10 Best Optoma Short Throw Projectors 2026 in the United States

The Optoma ZH340ST is designed for professionals seeking a compact and efficient short throw projector, making it a great choice for small classrooms or office spaces. With a brightness of 3,200 lumens, it offers clear visuals even in well-lit environments, which is a significant advantage for presentations during the day. The short throw ratio allows for a large 120-inch image to be projected from just over 4 feet away, eliminating the need for large rooms and making installation simpler.

This projector utilizes DuraCore laser technology, providing a long lamp life of up to 30,000 hours, which means less maintenance and no need for frequent lamp replacements. The IPX6 dust resistance rating also enhances its durability, making it suitable for various environments.

Connectivity is robust with dual HDMI ports and a USB connector, allowing easy switching between devices like laptops and streaming services. The compact size, measuring just 8.5 x 10.8 inches, and low power consumption (just 45% of typical lamp-based projectors) make it environmentally friendly while saving space.

The ZH340ST may not be the best fit for users needing vivid color saturation for more cinematic experiences, as its design focuses on practicality and efficiency rather than extensive color range. It may rank lower in the best sellers category, which might indicate stiff competition or varying user preferences in this market segment.

The Optoma ZH340ST is an excellent choice for educational and business applications, thanks to its brightness, space-saving design, and low maintenance. Users seeking superior color performance or a projector for home theater use may want to explore other options.

The Optoma UHZ35ST is a compact short throw projector that is well-suited for both home theater and gaming purposes. One of its standout features is the dependable laser light source, which offers up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, eliminating the need for frequent lamp replacements. Additionally, its IPX6 dust resistance rating adds to its durability for long-term use. This projector can project a large 120-inch image from just 4 feet 4 inches away, making it ideal for smaller spaces and easier installation.

The 4K UHD resolution ensures sharp and detailed images without any downscaling, enhancing the viewing experience for both movies and games. With a high brightness of 3,500 lumens, it performs well even in environments with some ambient light. The enhanced game mode is particularly beneficial for gamers, offering low input lag times for a more responsive gaming experience. Furthermore, the projector supports HDR10 and HLG for vibrant colors, brighter whites, and deeper blacks, backed by a significant 500,000:1 contrast ratio.

Connectivity options include USB, HDMI, and audio 3.5mm, providing versatility in connecting various devices. However, it lacks advanced keystone correction and lens shift features, which might require more precise positioning during setup. The compact size and low power consumption are additional bonuses. Customer reviews indicate a generally positive reception, although some might find the price point higher compared to other models. In summary, the Optoma UHZ35ST is a strong contender for those seeking a high-quality short throw projector for home cinema and gaming, balancing excellent performance with long-term reliability.

The Optoma EH340UST is a solid choice for anyone looking for an ultra short throw projector, especially for educational and business environments or home cinema experiences. One of its highlights is the 4000 lumens brightness, which ensures vibrant visuals, even in well-lit rooms. The projector supports a stunning resolution of 1920 x 1200, providing clear and sharp images that enhance viewing experiences. The impressive 22,000:1 contrast ratio adds depth to the visuals, making colors pop and details stand out, which is great for movies or presentations.

A standout feature of this model is its ability to project 3D content, allowing for a more immersive experience if you’re using compatible 3D displays. The connectivity options include HDMI and USB ports, ensuring you can easily connect various devices like Blu-ray players or laptops without hassle.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the projector offers great visuals, it may not achieve true 4K resolution, which might disappoint users looking for the very best clarity. Also, while the projector is lightweight at 3.2 ounces, the dimensions are somewhat bulky, which may pose a challenge for portability. The Optoma EH340UST is a reliable ultra short throw projector that excels in brightness and clarity, making it a good fit for users focused on home cinema or educational use. Just keep in mind its limitations concerning ultra-high-definition content and size when considering for portable use.