Short Throw Projector |
Rating 1-5 |
Price (approx) |
Resolution | Lumens | Contrast Ratio | Throw Ratio | Speakers/Audio | Special Features |
BenQ TH671ST
|
4.6 | $799-$850 | FHD 1080p | 3000 | 10,000:1 | 0.69 – 0.83
(ie. 100″ image with projector 57″ away) |
5 Watt Stereo Speaker | Vibrant colors combined with bright display makes this a great gaming projector. Find out more. |
LG PF1000UW
|
4.1 | $1150-$1250 | 1080P | 1000 | 150,000:1 | 0.31
(ie. 100″ image with projector 15″ away) |
2 x 3 Watt Built-in Speakers | Can operate wirelessly (2.5 hour battery life), Bluetooth Sound Out and USB connectivity. Also, 3D ready. Find out more. |
Optoma GT1080 Darbee
|
4.3 | $729-$750 | 1080P | 2800 | 30,000:1 | 0.49
(ie. 92″ image with projector 39″ away) |
2 x 10 Watt Built-in Speakers | Features advanced gaming mode with enhanced graphics. Also, MHL functionality and 3D ready. Get more information. |
Viewsonic PJD5553LWS
|
4.3 | $530-$550 | 1280 x 800 WXGA |
3200 | 20,000:1 | 0.49
(ie. 100″ image with projector 50″ away) |
2 Watt Built-in Speaker |
Features SuperColor Technology for true-to-life image color. 3D ready. More details. |
Epson PowerLite 680
|
4.2 | $1075-$1110 | 1024 x 768 XGA |
3500 | 14,000:1 | 0.32 – 0.43
(ie. 92″ image with projector 11″ away) |
16 Watt Built-in Speaker | Split Screen: display content from two inputs simultaneously, side by side, on a single screen. Also, WIFI support and MHL functionality. Package does not include wall mount ($109). Find out more about the Epson PowerLite |
BenQ HT2150ST
|
4.9 | $869-$910 | 1080P | 2,200 | 15,000:1 | 0.69 – 0.83
(ie. 100″ image with projector 59″ away) |
2 x 10 Watt Built-in Speakers | High responsiveness for better gaming experience. Also, MHL functionality and 3D ready. Read more |
Optoma GT5500
|
3.7 | $1099-$1150 | 1080P | 3500 | 25,000:1 | 0.25
(ie. 100″ image with projector 13″ away) |
16 Watt Built-in Speaker | Ideal for gaming and watching sports. Also, 3D ready. Plus, get the optional Optoma Wireless Transmitter to wirelessly connect tablets, laptops, consoles & more. See details. |
**About Choosing a Short Throw Projector:
1. How Important are the Amount of Lumens?
Typically, you want to look for higher lumens if you want to have a brighter picture. For example, more lumens will display a clearer, more visable picture in rooms with ambient light.
That said, some short throw projectors can create a large image even when they are only inches from the wall. In this case, high lumens are not as important (as with traditional projectors) because the light source is so close.
2. How Does Contrast Ratio Affect the Video Picture?
This factor matters more if you plan on using your projector in rooms with ambient light. In dark rooms, a higher contrast ratio won’t matter as much. Below is a comparison:
3. Do You Want Projector Portability?
Many people choose short throw projectors because you can easily carry them, set them and move them around. For instance, you can display an image on a wall, a ceiling or a table.
In addition, you can now find a short throw projector that has wireless capabilities. This means that you can use the unit while plugged in, or run it off batteries.
This takes “portability” to a whole new level. Think backyard movie nights, presentations anywhere or even moving your home theater to different rooms in your house…
4. What is MHL – Why Would I Want It?
As explained by Techradar, MHL (Mobile High Definition Link) enables you to view the media on your phone/tablet on a big screen. In short, you plug the MHL cable into the micro USB port on your phone or tablet and connect the other end into an HDMI port on your projector.
MHL is compatible with many Android products. However, for an Apple iOS device, you will need to get a Lightning Adapter instead.
