10 Best Short Throw Projector 4k 2025 in the United States

The Optoma ZH406ST is a solid choice for those seeking a short-throw projector, particularly in educational and business settings. One of its standout features is the DuraCore laser light source, which offers up to 30,000 hours of use without needing lamp replacements—making it both cost-effective and low-maintenance. With a brightness of 4,200 lumens and a contrast ratio of 300,000:1, it can deliver clear images even in well-lit rooms, enhancing presentations and classroom activities. Additionally, the projector supports 4K HDR input, allowing for richer colors and better detail when paired with compatible sources.

Its short throw lens is quite impressive, projecting a large 120-inch image from just over 4 feet away. This feature is particularly useful for smaller spaces where placement flexibility is essential. The inclusion of four corner image adjustments and digital zoom allows for easier setup and optimal image positioning.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The native resolution is 1920 x 1080, which, while decent, means it won't fully utilize the 4K HDR input capabilities unless you’re playing specifically compatible content. Also, while the integrated speakers are helpful for medium-sized rooms, serious audio requirements may necessitate external speakers for larger audiences.

The extensive connectivity options are a plus, making it easy to connect various devices. This projector also includes features like portrait mode and network control, which are great for digital signage and larger installations. On the downside, the price point may be higher compared to non-laser projectors in the same category, so it’s worth considering if those features align with your needs.

The Optoma ZH406ST proves to be an ideal choice for users looking for a reliable, high-performance short-throw projector, especially in environments where brightness and image quality are key factors.

The Hisense L9Q Ultra Short Throw Projector is a strong choice if you're looking for a high-quality 4K projector that can display a very large image from a short distance. With a throw ratio as low as 0.18, it can project up to a 200-inch screen from close to the wall, which is ideal for small rooms or limited space setups. Its 3840 x 2160 resolution ensures sharp, detailed pictures suitable for movies, gaming, and presentations. Brightness is impressive at 5,000 ANSI Lumens, meaning it performs well even in rooms with some ambient light, while the 5,000:1 contrast ratio provides good depth, with clear distinction between dark and bright scenes. The projector uses triple laser technology validated by Pantone, so colors look vibrant and natural, including accurate skin tones, which enhances the viewing experience for movies and TV shows. It also features AI-powered image enhancement to automatically improve picture quality in real time.

Connectivity is versatile, offering Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi, so it can connect to various devices and networks easily. Plus, Google TV support adds smart TV functionality without needing extra devices. The product weight and size—at over 28 pounds and fairly large dimensions—make it less portable than some other projectors. The Hisense L9Q is a solid pick for home cinema enthusiasts and users wanting a bright, large, and colorful 4K image from a compact, ultra-short throw projector, especially suited to well-lit rooms and fixed installations.

The BenQ LK936ST is a 4K short-throw projector designed for both family home theater use and golf simulation. It delivers a sharp 3840 x 2160 resolution, ensuring ultra-clear images that are ideal for detailed visuals such as golf courses or movies. With a high brightness rating of 5100 lumens, it performs well even in rooms with some ambient light, making it versatile for different environments.

Its short-throw design allows for projecting a large image from a small distance, which is perfect for limited spaces where placing the projector far from the screen is not possible. Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI inputs, covering most common devices, which supports easy setup.

This projector is portable but somewhat heavy at over 20 pounds, which might affect convenience if frequent movement is necessary. It is well-suited for users who want detailed and bright images in tight spaces and value specialized features for golf simulation alongside general entertainment.