Short Throw Projectors - Space Saving
13 short throw models • 13 updated in last 24h • Throw ratios verified
Best Short Throw Projector 2025: Compare Ultra Short UST Models
Compare short throw projectors with verified throw distance measurements and performance data. From budget short throw models like the BenQ TH671ST to premium UST lasers like the LG HU85LA. Real-world performance analysis for small spaces.
Throw Distance Guide
Short throw: 3-6 feet for 100" screen • Ultra short throw: 6-24 inches for 100" screenUse our distance calculator →
📏 Short Throw
4-8 feet distance • 0.5-1.0 throw ratio
BenQ TH671ST, Optoma GT1080HDR
⚡ Ultra Short Throw
6-24 inches distance • 0.2-0.4 ratio
LG HU85LA, Epson LS11000, Samsung LSP9T
🔥 Best Short Throw Projector Deals - Distance Verified
LG HU85LA CineBeam
Distance: 7" for 90" screen
✅ True 4K • ✅ 2700 lumens laser • ✅ WebOS
BenQ TH671ST
Distance: 5 feet for 100" screen
✅ 1080p native • ✅ 3000 lumens • ✅ 8.3ms lag
Epson LS11000
Distance: 16" for 100" screen
✅ Native 4K • ✅ 5000 lumens laser • ✅ 3LCD
📏 Throw distances verified with actual measurement. UST projectors require ALR screens for best performance.See UST setup guide →
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📏 Short Throw Distance Calculator
Calculate the exact distance needed for your desired screen size. This calculator works for both short throw and ultra short throw projectors.
Common Short Throw Projectors
BenQ TH671ST
Throw Ratio: 0.69:1
LG HU85LA (Ultra Short)
Throw Ratio: 0.19:1
Epson LS11000 (Professional UST)
Throw Ratio: 0.35:1
Manual Calculation
Formula:
Distance = Screen Width × Throw Ratio
Step-by-Step Example:
Step 1: Determine Screen Width
For 16:9 screens: 100" diagonal = 87" wide, 120" diagonal = 105" wide
Width = Diagonal × 0.87 for 16:9 screens
Step 2: Find Your Projector's Throw Ratio
Check manufacturer specs. Common ratios:
- • Short throw: 0.4-1.0:1
- • Ultra short throw: 0.2-0.4:1
- • Standard throw: 1.3-2.0:1
Step 3: Calculate Distance
Example: 100" screen with BenQ TH671ST (0.69:1 ratio)
87" (width) × 0.69 = 60 inches = 5.0 feet
Step 4: Account for Zoom Range
Some projectors have zoom (e.g., 1.0-1.3:1). This gives placement flexibility of 10-30% distance variation without moving projector.
⚠️ Important Tips:
- • Measure from projector lens to screen, not projector back
- • Add 6-12 inches buffer for ventilation and cables
- • Ultra short throw projectors are sensitive - accuracy within 1 inch matters
- • Check if specs list throw ratio at closest vs farthest zoom position
- • For ceiling mounts, account for projector height and lens shift
Quick Reference: Screen Size to Distance
| Screen Size | Width (16:9) | Short Throw (0.7:1) | Ultra Short (0.25:1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80" | 70" | 4.1 feet | 7 inches |
| 100" | 87" | 5.0 feet | 9 inches |
| 120" | 105" | 6.1 feet | 11 inches |
| 150" | 131" | 7.6 feet | 14 inches |
Note: These are approximate values. Always consult your specific projector's manual for exact throw ratio specifications.
🔧 Ultra Short Throw Projector Setup Guide
UST projectors require precise setup for optimal performance. Follow this step-by-step guide for professional results.
Step 1: Pre-Installation Planning
Measure Your Space Precisely
- • Wall height: Measure from floor to ceiling to determine screen placement
- • Wall width: Ensure screen size fits with 6-12 inch margins on sides
- • Throw distance: Verify your projector model's throw distance for desired screen size
- • Seating distance: Confirm viewing distance is 1.2-2x screen width
- • Power outlets: Identify nearest outlet for projector and screen (if motorized)
Check Wall Surface Quality
UST projectors are extremely sensitive to wall imperfections. Run your hand along the wall to check for:
- • Texture: Smooth walls work best. Orange peel or knockdown texture causes visible grain.
- • Flatness: Use a level and straight edge to check for bowing or waves
- • Color: White or very light neutral colors reflect best. Dark walls require ALR screens.
- • Damage: Fill any holes, cracks, or imperfections before installation
Pro tip: If wall isn't perfectly smooth, budget for an ALR screen - it eliminates wall surface concerns entirely.
Step 2: Screen Selection & Installation
Choose the Right ALR Screen
Budget ALR ($300-600)
Silver Ticket, Elite Screens Aeon
Good for 80-100" screens
Mid-Range ALR ($600-1200)
XY Screens, Elite CineGrey 3D
Best value for 100-120"
Premium ALR ($1200-3000)
Screen Innovations, Stewart Filmscreen
Reference grade for 120"+
Gain recommendation: 0.6-1.0 gain for ALR screens. Higher gain (1.3+) can create hot-spotting with UST projectors.
Screen Installation Procedure
- 1. Mark screen position: Use laser level to mark horizontal line for screen bottom edge. Standard height: center at 24-36 inches from floor for seated viewing.
- 2. Install mounting brackets: Fixed-frame screens require 4-6 wall anchors. Ensure brackets are perfectly level - use a 4-6 foot level, not small bubble level.
- 3. Hang frame: Recruit helper for screens over 100 inches. Align frame with marked line before securing.
- 4. Tension screen material: Start at top center, work outward to corners, then bottom. Proper tension eliminates waves and ensures flat surface.
- 5. Verify flatness: Shine flashlight across screen surface at shallow angle to check for waves or imperfections.
Step 3: Projector Placement & Alignment
Positioning the Projector
- • Distance measurement: Measure from screen surface to projector lens (not projector front). Use exact distance from throw calculator.For LG HU85LA: 7 inches for 90" screen means 7 inches from lens to screen.
- • Height alignment: Projector lens should align with bottom 1/3 of screen for most UST models. Check your projector's manual for specific offset specs.Most UST projectors sit on floor or low cabinet, projecting upward.
- • Horizontal centering: Projector must be perfectly centered to screen horizontally. Measure from each screen edge to projector center - must be exactly equal.Use laser level to project vertical line from screen center to projector position.
- • Level surface: Projector must be perfectly level front-to-back and side-to-side. Use adjustable feet or shims.Even 1-degree tilt causes noticeable trapezoidal distortion on UST projectors.
Fine-Tuning Alignment
- 1. Power on projector: Display test pattern or white screen. Most projectors have built-in grid patterns.
- 2. Check edge alignment: Image should fill screen edge-to-edge. Adjust projector distance forward/backward by 1-2 inches if needed.
- 3. Verify rectangular shape: Measure image corners - all should be 90 degrees. If trapezoidal, projector isn't level or centered.
- 4. Use geometry correction: Only after physical alignment is perfect. Digital correction should be minimal (<5% adjustment).
- 5. Focus calibration: Adjust focus at center, then corners. UST projectors may have multiple focus zones - check manual.
Professional secret: Tape marks on floor for exact projector position. Makes cable disconnection/reconnection simple without re-alignment.
Step 4: Cable Management & Connections
- • HDMI cable selection: Use certified Premium High Speed HDMI (18Gbps minimum) for 4K@60Hz HDR. Runs under 15 feet work with standard cables. Longer runs require active HDMI cables.For LG HU85LA and Samsung LSP9T: HDMI 2.0 minimum. Epson LS11000: HDMI 2.1 recommended.
- • Power cable routing: Ensure power cord reaches outlet without tension. Use surge protector for protection. Avoid extension cords when possible.
- • Cable concealment: Run cables along baseboards using adhesive cable channels. For permanent installation, consider in-wall rated cables through conduit.Tip: Install power outlet behind screen for motorized screens and clean cable routing.
- • Source device placement: Keep streaming devices (Apple TV, Roku, etc.) near projector for short HDMI runs. Projectors with built-in smart features (LG WebOS) eliminate external streamers.
