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

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#1

Winner

Optoma ZH406ST Short Throw Full HD Professional Laser Projector | DuraCore Laser Technology | High Bright 4200 lumens | 4K HDR Input | Four Corner Image Adjustment | Network Compatible

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,133
Brightness
Contrast Ratio
Keystone Correction and Lens Shift

Most important from
85 reviews

Brightness
The brightness and contrast are very good, making it easy to see even with the lights on.
Contrast Ratio
The brightness and contrast are very good, making it easy to see even with the lights on.
Keystone Correction and Lens Shift
Easy to adjust after installation, with a wide range of picture sizes.

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.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,133
Brightness
Contrast Ratio
Keystone Correction and Lens Shift

Most important from
85 reviews

Brightness
The brightness and contrast are very good, making it easy to see even with the lights on.
Contrast Ratio
The brightness and contrast are very good, making it easy to see even with the lights on.
Keystone Correction and Lens Shift
Easy to adjust after installation, with a wide range of picture sizes.
#2

BenQ LK936ST 4K Ultra HD Short-Throw Laser DLP Projector

Rating
9.4
Throw Ratio
Resolution
Brightness

Most important from
2 reviews

Throw Ratio
Short-throw design enables large, detailed visuals in tight spaces without compromising quality.
Resolution
Delivers an incredibly clear picture that feels as immersive as being there.
Brightness
Combines ultra-sharp 4K resolution with high brightness for vivid images even in ambient light.

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.

Rating
9.4
Throw Ratio
Resolution
Brightness

Most important from
2 reviews

Throw Ratio
Short-throw design enables large, detailed visuals in tight spaces without compromising quality.
Resolution
Delivers an incredibly clear picture that feels as immersive as being there.
Brightness
Combines ultra-sharp 4K resolution with high brightness for vivid images even in ambient light.
#3

AWOL VISION LTV-3000 Pro 4K 3D Ultra Short Throw Triple Laser Projector, Dolby Vision & Atmos, HDR10+, 150" UST Laser TV Home Theater Projector

Rating
9.2
Resolution
Brightness
Contrast Ratio

Most important from
123 reviews

Resolution
The projector delivers remarkably accurate colors and contrasts, with fonts and image sharpness that truly stand out even on a cream-colored wall.
Brightness
Paired with an ALR screen, the brightness and picture quality become outstanding, making streaming and Blu-ray content come alive vividly.
Contrast Ratio
The projector delivers remarkably accurate colors and contrasts, with fonts and image sharpness that truly stand out even on a cream-colored wall.
Connectivity
Connectivity is versatile with three HDMI ports, including a recessed streaming stick slot with a cover, though better cable management would be appreciated.

The AWOL VISION LTV-3000 Pro is a high-end ultra short throw (UST) projector designed for home cinema lovers who want a large 150-inch 4K screen experience without needing much space. It offers true 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160) with advanced triple laser technology, ensuring bright, sharp, and colorful images that work well even in daylight when paired with the right screen. The projector covers a wide color gamut, meaning it shows vivid and accurate colors that bring movies to life.

Its built-in center channel speaker is unique, delivering clear dialogue right from the screen, while the bundled ThunderBeat 4.2.2 sound system and Dolby Atmos support create an immersive surround sound experience without additional gear. Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI support, and it includes PJ Link IP control for those integrating it into smart home setups. The energy-efficient laser technology uses much less power than regular TVs, making it great for long viewing sessions.

Weighing nearly 34 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a projector, and while it supports 3D content, active shutter glasses are required to enjoy that feature. If you want a premium, space-saving projector with excellent image quality and immersive sound for movies and shows, the LTV-3000 Pro is a solid choice.

Rating
9.2
Resolution
Brightness
Contrast Ratio

Most important from
123 reviews

Resolution
The projector delivers remarkably accurate colors and contrasts, with fonts and image sharpness that truly stand out even on a cream-colored wall.
Brightness
Paired with an ALR screen, the brightness and picture quality become outstanding, making streaming and Blu-ray content come alive vividly.
Contrast Ratio
The projector delivers remarkably accurate colors and contrasts, with fonts and image sharpness that truly stand out even on a cream-colored wall.
Connectivity
Connectivity is versatile with three HDMI ports, including a recessed streaming stick slot with a cover, though better cable management would be appreciated.

Buying Guide for the Best Short Throw Projector 4k

Choosing the right short-throw 4K projector can significantly enhance your viewing experience, whether it's for home entertainment, gaming, or professional presentations. Short-throw projectors are designed to project large images from a short distance, making them ideal for smaller spaces. When selecting a projector, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides the best performance for your intended use.
Throw RatioThe throw ratio of a projector determines the distance from the projector to the screen relative to the width of the image. A short-throw projector typically has a throw ratio of less than 1:1, meaning it can project a large image from a short distance. This is important for small rooms or spaces where you can't place the projector far from the screen. If you have limited space, look for a projector with a lower throw ratio to ensure you can achieve the desired image size without needing a lot of distance.
ResolutionResolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the image on the screen. A 4K projector has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, providing incredibly sharp and detailed images. This is especially important for watching movies, playing video games, or displaying detailed presentations. If you want the best image quality and clarity, a 4K resolution is the way to go. However, ensure that the content you plan to watch or display is available in 4K to fully benefit from this high resolution.
BrightnessBrightness is measured in lumens and indicates how much light the projector can produce. This is crucial for ensuring that the image is visible and vibrant, even in well-lit rooms. For home theaters with controlled lighting, a projector with 1500-2500 lumens may suffice. For rooms with more ambient light or larger spaces, consider a projector with 3000 lumens or more. Your choice should depend on the lighting conditions of the room where you plan to use the projector.
Contrast RatioThe contrast ratio measures the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of an image. A higher contrast ratio means deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, which enhances the overall image quality. For a more immersive viewing experience, especially in darker environments, look for a projector with a high contrast ratio. If you plan to use the projector in a room with some ambient light, a moderate contrast ratio may still provide good image quality.
Input LagInput lag is the delay between the input signal (such as pressing a button on a game controller) and the projected image. This is particularly important for gamers who need quick response times for a smooth gaming experience. For casual gaming, an input lag of 30-50 milliseconds may be acceptable. However, for competitive gaming, look for a projector with an input lag of 20 milliseconds or less to ensure minimal delay and a more responsive experience.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how you can connect your projector to other devices, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, or streaming devices. Common connections include HDMI, USB, and wireless options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Ensure the projector has the necessary ports and connectivity options to match your devices. If you plan to stream content wirelessly, look for projectors with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities for added convenience.
Keystone Correction and Lens ShiftKeystone correction and lens shift are features that help you adjust the image to fit the screen properly, even if the projector is not perfectly aligned. Keystone correction allows you to correct the image shape, while lens shift lets you move the image vertically or horizontally without moving the projector. These features are important for flexible placement and ensuring a properly aligned image. If you have limited placement options, look for a projector with good keystone correction and lens shift capabilities.

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