10 Best Cheap Short Throw Projector 2025 in the United States

The Optoma ZH340ST is a compact short throw projector designed for professional settings like offices and classrooms. With a brightness of 3,200 lumens, it delivers clear images even in well-lit environments, making it a strong contender for users requiring visibility without darkening the room. Its short throw lens allows for a large 120-inch display from just over 4 feet away, which is perfect for smaller spaces where mounting options may be limited. The projector's DuraCore laser technology extends lamp life to an impressive 30,000 hours, reducing maintenance concerns and eliminating the need for frequent lamp replacements. Plus, with dual HDMI and USB connectivity options, switching between devices is seamless, catering to varied presentation needs.

Some drawbacks exist. While the brightness and resolution (1920 x 1080) are commendable, the contrast ratio isn't specified, which can impact the depth of the colors displayed. Additionally, the product's weight of 6.61 pounds and dimensions, although compact, might still be a consideration for users looking for extreme portability.

The Optoma ZH340ST is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable, short throw projector for education or business use, especially in smaller spaces. Its efficient design and strong performance make it a good value, although potential buyers should consider their specific needs regarding image quality and portability.

The ViewSonic LS921WU is a high-brightness short throw projector, boasting 6000 Lumens, which ensures a clear and vibrant display even in well-lit environments. Its WUXGA resolution (1920 x 1200) provides sharp and detailed images, making it suitable for both business presentations and home cinema use. The projector supports 4K HDR HLG, enhancing the visual experience with richer colors and contrast.

With a throw ratio designed for short distances, it can project large images in smaller spaces, ideal for compact rooms or offices. Additionally, its impressive 20,000-hour lamp life guarantees long-term use without frequent maintenance. Versatility is a strong suit here with dual HDMI ports, USB, and Ethernet connections, ensuring compatibility with various devices.

The 1.1x optical zoom, H/V keystone correction, and wide lens shift make setup and adjustments straightforward, while the 360-degree projection capability adds flexibility in installation. Remote management through LAN control is also a notable feature for effortless scheduling and operation. However, at 14.3 pounds, it might be bulkier compared to some portable models, and its higher price point may not align with the 'cheap' category for all budgets. Its features and performance make it a versatile choice for both educational and business environments.

The EPSON PowerLite 810E Ultra Short-throw Laser Projector is a solid choice for those looking to set up a home cinema without needing a lot of space. With a resolution of 1920 x 1080, it delivers sharp and clear images, making it suitable for movie nights and presentations alike. Its impressive brightness of 5000 lumens ensures that it performs well even in moderately lit rooms, which is a significant strength for users wanting versatility in lighting conditions.

One of the standout features is its ultra-short throw capability. This allows you to project large images from a very close distance, which is ideal for those with limited wall space. Additionally, the projector includes connectivity options such as HDMI, and the WiFi Miracast feature enhances its usability by allowing wireless streaming from compatible devices.

However, the product does have some drawbacks. At 30.5 pounds, it's relatively heavy, which may hinder portability for users who desire a more lightweight option for traveling or moving it around the house. The item dimensions also suggest that it may occupy substantial space during setup. In terms of lamp life, it’s important to verify how often the lamp will need replacement as that can add to long-term costs. The keystone correction feature is beneficial for adjusting the image depending on the projector's placement, but if you're looking for more advanced adjustment capabilities, you might want to compare with other models. The EPSON PowerLite 810E is well-suited for home cinema enthusiasts looking for a powerful and space-efficient short-throw projector but may not be ideal for those needing a highly portable or budget-friendly option.