8 Factors to Consider When Looking for an Ultra Short Throw Projector

by Una Tao October 11, 2022 Tips & Tricks

What is an ultra-short throw projector?
How does an ultra-short throw projector work?
Benefits of using an ultra-short throw projector
Factors to consider when looking for an ultra-short throw projector
How much do ultra-short throw projectors cost?
WEMAX Projectors: The Best Projectors for Home Theater, Business, Gaming, and Camping
Wrapping It Up

We all have dreamed of enjoying the movie theater experience at home, to truly enjoy high definition images and sound on a large screen that gets us immersed in the movie in front of us. However, the home theater experience has completely changed in recent times, and now it's more practical than ever.

Now all you need to get a movie experience in your home is to rely on a 4k ultra short throw projector. It takes basically no setup, it's ready to display an image anywhere and today you are going to learn everything you need to know to pick one that's just right for you.

What is an ultra-short throw projector?

Before we move into anything else we need to define just what an ultra-short throw projector is. When we talk about projectors we refer to devices that display images on other surfaces through the use of light beams. And ultra-short throw is a category that refers to the distance between the projector and its screen.

Ultra-short throw projectors only need to be 3 to 8 feet away from the screen, so they are easier to set up and take much less space. That's what defines an ultra-short throw projector, its reduced distance from the screen or "throw ratio" as it's better known.

How does an ultra-short throw projector work?

So how does a projector manage to show a clear picture at such a close distance? First and foremost these ultra short throw 4k projectors use a high-quality lens that ensures the resolution is preserved. However, the brilliant part comes in the form of its geometry correction. What this means is that the projector slightly warps the image output in real-time so it looks perfect on the screen itself, accounting for the distance and angle it's displayed.

Since ultra-short throw projectors are so accurate and require so little setup this means they can be easily used for movie sessions, business meetings, event displays, and even impromptu and outdoor gaming sessions.

Benefits of using an ultra-short throw projector

benefits of using ultra short throw projector

There are many reasons to pick up an ultra-short throw projector, so let's take a look at the key ones that will best illustrate how these projectors offer an improved experience compared to their peers.

Unlike other display solutions they are very compact and as such portable. These projectors are generally smaller than other alternatives in the market, and that makes them so easy to carry around.

Thanks to their throw angle you won't need a lot of space to set up a display. Other models can require large rooms to get enough distance from the projector to the screen, but with an ultra-short throw model, any room is more than enough for a movie session.

Compared to traditional models an ultra-short throw projector has heavily reduced shadows and glare. This is also related to the proximity of the device and means any movie or presentation you display will be more accurate and easier on the eyes.

They take no time to set up. Since these projectors have constant image correction and have a fixed position all you need is to turn your device on and make sure it's at the right distance.

Since these projectors are far more self-contained they involve fewer cables, fewer potential trip hazards and there's next to no chance of interrupting the light beam. Models with a longer throw range might require you to sidestep around the beam to avoid warping the image, but that isn't the case when it comes to ultra-short throw devices.

Factors to consider when looking for an ultra-short throw projector

Now that you have a clear idea of what an ultra-short throw projector is and what it offers compared to the competition it's time we take a closer look at how you can choose one. Just like with any other market you should know what are the most important characteristics and specs to look out for before committing to a purchase.

So we'll be going over the most important factors to consider before choosing a projector of your own.

1. Short-Throw Distance

The short-throw distance refers to the distance you'll need between your projector and its intended screen. The display distance is defined by a projector's throw angle, and while most models will need between 3 to 8 feet of distance this can vary a bit. So in short keep in mind the distance and see if it suits your needs and room conditions.

2. Brightness

Brightness is an important consideration for any projector since they work using a light beam. However, it's important to keep in mind that a projector being brighter doesn't mean the image will be better per se. The brighter the surrounding area is the more brightness a projector will need to look good, so it all comes down to where you plan to use your new projector.

3. Display Technology

Display technology refers to the technology a projector uses to display its intended image. The most common technologies in projectors are LCD, DLP, and LED. Each one has its strong points and its own set of drawbacks, mainly related to its expected effective life and the way they portray brightness.

