Ultra-short throw (UST) projectors are an excellent way to get a big screen experience in your home without taking up a lot of space. These projectors use specialized optics and lenses to project large images from very short distances – some models can create 100-inch images while sitting just inches away from the wall or screen.
In this guide, we‘ll cover the 6 best UST projectors available today based on image quality, features, value, and more. Whether you want the absolute best picture, need great built-in sound, or are looking for something more budget-friendly, there‘s a UST projector here for you.
Best Overall: Samsung Premiere LSP7T
The Samsung Premiere LSP7T is the best overall UST projector thanks to its stellar picture quality, smart TV features, and excellent built-in audio.
With native 4K resolution, 2200 ANSI lumens brightness, and HDR10+ support, the LSP7T delivers an incredibly detailed and vibrant image. A 120-inch screen is possible when positioned just 16 inches from the wall.
It uses Samsung‘s Tizen smart TV platform for easy access to apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more. Built-in Bixby and Alexa support also allows hands-free voice control.
A powerful 2.2 channel speaker system with a wireless subwoofer provides room-filling 30W audio – no need for a separate soundbar.
For the best overall UST projector that excels in every metric, the Samsung Premiere LSP7T is a superb choice.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD resolution and HDR10+
- Up to 120-inch screen size
- Tizen smart TV platform with app store
- Built-in Bixby and Alexa voice assistants
- Powerful 30W 2.2 channel audio system
Best Large Screen: WEMAX Nova 4K
If you want the absolute largest screen possible, the WEMAX Nova 4K is the UST projector to get. It can create a massive 150-inch 4K image while sitting just 35 inches away.
With excellent 4000 ANSI lumens brightness and HDR10 support, the Nova 4K has no issues filling even the largest screens with stunning, colorful visuals ideal for movies and TV.
Built-in 30W speakers and Dolby Audio decoding provide powerful, cinematic sound to match. The Android TV interface grants access to all your favorite streaming apps too.
While more expensive UST projectors beat it in color accuracy and black levels, the WEMAX Nova 4K is virtually unmatched for sheer size and immersion. Gamers, sports fans, and home theater enthusiasts will love it.
Key Features:
- 3840 x 2160 4K UHD resolution
- 150-inch maximum image size
- Android TV with Google Play Store apps
- Dolby Audio and 30W speaker system
- Low input lag ideal for gaming
Best Audio: Epson LS300
While many UST projectors skimp on audio, the Epson EpiqVision LS300 stands out with its custom-designed 2.1 channel speaker system co-engineered with Yamaha.
The sound quality is superb – much better than you‘d expect from a projector. Dialogue is clear and intelligible, while effects and soundtracks feature excellent stereo separation and immersive surround effects thanks to proprietary Yamaha DSP modes.
On top of the audio, the LS300 also delivers stunning visuals courtesy of its 1080p resolution, 2500 lumens brightness, and Android TV smart platform. HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range support ensure colors look vivid and lifelike.
For the best built-in audio of any UST projector, the Epson LS300 is a fantastic choice.
Key Features:
- 1080p resolution with HDR10 and HLG
- Custom 2.1 speaker system co-developed with Yamaha
- Android TV platform and Chromecast support
- 2500 lumens brightness
- Up to 120-inch image size
Best Budget Option: LG HF65LA
The LG HF65LA offers great performance and features at a more affordable price point compared to premium UST projectors.
It produces a bright, colorful 1080p image up to 100 inches in size. integrated Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream audio to external speakers or headphones too.
Smart TV features are limited, but you can wirelessly mirror content from compatible smartphones and PCs using LG‘s proprietary Screen Share mode.
While the HF65LA lacks more advanced features like 4K and HDR, it‘s perfectly suitable for more casual home theater use. And at under $1000, it‘s one of the most affordable UST projectors around.
Key Features:
- 1080p resolution
- 1000 ANSI lumens brightness
- Up to 100-inch image size
- Bluetooth audio streaming
- Wireless screen mirroring
- Under $1000 price point
Best for Movies: Optoma CinemaX P2
The Optoma CinemaX P2 is designed from the ground up for enthusiast home theater use, making it the ultimate UST projector for movies.
With 4K UHD resolution, 3000 lumens brightness, HDR10 support, and wide color gamut, the P2 delivers a cinematic viewing experience rivaling many commercial theaters. Its ultra-short throw lens can project up to a 120-inch screen too.
Integrated dual speakers powered by NuForce audio provide better-than-expected sound quality as well. Alexa and Google Assistant support even enables hands-free voice control.
If you want a UST projector tailored specifically for watching films, complete with a theater-like picture and sound, the CinemaX P2 is the clear choice.
Key Features:
- True 4K UHD resolution and HDR10
- 3000 lumens brightness
- NuForce-powered 40W speaker system
- Alexa and Google Assistant support
- Streaming apps and HDMI input
- Lens memory settings for wide 120-inch image
Best for Gaming: Epson LS500
With minimal input lag and fast response times, the Epson EpiqVision LS500 is the best UST projector for gaming.
It uses Epson‘s proprietary 3LCD laser display technology to achieve lightning-fast pixel response for smooth, crisp motion in fast-paced action games. 4K resolution and 4000 lumens brightness provide plenty of detail too.
The Android TV interface has apps for cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Google Stadia. You can also connect PCs and game consoles via HDMI.
If you want your games to literally jump off the 130-inch screen enabled by the LS500‘s ultra-short throw lens, this is the UST projector to get.
Key Features:
- 4K PRO-UHD resolution
- 4000 lumens brightness
- Epson‘s proprietary 3LCD laser display technology
- Android TV with cloud gaming apps
- Minimal input lag
- Up to 130-inch image size
How to Choose: Buying Guide
When shopping for an ultra-short throw projector, keep these key factors in mind:
Image Quality – Resolution, brightness, contrast ratio, HDR support, and color accuracy all affect image quality. Aim for 1080p or 4K resolution along with at least 2000+ lumens brightness for the best experience.
Screen Size – UST projectors specialize in creating very large projected images from short distances. Make sure to pick one that can generate your desired screen size for your room.
Built-In Audio – Sound quality varies wildly amongst UST projectors. Models with more powerful speaker systems provide a more immersive experience.
Smart Features – Smart platforms like Android TV make it easy to access streaming apps. Voice control can also be handy.
Input Lag – If you play a lot of video games, input lag should be minimized for smooth gaming performance. Check reviews for exact measurements.
Your Budget – UST projector prices range from around $1000 to over $3000. Set a budget and find the best mix of features and performance at your price point.
No matter which model you choose, an ultra-short throw projector is sure to deliver huge, cinema-like pictures perfect for movies, games, sports, and more – all without taking up much space. With so many options available, you can easily find one tailored to your needs and budget.