10 Best Short Throw Projectors 2025 in the United States

The ViewSonic PA503HD is a Full HD (1920x1080p) projector delivering bright images with 4,000 ANSI lumens, suitable for well-lit rooms in both home and office settings. Its contrast ratio of 22,000:1 produces clear, sharp images with good black levels, enhancing viewing quality. The projector offers a decent throw distance range (3.9 to 43 feet) and can project a 100-inch image from about 13 feet. While it is not a true short-throw projector, requiring more space than dedicated short-throw models, the 1.1x optical zoom and digital zoom options provide some flexibility in positioning. Keystone correction (both vertical and auto) aids image alignment if the projector is placed at an angle.

Connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and a 3.5mm audio jack, covering most basic device connections though lacking wireless features found in some newer models. It supports a high refresh rate of 120Hz and low input lag (16ms), making it a reasonable choice for casual gaming or smooth video playback. The lamp life reaches up to 15,000 hours in Eco mode, reducing the frequency of replacements and lowering running costs.

On the downside, the projector weighs 6 pounds and isn’t ultra-compact, which limits portability. Its throw ratio isn’t optimized for very short distances, making it less suitable for small rooms needing ultra-short throw capability. This projector is a solid option for good picture quality and brightness in medium to large rooms, though users requiring a short-throw projector for placement very close to the screen might prefer other models.

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.

The Optoma ZH340ST Compact Short Throw Professional Laser Projector stands out for its professional-grade capabilities. With a brightness of 3,200 lumens, it delivers clear and crisp visuals even in brightly lit spaces, which is ideal for offices and classrooms. The short throw lens can project a large 120-inch image from just 4 feet 4 inches away, making it suitable for smaller rooms and easier to install without taking up much space.

This compact projector also boasts a Full HD 1080P resolution, ensuring high-quality image clarity for presentations and educational content. The DuraCore laser technology promises up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, reducing the need for frequent lamp and filter replacements, which is a significant cost and hassle saver. Moreover, its IPX6 dust resistance rating enhances its durability, ensuring longevity in different environments.

Connectivity options are robust, with dual HDMI connectors and a USB port, allowing seamless integration with laptops and other streaming devices. Additionally, its low power consumption (just 45% of typical lamp-based projectors) helps reduce energy costs and its environmental impact. Its design, ease of installation, and energy efficiency make it a solid choice for professional use in educational and business settings.