The Best 1080p Short Throw Projector For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Optoma GT780 Short Throw Projector for Gaming & Movies | HD Ready 720p + 1080p Support
Image credit: Amazon.com

In today’s world, distractions are a constant. Everywhere you look, there’s some type of technological gadget or app that you can use to check your social media feed or watch a quick video. Because of this, it’s important to have tools at home and in the office that can help keep you focused on the task at hand.

A great way to accomplish this is with a short throw projector. These projectors allow you to send images from your computer or device onto a wall or other surface from several feet away so they appear as though they have been projected directly on the wall or surface. With a short throw projector, you can turn any wall into an interactive screen for movies and games without requiring any additional furniture to set up TV stands or Ceiling mounts.

The best 1080p short throw projector will allow you to watch high-definition movies on any wall in your home while still allowing you to take advantage of other rooms and get things done around the house. Follow along as we share our picks for the best short throw projector available today.

After nearly 16 hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Optoma, Benq, Viewsonic, Akiyo, Fatork, Elite projector. Among them, Optoma GT780 Short Throw Projector for Gaming & Movies | HD Ready 720p + 1080p Support seems to be the first product you can rely on. Alternatively, if you're simply looking for a good-looking option, you may go with BenQ TH671ST 1080p Short Throw Gaming Projector.

Our article today focuses mainly on giving you guidelines and tips to be able to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.

