Best Short Throw Projector Review

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Best Short Throw Projector Review

We take a look at our top 3 short throw projectors to fit any budget.

Most of us love to go to the cinema. We love the big screen, cinematic colours and the massive speaker system. Like most film enthusiasts, it is understandable that you want to take this experience home.

With your home cinema, you would choose when to view films without worrying about parking space, noisy people or distracting lights from tablets and phones. The good news is, you can have your own theatre at home by using a short throw projector. This home theatre device is affordable, consumes less power, and can create 100-inch images.  All you need to use this device is a coffee table and a wall.

Benefits of a short throw projector

  1. Allows you to watch films with a cinematic experience
  2. Easy to set up and saves power.

Disadvantages of a short throw projector

  1. Some DLP projectors have mild rainbow effects.

For this review, we selected three of the best short throw projectors available. We will take an in-depth look at the features of each projector. Some of the features we explore include contrast ratio, speaker wattage, and 3D content support.

Best Budget Short Throw Projector

Epson EB-535W Short Throw Projector

Epson EB-535W Short-Throw Education Projector
  • Exceptional image quality: Epson’s 3 LCD technology displays brighter images and more accurate colours
  • Equally high white and colour light output: Projected image can be seen clearly even in brightly-lit rooms
  • Clearer detail: Increased contrast ratio of 16,000:1
  • Longer lamp life means low TCO: 10,000 hours in eco mode/5,000 hours in normal mode
  • Flexible installation options: Horizontal and vertical keystone correction for off-centre and uneven placement

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

If you are looking for a projector that can ‘throw’ bright, large images, then the Epson EB-535W should be on your list. This WXGA projector has a 0.48:1 throw ratio making it ideal for use in midsize and small rooms.

The design is simple and stylish. The front includes a short-throw lens. The back panel consists of a VGA output port and two VGA inputs that allow you to connect the projector to analogue devices. There is also an HDMI output to connect with HDTV and digital devices. This projector is fitted with a single lamp that offers 3400 lumens brightness. The lamp can last up to 5000 hours on full brightness mode and up to 10000 hours on eco mode.

Other inputs include an S-video and composite inputs for SD equipment, two USB ports for connecting to a document camera or USB memory. Also on the back panel, you will find a LAN port that allows you to control this short throw projector over a network. You can also control the 535W wirelessly from your Android or iOS smartphone. All you need is a Wi-Fi dongle.

The 535W’s image quality is excellent and delivers same colour and white brightness. This means the colour quality of your data images or video remains the same as when you view them on your mobile phone or computer. Another outstanding feature of the Epson EB-535W projector is its built-in microphone and 16W speaker. This makes this projector suitable for standalone usage.

If your audience includes someone with hearing impairments, you can use the closed caption feature to add subtitles. This projector has built-in closed captioning that meets the ADA 508 requirements.

Inside the box:

  • Main unit
  • VGA cable
  • Remote control with batteries
  • Power cable
  • Software
  • Manual
Epson EB-535W Short Throw Projector

Benefits of the Epson EB-535W

  • Does not produce a rainbow effect like single-chip DLP projectors.
  • Comes with four pre-set templates.
  • Excellent image quality.
  • Allows up to four devices to project simultaneously.

Disadvantages of the Epson EB-535W

  • Does not support 3D content.

Manufacturers Specs

  • Weight: 3.7 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Dimensions 34.4 x 31.5 x 9.4 cm
  • Display: 1280 X 800
  • Supported resolutions: UXGA, XGA, VGA, SVGA, WXGA, SXGA
  • Contrast ratio: 16000:1
Epson EB-535W Short-Throw Education Projector
Epson EB-535W Short-Throw Education Projector
Clearer detail: Increased contrast ratio of 16,000:1; Longer lamp life means low TCO: 10,000 hours in eco mode/5,000 hours in normal mode
£1,199.99

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Rating

If you are looking for a short throw projector that is affordable and is ideal for a small or midsize room then the Epson EB-535W is the perfect fit. This 3-chip LCD technology projector offers more accurate colours than DLP projectors and balances brightness and whiteness.

