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

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.

The BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR projector is designed to deliver an impressive entertainment experience with its high brightness of 3000 ANSI lumens, making it suitable for use even in well-lit rooms. Its 4K resolution ensures that movie and gaming visuals are sharp and detailed. Gamers will particularly appreciate the low input lag of 4ms at 1080p and the high refresh rate of 240Hz, which provide smooth and responsive gameplay.

Additionally, the projector supports HDR10 and HLG, enhancing color and contrast for more life-like images, and ARC/eARC support offers an enhanced audio experience with 7.1-channel and Dolby Atmos compatibility. The 2D keystone correction and 1.2x zoom make installation easier by allowing adjustments to the image without needing to move the projector.

Potential drawbacks include the weight of 8.82 pounds, which might make it less portable, and the size dimensions might require a dedicated space for setup. Also, while it has built-in speakers, the audio quality may not match dedicated external speakers. This projector is ideal for users seeking a high-quality visual and gaming experience in their living room or dedicated entertainment space.

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.