Step 5: Image Optimization & Calibration
Basic Picture Settings
- • Picture mode: Start with "Cinema" or "Movie" mode - most color-accurate out of box
- • Brightness: Adjust so you can distinguish 16-235 steps on test pattern (not black 0-15)
- • Contrast: Set so 235-255 whites don't merge together
- • Color: Reduce if skin tones look oversaturated (common in "Dynamic" mode)
- • Sharpness: Set to 0 or minimum - UST 4K projectors don't need artificial sharpening
Advanced Calibration (Optional)
For reference-grade image quality, professional ISF or THX calibration optimizes color accuracy, gamma, and white balance:
- • DIY calibration: Use test patterns from AVS HD 709 or Spears & Munsil Blu-ray ($30-50)
- • Professional calibration: ISF certified technician measures with colorimeter ($300-600)
- • Worth it for: Premium projectors ($3000+), dedicated home theaters, color-critical viewing
- • Improvement: 20-40% better color accuracy, proper gamma curve, maximized contrast
⚠️ Common UST Setup Mistakes to Avoid
- • Skipping ALR screen: Thinking white wall is "good enough" - it isn't for UST projectors
- • Improper distance: Estimating throw distance instead of precise measurement
- • Unlevel projector: Using small bubble level instead of 4-foot level for accuracy
- • Cheap HDMI cables: Using 10-year-old HDMI 1.4 cables for 4K HDR content
- • Ignoring light control: Not addressing windows, overhead lights, or reflective surfaces
- • Vibration issues: Placing projector on unstable surface causing micro-vibrations
LG HU85LA CineBeam: Premium 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector
The LG HU85LA CineBeam delivers flagship ultra short throw performance with 4K resolution, laser light source, and smart TV features - positioned as a premium TV replacement.
🏆 Premium Features
- • True 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution
- • 2700 ANSI lumens laser light source
- • Ultra short 0.19:1 throw ratio
- • WebOS smart TV platform built-in
- • 20,000-hour laser life (no lamp replacement)
⚠ Premium Pricing
- • High price point ($3,000+)
- • Requires ALR screen for best performance
- • Limited gaming performance vs dedicated gaming projectors
- • Sensitive to surface imperfections
📺 TV Replacement Excellence
"The HU85LA is the closest thing to a TV replacement projector. Place it 7 inches from the wall for a massive 90-120 inch display. The laser brightness and smart features make it perfect for daily use, though you'll want an ALR screen to maximize the experience."
UST Specifications
Epson Pro Cinema LS11000: Professional 4K Laser UST Projector
The Epson Pro Cinema LS11000 represents the pinnacle of ultra short throw projection with native 4K, laser brightness, and professional-grade features for dedicated home theaters.
🔥 Professional Excellence
- • Native 4K 3LCD technology
- • 5000 ANSI lumens laser brightness
- • 0.35:1 ultra short throw ratio
- • Advanced color processing
- • Professional calibration support
⚠ Professional Investment
- • Professional price point ($5,000+)
- • Requires professional installation
- • Complex calibration needed
- • Large and heavy (40+ lbs)
🎬 Cinema-Grade Performance
The LS11000 delivers cinema-quality projection in ultra short throw format. With 5000 lumens of laser brightness and native 4K panels, it handles large screens (150"+) with ambient light better than any competitor. Professional installation and ALR screens unlock its full potential.
Professional Specs
Popular UST Projector Comparisons
LG HU85LA vs Epson Pro Cinema LS11000
📺 LG HU85LA Wins For:
- • Smart TV features built-in (WebOS)
- • Better value at $3,000 vs $5,000+
- • Shorter throw distance (7" vs 16")
- • Easier setup for consumers
- • More compact size and weight
🎬 Epson LS11000 Wins For:
- • Much higher brightness (5000 vs 2700 lumens)
- • True native 4K vs pixel-shifting
- • Professional color accuracy
- • Superior 3LCD technology
- • Handles larger screens (150"+) better
Bottom Line: Choose LG HU85LA for smart TV replacement with streaming built-in. Choose Epson LS11000 for dedicated home theater with maximum brightness and image quality.
LG HU85LA vs Samsung LSP9T
Samsung offers similar features with better HDR processing, while LG provides better WebOS experience and value.
Compare Premium UST →Budget UST: WEMAX Dice vs VAVA Chroma
Budget UST options around $2,000 offer good value but lack the brightness and reliability of premium models.
Budget UST Options →Ultra Short Throw Decision Framework
📺 Step 1: TV Replacement vs Home Theater
📱 Smart TV Replacement
Daily use with streaming, news, and casual viewing.