The native resolution can be seen as the real quality with which your projector generates images. Higher resolutions are of course better in general, with 4k ultra short throw projectors being some of the best options in the market so far.

4. Native Resolution

Before purchasing a short-throw projector, be sure its resolution is compatible with the type of content you intend to project. When using the projector for movies and games, high resolution is ideal.

Low-resolution ones are suitable for use in both business and education. There are excellent short-throw projector models available with high resolutions, as was already indicated. They are undoubtedly a great option for both home theater and office applications.

ultra short throw projector

5. Screen Size

If you want to make the most out of your projector you'll need an accompanying screen, and the screen size will affect how you can display your image. In short, you'll want a screen size that allows you to comfortably fit the entire aspect ratio of the image on it. Otherwise, you might not get the most out of your projector.

6. Portability

Being able to carry a projector with you opens a lot of windows, especially in ultra-short throw models. If you want to maximize portability keep the size and energy options in mind. If you are sure you just want a home projector then you don't need to worry as much.

7. Contrast Ratio

The contrast ratio is the relation of a projection's brightest and darkest points, In other words, it directly refers to the contrast between colors in the display, and results in clearer pictures.

8. Throw Ratio

The throw ratio as we have mentioned before refers to the distance a projector is designed to accurately display an image on a screen. The throw ratio of ultra-short projectors is generally the same, so expect similar distances on most models in the range.

At the end of the day, the best price for any product is the one you are willing to pay. So keep in mind just how much you are willing to spend on a new projector to make the best choice. There is a wide selection of models and prices to choose from, so you should be able to find a balance between your needs and your existing budget.

How much do ultra-short throw projectors cost?

Providing an average on how much ultra-short throw projectors cost can be a bit challenging due to the wide variety of models and budgets they aim for. In general, if you want a high-quality model that doesn't break the bank you can be looking at the $1500 to $3000 range. However higher-end models can reach prices of up to $7000 and likewise, some budget models manage to sell for prices under $1000.

WEMAX projectors: the best projectors for home theater, business, gaming, and camping

wemax ultra-short throw projector

We've talked a lot about projectors so far, but it's about time we take a look at some specific models. All of the projectors below count with the WEMAX seal of quality and are great models meant for different kinds of users and needs. So read on to find out which one is meant just for you.

WEMAX Go Ultra-Portable ALPD TI DLP Laser Projector for Camping and Travel

WEMAX Go Ultra-Portable is a projector meant for those who need a projector they can bring anywhere. Less than 1-inch thick and weighing only 0.66 lb this is a device that you can carry easily and set up anywhere.

Full connectivity on top of its WiFi connection also means that this 1080p supporting projector will be ready for any task in a matter of minutes, which is perfect on the go.

WEMAX Nova 4K UHD HDR Ultra Short-Throw Laser Projector

WEMAX Nova is a 4K UHD short-throw projector. In other words, it offers some of the best image quality you can expect on the range and even comes with a built-in Dolby audio system so you can enjoy a complete Home Theater experience without the need for any further add-ons.

Additionally, the Nova counts with built-in AndroidTV features meaning that it's a complete entertainment platform on its own without any need for external devices or inputs.

WEMAX Go Advanced

WEMAX Go Advanced takes all the portability of the Go Ultra-Portable while raising the specs and improving the overall quality of your projections. The Go Advanced has native 1080p resolution allowing for full HD displays, it keeps the full connectivity of its previous model while also improving on the image correction features and color contrasts. The best part? It does all of this while remaining less than 1-inch thick and weighing only 1.7 lbs, so portability isn't affected at all.

Wrapping It Up

If you want to make the most out of your space and create a compact Home Theater space you'll want an ultra-short throw projector. These projectors provide all the quality of larger models while considerably reducing the space needed to work. So as long as you keep our recommendations and considerations in mind you will be able to get a model that is just right for you.

At WEMAX we made it our mission to provide rich visual experiences to our clients with the latest in light and laser technology. This means that our projectors are brand leaders and that we have the knowledge and insight to improve your experience when it comes to projectors and their usage.