What is a short throw projector?

A short-throw projector, as its name suggests, is a projector that can cast a very large image from a very short distance,like AWOL.

This type of projector is ideal for very small rooms or situations where you need to avoid shadows.

Generally, a projector is defined as "short-throw" if it can project a 100-inch image from a distance of 3 meters (about 9.8 feet). Beyond that, there are "ultra-short throw" (UST) projectors, which can project a very large image from just a few inches away from the wall or screen.

The advantage of short-throw projectors is that because the projector is close to the screen, people walking in front of it won't cast shadows. You can also achieve a massive image even in a small room.

However, short-throw projectors are typically more expensive than traditional "long-throw" projectors. They also demand a higher degree of flatness from the projection surface; the screen must be perfectly smooth. Additionally, in terms of noise and heat, short-throw projectors might exhibit more noticeable fan noise and generate more heat.

How to Identify Short-Throw vs. Long-Throw Projectors on Shopping Websites

So, how do we determine if a projector is short-throw or long-throw when Browse shopping websites?

1. Check the Seller's Product Description: Often, the product's feature description will explicitly state whether it is a "short-throw projector" or a "long-throw projector."

2. Examine the Throw Ratio: If the seller doesn't specify, you can deduce the projector's category from its throw ratio. Short-throw projectors generally have a throw ratio less than 1.0. The smaller the value, the closer the projector can be to the screen. Conversely, long-throw projectors have a throw ratio greater than 1.0, or even higher.

Ultimately, whether you purchase a short-throw or long-throw projector depends on your specific needs. Even large rooms can certainly benefit from a short-throw projector.