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Best Value Short Throw Projector

Optoma GT5000+ Home Entertainment Projector

Optoma GT5000+ 1080p Full HD Ultra Short Throw Home Entertainment Projector - White
  • 100 Inch images - GT5000+ placed 30 cm away from a flat surface or screen
  • Enjoy live sports, TV shows and gaming in full 1080p
  • Lights on viewing - bright 3200 lumens
  • Easy to setup - multiple connectivity for digital devices and high sound from integrated speakers
  • Computer compatibility: UXGA, SXGA, WXGA, HD, XGA, SVGA, VGA, Mac

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

If you want to have a cinematic experience whilst playing games, watching music, or watching films in your home without incurring the considerable cost of a new 4K UHD TV, then the Optoma GT500+ projector is a perfect choice. The Optoma GT5000+ is an ultra short throw projector that can deliver a 100-inch image when placed 30 cm away from the screen.

Its exterior design is not as elegant; it looks like a printer. But, its features are what you need to get excited about. Unlike other projectors, the GT5000+ does not sport a lens. Instead, the images come through a small window on the top edge of the projector. Unfortunately, the lack of a lens means you cannot make zoom or focus lens adjustments like you would in other projectors. However, you can change the size of the images by moving it forward or backwards.

The back panel consists of two VGA ports, USB ports, and two HDMI inputs. The GT5000+ boasts of 1080p resolution. This means you get clear pictures whether you are playing video games or watching live sports. It also boasts of full 3D capability. This allows you to run content from the latest game consoles or 3D Blu-ray players. This home projector is compliant to the international HDTV standard, meaning you get to view the content and colour as intended by the production companies.

Another feature that makes the GT5000+ standout among other home projectors is its gaming mode. The gaming mode optimises the projector for maximum colours and lightning so as to capture every aspect of the game. This home projector has a 0.25:1 ratio and its lamp can last up to 6500 hours.

Inside the box:

  • User manual
  • 2X AA batteries
  • GT5000+ projector
  • Remote control
  • Power cable
Optoma GT5000+ Home Projector

Benefits of the Optoma GT5000+

  1. Supports 3D content.
  2. Integrated speaker.
  3. Bright 3200 lumens.
  4. Easy to set up.

Disadvantages of the Optoma GT5000+

  1. Minor rainbow effects.
  2. Few adjustment options.

Manufacturers Specs

  • Dimensions: 31 x 38.5 x 12 cm
  • Weight: 4.78 kg
  • Colour: white
  • Contrast ration: 23000:1
Optoma GT5000+ 1080p Full HD Ultra Short Throw Home Entertainment Projector - White
Optoma GT5000+ 1080p Full HD Ultra Short Throw Home Entertainment Projector - White
100 Inch images - GT5000+ placed 30 cm away from a flat surface or screen; Enjoy live sports, TV shows and gaming in full 1080p

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Rating

Just like other DLP projectors, the GT5000+ has a few shortcomings. However, the pluses are why this home entertainment projector is one of the most sort after units on the market. The GT5000+ is reliable. You can turn it into a smart projector by using an HDMI dongle like Amazon Fire Stick, Google Chromecast, or HDCast Pro.

———

Best Performing Short Throw Projector

BenQ W2000 Short Throw Projector

BenQ W2000 1080p Home Cinema Projector (Rec.709, DLP, 2000 Lumens, 15000:1 High Contrast Ratio, Short Throw, 20 W Speaker, 3D, HDMI, CinePrime Series) - Gold/white
  • 100% REC.709 cinematic colour: W2000 plays Rec.709 HDTV standard for finest cinematic colours of true accuracy
  • High resolution: Native 1080p full HD with 2000 ANSI lumen high brightness and 15000:1 contrast ratio, 6X RGBRGB colour wheel
  • Theatre-like sounds: Housed 20 W stereo speaker with CinemaMaster Audio+ tech to boost enjoyment for movies, sport matches and games
  • Short distance projection: W2000 maximizes thrills in minimum space by projecting a massive 100-inch image at a mere 2.5 meters
  • One-stop wireless: The optional FHD wireless kit streams uncompressed 1080p content, even in 3D

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

The BenQ W2000 is a versatile projector ideal for any home. This home cinema projector operates using single-DLP technology and cinematic colour technology. Unlike the GT5000+, this project has a stylish exterior design that makes it suitable for any living room.

