Ultra Short Throw

An ultra short throw (UST) projector is the ideal solution for those who want a big screen experience in a small space or just want to have access to you projector just like a tv . Positioned just inches from the wall or screen, UST projectors can produce large, vivid images without the need for extensive room depth. This minimizes shadows and glare, offering a seamless and immersive viewing experience. For sleek setups and maximum convenience, UST projectors are the ultimate practical projection choice.

Epson PowerLite 675W: Where it Began

Hands down, my favorite ultra short throw projector—notice I didn’t say it was the best because that would be the furthest from the truth. The Epson PowerLite 675W is what I would call, in baseball terminology, a check swing, but a check swing that magically goes for a base hit.

The PowerLite 675W was my first toe dip into the world of UST projectors, and since that time, I have jumped headfirst into the deep end and have not come up for air since. It is a projector meant for classroom/business use and not necessarily for watching TV shows and playing video games, as I used it for. But the first time you turn on this projector, I guarantee your first reaction will be, "Wow, this thing is bright." I call it the ambient light eater because daytime, nighttime, window shades up—it does not matter, the picture quality shines through. Yes, it is only 720p, and the black levels will appear more dark grey than black, but a 100" screen from only 11” away is a thing of beauty.

I cannot stress this enough: this is a projector that you use to get into the UST game to see if it works for you and to find out what you like and dislike, need and do not need. Oh, I forgot to mention you can get a used Epson PowerLite 675W on eBay for an average of $180—you won't find a better check-swing UST projector on the market.

Now we have reached the portion of the program where we do the industry review and repetition of manufacturer specs...

Epson PowerLite 675W Ultra Short Throw Projector Review: The Tiny Titan of Projection

If the Epson PowerLite 675W Ultra Short Throw projector were a superhero, it would be the one that gets right up in your face—but in the most helpful way possible. Imagine a projector so close to the screen it practically gives it a hug, yet still manages to throw a 100-inch image like it's nothing. Let’s dive into what makes this pint-sized powerhouse so impressive.

Key Specifications:

Resolution: WXGA (1280 x 800)
Brightness: 3,200 lumens (both color and white brightness)
Contrast Ratio: 14,000:1
Display Technology: 3LCD, 3-chip technology
Lamp Life: Up to 10,000 hours in ECO mode, 5,000 hours in normal mode
Throw Distance: Projects a 100" image from just 11.6 inches away
Screen Size: 53" – 100" diagonal
Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x VGA, Composite Video, USB Type-A and Type-B, RJ-45 for LAN, Stereo mini-jack audio input and output
Built-in Speaker: 16W mono speaker
Weight: 12.3 lbs (5.6 kg)

Performance:

The PowerLite 675W doesn’t just project an image; it projects confidence. With 3,200 lumens, this projector is bright enough to make even the most washed-out spreadsheets look exciting. But where this projector really shines (pun intended) is in its ultra-short throw magic. It’s like a tiny wizard that can conjure up a huge image from practically no distance at all. This means you can place it right next to the screen, and still get a massive display—perfect for when you want to stand in front of the screen without everyone asking you if your dad is a glass maker .

Ease of Use:

Setting up the PowerLite 675W is a breeze, thanks to its variety of connectivity options and intuitive controls. With multiple input ports, including HDMI, VGA, and USB, connecting various devices like laptops,Amazon firestick, and Xbox/PS5 is very straight forward . The projector is also compatible with Epson’s wireless solutions, allowing for easy content sharing and control from mobile devices or computers.

Audio:

The 16W built-in speaker is powerful enough to fill a medium-sized room, making it decent enought where external speakers are not available . For larger rooms or more immersive audio experiences, additional speakers or connection to bluetooth speakers will be needed .

Pros:

Ultra-Short Throw Flexibility: Get that big screen without needing a massive room. Perfect for apartments, small offices, or a cozy classroom.
Brightness Champion: 3,200 lumens to burn through ambient light like it’s nothing. No need to blackout your windows.
Affordable Entry Point: A used model for around $180 on eBay? That’s a steal for anyone curious about UST projectors.