Our Top Picks

  • INTEGRATED SOUND: A 10W speaker enhances movies with integrated sound
  • HD READY: Experience a large, vibrant 720p resolution (with 1080p input) image – up to 300"; Rec.709 color gamut guarantees accurate reproduction of cinematic color exactly as the director intended
  • VERSATILE PROJECTION APPLICATIONS: Ideal for both outdoor or indoor use – bright image for summer backyard movie nights without having to wait till sunset; ideal for daytime movies indoors
  • FULL 3D: The GT780 displays true 3D content from almost any 3D source, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest-generation game consoles; support for 120Hz rapid-refresh rate provides ultra-smooth flicker-free images; 3D glasses are not included, must purchase compatible third party 3D DLP Link Glasses separately
  • HDMI CONNECTIVITY: Connect to a variety of devices including laptops, Blu-ray players, ChromeCast, Roku, Amazon Fire Stick & other streaming devices.
  • 15,000-HR LAMP LIFE: Enjoy up to 15,000 hours of lamp life enabling an average of 3 hours of viewing time every day 9+ years
  • FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION: ±40° vertical keystone correction and a 0.8 – 2.0x digital zoom enable flexible placement in any environment
  • SHORT THROW LENS: Experience a large 120" image projected from 4' 5" away, allowing placement closer to the screen – ideal for smaller spaces and easier installation
  • LIGHTS-ON VIEWING: Enjoy an incredible 3,800 lumens of brightness in any room in your home; leave the lights on or keep it dim for a cinematic experience
  • INDUSTRY-LEADING : 3-year limited parts and labor coverage makes you rest easy that our US-based customer service team is here when you need it.
  • FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY: Supports most media players, gaming consoles, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices with input options such as HDMI, USB, and more
  • WOW YOUR FRIENDS: Take the action to the big screen by projecting a 100 inch screen from just 5 feet away. Projects up to 300 inches.
  • GEARED TOWARDS GAMING: Ultra-fast low input lag and a refresh rate that matches the max output of Xbox One X & PS4 Pro ensure ultra-smooth gaming experiences without motion blur to keep you on the top of your game.
  • UNPARALLELED PICTURE QUALITY: With Native Full HD 1080p Resolution, 92% Rec. 709 Color Accuracy, 3000 Lumens and high native contrast ratio for the ultimate immersive cinematic and gaming experience.
  • AWARD WINNING PROJECTOR: Best Projector for Gaming - High Ground Gaming 2019
  • Integrated speaker: a 10-watt built-in speaker enhances presentations with sound and simplifies the set-up without the need for external speakers; loud enough for small-to-medium classrooms and meeting rooms
  • DLP (Digital Light Processing) is a proprietary technology from Texas Instruments that offers digital projection with higher contrast, faster response time, good pixel structure and virtually no color degradation.
  • Short throw lens: experience a large 120" Image projected from 4. 5 feet away, at throw ratio 0. 5: 1; short throw Projectors allow placement closer to the screen making it ideal for more smaller spaces and easier installation
  • Full 3D 1080P support: display true 3D content from almost any 3D source, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest-generation game consoles; 3D glasses purchase required
  • Vivid color: 50, 000: 1 contrast and the serge color profile enables rich accurate color, based on the primaries of rec. 709 HDTV specification when used with a PC, Mac, or any serge compatible source
  • EXTENSIVE CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS: The EH412ST features an array of connectivity options including 2 x HDMI, VGA in and out, audio-in and out, RS232, and USB-A
  • PORTABLE SIZE: Weighing less than 8 pounds in a small form factor, the portable EH412ST is easy to take from room to room
  • High brightness: enjoy 4, 000 lumens of brightness in well-lit meeting rooms, conference rooms, training rooms, classrooms and more
  • 4K HDR input: enjoy vibrant colors, Brighter whites, deeper black levels and sharper images when paired with the latest 4K HDR video sources or 1080P hdr gaming contents
  • Long LAMP life: with a Lamp Life of up to 15, 000 hours, get extended viewing time with a lower cost of Ownership – an average of 5 hours of viewing time every day 8 plus years
  • ULTRA-SHORT THROW: Experience a large 100" diagonal image projected from only inches away with an ultra-short throw lens; ultra short throw projectors allow placement close to the screen or wall providing easy cable management and an unobstructed projected image from foot traffic or objects
  • SCREEN MIRRORING: Enjoy content from iOS or Android mobile devices on the big screen with USB display connectivity
  • GO WIRELESS: Share wireless presentations and images with Optoma HDCast Pro 1080p HDMI MHL Multimedia Stick, sold separately; WUSB adapter required, sold separately
  • FULL 3D: The GT5600 displays true 3D content from almost any 3D source, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest-generation game consoles. Support for 144Hz rapid-refresh rate provides ultra-smooth flicker-free images; 3D glasses required
  • INCREDIBLE PICTURE QUALITY: Enjoy bright, razor-sharp images with 3, 600 lumens, 20, 000: 1 contrast ratio, and 1080p resolution
  • EASY IMAGE SET-UP: The auto keystone sensors and four-corner correction ensure a sharp, detailed image for quick, trouble-free set-up; when the projector or table is bumped, the image will refocus instantly
  • LONG LAMP LIFE: Enjoy up to 15, 000 hours of lamp life enabling an average of 4 hours of viewing time every day 10 plus years
  • LONG LAMP LIFE: Eco Mode allows the lamp to shine bright for up to 15,000 hours
  • SUPERSIZED MOVIES AND GAMES: Immersive theater-like experience in Full HD (1920x1080p) on a screen up to 300-inches
  • INCLUDED IN THE BOX: PX706HD Projector, Power Cable, VGA Cable, and Remote Control
  • REDUCED INPUT LATENCY and Gaming Mode: Ideal for intense action-packed gaming, this projector delivers smooth images without delay
  • SHORT THROW: With a short throw lens, this projector can be placed just inches away from a wall or screen to give you a huge image
  • CINEMATIC COLORS: Exclusive Color technology offers a wide color gamut for beautiful image production in nearly any environment
  • FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY: Supports most media players, gaming consoles, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices with input options such as HDMI, USB Type-C, and more
  • POWERFUL VERSATILITY: TV projector integrates seamlessly with Roku, Fire TV stick and ChromeCast for effortless programming for education, entertainment or business environments
  • DEPENDABLE LASER LIGHT SOURCE: DuraCore laser light source eliminates lamp and filter replacements for up to 30, 000 hours of low-cost and virtually maintenance-free operation; IPX6 dust resistance rating ensures optical engine durability
  • MOVIES, GAMING & MORE: Connect to media players and gaming consoles for big screen movies and gaming; connect a 4K UHD HDMI dongle such as the Fire TV, Google Chromecast, or Apple TV to play games, stream videos and share photos
  • SHORT THROW LENS: Experience a large 120" image projected from 4'-4" away, allowing placement closer to the screen – ideal for smaller spaces and easier installation
  • FULL 3D: The GT1090HDR displays true 3D content from almost any 3D source, including 3D Blu-ray Disc players, 3D broadcasting, and the latest-generation game consoles. Support for 120Hz rapid-refresh rate provides ultra-smooth flicker-free images; 3D glasses required, sold separately