The rear panel comprises a DC Sub PC port, component video input, two HDMI ports, mini USB ports, and a 12V trigger output. The W2000 boasts of 15000:1 aspect ratio and a brightness of 2000 lumens. This assures you of bright, coloured images. When placed 2.5 meters away from a screen or wall, this DLP projector can create a perfect 100-inch image.  BenQ has partnered with the ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) to allow onsite calibration for this projector.

The calibrations adjust the projector’s settings to the size of your room so that you can have the perfect cinematic experience. The W2000 uses a low-dispersion, all-glass coated lens that boosts Rec 709 cinematic colour accuracy. You can zoom in/out pictures through projector’s top edge or the wheel above the focus/zoom wheels.

The 20W speaker is designed using CinemaMaster technology that helps boosts the audio quality. It is amazing how loud this small project is. You can turn the W2000 into a wireless home entertainment projector by using a full HD kit. This kit allows you to stream 1080p content. It also supports 3D content.

Inside the box:

  • Lens cover
  • Power cord
  • Warranty card
  • User manual
  • W2000 projector
  • Remote control (buttons turn in orange in the dark)

Benefits of the BenQ W2000

  • Zero latency.
  • Sleek design.
  • Runs silently.
  • Powerful speaker.

Disadvantages of the BenQ W2000

  • Can’t play multimedia directly from a USB drive.
  • Slight rainbow effects.

Manufacturers Specs

  • Weight: 3.6 kg
  • Dimensions: 38 x 27.7 x 12.2 cm
  • Colour: White/gold
  • Contrast ratio: 15000:1

Gallery

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Overall Rating

There are a few negative things about the BenQ W2000 projector, but none of them should deter you from getting this projector. This home projector stands out because it brings out the colours as the directors had envisioned, allows calibration, and vertical and horizontal keystone correction.

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Best Short Throw Projector (Overall Winner)

Optoma GT5000+ Home Projector

Every projector featured in this review is ideal for creating the perfect home cinema. The Epson EB-535W has a 0.48:1 throw ratio and displays using LCD technology. The BenQ W2000 comes with a built-in 20-watt speaker and uses an FHD kit to stream uncompressed 1020p content. However, one projector stands out from this pack; the Optoma GT5000+ home projector.

This short throw projector is an ideal buy because it is lighter and easier to set up. At Clever Hab, we love that it has multiple ports to connect with digital devices and has little to no rainbow effects. You can use an HDMI dongle like the Apple TV or Google Chromecast to turn it into a smart projector.  Also, the fact that it supports 3D content is a great plus.

It is unquestionable that the Optoma GT5000+ is genuinely one of the best short throw projectors we’ve come across. If you want to experience cinematic colours, sound, and minimize power consumption, then get the Optoma GT5000+.

Optoma GT5000+ Home Projector
Optoma GT5000+ 1080p Full HD Ultra Short Throw Home Entertainment Projector - White
  • 100 Inch images - GT5000+ placed 30 cm away from a flat surface or screen
  • Enjoy live sports, TV shows and gaming in full 1080p
  • Lights on viewing - bright 3200 lumens
  • Easy to setup - multiple connectivity for digital devices and high sound from integrated speakers
  • Computer compatibility: UXGA, SXGA, WXGA, HD, XGA, SVGA, VGA, Mac

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Bottom Line

What is keeping your from creating your home cinema? Is it the cost of a 4K HDTV? A short throw projector is more affordable and provides the same experience as a 4K HDTV.  With any of the units mentioned above you will get amazing picture quality, large images and a massive sound system.

With your projector, you get to view films on your schedule and play games without worrying about parking or bad mannered people. We believe that any of the units mentioned above will meet your home theatre needs.

About Chris Sharples 68 Articles
I love a good gadget! Whether it's something that makes my home smart, saves me time or just looks great. I blog about gadgets and technology in and around the home. Follow me on my journey to avoid the pitfalls and find the best.

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