Short throw projectors and OLED TVs both provide stunning visual performance, but have key differences when it comes to image quality, screen size, pricing and usage. This guide compares the two display technologies to help you decide which is better suited for your needs.
Display Technology Overview
Short throw projectors use a projection system to cast images onto a screen. High intensity bulbs and lasers beam light through a lens assembly, enlarging and focusing the image. Short throw models can produce huge 100-150” screen sizes from just inches away.
In contrast, OLED TVs utilize self-illuminating organic LED pixels to directly emit light. Each pixel can turn on or off independently, allowing perfect blacks. OLED screens come in typical TV sizes ranging from 55” up to 88”.
Image Quality
Both technologies are capable of spectacular 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging. However, OLED TVs have the edge when it comes to contrast, color accuracy and motion clarity:
Contrast ratio – OLED pixels can achieve essentially infinite blacks with no backlight leakage, resulting in stunning dynamic range. Short throw projectors typically rate around 2,000:1 contrast.
Color reproduction – Thanks to per-pixel lighting control, OLED TVs can precisely target color points. They can match up to 100% of demanding cinema color spaces.
Response time – With response times under 1ms, OLED displays deliver clear, sharp motion and gaming performance. Short throw projectors range from 16ms to 30+ ms.
Projectors make up ground with their epic scale – that 120”+ theater experience simply isn’t possible with even the largest OLED TV. For mixed and uncontrolled lighting rooms, projectors also hold their own better.
Screen Size
One of the biggest differentiators is display size capability:
Short throw projectors – By their very nature, short throw models excel at producing massive screen sizes of 100-150 inches diagonally. They can accommodate huge 16:9 or wide 2.35:1 cinema formats.
OLED TVs – Even high-end consumer models max out at 88 inches. Larger panel production yields drop off sharply above this size. Commercial cinema-grade OLED screens can hit 130”, but cost over $100k!
If you have the space and want epic scale, short throw projectors are simply in another league. For typical living rooms, OLED TVs span an already generous range up to 88 inches.
Pricing
In line with their exotic technology, short throw projectors demand a significant price premium:
Short throw projectors – $3,000 to $6,000+ for 1080p/4K HDR-capable models projecting 100-150 inch image sizes. High-output laser projectors run even higher.
OLED TVs – 55 to 65-inch 4K OLED TVs run $1,200 to $2,500. Jumping to the high-end 77 to 88-inch size class adds another $3,000 to $5,000 premium.
If budget is a main concern, OLED TV delivers gorgeous image quality at more affordable scale. Of course projection screen costs also factor in for the projector route.
Sound Quality
Built-in audio is one area where OLED TVs shine over most reasonably priced short throw projectors:
OLED TVs – Feature robust 20 to 60 watt sound systems with dedicated bass drivers, Dolby Atmos decoding and spatial audio effects. They fill medium rooms reasonably well.
Short Throw Projectors – Tend to only pack 10 to 20 watts of low-profile integrated sound. While clear for voice reproduction, they lack bass and power for immersive sound. External speakers are essential.
If you don’t plan on augmenting with a surround sound system or sound bar, an OLED TV provides a much better standalone audio experience.
Gaming Performance
For gaming, OLED TVs beat even the fastest projector hands-down:
OLED TV Response Times – Thanks to quick-transitioning OLED pixels, the best TVs target under 1 ms response for ultra-sharp high frame rate gaming.
Projector Response Times – Utilizing LCD imaging chips, short throw projectors average between 16 and 30+ ms response times. This can lead to visible smearing in fast gaming action.
With the latest generation consoles and high-end gaming PCs outputting over 60 fps, an OLED TV keeps up better. Projectors offer massive scale but fall short on speed for hardcore gamers.
Setup and Usage
Installation and room considerations also differ:
Short throw projectors require calibration for optimal image quality, including focus, geometry and color adjustments. They also mandate complete light control for decent contrast.
OLED TVs can be set up almost anywhere and tuned with basic picture settings. They crossover more seamlessly as TV replacements. However, beware of risk for permanent burn-in with長期 static content。
If tackling a dedicated home theater, projectors deliver a true cinematic experience. Where OLED TVs fit better into mixed-use living spaces seeing daylight and varied content.
Key Takeaways
OLED TVs win on contrast, color and motion clarity along with integrated sound quality. Better suited for gaming and well-lit rooms. Capped at 88” screen sizes.
Short throw projectors offer cinema-sized 100-150” images for more immersive movies and sports. Require projection screens and controlled lighting for peak image performance.
Projectors carry a significant price premium over OLED TVs of comparable or larger screen size. Expect at least $3,000+ for good 1080p/4K HDR projection.
OLED TVs fit better as all-around TV replacements while projectors excel for dedicated, theater-centric spaces.
For the optimal big-screen cinematic experience, a short throw projector system can’t be beaten. Yet OLED TV technology shines where response time, color and flexible mixed usage matter more. Evaluate your priorities, room and budget to decide the best display solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size short throw projector screen should I get?
For home spaces, 100 to 120 inch 16:9 screens are ideal, striking a balance of immersive scale without excessive cost. Size up to 150” for more of a commercial theater feel. Make sure to check throw distance specs of any projector models considered to ensure fit.
Do short throw projectors work well in daylight?
While they use high-output bulbs and lasers for improved brightness, ambient light will still wash out contrast significantly. Blackout blinds, dark walls/surfaces and control of light sources is best for optimizing projected image quality.
Should I worry about OLED TV burn-in?
With proper precautions, risk of permanent burn-in is quite low for typical TV usage spanning varied content. Best practices include pixel-shift/refresh cycles, screen savers for static areas, and conservative brightness limits. Routinely varying content types also helps safeguard.