  • EASY IMAGE SETUP: Auto keystone and four corner correction provide simple image adjustment for easy installation
  • ENABLED FOR HOME AUTOMATION: Set up complete network control, a perfect solution for home environments; LAN & RS-232 enable control via Crestron
  • LIGHTS-ON VIEWING: With an incredible 4, 200 lumens of brightness, project in any room in the house, including family rooms, theater or game rooms, as well as outdoor spaces such as backyards, camping, tailgating and more
  • HOME CINEMA PICTURE QUALITY: 1080p (1920×1080) resolution (with 4K input) and 300, 000: 1 contrast ratio renders sharp and detailed images from high definition content without downscaling or compression
  • 4K HDR INPUT: HDR10 & HLG technologies enable brigher whites and deeper black levels for an enhanced viewing experience of images and videos
  • QUIET OPERATION: The low 32dB noise level in eco-mode ensures movies can be viewed without interference from the projector's operation sounds
  • 【Pocket Size】The AKIYO Z9 DLP projector is as small as the palm of your hand. Size: 10.5*10.5*2.5cm, weight: 0.28kg. You can even put it in your jeans pocket. The piano paint treatment makes the mini projector even nobler. An ideal choice for bedroom, office, business trips, camping and gift.
  • 【Multi Devices】Equipped with HDMI, audio output, and USB port (Does not support reading, only for charging). You can connect smartphones, fire sticks, soundbars, PS3/4 and more. (Due to app copyrights, you can't watch movies from Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu on your smartphone, laptop, Chromecast, wireless dongle, TV stick, or Roku.)
  • 【Cost Effective】With the powerful DLP chip, native resolution of 854*480p, 120 ANSI lumens and three-level brightness adjustment, you can get clear and bright images even in a dark environment. The projection size of the projector is 30-120’’, equipped with ±40° vertical keystone correction, you can get a rectangular image by correcting it.
  • 【Low Noise】Uses Texas Instruments DLP chips, which generate less heat. The high-performance fans ensure fast heat dissipation and the noise level is much lower than LED projector. Built-in 1.5W HiFi dual speakers bring you an excellent audio-visual experience.
  • 【Easy to Use】Simple UI design, HDMI plug and play. 1.5 hours playback time with USB-C charging port, you can use a power bank or laptop to charge the projector without worrying about finding electricity outdoors. It can also be used as a power bank to charge your cell phone. The portable projector can be used better outdoors with the help of a tripod. (Tripod included)
  • 🎮【LENS DUSTPROOF & COMPATIBILITY】:The DLP projector lens adopts closed technology, which is more dustproof and will not appear black spots. A tiny projector is equipped with HDMI and USB ports. It can easily connect to smartphones, iPads, laptops, TV boxes, DVD players, game consoles, USB drives, and more for home theater, video games, parties, and outdoor events.
  • 📞【CUSTOMER SERVICE SUPPORT】: FATORK has always been committed to providing excellent pocket projectors and 100% satisfied customer service. We provide 12 months of professional after-sales service and permanent professional technical support. If you have some problem, please contact us on Amazon, and we will try our best to solve it for you within 24 hours.
  • 👜【PORTABLE & AUTOMATIC KEYSTONE CORRECTION】:With a design more minor than the size of a soda can, this mini projector allows you to enjoy your favorite movies anywhere at home.This wireless projector has a built-in rechargeable battery, which can provide 2.5 hours of video on 1 charge, meeting outdoor needs. This pocket projector supports automatic vertical ±40° keystone correction, which helps to correct the image quickly.
  • 🌞【CLARITY & SHORT FOCAL DISTANCE】:DLP projectors provide better light efficiency and color control with bright 150 ANSI lumen images. (Recommended for use in darker environments.) Enjoy a brighter and clearer image than LCD projectors. This projector can project up to 114" (10-100" recommended) at a projection distance of 1.64 ft to 9.85 ft.
  • 🤖【WIRELESS 5G WIFI CONNECTION】:The WiFi projector supports 2.4G/5G, realizing the same screen in real-time with low latency. Connect once to WiFi, and you can connect your device to your portable home projector whenever you want. The latest WiFi connectivity is compatible with iOS and Android, so you don't need to switch cables.
  • 【EASY SETUP/INSTALLATION】: Amazing Quality - IPX2 spill-proof certified to protect from weather changes or party splashes for indoor/outdoor activities use; Two USB Type A and Two Type C for both video connection and charge phone or laptop; With Tripod Stand can be easily set up in no time! Projector Model selection in this MosicGO Series - EliteProjector MosicGO Sport/Lite.
  • 【FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY】: Low input lag at 17ms; DLP technology; 1000 ANSI lumens (1500 LED Lumens); 20,000:1 contrast ratio; native Full HD (1920X1080); OSRAM 25,000 lamp life LED. Wireless MSS 8W x 2 sound system with high efficiency Class D amp to enhance dynamic range; aluminum diaphragm for fast response and smooth high to 20K Hz; SpeakerGuard overload protection.The product works for the best performance in dark room.
  • 【QUALITY ASSURED】: Highly-rated on Projector Central, great choice for your home entertainment/theater/indoor/outdoor parties. Premium projector with quality materials: Made in Taiwan.
  • 【FANTASTIC GAMING/PORTABLE CINEMA EXPERIENCE】: Lightweight and compact size; easy to carry around on campus, in your classrooms, ballrooms, exhibit booths or simply bring it with you on the road. Integrated High Capacity Power Bank (37200mAh) Li-Ion Lithium Battery for video connection and charge for laptops or phones and other devices through both USB- C / USB-A port. 37800Ah Power Bank is only on Sport Version.
  • 【LIFETIME PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT】: Industry leading 3-year warranty for products purchased via educational, non-profit, religious or Government ORG; 2-year warranty from date of original purchase. If you have any question, please feel free to contact our US-based customer service team.
  • PRO PERFORMANCE: Compatible with major consoles (Sony PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X, Google stadia) huge, bright, sharp images and equalized audio
  • USER-FRIENDLY: Cast with airplay and Chromecast. No app needed. Remote controls both Android TV and projector
  • 4K LOW LATENCY: Low latency 16ms at 4K/60Hz low input lag, Game Mode/Game Sound Mode to fine-tune audio and images
  • TK700 vs TK700STi: TK700STi possesses short-throw capabilities able to project at shorter distances (100"at 6.5ft). TK700 utilizes standard throw (100" at 8.2ft). TK700STi also features Android TV while the TK700 does not.
  • NOTE: Cast Netflix content via your laptop Google Chrome Browser or connect to an HDMI cable. Netflix is not natively available on this device
  • ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT: Google-certified Android TV and Google Play store, with 5,000 plus of the latest Android apps, movies, shows, live sports, games, music, and more
  • EASY SET-UP: 1.2x zoom flexible throw distances, 2D Auto Vertical Keystone, Picture Rotation Adjustment for squared images
  • INDUSTRY LEADING WARRANTY: 3-year limited parts and labor coverage; our US-based customer service team is here when you need it
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best 1080p short throw projector?

