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 LG HU85LA Ultra Short Throw projector is designed to deliver an impressive home cinema experience with its 4K UHD resolution and up to 2700 ANSI lumens brightness, making it suitable for various lighting conditions. Its ultra-short throw capability allows you to project a 120-inch screen from just 7.2 inches away, which is perfect for small spaces where traditional projectors might be challenging to use.

One of its major strengths is the inclusion of smart features, such as LG's webOS Lite which allows access to popular streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime directly from the projector. The projector also supports HDR10, enhancing the color and contrast for a more vibrant picture. The built-in Alexa and LG ThinQ AI enable voice recognition and smart home connectivity, adding convenience for users who enjoy a tech-savvy environment.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the projector offers a high resolution and decent brightness, it may not be the most affordable option in the cheap short-throw projector category. Additionally, weighing in at 26.9 pounds, it's relatively heavy compared to other projectors, which may limit portability. The keystone correction feature, while useful, may not fully cater to every setup, potentially impacting image quality if not positioned perfectly.