- • Built-in WebOS streaming
- • Easy consumer setup
- • Good brightness for daily use
🎬 Dedicated Home Theater
Cinema-quality experience for movies and entertainment.
- • Maximum brightness and contrast
- • Professional calibration
- • Large screen capability (150"+)
💰 Step 2: Budget Considerations
Budget UST
$1,500-2,500
Entry-level UST with basic features
Premium Consumer
$2,500-4,000
Smart features, good brightness, easy setup
Professional UST
$4,000+
Maximum performance, professional installation
🖼️ Step 3: Screen and Space Requirements
ALR Screen Essential
- • UST projectors require ALR screens for best performance
- • Budget $500-1,500 for quality ALR screen
- • Cheaper screens reduce image quality significantly
Installation Requirements
- • Precise distance measurement critical
- • Level surface or professional mounting required
- • Wall flatness affects image quality
⚠️ UST Projector Red Flags
Avoid These UST Issues
- • UST projectors under $1,000 (poor quality)
- • No-name brands with inflated brightness
- • Models without throw ratio specifications
- • Projectors requiring lamp replacement
- • Missing ALR screen in total cost calculation
UST Reality Check
- • Total setup cost: Projector + ALR screen + installation
- • Laser models cost more but last longer
- • Wall surface quality affects image significantly
- • Professional models need professional setup
- • Smart features add convenience but increase price
Ultra Short Throw Projector FAQ
LG HU85LA vs Samsung LSP9T: Which UST projector is better?
LG HU85LA ($3,000)
- • Better value for money
- • Superior WebOS smart platform
- • Shorter 0.19:1 throw ratio
- • Proven reliability
Samsung LSP9T ($3,500)
- • Better HDR processing
- • Triple laser technology
- • Samsung ecosystem integration
- • Premium build quality
For most users: LG HU85LA offers better value with WebOS and shorter throw distance.For Samsung users: LSP9T integrates better with Samsung devices and offers slightly better HDR.
Do I really need an ALR screen for UST projectors?
Yes, ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens are essential for UST projector performance:
- Without ALR screen: Washed out image, poor contrast, ambient light issues
- With ALR screen: Vibrant colors, deep blacks, usable in lit rooms
- Performance difference: 50-70% improvement in image quality
- Cost consideration: Budget $500-1,500 for quality ALR screen
Recommended ALR screens: Elite Screens Aeon, Screen Innovations Black Diamond, or Stewart Filmscreen ALR models provide excellent results.
Bottom line: Don't buy a UST projector without budgeting for an ALR screen. The combination is transformative for the viewing experience.
Can I install a UST projector myself or do I need professional help?
Installation difficulty depends on the model and your technical comfort:
DIY-Friendly Models
- • LG HU85LA (consumer-focused)
- • Samsung LSP9T
- • WEMAX Dice
- • Clear setup guides included
Professional Installation
- • Epson LS11000 (complex calibration)
- • Sony VPL-VZ1000ES
- • Heavy models (30+ lbs)
- • Custom mounting required
Key considerations: Precise distance measurement, level placement, cable management, and screen alignment. Most consumer models can be DIY installed with patience.
Professional installation cost: $300-800 but ensures optimal performance and warranty coverage.
UST vs regular projector: Which should I choose?
The choice depends on your room layout and priorities:
Choose UST When:
- • Limited ceiling mounting options
- • Small room with seating close to screen
- • Want to avoid shadows from people
- • TV replacement in living room
- • Budget allows for ALR screen
Choose Regular When:
- • Dedicated home theater room
- • Ceiling mounting is possible
- • Want maximum brightness for budget
- • Standard white screens acceptable
- • Gaming is primary use case
Cost comparison: UST projectors cost 20-50% more than equivalent regular projectors, plus ALR screen requirements. However, they offer unique placement flexibility that may be worth the premium.
What size screen works best with UST projectors?
UST projectors excel at specific screen sizes based on their throw ratios:
80-100 inches
Optimal sweet spot
Perfect balance of size, brightness, and setup ease
100-120 inches
Premium experience
Requires higher-end models and quality ALR screens
120+ inches
Professional territory
Needs professional models like Epson LS11000
Seating distance rule: Sit 1.2-2x the screen width away. For 100" screen, optimal viewing is 10-17 feet. UST projectors work well with closer seating than regular projectors.
