 10-watt subwoofer, ensuring high-quality sound.
Buying Guide for Projectors: Key Considerations
When selecting a projector, several factors should guide your decision to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here’s a detailed buying guide to help you navigate the options.
Brightness
Brightness, measured in lumens, is crucial for viewing quality, especially in well-lit rooms. For daytime viewing or rooms with significant ambient light, consider projectors with at least 3,000 lumens. The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800, with 4,000 lumens, is an excellent choice for bright environments.
Resolution
Resolution determines the clarity and detail of the projected image. For a sharp and clear picture, opt for projectors with at least 1080p resolution. For an even more immersive experience, 4K projectors like the BenQ X500i and Optoma UHZ35ST provide superior image quality.
Throw Distance
Throw distance refers to how far the projector needs to be from the screen to produce a specific image size. Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors, such as the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 and LS650, are ideal for smaller spaces as they can project large images from a very short distance.
Light Source
The type of light source affects the projector’s longevity and color quality. Laser projectors, like the Hisense 100L9G and Optoma UHZ35ST, offer longer life spans and better color accuracy compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. LED projectors, such as the Nomvdic X300, provide a good balance of lifespan and performance.
Audio Quality
Integrated audio quality is essential if you don’t plan to connect external speakers. Look for projectors with robust built-in speakers. The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800, for example, features a Yamaha-designed speaker system, offering excellent audio without needing additional equipment.
Portability
If you need a projector that’s easy to move around, consider its weight and size. The Aaxa P400 and Nomvdic X300 are highly portable options that don’t sacrifice image quality.
Gaming Performance
For gamers, input lag is a critical factor. The BenQ X500i stands out with its low input lag, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. Additionally, projectors that support higher refresh rates and resolutions like 1440p at 120Hz are beneficial for a better gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between lumens and ANSI lumens?
Lumens measure the total amount of light emitted by a projector. ANSI lumens, a standardized measure by the American National Standards Institute, provide a more accurate representation of a projector’s brightness. When comparing projectors, ANSI lumens give a clearer picture of performance.
Why is a short throw lens important?
A short throw lens allows you to place the projector closer to the screen while still producing a large image. This feature is especially useful in small rooms or when you need to avoid casting shadows on the screen. UST projectors are a type of short throw projector that can be placed extremely close to the projection surface.
Do I need a special screen for my projector?
While you can project onto a plain wall, using a projector screen enhances image quality by providing a smooth, reflective surface. Some projectors, like the Hisense 100L9G, come with an ambient-light-rejecting screen, which improves image quality in bright rooms by reducing the impact of ambient light.
Can I use a projector for gaming?
Yes, many projectors are suitable for gaming, but you should look for features like low input lag, high refresh rates, and good resolution. The BenQ X500i is designed with gamers in mind, offering low input lag and support for high resolutions and refresh rates.
How important is color accuracy?
Color accuracy is vital for a true-to-life viewing experience. Projectors with a wide color gamut can reproduce colors more faithfully, which is important for watching movies and playing games. Laser projectors typically offer better color accuracy than lamp-based models.
Can I connect a projector to my smart devices?
Most modern projectors come with multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and wireless connections. Some, like the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800, also include integrated Android TV, allowing you to stream content directly without needing external devices.
How do I maintain my projector?
To keep your projector in good condition, regularly clean the lens and air filters. Ensure the projector is adequately ventilated to prevent overheating. For laser and LED projectors, minimal maintenance is required compared to traditional lamp-based models, which need periodic lamp replacements.
Conclusion
Selecting the right projector involves considering various factors such as brightness, resolution, throw distance, light source, audio quality, portability, and specific use cases like gaming. Each projector in our top eight list offers unique advantages, catering to different needs and preferences. By understanding these key aspects, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a superior viewing experience tailored to your requirements. Whether you’re upgrading your home theater, enhancing your gaming setup, or seeking a portable entertainment solution, there’s a perfect projector waiting for you.
