Ultra short throw or UST projectors are among the best but most expensive. That begs the question of whether or not they are worth the high price tag. Will you be better off with a cheaper short or long throw projector, or is a UST projector necessary? Our team has reviewed the best ultra short throw projectors to help you make a decision.
- Comes in two colors
- Ultra short throw laser array
- 4K pro UHD
- Advanced HDR processing
- Yamaha sound
- 3-chip projector
- Built-in Chromecast
- Android TV built in
- High contrast ratio
- Screen mirroring
- Supports wireless connection
- Full 3D
Reviews of the Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors
Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300
The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300 comes with a ton of features for an acceptable price. First off, the LS300 has stunning pictures punctuated by speakers with Yamaha sound. There is a 2.1 speaker system hidden under the surface, which means it’s a 2-channel design with one subwoofer.
The ultra short throw laser array technology gives a new definition to realistic and accurate content portrayal. It’s a beautiful and elegant design that comes in both black and white.
Android TV and Chromecast are built-in for your convenience, and the projector has a 3-chip projector.
What We Like
- Yamaha 2.1 sound
- UST laser array technology
- Comes in black and white
- Android TV
- Chromecast
- Remote control
- Easy connection
What We Don’t Like
- Not compatible with Netflix
- Firmware updates can be spotty
Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500
As said, ultra short throw projectors come at a higher price, but the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500 is worth it. The projector offers stunning picture quality, thanks to its laser array technology. It has 4K Pro UHD and advanced HDR processing for top-of-the-line visual performance.
Furthermore, the pictures are very bright with 4000 lumens, making the projector suitable for daylight viewing. The 3-chip 3LCD technology brings vivid colors to the screen that will portray more lifelike pictures.
Finally, the contrast ratio is an amazing 2,000,000:1, which means the bright whites and the dark blacks will be emphasized.
What We Like
- UST projector
- Dynamic contrast ratio
- 4K Pro UHD
- HDR processing
- High contrast ratio
- 3-Chip 3LCD technology
- Built-in speakers
What We Don’t Like
- High price tag
- No Bluetooth
Optoma GT5600
For a slightly lower budget model, the Optoma GT5600 is also UST, with a 20,000:1 contrast ratio and full HD resolution. There are auto keystone correctors, so you won’t have to worry if your projector is slightly askew. It will automatically detect the angle and adjust itself as needed.
For those who like 3D content, you will be thrilled to learn that the GT5600 has full 3D support, but it doesn’t include 3D glasses.
With USB connectivity, you can screen mirror your smartphone. Plus, you can use Optoma HDCast Pro for wireless presentations.
What We Like
- Full HD
- Auto keystone correction
- Supports true 3D content
- Screen mirroring
- Optoma HDCast Pro
- Large screen size
- Low input lag for gaming
What We Don’t Like
- Limited setup instructions
- The remote is not intuitive
XiaoMi Mijia
The XiaoMi Mijia is a full HD laser projector that can produce beautiful images and videos. Although it is full HD, it can support 4K content.
There are also built-in speakers, which brings delivers audio as close to cinematic sound as possible.
The Mijia has a 5000 lumens rating, which makes it suitable for low-light viewing. This also combats the occasional ambient light. Also, the refresh and frame rates are incredibly fast with a low input lag, making the XiaoMi Mijia another excellent projector choice for your gaming needs.
What We Like
- Full HD but supports 4K
- Built-in speakers
- 5000 lumens
- Fast frame rates
- Supports dual-band Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Various connections
What We Don’t Like
- Needs an adapter for the international version
- Can’t remove apps that come installed
Ultra Short Throw Projectors Buyer’s Guide
Brightness and Resolution
Our media team recommends at least full HD 1080p resolution projectors, but 4K support is even better. As for the lumens brightness rating [1], consider the environment to decide on the best. Outdoor viewing with some lighting will need at least 5000 lumens, but indoors in very dark environments can do with 1000 to 3000 lumens.
Throw Ratio
The best ultra short throw projectors can have a throw distance of a few inches to 1-2 feet. How short do you need your UST projector to be? Our team members suggest thinking about your placement options.
(To understand better the throw ratio, you can also check our comparison of short-throw vs long throw projectors here)
Audio
Look for models with built-in speakers. Our media techs say this will eliminate the need for external speakers in a small room.
(Want to enjoy your projector better? Well, here’s how you can watch TV using a projector)
Our Top Pick For an Ultra Short Throw Projector:
Epson EpiqVision LS300
Our team’s top pick for the best ultra short throw projector is the Epson LS300. It earned the title due to the Yamaha 2.1 sound system, amazing picture quality reflected by its laser array, built-in Android TV, Chromecast, advanced 3LCD technology, and elegant design.
For related products, we also have the list below:
