The Best Short Throw Projector For Gaming For 2024

Steve McConnell By, Steve McConnell
Updated
Best Short Throw Projector For Gaming
Best Short Throw Projector For Gaming

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: BenQ TH671ST Projector

Step into a realm of captivating visuals and exceptional gameplay with the BenQ TH671ST Projector. Designed to redefine entertainment, this projector boasts native Full HD resolution, astounding color precision, and ultra-responsive gaming features. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: FATORK Mini Projector

The FATORK Mini Projector is perfect for various home entertainment applications. Featuring a wireless 5G WiFi connection and Bluetooth, this projector lets you stream content directly from your mobile device or laptop to the projector without cables. Read Review

3. Best Design: ViewSonic PX706HD Projector

The ViewSonic PX706HD Projector is the perfect choice for your home theater. With a long lamp life of up to 15,000 hours, you won't have to worry about replacing it for years. Read Review

4. Best Durable: Optoma GT780 Projector

Elevate your cinematic experience with the Optoma GT780 Projector. With remarkable HD-ready visuals, versatile projection options, and immersive sound, this projector brings your movies to life in any setting. Read Review

5. Best Technology: WEMAX Nova Projector

Experience the future of home entertainment with the WEMAX Nova Projector. From breathtaking 4K UHD visuals to immersive sound, it's a powerhouse that transforms your living space into a cinematic haven. Read Review

Are you a serious gamer looking for the best short-throw projector for gaming? You've come to the right place. Short-throw projectors are ideal for gaming because they help create a larger image without needing much space. They also allow gamers to stay close to their gaming experience without worrying about picture quality.

With the right short-throw projector, you can get the most out of your gaming experience without breaking the bank. This guide will provide all the information you need to find the best short-throw projector for gaming. We'll discuss what to look for in a short throw projector and give you our picks for the top 10 best short throw projectors for gaming. 

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 17 hours to get such results for readers. As a result, We believe the best short throw projector for gaming is BenQ TH671ST Projector. With an impressive 3000 Lumens and a high native contrast ratio, every scene becomes a breathtaking panorama of detail and depth. If you're seeking additional options and more in-depth advice, check out the following buying guide & FAQs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 BenQ TH671ST Projector
Our Score:
9.7
BenQ

The BenQ TH671ST Projector is a true gem in visual indulgence. Its Native Full HD 1080p Resolution, combined with a remarkable 92% Rec. 709 Color Accuracy, paints your screen with vibrant hues that practically leap off the surface. With an impressive 3000 Lumens and a high native contrast ratio, every scene becomes a breathtaking panorama of detail and depth.

Moreover, the ultra-fast low input lag and refresh rate, perfectly synchronized with the prowess of Xbox One X and PS4 Pro, create a gaming haven devoid of motion blur. Projecting up to 300 inches, the TH671ST lets you take the party to the big screen without losing quality. With HDMI, USB, and more, it plays well with many devices, from media players to gaming consoles. The only downside is that it can generate heat during prolonged use, so you need to cool it down before continuing use.

TOP Choice #2 FATORK Mini Projector
Our Score:
9.5
FATORK

The FATORK Mini Projector has DLP technology that delivers vibrant 150 ANSI brightness images, creating a cinematic aura even in low-light environments. Its short focal distance allows you to enjoy a colossal 114-inch projection from merely a stone's throw away. Furthermore, the built-in rechargeable battery offers 2.5 hours of video playback on a single charge, ensuring your outdoor escapades are illuminated with entertainment.

The automatic vertical keystone correction further sweetens the deal, saving you the trouble of fiddling with settings. Connectivity is a breeze with the wireless 5G WiFi and Bluetooth capability. Whether iOS or Android, your device can seamlessly commune with this projector. The lens dustproof technology also keeps the projection crisp and clean. The HDMI and USB ports foster connectivity with various devices, making this projector a versatile companion for home theater, gaming, parties, and outdoor events. Nonetheless, the built-in wifi can't handle longer passwords, which may be a bit inconvenient for some users.

TOP Choice #3 ViewSonic PX706HD Projector
Our Score:
9.3
ViewSonic

The ViewSonic PX706HD Projector is a front-row ticket to cinematic marvels and thrilling gameplay. Its exclusive Color technology renders images with a wide color gamut, ensuring each frame oozes with visual brilliance. The short throw lens defies convention, allowing you to set up the projector inches away from your screen and still enjoy an expansive view.

Gaming is elevated to another level with reduced input latency and a dedicated Gaming Mode. No more frustrating delays – just seamless and responsive visuals that keep you in control of your gameplay. Besides, the lamp's endurance with Eco Mode extends its life to 15,000 hours. It has a seamless integration with Roku, Fire TV stick, and ChromeCast that makes programming effortless, whether it's for education, entertainment, or business settings. Connectivity options are aplenty, from HDMI to USB Type-C, ensuring your devices feel right at home. Unfortunately, it doesn't have an optical out, but it is not a big deal.

