Ultra short throw (UST) laser projectors represent an exciting innovation in home entertainment technology. Allowing projection at close distances of just inches from a wall or screen, they overcome limitations of traditional long throw projectors while enabling large projected image sizes from a compact form factor.
In this definitive guide, we‘ll explore UST laser projectors in-depth – from how they work to the latest must-have models and buying considerations for setting up your own UST home theater.
How Do Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors Work?
UST projectors utilize specialized optics like curved mirrors or lenses to refract and reflect light from the laser source to the projection screen. This allows them to create a large projected image while positioned very close to the wall, compared to long throw projectors that must be placed further back in a room.
Key Benefits:
- Project 100-150 inch screen sizes from just inches away
- Compact, flexible placement options
- Immersive, cinematic viewing experience
- Bright, highly detailed 4K image quality
- Last longer with minimal maintenance (no lamp replacements)
Modern UST laser projectors also integrate smart platforms like Android TV with extensive connectivity and voice control. Built-in streaming makes them an all-in-one media powerhouse.
8 Best Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors
Based on extensive research and real-world testing, these UST models deliver superb performance perfect for serious home theater setups.
1. Samsung The Premiere LSP7T
Our #1 overall pick blends sleek style with leading picture quality.
Key Features:
- 4K HDR image detailing
- 2200 ANSI lumens brightness
- Projects 100-inch image from just 11.3 inches away
- Built-in Alexa & Bixby control
- Stream Netflix, Prime Video natively
With advanced triple laser technology, brilliant colors and inky blacks, the LSP7T creates a mesmerizing theater experience. It also features Filmmaker Mode to showcase movies as intended.
For the price, no other UST laser projector beats the LSP7T‘s beautiful image and smart integration.
Pros: Stunning picture performance, sleek & compact form factor, extensive smart platform
Cons: Occasional motion judder, no 3D support
Bottom Line: With amazing image quality and intuitive operation, the LSP7T is our top UST projector recommendation for brilliant 4K laser projection.
2. Optoma CinemaX P2
Delivering sensational colors and dynamic contrast, the CinemaX P2 excels for movies, sports and gaming.
Key Features:
- 3000 ANSI Lumens brightness
- Projects 120-inch image from just 4 inches away
- 15,000:1 contrast ratio
- HDR10 & HLG support
- Integrated NuForce soundbar
Crisp 4K visuals combined with powerful built-in audio makes the P2 feel like a full home theater system. Fast response times also make it a superb projector for gaming.
Pros: Vibrant, true-to-life colors, excellent black levels, low input lag for gaming
Cons: rainbow artifacts in high-contrast scenes, lackluster smart platform
Delivering big screen immersion in a flexible, compact form factor, the P2 thrills with spectacular 4K laser projection.
3. BenQ V7050i
The V7050i stands out with exceptional brightness and accurate colors perfect for dedicated home theaters.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD 3840 x 2160 resolution
- 2500 ANSI Lumens brightness
- HDR-PRO & custom DLP color technology
- 123-inch image projected from just 23 inches away
- Android TV built-in
From explosive blockbusters to vibrant nature documentaries, the V7050i shines with superb clarity, dynamic contrast and silky smooth motion.
Pros: Extremely bright image, highly accurate colors, low input lag for gaming
Cons: No 3D support, pricier than competitors
For gorgeously bright, true-to-life 4K laser projection, the BenQ V705oi hits the sweet spot.
4. Epson LS500
The LS500 stands tall as a fantastic ultra short throw gaming projector.
Key Features:
- 4K PRO-UHD resolution
- 4000 ANSI Lumens brightness
- Android TV built-in
- 16.7ms input lag
- 130-inch image size from 11-inches away
Capable of lighting up even large screens with superb clarity, the LS500 also impresses with smooth, responsive gameplay perfect for fast-paced action and racing titles.
Pros: Very low input lag, extremely bright image, integrated Android TV
Cons: No vertical lens shift, rainbow artifacts
For big screen gaming thrills in a flexible UST package, we highly recommend the Epson LS500.
5. Wemax Nova
Our value pick delivers sharp 4K entertainment at an affordable price point.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD resolution
- 2100 ANSI Lumens
- Projects 150-inch image from 7.2 inches away
- HDR10 support
- Built-in Android TV
With vivid colors and integrated streaming, the Nova punches well above its weight. While not as bright as premium models, its compact size and approachable pricing make it easy to fit top-tier UST 4K projection into more budgets.
