Is the best short throw projector or an ultra short throw projector suitable for me? This question ever comes to your mind. If yes, this blog is for you. Well, Both models are popular because they can project large images from a close distance. What’s the actual difference?
To get an immersive experience at a home theater, picking the right project is important. In this simple guide, we’ll explain the key differences. You’ll get a clear understanding of both types. Knowing these differences will help you choose wisely. Let’s dive in and see which one fits your needs better!
Best Short Throw Projector vs Ultra Short Throw: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Short Throw Projector | Ultra-Short Throw Projector |
| Throw Distance | 6-12 feet | A few inches |
| Projection Surface | Screen or painted wall | Specialized surface or painted wall |
| Image Quality | Excellent | Good to excellent |
| Installation | Easy | Requires careful positioning |
| Budget | Affordable | Can be more expensive |
Best Short Throw Projectors
Short throw projectors let you project a big screen without placing the projector far away. For example, you can get a 100-inch image with the projector just 6 to 12 feet from the wall. This is perfect for smaller rooms where there isn’t much space.
Best Short Throw Projectors Key Features:
Throw Ratio: Short throw projectors have a throw ratio of 0.4:1 to 1.0:1. This means that for every foot the projector is from the wall, it can project an image that is 0.4 to 1 foot wide.
Best For: These are great for home theaters, classrooms, and offices where space is limited.
Less Shadow: One of the best things is that it reduces shadows on the screen, so you don’t block the image if you walk in front of it.
Ultra Short Throw Projectors
Ultra short throw projectors can be put almost right next to the wall, 8-20 inches maybe and yet get you a 100-inch image. They are conventional because they can offer you the biggest (though smallest) short throw projector screen and even replace your traditional TV without taking up much space.
Ultra Short Throw Projectors Key Features:
Throw Ratio: Ultra short throw projectors have a throw ratio of less than 0.4:1. This means they can create a huge image even when placed very close to the screen.
Design: These projectors look sleek and fit right in front of the screen, making them a stylish option that doesn’t take up much space.
Great for Bright Rooms: Many ultra short throw projectors work with screens that reject extra light, so they still look good in bright rooms.
Comparing Short Throw and Ultra Short Throw Projectors
The best short-throw and ultra-short-throw projectors can give you a good picture. Accurate ultra-short-throw projectors often boast a higher resolution, be it 4K or long-focused. The other highlighting point about this is that they can display much larger images in full clarity and resolution than traditional versions of the same type of device. But ultimately, they are better quality! But not every model is created equal.
Space Requirements
| Feature | Short Throw Projector | Ultra-Short Throw Projector |
| Space Needed | Requires a few feet of distance from the screen | Can be placed very close to the wall, almost touching it |
| Ideal Room Size | Best suited for larger rooms | Perfect for smaller spaces |
| Shadow Issues | Minimal shadow interference | Virtually no shadow interference |
Installation and Setup
| Feature | Short Throw Projector | Ultra-Short Throw Projector |
| Placement Options | Can be placed on a cabinet or stand | Often requires specific mounting or positioning |
| Flexibility | Offers flexibility in placement | Requires careful positioning for optimal performance |
| Screen Requirements | Compatible with standard screens | Often needs specialized screens for best image quality |
Cost Considerations
Generally, short throw projectors are less expensive than ultra short throw projectors. If you’re on a budget, a short throw projector can still offer good performance without costing too much. Ultra short throw projectors can be more expensive but might offer additional features and convenience.
So, the best projector for you depends on how much space you have, your budget, and what features you want.
When to Choose a Short Throw Projector
Budget-Friendly: In a budget and have more room to play around with, get a short throw projector This provides excellent performance at a reasonable price.
Versatility: Short throw projectors are flexible. You can use them in different places like home theaters, classrooms, or offices. Plus, there are many models to choose from.
When to Choose an Ultra Short Throw Projector
Small rooms: If your room is small and you want a big ultra short throw projector screen but without using the floor much, consider an ultra-short-throw projector. It nudges the wall, saving room.
Modern Aesthetics: Ultra short throw projectors often look sleek and stylish. They fit well with modern home decor and won’t clutter your space.
High-Quality Viewing Experience: For the sharpest image quality — including 4K or even 8K resolutions if you have them — an ultra short throw projector is ideal. They include all the features you would expect such as latest grade connections for memory and viewing enjoyment.
Popular Short Throw and Ultra-Short Throw Projectors
Short Throw Examples:
- Optoma UHD35
- BenQ TH685
- Epson HomeCinema 2150
Ultra-Short Throw Examples:
- LG CineBeam HU85LA
- Hisense PX1-PRO
- ViewSonic LS700HD
FAQs
Which Short Throw Projector is Best?
Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 (top consumer short-throw projector) This will project a 120-inch image in the lofty resolution, while boasting an impressive (4K) and bright (4000 ANSI lumens). That ends up making it a good home-helper option.
How Long Do Short Throw Projectors Last?
The GT560 range of NEC’s new ultra-short-throw projectors offers a laser light source at 2500 lumens, which can last over 30,000 hours. That comes down to 12 years more or less, if you use it for 8 hours a day. This is substantially longer than most typical projectors, which have a lifespan of around 6,000 to 8,000 hours.
Why are Ultra Short Throw Projectors expensive?
UST projectors are more expensive because they employ sophisticated lenses and premium light engines. Now incorporating additional complex and higher cost components. They might also just be like camera lenses — which can cost you a pretty penny as well.
How Many Lumens for a Short Throw Projector?
Most ultra short throw projectors offer at least 2,000 lumens of brightness on the low end and can go as high as an eye-searingly bright 5,000 lumens. Most standard short throw projectors include an LED light, and typically are not brighter than 4,000 lumens.
Can Short Throw Projectors be used in daylight?
The short-throw projectors are sunlight-enough funded that even under the instruction is yes. As they are bright and can be used in a large room or outdoors during the day.
Are 4K Projectors as Good as 4K TVs?
4K projectors cost more than 4K TVs. Yet they are good for having different screen sizes and two screens. 4K Projector — This projector has very similar image quality to a 4K TV, but with the size and flexibility of an adjustable screen.
Bottom lines
Both ultra short throw and best short throw projector have advantages. Short throw projectors are inexpensive and flexible making them ideal for different spaces and even bigger rooms. Ultra-short throw projectors are fit for confined areas and bring along modern technology like short throw projectors 4k and 8k.
Think of room factors like size and budget, and what you wish to achieve with a projector. These too are devices that can augment your viewing experience. Pick the one that is appropriate for you in establishing top-notch theater or presentation designs.