It may take a long longer to make the best shopping decision. As a result, we are accessible to assist you with your best 1080p short throw projector issue at any time of day or night!

There are some highlighted features of best 1080p short throw projector you should be aware of before make decision:

Your Content

Two basic types of images can be displayed on a projector are data (text and graphics), and photorealistic. These include photos, film, and video. Most games have some elements of each. While any projector will show all types of images, a projector might not be able to handle every type of image. However, a projector could do a great job of one without being able to properly display the other. A projector should be optimized to display the type of images that you intend to present.

Resolution

Although projectors have the ability to scale images either up or down it is best not to do so as this can cause distortions. Any projector resolution above and beyond WUXGA (1.920 by 1.200 pixels) should be matched to the source that you intend to attach it most frequently, which is a computer or other electronic equipment.
The calculation for projectors that have 4K ultra high definition (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) is slightly different.

Connection Methods

Many home projectors have multiple connections options. Most new models have HDMI connectivity. This is a good thing because HDMI supports 1080p video. Standard, larger projectors come with full-size HDMI ports. However, smaller projectors like pico and palmtop have micro or mini HDMI ports. These ports require separate cables that are usually included with each projector.
Component video, composite video and S-Video all make up the most common connections on large projectors. We're also seeing more projectors that offer direct USB connection to computers via a USB cable. A growing variety of projectors now have USB Type-C ports. The majority of USB-C ports can be used to transfer data or video using the DisplayPort protocol. Most USB-C ports support USB Power Delivery (USB PD), which means that a plugged in projector can supply 100 watts of power to charge a device or to charge it using a USB-C cable (assuming the device is capable of charging over USB-C).

Brightness

Projector brightness is not uniform. Brighter isn’t always better.
The ambient lighting level, size and material of your projector screen will all affect the brightness. You should buy a professional seller if you are installing a projector in a permanent location, such as at your home, to ensure that you get the best image brightness and the correct screen material.

Light Source

Projectors are moving away from lamps being used as light sources and using lasers and LEDs. At the moment there is a benefit to each option.
For longer periods of time, LEDs and lasers retain a greater percentage of their original brightness. While all light sources eventually lose their brightness, lamps lose the most in 500 hours. Then, they slowly decline over time. The brightness of LEDs and lasers will decrease more slowly over the course of their lifetimes.

Projection Tech

Projectors can be either LCD-based, or they use a Texas Instruments DLP chip (Digital Light Processing), along with a laser or LED or LCOS light source.
DLP projectors with single-chip DLP chips could be subject to the so-called "rainbow effect." Sometimes, tiny, bright flashes with rainbow-like colors may appear, especially in dark scenes. Some DLP projectors have a minimal effect, while others can produce a distracting result, especially when there are bright areas against shady backgrounds. The rainbow effect is not a problem with LCD projectors, which are safer if someone in your household has sensitive eyes. There are many DLP projectors that produce excellent images.