Pros: Great overall UST performance for the money, easy to setup Android TV interface
Cons: Not as bright as more expensive models, no 3D support
Capable of huge projection sizes from ultra-close, the Nova brings quality 4K laser projection home at a reasonable cost.
6. Viewsonic LS810
Delivering excellent picture quality with flexible placement, the LS810 impresses for mixed usage from movies to presentations.
Key Features:
- WUXGA 1920 x 1200 resolution
- 2500 ANSI Lumens
- Projects 100-inch image from 22-inches away
- Vertical lens shift
- Integrated Harmon Kardon-tuned speakers
With bright, razor-sharp images and booming sound, the LS810 enlivens content whether for business use or home theaters. Integrated streaming support also enables wireless media playback.
Pros: Bright image, integrated speakers provide full sound, vertical lens shift aids placement
Cons: No 4K support, limited streaming app selection
Capable of wonderfully vibrant projection perfect for brighter rooms, the Viewsonic LS810 hits a sweet spot for mixed environments.
7. LG HU715QW
LG‘s CineBeam model stands out with gorgeous color performance perfect for dedicated home theater rooms.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD 3,840 x 2,160 resolution
- 2500 ANSI Lumens brightness
- WebOS smart platform built-in
- Projects 120-inch image from 7.2 inches away
- Filmmaker Mode support
Between rich HDR details and LG‘s custom-tuned color management, the HU715QW delivers sumptuous realism that makes images leap off the screen. Extensive format support and smart calibration also showcase content at its best.
Pros: Superb color performance out of the box, sleek modern design, intuitive smart platform
Cons: No 3D support, lacks vertical lens shift
For luxury home theaters where stellar color performance is paramount, LG‘s excellent HU715QW UST laser projector ticks all the boxes.
What To Consider When Buying an Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector
Brightness – Measure in ANSI Lumens, higher brightness allows clearer projection in ambient light. Look for at least 2500 lumens for dedicated home theaters, and 3000+ lumens for mixed-use rooms.
Image Size vs Throw Distance – Consider your room dimensions and desired image size. Shorter throw distance projectors can create larger images from closer, but leave less flexible placement.
Resolution – Look for native 4K models. Support for HDR and expanded color gamuts like DCI-P3 enable more vibrant, nuanced images.
Built-in Audio – While connecting an AV receiver and surround sound system is ideal, built-in speakers can simplify setup. Models like the Optoma P2 feature integrated soundbars.
Smart Features – Many new UST laser projectors integrate streaming platforms like Android TV for accessing apps and casting content wirelessly from mobile devices.
Input Lag – Important for gaming, lower input lag like 16ms or under enables smooth, responsive play when connected to PCs or consoles.
Finding the right balance of performance, features and price for your needs is key to picking the perfect living room or home theater UST laser projector. Carefully weigh your must-have specs versus nice-to-have extras. Prioritizing the elements most noticeable in your typical usage produces the best long-term satisfaction.
The Future of Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors
UST Laser projection technology has progressed swiftly in recent years as adoption continues growing. We expect even more exciting innovations around the corner.
Brighter Images – Increased laser power and improved optical engines will enable brighter projection capable of overcoming ambient light. 5,000+ lumen models on the horizon.
Bigger Screens – Expanding maximum image sizes towards 200-inches and larger will be possible from shorter throw distances as lenses and laser precision improves.
8K Resolutions – While current 4K models already enable incredible clarity, 8K UST laser projectors touting 33+ million pixels could arrive soon for an even more lifelike experience.
3D Support – Modern UST projectors generally lack support for active 3D playback. Future models may re-introduce this for fans wanting an even more immersive experience.
Bezel-less Design – Slimming down chassis size while retaining impressive sound system hardware will produce an even neater overall package.
Smart Home Integration – Projectors doubling as smart speakers and home automation hubs could simplify system control and unify entertainment.
Final Thoughts
From integrated streaming to unprecedented image sizes from short distances, UST laser projectors represent a massive leap forward for home theaters. With continual technology improvements around brightness, resolution and integration, their future certainly shines bright.
Today‘s models already deliver phenomenal, cinematic experiences right in your living room. If you‘re looking to upgrade to bigger and better media consumption, UST laser projectors should be at the top of your consideration list.
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