Cons:

720p Resolution: Not quite the high-def experience you’d want for serious gaming or movie watching, but enough to get you started.
Basic Black Levels: Don’t expect deep, cinematic blacks. You’re looking at dark grey territory here.
Not Designed for Entertainment: Originally meant for presentations and educational purposes, so it might not have all the bells and whistles that you will want with how far we have come with UST

Optoma GT3500HDR : A Ultra Short Throw, Long on Performance

We all want flashy and new with all the features, but don’t be that guy buying a top-of-the-line sports car to drive only to the corner store. Sure, it’s flashy and powerful, but do you really need all that horsepower for a 5-minute drive? This is exactly what the “I need 4K” crowd is like. Now, don’t get me wrong—4K looks fantastic, but most video games, movies, and sports are either 1080p or upscaled 4K, which is basically 1440p. If we could avoid being that person just this once, we’d realize that the Optoma GT3500HDR offers all the features you need in a well-rounded projector that you can hook up and enjoy without worry, whether you’re gaming or watching movies.

Design and Build Quality: When I first unboxed the GT3500HDR, I was impressed by how sleek it looked. It’s got this nice matte finish that doesn’t scream for attention but still feels premium. It’s compact for an Ultra Short Throw (UST) projector, which is a big plus if, like me, you’re working with a smaller space. The build quality is solid—you can tell it’s made to last. I also noticed that it stays cool and quiet, even during those long movie marathons or intense gaming sessions, which is a relief because nothing kills the vibe like a loud fan.

Picture Quality: Now, let’s talk about what really matters—the visuals. The GT3500HDR might not be 4K, but honestly, 1080p with this projector is more than enough. The image is sharp and vibrant, thanks to the DLP and Duracore laser technology. I was especially impressed with the deep blacks and bright whites, which make movies look stunning. And with 3,600 ANSI lumens, it handles ambient light pretty well, though it obviously shines best in a darker room.

But what really blew me away was the throw distance. This thing can sit just inches from your wall and still project a massive 100-inch image. Perfect for my small living room! Plus, with the 1.3x zoom and keystone correction, getting the picture just right was a breeze.

Gaming Performance: For gamers like me, input lag is a big deal. I’m happy to report that the GT3500HDR doesn’t disappoint. With 17ms at 1080p/60Hz and an insane 8.6ms at 1080p/120Hz, it’s fast enough to keep up with whatever you’re playing. And with HDR10 support, the visuals are more immersive than ever—especially in those darker games where every shadow counts.

Smart Features and Connectivity: While the GT3500HDR focuses on delivering killer visuals, it doesn’t skimp on connectivity. You’ve got your HDMI 2.0 ports, USB, and even wireless capabilities if you want to stream straight from your devices. It’s not packed with smart features like some other projectors, but honestly, with picture quality this good, who needs built-in apps?

Audio Quality: The built-in speakers are decent—good enough for casual viewing—but if you’re serious about your home theater setup, you’ll want to connect an external sound system. Luckily, it’s got plenty of options for that, including Bluetooth, optical audio, and the good old 3.5mm jack.

The Remote: Small, Frustrating, and Unworthy of the Projector

For a projector that does so much right, the remote is like an afterthought—an accessory that feels like it was designed for something way less impressive, like LED strip lights, rather than a high-performance projector. First off, the size: it feels small, almost toy-like in a normal-sized hand. You find yourself awkwardly fumbling with it, and not in a “this is compact and convenient” kind of way. More like, “Did they think we all have the hands of a toddler?”

The buttons? Well, they’re packed in so tightly together that pressing one button feels like you're accidentally pressing two. And here’s the kicker: the remote has to be pointed directly at the projector, and I mean directly—no off-angle forgiveness here. It really makes you wonder: why would Optoma put so much effort into crafting such a well-rounded projector, only to give it a remote that feels like an afterthought? It’s the weakest link in an otherwise strong chain, leaving you wishing for something more responsive and user-friendly to match the overall experience.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Fantastic 1080p picture quality with HDR10 support.
Ultra Short Throw design is a game-changer for small spaces.
Super low input lag, perfect for gaming.
Brightness and contrast that hold up even with some ambient light.

Cons:

The Remote , it bad, like really bad.
No native 4K resolution, if that’s a dealbreaker for you.
Built-in speakers are just okay.
Lacks smart features, so you’ll need a streaming device.

Final Verdict: The Optoma GT3500HDR is a killer projector for anyone who wants great performance without all the unnecessary extras. It’s perfect for both movie buffs and gamers, especially if you’re working with a smaller space. Sure, it’s not 4K, but unless you’re a videophile, you probably won’t even notice. If you’re looking for a projector that delivers where it counts without breaking the bank, this one should definitely be on your radar.

XGIMI Aura 4K: So Close to Perfection, Yet Just a Step Away

I had a rather short time with the XGIMI Aura 4K UHD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector, but I really wish I had more time. Or maybe the time felt short because I wanted more time with it. Okay, okay—I wanted to keep it. So if this projector ever gets to a $1,200 price tag, just buy it. You don’t need to read any reviews to do so, not even this one. It’s sleek, it’s ultra-modern, and it promises to transform your living room into a full-fledged home theater. The excitement is palpable. But as the first movie starts, that initial thrill gives way to something else—admiration tinged with a hint of “if only.”

Design and Build Quality:

The XGIMI Aura is a beauty to behold. With its minimalist design, matte black finish, and ultra-short throw (UST) capabilities, it’s clear this projector is meant to be the centerpiece of any room. It can project a 100-inch image from just 8 inches away, which is perfect for those tight on space. The build quality feels premium, and the sleek design integrates well with modern interiors. However, as stylish as it is, the projector’s heft and size might require a dedicated spot, so it’s not the most portable option out there.

Picture Quality:

The Aura delivers native 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160), and it shows. The images are crisp, and the colors are vibrant, thanks to its support for HDR10. However, the 2,400 ANSI lumens brightness is where the XGIMI Aura slightly stumbles. While it performs admirably in dark environments, in rooms with ambient light, the picture quality isn’t as punchy as you’d expect from a high-end 4K projector. The static contrast ratio of 3,000:1, though decent, doesn’t quite match up to the deep blacks and bright whites you might expect. This can leave you feeling like the Aura is almost there but not quite delivering that jaw-dropping image quality you were hoping for.

Smart Features and Connectivity:

XGIMI has packed the Aura with smart features, and this is where it shines. It runs on Android TV, giving you access to a wide range of apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and more, directly from the projector. The interface is smooth, and the built-in Google Assistant adds a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. Connectivity options are robust, with three HDMI 2.0 ports, USB, Ethernet, and wireless casting, giving you plenty of flexibility. However, like many smart projectors, the occasional software glitch can remind you that it’s not quite a replacement for dedicated streaming devices.

Audio Quality:

One area where the XGIMI Aura truly excels is its audio performance. The built-in Harman Kardon speakers deliver a surprisingly rich and immersive sound experience for a projector. With 60W of power, it easily fills a room, and for many, this might eliminate the need for an external sound system. However, if you’re an audiophile, you’ll still want to hook it up to a high-quality soundbar or home theater system for that extra oomph.

Gaming Performance:

While the Aura wasn’t built with gaming as its primary focus, it still holds its own. The input lag is around 35ms, which is decent for casual gaming but not ideal for competitive gamers who need ultra-low latency. If gaming is a big part of your projector use, this might be a slight drawback, especially when paired with the occasional struggles in maintaining peak brightness in well-lit rooms.

Lamp Life:

The XGIMI Aura uses an LED light source with an impressive lamp life of up to 25,000 hours, meaning it’ll keep going strong for years without the need for replacement.

Pros:

Sleek, ultra-short throw design that fits well in modern spaces
Native 4K UHD resolution with HDR10 support
Excellent built-in Harman Kardon speakers
Android TV integration for a seamless smart experience
Multiple connectivity options
Long lamp life (25,000 hours)

Cons:

Brightness is underwhelming in rooms with ambient light
Static contrast ratio and black levels could be better
Occasional software glitches with Android TV
Input lag might not satisfy hardcore gamers
Pricey compared to other projectors with similar specs

Final Verdict:

The XGIMI Aura 4K is a projector that comes tantalizingly close to being a knockout. Its sleek design, native 4K resolution, and impressive audio make it a strong contender in the premium projector market. But its limitations in brightness and contrast, particularly in well-lit rooms, hold it back from being the ultimate all-rounder. If you’re looking for a stylish, space-saving projector with solid smart features and you primarily use it in a dark room, the Aura could be a great fit. Just be aware that while it excels in many areas, it still leaves a little something to be desired.

Epson EpiqVision Ultra Short Throw LS300 3LCD Review: Big Screen, Small Space

Some projectors come with all the flash and sparkle, but the Epson EpiqVision LS300 is like that with all substance, no show-off. With ultra-short throw capabilities and some serious sound chops thanks to Yamaha, this projector promises to turn your living room into a cinema, without the need for complex setups or massive spaces. But does it deliver across the board? Let’s dig into the details.

Design and Build Quality: Functional and Minimalist

The EpiqVision LS300 isn’t the projector that demands attention from across the room, but its clean, modern design fits well into most living spaces. It’s compact for a UST projector, measuring just 18.4 x 13.7 x 5.7 inches, making it easy to place on a TV console or shelf without taking up too much space. Weighing around 15.2 lbs, it's not lightweight, but certainly manageable.

