10 Best Short Throw Projectors 2026 in the United States

The Optoma GT1080HDR is a solid choice for a short-throw projector mainly designed for gaming and entertainment in smaller spaces. It can project a large 120-inch image from just 4 feet away, making setup easier in rooms where space is limited. Its Full HD 1080p resolution ensures sharp and detailed images, which is excellent for gaming and movies. The brightness level of 3800 lumens allows for clear images even in moderately lit rooms, both day and night. Additionally, the contrast ratio of 50,000:1 delivers good depth between dark and bright scenes, enhancing picture quality. The projector supports HDR10, which enhances colors and brightness when viewing compatible content.

For gamers, the fast 8.4ms response time combined with a 120Hz refresh rate reduces lag and motion blur, providing a smoother experience. Connectivity options include two HDMI ports, allowing easy connection of gaming consoles, streaming devices, or media players. The vertical keystone correction feature enables image adjustment if the projector is off-center, reducing the need to physically move the device. The lamp life is rated up to 15,000 hours, supporting years of average daily use. The built-in 10-watt speaker offers decent sound for casual use, though it may not replace a dedicated sound system.

While the projector supports 4K input, it displays at a 1080p resolution, so it does not show native 4K detail. It weighs about 6.6 pounds, which is moderate but not ultra-portable. If you want a bright, responsive projector suitable for gaming and general entertainment with easy setup in smaller rooms, the Optoma GT1080HDR fulfills those requirements effectively. However, if you require true 4K resolution or a very compact device, other options might be more appropriate.

The Optoma EH412STx is a solid choice for anyone needing a short-throw projector, especially in classrooms, meeting rooms, or small spaces. Its short throw lens lets you project a large 120-inch image from just 4.5 feet away, which is great if you don’t have a lot of room to set up. The projector offers full HD 1080p resolution, ensuring clear and sharp images suitable for presentations, videos, and gaming. The brightness level is a strong point here, with 4,000 lumens making it easy to see the image even in well-lit environments. It also has a good contrast ratio of 50,000:1, which helps with more vivid colors and deeper blacks, enhancing picture quality. The device supports 4K HDR input, so it can handle newer video formats and gaming content with better color and clarity.

In terms of connectivity, it provides two HDMI ports plus USB-A and RS232, giving flexibility to connect various devices. The lamp life is impressive at 15,000 hours, meaning less frequent replacements and lower maintenance costs over time. Built-in speakers add convenience for basic audio needs, but for higher sound quality, external speakers might still be needed. Weighing around 7.4 pounds, it’s fairly portable for a professional projector.

While the absence of detailed keystone correction information is noted, the brightness might not be sufficient in extremely bright environments or large venues. Taking these factors into account, the Optoma EH412STx offers reliable performance and ease of use for business, education, and casual gaming setups given its price and intended use.

The Optoma ZH406ST short-throw projector is designed for professional use, offering a range of impressive features. With a throw ratio that allows for a 120-inch image from just 4 feet away, it's ideal for small spaces. The projector boasts a Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080), ensuring sharp and clear images. Its brightness level of 4200 lumens allows for clear viewing even in well-lit rooms, making it suitable for business presentations and educational settings.

The impressive 300,000:1 contrast ratio provides deep blacks and bright whites, enhancing the image quality. Connectivity options are ample, including dual HDMI, VGA, and RJ45, accommodating various devices and setups. The four-corner image adjustment feature makes installation flexible and straightforward. The DuraCore laser technology ensures a long lamp life of up to 30,000 hours, reducing maintenance costs, and the IPX6 dust resistance adds to its durability.

Additionally, the projector supports 4K HDR input, enhancing video quality for a richer viewing experience. However, the integrated speakers, while convenient, may not suffice for larger rooms, and the projector's weight (10 pounds) might be a consideration for portable use. The 2-year limited parts warranty and 5-year light source warranty offer added peace of mind for long-term investment. The Optoma ZH406ST is a robust and versatile short-throw projector that fits well in educational and business environments, providing high-quality visuals and reliable performance.