4 Optoma GT780 Projector
Our Score:
9.2
Optoma

The Optoma GT780 Projector brings the magic of the big screen right into your living room. Its HD-ready capability ensures that you'll be treated to vibrant, detailed visuals, and the Rec.709 color gamut faithfully reproduces the director's intended color palette. The short throw lens allows for a whopping 120" image projection from a mere 4' 5" away, making it perfect for cozy spaces where distance is limited. Plus, this projector's 3,800 lumens of brightness guarantee crisp images even with ambient light.

Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it's the perfect companion for summer backyard movie nights and daytime indoor viewing alike. The impressive 15,000-hour lamp life ensures years of cinematic pleasure. The integrated 10W speaker also elevates your audio experience. However, it doesn't come with 3D glasses for its full 3D capability, requiring a separate purchase of compatible glasses. 

5 WEMAX Nova Projector
Our Score:
9.1
WEMAX

The WEMAX Nova Projector redefines home theater luxury with its 4K UHD resolution, offering an astounding four times the detail of full HD. The picture quality is unparalleled thanks to ALPD 3.0 and TI DLP technology, revealing fine details and vibrant colors. With a maximum screen size of 150", this projector brings the theater experience home, and its 8-point keystone correction ensures picture-perfect alignment.

The Nova also boasts impressive Dolby Audio DTS HD Speakers, delivering sound that complements the stunning visuals. The Android TV platform also grants access to many apps, while wireless casting and multi-device compatibility make content sharing a breeze. The only issue is that some users with larger hands might find the remote control a bit tricky to navigate. Nevertheless, it doesn't affect the overall quality much, so you don't need to worry about that.

6 Optoma GT5600 Projector
Our Score:
8.9
Optoma

The Optoma GT5600 Projector offers a unique projection experience with its ultra-short throw lens, providing a massive 100" image from just inches away. The 3,600 lumens ensure vivid images even in well-lit rooms, while the 20,000:1 contrast ratio adds depth to your visuals. The auto keystone sensors and four-corner correction make setup a breeze, maintaining sharpness even after minor disturbances.

Moreover, the 15,000-hour lamp life ensures long-lasting enjoyment, while its true 3D capabilities elevate your gaming and movie nights. Additionally, iOS and Android users can easily mirror content on the big screen, and wireless presentations are a breeze with the Optoma HDCast Pro stick. With the help of the Optoma HDCast Pro 1080p HDMI MHL Multimedia Stick, you can wirelessly share presentations and photos. The only downside is that the WUSB adapter is required to use that function but is not included, so you need to buy it separately.

7 AWOL VISION LTV-2500 Projector
Our Score:
8.8
AWOL VISION

The AWOL VISION LTV-2500 Projector is a game-changer in home cinema technology. The Enhanced Black Level, Turbo Mode for Gaming, and 24 FPS features bring about heightened realism and action, redefining your viewing escapades. Its Triple Laser without Color Wheel Technology ensures pristine image quality, while the 4K UHD Resolution and HDR10+ capability create a vivid canvas of color and detail that's hard to rival.

The ultra-short throw design and Dolby Atmos audio immersion technology create an immersive experience that immerses you in sound and visuals. Plus, the 3D compatibility and active shutter glasses take your movie nights to another dimension. This model also boasts pure RGB triple lasers that infuse the screen with brilliant hues without unwanted noise or rainbow effects. The color accuracy, enhanced vibrance, and deep blacks contribute to a breathtakingly vivid picture quality that's second to none. Nevertheless, it is a little hard to use the first time, but you can get used to it after some use, so you don't need to worry much about that.

More To Consider

8 BenQ TH671ST Projector
Our Score:
8.6
BenQ
9 Epson LS300 Projector
Our Score:
8.5
Epson
10 BenQ TK700STi Projector
Our Score:
8.4
BenQ

Things To Look For When Buying best short throw projector for gaming

There are numerous factors to consider when looking for the best short throw projector for gaming to purchase. The easiest way to figure out the right one is to read reviews from people who have already purchased it.

Throughout this article, we will go over certain most important factors to consider when purchasing best short throw projector for gaming. Please take your time reading and studying the items listed below!

Connectivity

To connect a video source to a projector, you should make sure you have the appropriate ports for the device you're connecting. If you want to connect multiple devices, such as a Blu-ray player, gaming console, and HD cable box, you'll need a projector with multiple HDMI inputs. HDMI cables are the most important connection, as they transmit digital video and audio signals between devices, and support standard, high-definition, and Ultra HD video signals, along with stereo and surround sound audio formats. Other ports may include component video, VGA, an SD card slot, and USB port. Audio outputs allow you to connect to your sound system. If the projector you're looking at doesn't have an HDMI port, it's best to look for another option.

