Best Short Throw Projectors 2025
Project massive images from just a few feet away. Perfect for small rooms, apartments, and dedicated gaming spaces where distance is limited.
What is a Short Throw Projector?
Short throw projectors have a throw ratio between 0.4:1 and 1.0:1, allowing them to project large images from a short distance. A standard short throw projector can create a 100" image from just 4-8 feet away, compared to 10-15 feet for conventional projectors.
Comparison Table
| Projector | Resolution | Lumens | Throw Ratio | Contrast | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
BenQ TH671ST
Gaming Short Throw |
Native 1080p | 3,000 | 0.69-0.83:1 | 10,000:1 | $799 | View on Amazon |
|
Optoma GT1090HDR
4K HDR Short Throw |
4K HDR | 4,200 | 0.5:1 | 300,000:1 | $1,299 | View on Amazon |
|
ViewSonic PX748-4K
4K Home Theater |
4K UHD | 4,000 | 1.13-1.47:1 | 12,000:1 | $999 | View on Amazon |
|
Epson PowerLite 685W
Ultra Short Throw |
WXGA | 3,500 | 0.28:1 | 14,000:1 | $1,049 | View on Amazon |
|
BenQ TH585P
Low Input Lag Gaming |
Native 1080p | 3,500 | 1.13-1.47:1 | 10,000:1 | $599 | View on Amazon |
|
Optoma GT1080HDR
Gaming Short Throw |
Native 1080p | 3,800 | 0.5:1 | 50,000:1 | $749 | View on Amazon |
Projector Highlights
Optoma GT1090HDR - Best Overall
The GT1090HDR combines 4K HDR quality with an incredibly short 0.5:1 throw ratio. Project a 100" image from just 3.6 feet away. With 4,200 lumens and HDR10 support, it delivers stunning visuals even in rooms with ambient light.
- 100" image from 3.6 feet
- 4K UHD with HDR10
- 4,200 lumens - great for any room
- 8.4ms input lag at 1080p/120Hz
BenQ TH671ST - Best for Gaming
The TH671ST is designed for gamers with a 16ms input lag and 1080p native resolution. The 0.69:1 throw ratio means you can set it up on a coffee table and fill your wall with a huge image. No ceiling mount needed.
- 100" image from 4.9 feet
- 16ms input lag for gaming
- Enhanced Game Mode
- 3,000 lumens brightness
Optoma GT1080HDR - Best Value
At under $800, the GT1080HDR offers the same incredible 0.5:1 throw ratio as its 4K sibling but at 1080p resolution. With 3,800 lumens and HDR compatibility, it's an excellent choice for gamers and movie watchers on a budget.
- 100" image from 3.6 feet
- HDR10 and HLG support
- 120Hz refresh rate support
- 50,000:1 dynamic contrast
Understanding Throw Ratio
Throw ratio is calculated as: Distance to Screen รท Screen Width. Here's what different throw ratios mean:
- Ultra Short Throw (0.1-0.4:1): Project from inches away, placed directly below the screen
- Short Throw (0.4-1.0:1): Project a 100" image from 3-7 feet away
- Standard Throw (1.0-2.0:1): Requires 8-15 feet for a 100" image
- Long Throw (2.0:1+): Best for large venues and outdoor use
Distance Chart for 100" Screen
| Projector | Distance for 100" Image | Distance for 120" Image |
|---|---|---|
| Optoma GT1090HDR | 3.6 ft (1.1m) | 4.3 ft (1.3m) |
| Optoma GT1080HDR | 3.6 ft (1.1m) | 4.3 ft (1.3m) |
| BenQ TH671ST | 4.9-5.9 ft (1.5-1.8m) | 5.9-7.1 ft (1.8-2.2m) |
| ViewSonic PX748-4K | 8.0-10.5 ft (2.4-3.2m) | 9.7-12.6 ft (2.9-3.8m) |
Placement Tips
Short throw projectors work best on a table or low shelf. Since they're so close to the screen, even small adjustments affect image size dramatically. Many short throw projectors include keystone correction to compensate for off-angle placement.
Consider Shadows
With short throw projectors positioned close to the screen, people walking in front of the projector will cast shadows on the image. For completely shadow-free viewing, consider an ultra-short throw projector that sits directly below the screen.