10 Best Short Throw Projectors 2026 in the United States

The Optoma GT1080HDR is a solid choice for a short-throw projector mainly designed for gaming and entertainment in smaller spaces. It can project a large 120-inch image from just 4 feet away, making setup easier in rooms where space is limited. Its Full HD 1080p resolution ensures sharp and detailed images, which is excellent for gaming and movies. The brightness level of 3800 lumens allows for clear images even in moderately lit rooms, both day and night. Additionally, the contrast ratio of 50,000:1 delivers good depth between dark and bright scenes, enhancing picture quality. The projector supports HDR10, which enhances colors and brightness when viewing compatible content.

For gamers, the fast 8.4ms response time combined with a 120Hz refresh rate reduces lag and motion blur, providing a smoother experience. Connectivity options include two HDMI ports, allowing easy connection of gaming consoles, streaming devices, or media players. The vertical keystone correction feature enables image adjustment if the projector is off-center, reducing the need to physically move the device. The lamp life is rated up to 15,000 hours, supporting years of average daily use. The built-in 10-watt speaker offers decent sound for casual use, though it may not replace a dedicated sound system.

While the projector supports 4K input, it displays at a 1080p resolution, so it does not show native 4K detail. It weighs about 6.6 pounds, which is moderate but not ultra-portable. If you want a bright, responsive projector suitable for gaming and general entertainment with easy setup in smaller rooms, the Optoma GT1080HDR fulfills those requirements effectively. However, if you require true 4K resolution or a very compact device, other options might be more appropriate.

The Optoma ZH406ST short-throw projector is designed for professional use, offering a range of impressive features. With a throw ratio that allows for a 120-inch image from just 4 feet away, it's ideal for small spaces. The projector boasts a Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080), ensuring sharp and clear images. Its brightness level of 4200 lumens allows for clear viewing even in well-lit rooms, making it suitable for business presentations and educational settings.

The impressive 300,000:1 contrast ratio provides deep blacks and bright whites, enhancing the image quality. Connectivity options are ample, including dual HDMI, VGA, and RJ45, accommodating various devices and setups. The four-corner image adjustment feature makes installation flexible and straightforward. The DuraCore laser technology ensures a long lamp life of up to 30,000 hours, reducing maintenance costs, and the IPX6 dust resistance adds to its durability.

Additionally, the projector supports 4K HDR input, enhancing video quality for a richer viewing experience. However, the integrated speakers, while convenient, may not suffice for larger rooms, and the projector's weight (10 pounds) might be a consideration for portable use. The 2-year limited parts warranty and 5-year light source warranty offer added peace of mind for long-term investment. The Optoma ZH406ST is a robust and versatile short-throw projector that fits well in educational and business environments, providing high-quality visuals and reliable performance.

The ViewSonic LS921WU is a robust short-throw laser projector designed for large screen setups, making it suitable for both business presentations and educational environments. With a resolution of 1920 x 1200, it delivers sharp and clear images, ensuring detailed visuals. Its high brightness of 6000 lumens means it can perform well even in well-lit rooms, which is a significant advantage for versatile use.

The projector's lamp life is impressive, with the laser phosphor light source lasting up to 20,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance. Setup is user-friendly with features like 1.1x optical zoom, horizontal and vertical keystone correction, and wide lens shift, which help in achieving the perfect image alignment even in challenging setups. The 360-degree projection capability adds to its flexibility.

Connectivity options are extensive, including dual HDMI, USB, HDBT, and Ethernet LAN, ensuring compatibility with most devices. Remote management and scheduling are facilitated through LAN control, supporting Crestron and other systems, which is a handy feature for IT admins. While it supports 4K HDR HLG, the native resolution is not 4K, which might be a consideration for those specifically seeking ultra-high-definition content. This projector is an excellent choice for those needing a powerful, flexible, and long-lasting device, ideal for professional and educational settings rather than casual home cinema use.