10 Best Cheap Short Throw Projector 2025 in the United States

The Optoma ZH406ST is a well-built short-throw projector that delivers a crisp Full HD 1080p resolution with excellent brightness at 4200 lumens, making it suitable for environments with some ambient light, like classrooms or offices. Its throw ratio allows for a large 120-inch image from just over 4 feet away, which is great if you have limited space but still want a big display. The contrast ratio is very strong at 300,000:1, so you'll see good detail in darker scenes. One of the biggest advantages is the durable DuraCore laser light source, which lasts up to 30,000 hours without needing lamp replacements, saving you maintenance costs over time. The projector also supports 4K HDR input, enhancing image quality for compatible content, though its native resolution is 1080p.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, including dual HDMI ports, VGA, audio inputs, and network control, which is perfect if you want to connect various devices or manage multiple projectors remotely. The built-in dual 10-watt speakers provide decent sound for medium-sized rooms, so you may not need extra speakers for basic presentations. On the downside, the projector is on the heavier side and may feel a bit complex to set up for casual users due to its many features and advanced settings. Also, while it’s great for business and educational use, it might be more expensive than typical “cheap” short-throw projectors aimed at home cinema buyers.

This model suits users needing reliable, bright, and flexible short-throw projection in professional or educational spaces who value long lamp life and strong connectivity.

The ViewSonic X2-4K UHD Short Throw Projector is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly projector, particularly for gaming and home cinema use. Key features include a high 4K UHD resolution (3840x2160p) and a throw ratio of 0.69-0.83, which means it can project large images from a short distance. This is ideal for small spaces. With a brightness of 2000 lumens, the projector performs well in dimly-lit environments but may struggle in very bright rooms. The 4.2ms response time and 240Hz refresh rate are standout features for gamers, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay.

Additionally, the projector supports HDR and HLG for enhanced picture quality and Cinema SuperColor technology provides vivid, lifelike colors with a 125% Rec. 709 wide color gamut. The built-in Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers offer decent sound quality, adding to the viewing experience, though audiophiles might prefer external speakers. The projector’s LED lamp boasts an extended lifespan of up to 60,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

In terms of connectivity, the X2-4K offers versatile options including dual HDMI, Wi-Fi, USB-C, and USB, supporting a wide range of devices. The inclusion of vertical/horizontal keystone correction and 4-corner adjustment makes setup flexible and user-friendly. However, at 7.9 pounds, it’s somewhat heavy for a portable projector. It's particularly suited for gamers and home cinema enthusiasts looking for a high-resolution, short-throw projector without breaking the bank.

The AAXA M8 UST2 stands out as a compact ultra-short throw projector, designed to project a large 100-inch image from just about a foot away, which is impressive for tight spaces. Its 0.2 throw ratio and native Full HD 1080p resolution deliver sharp and vibrant images, thanks to its advanced RGB laser light source that outperforms many LED projectors in color brightness and quality. With 1100 laser lumens, it provides good brightness for dim to moderately lit rooms, but it might struggle in very bright environments, so using a flat ALR (ambient light rejecting) screen is recommended to get the best picture quality. Contrast and color accuracy benefit from the DLP technology, which is cinema-grade, making it suitable for home cinema, gaming, and presentations.

Connectivity options are plentiful, including two HDMI ports, USB-C mirroring, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, and optical audio, giving flexibility to connect various devices easily. The built-in speakers are useful for casual use, but for richer sound, external speakers are advisable. Its lamp life should be long due to the laser source, reducing maintenance needs. However, the compact size comes with trade-offs: the fan noise is noticeably louder than larger projectors and it requires a very flat screen surface to avoid image distortion due to the ultra-short throw optics. Also, some streaming apps may not work natively, so pairing with a smart TV stick is recommended for full app support.

This projector suits users who need a space-saving device capable of delivering sharp, colorful images in controlled lighting environments, but it is less appropriate for use in bright rooms or for users sensitive to noise.