It feels solid, well-built, and clearly designed with modern home aesthetics in mind—definitely not one of those bulky setups you want to hide away.

Picture Quality: Full HD 1080p that Packs a Punch

While 4K seems to be the buzzword these days, the Epson LS300 isn’t trying to compete in that race—it sticks to 1080p Full HD, but don’t let that fool you. Thanks to Epson’s 3LCD technology, the image quality is sharp, bright, and vibrant. With 3,600 ANSI lumens, it’s more than capable of holding its own even in rooms with ambient light.

Watching movies, sports, or TV shows is a joy, and though it’s not 4K, the colors and detail are impressive. The contrast, while decent at a 1,500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, doesn’t deliver the inky blacks you’d get from higher-end projectors, but for a 1080p model, it performs very well. In darker scenes, you might notice some loss in shadow detail, but it's minimal, especially for casual viewers.

The real highlight here is the ultra-short throw projection, which lets you place the projector just 15.5 inches from the wall to project a 120-inch image. This feature alone makes it ideal for small spaces or rooms where ceiling or wall mounting isn’t an option.

Sound Quality: Yamaha Audio for the Win

One of the standout features of the LS300 is its built-in Yamaha 2.1 speaker system. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to mess with external speakers, this is where the projector really shines. The sound is clear, rich, and surprisingly full for an all-in-one system. The integrated subwoofer helps deliver a decent bass response, which makes movie-watching much more immersive than the typical tinny sound you’d expect from built-in projector speakers.

Is it as good as a dedicated sound system? No. But for what it offers, the audio performance is a massive step up from what most projectors in this range provide, making it ideal for users who want an easy, out-of-the-box solution for both visuals and sound.

Smart Features: Android TV for Streaming Ease

The EpiqVision LS300 comes with Android TV built right in, making it a breeze to stream content from platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and more. The interface is user-friendly, and with built-in Google Assistant, controlling the projector is just a voice command away. One downside, though, is that Netflix isn’t natively supported (a common issue with Android TV on projectors), so you’ll need a workaround like a streaming stick or external device to get it running smoothly.

The included remote is decent, with a straightforward design that makes navigating Android TV simple, although it's not backlit, which can be a bit of an annoyance in dark rooms.

Gaming Performance: Decent, but Not for Competitive Play

While the LS300 wasn’t designed with hardcore gamers in mind, it still holds its own for casual gaming sessions. Input lag is around 30-40ms, which is fine for single-player or non-competitive games but might be a touch slow for those fast-paced shooters where every millisecond counts. If you're primarily gaming, this may not be the best choice, but for an occasional session on the big screen, it’ll do the job without major issues.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Bright, vibrant 1080p picture with Epson’s 3LCD tech.
Ultra-short throw design for small spaces.
Impressive Yamaha audio system with a built-in subwoofer.
Android TV with built-in streaming apps.
Solid brightness at 3,600 lumens, great for rooms with ambient light.

Cons:

No native 4K support, which could be a dealbreaker for videophiles.
Netflix not natively supported on Android TV.
Input lag isn’t ideal for competitive gaming.
Black levels could be better, especially in darker scenes.

Final Verdict: A Great All-Rounder for Small Spaces

The Epson EpiqVision LS300 might not be packing 4K resolution, but what it does offer is a fantastic, all-in-one solution for users looking for a big screen experience in a small space. The ultra-short throw feature alone makes it worth considering if you want a projector that doesn’t require ceiling mounting or a long throw distance.

Pair that with Yamaha’s impressive sound system and the convenience of Android TV, and you’ve got yourself a solid home entertainment setup. The lack of 4K might turn off some high-end home theater enthusiasts, but for the price and features, the LS300 offers a balanced blend of performance and ease-of-use that’s hard to beat.

Optoma GT5600 Review: Big-Screen Entertainment in Tight Spaces—But Not Without Flaws

Transforming a small living room or office into a cinematic haven is easier than ever with the Optoma GT5600. Designed for ultra-short-throw projection, it creates a large, vibrant display from just inches away—no ceiling mounts or extra-long cables needed. After putting it through its paces, I’ve uncovered both its standout features and some notable limitations, particularly in terms of image quality. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from this unique projector. Buy here

Design and Build Quality

The Optoma GT5600 sports a sleek, modern design with a matte white finish that blends seamlessly into most interiors. Its compact size for an ultra-short-throw projector makes it suitable for small spaces where a traditional projector setup isn't feasible.