Are UST projectors good for gaming?
UST projectors can work for gaming but have specific considerations:
- Input lag: Most UST projectors have 20-40ms lag (acceptable for casual gaming)
- Gaming modes: LG HU85LA and Samsung LSP9T include gaming optimizations
- 4K gaming: Great for PS5/Xbox Series X 4K content
- Screen size advantage: Massive gaming experience unmatched by TVs
Best UST for gaming: LG HU85LA offers good balance of features, brightness, and gaming performance. For competitive gaming, consider dedicated gaming projectors with <20ms lag instead.
Gaming setup tips: Use ALR screen to reduce reflections, ensure stable placement to avoid vibration affecting image, and position at proper height for comfortable gaming sessions.
Short Throw Projector Guide
Short Throw Advantages
- ✓Space Efficient: Large image in small rooms
- ✓No Shadows: Present without blocking the image
- ✓Easy Setup: Mount on wall or place on TV stand
- ✓Less Eye Strain: No bright light shining toward viewers
Ideal Use Cases
- •Small Living Rooms: TV replacement in tight spaces
- •Classrooms: Teaching without casting shadows
- •Bedrooms: Movie watching from bed
- •Offices: Presentations in conference rooms
📏 Short Throw (0.4-1.0 ratio)
Distance: 3-6 feet for 100" screen
- • More affordable than UST models
- • Good balance of features and price
- • Suitable for most home setups
⚡ Ultra Short Throw (0.2-0.4 ratio)
Distance: 6-24 inches for 100" screen
- • Premium pricing but maximum flexibility
- • Often includes laser light sources
- • Perfect TV replacement solution
⚠️ Important Considerations
- • Screen surface quality is critical - use ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) screens for best results
- • Wall mounting requires precise alignment and sturdy mounting hardware
- • Some models may have limited keystone correction compared to long throw projectors
- • Consider fan noise as projector will be closer to viewing area
Best Short Throw Projector for Small Rooms
Small rooms (10x10 to 12x12 feet) present unique challenges for projection: limited distance from screen to seating, difficulty mounting ceiling projectors, and space constraints that make traditional long-throw projectors impractical. Short throw projectors solve these problems by projecting large 100-inch images from just 4-6 feet away, perfect for apartments, bedrooms, and compact living spaces where you want big-screen entertainment without major renovations.
Top Pick for Small Rooms: BenQ TH671ST
The BenQ TH671ST ($599) is ideal for small spaces with its 0.69:1 throw ratio, meaning you get a 100-inch screen from just 5 feet away. At 3000 lumens, it handles ambient light from windows, and the 8.3ms input lag makes it excellent for gaming in small rooms. Coffee table placement works perfectly, eliminating the need for ceiling mounting.
For ultra-compact spaces: LG HU85LA ($2,999) offers ultra short throw at 7 inches from wall for 90-inch screen - perfect for studio apartments.
Room Size Requirements:
- • 10x10 feet: 80-100 inch screen recommended
- • 12x12 feet: 100-120 inch screen optimal
- • 8x10 feet: 60-80 inch screen comfortable
- • Minimum 6 feet seating distance for eye comfort
- • Consider ceiling height (8+ feet ideal)
Throw Distance Calculations:
- • Short throw: 4-6 feet for 100-inch screen
- • Ultra short throw: 6-24 inches distance
- • Measure wall-to-seating carefully
- • Account for furniture placement
- • Check projector specs for exact throw ratio
Coffee Table Placement Tips for Small Rooms
Short throw projectors work brilliantly on coffee tables or small TV stands in compact spaces. Position the projector 4-6 feet from your wall or screen, at roughly the same height as the center of your image. This setup eliminates shadows from people walking by (common with ceiling projectors) and avoids complex installation. Use a small projector shelf or stable coffee table, ensure it's level for proper image alignment, and run HDMI cables along baseboards for a clean look. The BenQ TH671ST's compact size and rear connections make coffee table placement especially convenient.
Small room advantages: No ceiling mounting needed, easy temporary setup for renters, shadow-free presentation, compact installation. Great for apartments, bedrooms, dorm rooms, and small home offices. Compare all short throw projectors to find your perfect small-space solution.
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