Portability

You should consider how easily the projector must be carried. There are many sizes and weights of portable projectors. Some can be small enough to slip into a pocket or large enough to mount on a wall. You can take a portable projector with you to work, as well as a gaming or entertainment projector, to your friend's home or backyard to set up for movie nights. Make sure the projector is both appropriate in size and weight. You should ensure that your projector has enough battery life if you are far from power outlets.

Contrast Ratio

The ratio of brightness from the brightest white to the darkness of black a projector produces is called the contrast ratio. However, the rating of the projector will not usually be affected by it. A higher contrast ratio, which is the difference between how bright a projector can produce and how dark it can display, produces vivid, striking colors, and more detail in shadows. This is most important in video, film, and two-dimensional photos that are photorealistic.
Contrast ratings can only be used to measure in dark rooms. They don't give any information about ambient lighting. Unusually dark blacks in the projector will result in lower contrast. A brighter projector will perform well in home theaters, but not in living rooms or offices.

FAQs

Do You Need Built-In Audio?

Not all projectors have audio capability, and for those that do, the audio is sometimes all but useless--particularly with highly portable models. Make sure the audio is loud and clear so you can hear what your projector says. You can use a separate sound system, or powered external speakers, if it doesn't. This is always a great idea for home theatre and home entertainment. Check if your projector can be used with Bluetooth speakers.

How Much Brightness Do I Need In An At-home Projector?

It is important to consider the location and times of use when purchasing a projector. Higher lumens will be recommended if you intend to use it in bright sunlight. Lumens for rooms that have dim lighting aren't as restricted. Ideally, 1,000 to 2000 lumens is the ideal.

Do You Need 3D Support?

3D imaging has gone beyond the boom it experienced a few decades ago. It is now possible to show images in 3D for business and educational purposes. It's possible to still find 3D projectors if your application requires 3D.
There are many 3D technology options available. Make sure that any 3D projector or camera you're considering will be compatible with your 3D source. The "3D-ready" label usually indicates that it can work with 3D created by a computer. Full HD 3D is the best designation to search for if you own a number of 3D Bluray discs. It is important to confirm the type of 3D glasses that it can work with. DLP-Link glasses tend to be the most popular, however, there are many types of 3D glasses, some with proprietary features.

How Long Do Projector Screens Last?

However, newer technologies for projectors either extend the projector's lifespan or eliminate the need to use a filter (or lamp) entirely. These new technologies can last for as long as 20,000 hours. These new technologies require less maintenance, and are cheaper!

How Important Is Ultra Short Throw?

Ultra short throw technology is a feature of many flagship 4K projectors. This greatly reduces the distance between projector and surface (walls, ceilings, etc.).
This laser projector tends to produce sharp images. However, it can be more expensive than a regular or long-throw model.
Ultra-short throw, or 'UST', is a space-saving technique that keeps your projector exactly where you would place a TV. It also means you won't have to mount a projector to your ceiling. People moving about a room will be less likely to block the images.
The decision is up to you.

How Big Should My 4K Projector Picture Be?

An age-old question. This really boils down to the size of your projector: If you want to fit a 100-inch projected image in the same space as a 55 inch TV, then a maximum 100-inch might be too small. You should measure the walls in your home and check that the projected image is compatible with them.

What Kind Of Projector Should You Get?

The type of projector you choose will depend on where and how you intend to use it. A high-quality, 1080p LCD projector is best for home theatres. A laser 4K model is best if you are passionate about visuals and have an access to dark theatre rooms. However, the latter is more expensive.

Screen Or No Screen?

A screen will allow you to see better. Many screens have coatings which enhance blacks, contrast and colors. Small shadows can be created by a textured wall, which will distort the colors and blur out details. While some projectors can adjust for wall colors, most images projected on a wall will still look slightly off.

Do I Need A 4K Projector?

You might be a little skeptical about any 4K projectors on this list. It may be worthwhile to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of other technologies.
Flatscreen TVs are generally simpler to use. They can be placed in your house, on the wall, or counter, and they will stay there. This TV has a fixed screen size and offers HDR or 4K resolution at a lower price than projectors.

We will keep the list of best 1080p short throw projector up-to-date once there are new technology and information available. Please check our website frequently to see the most up-to-date information by our editor.

Do you have any questions or comments regarding best 1080p short throw projector that you'd like to share with us? We will try to attain even greater comedy as a result of your efforts.


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.