Pros:

Space-Saving Design: Projects a 100-inch image from just 13 inches away, ideal for small rooms or limited spaces.
User-Friendly Setup: The intuitive on-screen menus and auto keystone correction make installation straightforward.

Cons:

Build Materials: The plastic casing feels less sturdy than expected for its price point, lacking a premium feel.
Bulkiness: While compact for its class, it's still larger than standard projectors, which may affect placement options.

Picture Quality

With a native resolution of 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080), the GT5600 promises sharp and detailed images. However, the overall picture quality is mixed.

Pros:

High Brightness: 3,600 lumens of brightness allow for clear images even in rooms with some ambient light.
Vibrant Colors: The projector delivers generally good color reproduction, making movies and games visually engaging.

Cons:

Skin Tone Accuracy: A noticeable issue is that skin tones can appear slightly off, sometimes exhibiting unnatural hues. This can be distracting during movies or shows with close-up shots.
Contrast and Black Levels: Despite a claimed 20,000:1 contrast ratio, blacks often appear grayish, affecting depth and detail in darker scenes.
Edge Sharpness: Some softness around the edges of the image can be observed, which may impact the viewing experience for detailed content.

Gaming Performance

For gamers, the GT5600 offers both advantages and drawbacks.

Pros:

Low Input Lag: With an input lag of around 16ms, it provides a responsive experience suitable for most casual gaming.
Immersive Size: The large image projection enhances the gaming experience, making it more immersive.

Cons:

Refresh Rate Limitations: Capped at 60Hz, which might not satisfy gamers accustomed to higher refresh rates on monitors.
Color Fidelity: The issues with skin tones and color accuracy can also affect the visual quality in games.

Audio Quality

Pros:

Powerful Built-in Speaker: The 16W speaker is more robust than those in many comparable projectors, capable of filling a small room.

Cons:

Sound Quality: While loud, the audio lacks depth and richness. For a more immersive experience, external speakers are recommended.

Connectivity and Features

Pros:

Multiple Inputs: Includes 2 HDMI ports, USB, VGA, and composite video inputs, accommodating a variety of devices.
Auto Keystone and Four-Corner Correction: Facilitates easier image alignment without needing perfect projector placement.

Cons:

No Built-in Wi-Fi: Wireless capabilities require the optional HDCast Pro dongle (sold separately), adding extra cost.
Limited Smart Features: Lacks built-in apps or streaming capabilities, necessitating external devices for content.
No Lens Shift: Placement flexibility is limited, requiring careful positioning for optimal image quality.

Lamp Life and Maintenance

The projector offers a decent lamp life, reducing the frequency of replacements.

4,000 hours in Bright mode
10,000 hours in Eco mode
15,000 hours in Dynamic mode

Pros:

Long Lamp Life: Especially in Eco and Dynamic modes, which lower long-term maintenance costs.

Cons:

Lamp Replacement Cost: Replacement lamps can be relatively expensive.

Noise Levels

Pros:

Quiet in Eco Mode: Fan noise is minimal, not interfering with viewing.

Cons:

Noisy in Bright Mode: Fan noise becomes more noticeable, which can be distracting during quiet scenes.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

Ultra-Short-Throw Capability: Projects large images from a minimal distance.
High Brightness: 3,600 lumens suitable for rooms with ambient light.
Low Input Lag: Approximately 16ms, good for casual gaming.
Robust Built-in Speaker: Better than average onboard audio.

Cons:

Skin Tone Issues: Unnatural skin tones affect overall image quality.
Contrast Limitations: Blacks aren't as deep, affecting image depth.
Edge Sharpness Concerns: Slight blurriness around edges.
No Built-in Wireless: Requires additional accessories for Wi-Fi.
Fan Noise: Noticeable in high-brightness modes.

Final Verdict

The Optoma GT5600 is a convenient solution for those needing a large display in a confined space. Its ultra-short-throw design and high brightness make it versatile for various environments, from home theaters to business presentations.

However, the projector's shortcomings—particularly with skin tone accuracy and contrast—are significant considerations. The off-kilter skin tones can detract from the viewing experience, especially in content where color accuracy is crucial. Additionally, the less-than-ideal black levels may disappoint users seeking deeper contrast.

Recommendation: If you're looking for a projector that offers space-saving benefits and can tolerate some compromises in image quality, the GT5600 is worth considering. However, if accurate color reproduction and high contrast are priorities, exploring other options in a similar price range might be beneficial.

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