Chipset

The chipset is a critical component in the operation of a digital projector. It is essentially a computer chip that processes the video signal and creates the image that is projected onto the screen. There are three main types of chipsets that are used in digital projection technology: DLP, LCD, and LCoS. Each chipset offers its own unique advantages and produces high-quality images, but each one excels in different areas.

Lamp Life

Lamp life is a critical factor to consider when selecting a home cinema beamer, as it determines how long the light source will last. Most bulb projectors have a lifespan of 3,000-5,000 hours, while laser projectors tend to last up to 20,000+ hours. It is important to allow the projector to cool down after use and not unplug it while in use, in order to maintain the life of the lamp. Replacement lamps/bulbs can be installed to reset the hour count if needed. Laser based projectors are an ideal choice for those who plan to use their projector for extended periods of time, as it provides a longer lamp life and a lower lifetime cost than lamp based units.

Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio of a projector is the proportion of width to height of the projected image. Most commonly used projectors are 16:9, which is the ratio of HDTV, 1080p, and 4K UHD. This format is the best choice for home theaters since it works well with 2.35:1 and 2.4:1 Cinemascope movies. For office and presentation settings, it'd be a wiser decision to go for a 16:10 WUXGA projector. This is because most computer displays use the same aspect ratio, allowing you to display more data on the screen at once. Compared to 16:9, it has the same number of horizontal pixels as 1080p, but it's slightly taller.

Resolution

When selecting a video projector, the resolution is an important factor to consider as it will determine how clear and detailed the projected image will be. Resolution is measured by the number of pixels on the horizontal and vertical axes, and the higher the resolution, the more pixels are available to create a detailed image. The two most common resolutions are 1080p (also referred to as Full HD or FHD) which has a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels and 4K (also known as Ultra High Definition or UHD) which has a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels.

Light Source

The most important factor in choosing a projector is the type of light source it uses. Bulbs, lasers, and LEDs are the three most common options. Bulbs are the traditional choice, offering good brightness and wide color spaces. Laser projectors are becoming increasingly popular due to their brightness, deep black levels, and the fact that they don’t require lamp replacement. LED projectors are typically found in inexpensive models and pico projectors, and don’t usually offer 4K resolution.

Brightness And Lumens

The brightness of a projector is measured in lumens, with higher lumens indicating a brighter projector. When it comes to choosing the right projector for your situation, you should consider both white brightness and color brightness. White brightness reflects the total amount of white light emitted, while color brightness measures the brightness of projected colors such as red, blue, and yellow. If the color brightness is lower than the white brightness, the images and details may appear to be darker or duller. When looking at projectors, it is important to consider the ANSI Lumens output as well, since this gives an indication of the best performance the projector can deliver.

FAQs

What is a short-throw projector?

A short-throw projector is a type of projector designed to produce a large image at a short distance from the projection surface. It is ideal for gaming because it allows gamers to play at a larger size without having to take up a lot of space.

What are the advantages of using a short-throw projector for gaming?

Short-throw projectors offer several advantages when used for gaming. They can produce a large image from a short distance, making them perfect for smaller rooms or tight spaces. They also provide higher image quality, faster response times, and wider viewing angles than traditional projectors.

What type of short-throw projector should I use for gaming?

The best type of short-throw projector for gaming depends on your budget, room size, and gaming needs. Generally, you should look for a projector with at least 1080p resolution, a high refresh rate, and a low input lag. You may also want to consider a short-throw projector with 3D capabilities.

How do I set up a short-throw projector for gaming?

Setting up a short-throw projector for gaming is relatively simple. First, you need to find the right spot for the projector. It should be placed at least 2 feet away from the wall, and the projector should be level with the center of the screen. You'll also need to adjust the projector's focus and zoom settings to get the image size and quality you desire. Finally, connect the projector to your gaming console and you’re ready to play!

Conclusion

The best short throw projector for gaming would be those who suit your needs and demands at the lowest possible cost. With more and more options available, it could be simple to find a design that satisfies all of these criteria. If you're not sure which one is best for you, take into account the ViewSonic 1080p Projector for another option.


1 ratings

About Steve McConnell

Steve McConnell

Steve McConnell discovered his passion for technology early in his life when he bought his first Nintendo (NES). After spending hours experimenting with cartridges, he finally got inspired and began disassembling and rebuilding any that didn't work. Steve began playing online PC gaming after he quit console gaming. He was a passionate gamer and a problem-solver, which led him to create his own computers.
Steve brings curiosity, critical eyes, problem-solving skills, and persistence to US Best Gear as a tester. Steve is a tech nut who loves to keep up with the latest technology, from electric toothbrushes and electric skateboards to fitness trackers and sewing machines.

Read Steve's full bio