10 Best Short Throw Projectors for Gaming: Elevate Your Playtime Experience

If you’re looking to enhance your gaming setup, short throw projectors could be the game-changer you need. These compact devices deliver impressive visuals and performance, even in tight spaces. With options featuring low input lag and high refresh rates, you can expect smooth gameplay that pulls you right into the action. Curious about which models stand out? Let’s explore the top contenders that could elevate your playtime experience.

BenQ TH671ST 1080p Short Throw Gaming Projector

If you’re a serious gamer looking for an immersive experience without the hassle of a large space, the BenQ TH671ST 1080p Short Throw Gaming Projector is the perfect choice for you. With a native Full HD resolution and 3000 ANSI lumens brightness, it delivers vibrant visuals even in well-lit rooms. Enjoy low input lag and high refresh rates for seamless gameplay on a massive 100-inch screen from just 5 feet away. Its compact design and lightweight build make it easily portable, while compatibility with Xbox One X and PS4 Pro guarantees you’re ready for any gaming session. Elevate your playtime experience today!

Best For: Serious gamers seeking an immersive experience in a compact and easily portable projector.

Pros:

• Low input lag and high refresh rates ensure smooth gameplay.
• Capable of projecting a large 100-inch screen from just 5 feet away.
• Compact design and lightweight build facilitate easy transport and setup.

Cons:

• Limited to a maximum brightness of 3000 ANSI lumens, which may not suffice in very bright environments.
• Lamp life varies significantly depending on usage mode, with a shorter lifespan in normal mode.
• Lacks advanced features like 4K resolution support, which may be a consideration for some users.

Optoma GT2000HDR Compact Short Throw Laser Projector

The Optoma GT2000HDR Compact Short Throw Laser Projector is an ideal choice for gamers seeking a powerful and space-saving solution. With 1080p HD resolution and a brightness of 3,500 lumens, it delivers stunning visuals in any lighting. You can project a massive 120-inch image from just 4 feet away, making installation a breeze. Plus, its low input lag—down to 8ms at 1080p120Hz—ensures smooth gameplay. The DuraCore laser technology provides 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, while HDR support enhances color depth. HDMI and USB connectivity make it easy to hook up your favorite gaming consoles and streaming devices.

Best For: Gamers and home theater enthusiasts looking for a compact projector that delivers high-quality visuals and easy installation in smaller spaces.

Pros:

• High brightness of 3,500 lumens ensures vivid images in various lighting conditions.
• Short throw capability allows for a large 120-inch image from just 4 feet away.
• Low input lag enhances gaming performance, making it suitable for competitive play.

Cons:

• Limited to 1080p resolution, which may not satisfy users seeking 4K projection.
• Weighs 6.61 pounds, which may be less portable compared to lighter models.
• The price point may be higher than some budget-friendly alternatives.

Kogata 4K Smart Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth

Looking for a compact projector that delivers stunning visuals and seamless connectivity for gaming? The Kogata 4K Smart Projector is your answer. Weighing only 2.5 lbs, it’s portable and features native 1080p resolution with 4K support, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp details. With built-in streaming apps like Prime Video and YouTube, you can easily access your favorite content. Its real-time autofocus and keystone correction guarantee perfect image alignment. Plus, Dolby Audio enhances your gaming experience with immersive sound. With lifetime support and a 3-year warranty, you can game confidently knowing Kogata has your back.

Best For: Those seeking a portable projector that combines stunning visuals with smart technology for gaming and streaming entertainment.

Pros:

• Compact and Lightweight: Weighing only 2.5 lbs, it’s easy to transport for indoor and outdoor use.
• Built-in Streaming Apps: Access popular apps like Prime Video, YouTube, and more without additional devices.
• Advanced Image Technology: Features real-time autofocus and keystone correction for perfect image alignment.

Cons:

• Limited Battery Life: As a projector, it may require a constant power source for extended use.
• Short Throw Limitations: Short throw projectors may need specific placements for optimal screen size.
• Potential Connectivity Issues: While it has built-in streaming, performance may vary based on WiFi quality.

ViewSonic PS502W Short Throw Projector

Gamers seeking an immersive experience will appreciate the ViewSonic PS502W Short Throw Projector, which projects a massive 100-inch image from just 4.5 feet away. With 4,000 ANSI lumens, it delivers bright, vibrant visuals thanks to SuperColor technology. You can enjoy shadow-free gaming, making every detail pop. The dual HDMI ports allow you to connect multiple devices effortlessly, while the USB-A port powers wireless HDMI dongles. Plus, installation is a breeze with flexible mounting options and features like digital zoom and auto keystone. Weighing only 6.3 pounds, it’s portable and easy to set up for all your gaming sessions.

Best For: Gamers looking for a short throw projector that delivers a large, vibrant image in limited space.

Pros:

• High brightness: With 4,000 ANSI lumens, it ensures clear and vivid visuals even in well-lit environments.
• Short throw capability: Projects a massive 100-inch image from just 4.5 feet away, perfect for small rooms.
• Easy connectivity: Features dual HDMI ports and a USB-A port for versatile device connections and wireless dongle support.

Cons:

• Limited native resolution: WXGA (1280x800p) may not meet the needs of users seeking 4K quality.
• Weight for portability: At 6.3 pounds, it may be heavier than some other portable projector options.
• Potential installation constraints: While versatile, ceiling mounting may require additional hardware not included with the projector.

BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector

If you’re seeking a projector that delivers an immersive gaming experience without needing ample space, the BenQ TH575 1080P Gaming Projector is an excellent choice. With a 1080p Full HD resolution and a brightness of 3800 ANSI Lumens, it guarantees vibrant visuals. Its low latency of just 16ms keeps your gameplay smooth, while the enhanced Game-Mode elevates your experience. You can project a massive 100-inch image from just 10.8 feet away! Plus, the high contrast ratio of 15,000:1 reveals deeper blacks and stunning detail. Weighing only 7.65 pounds, it’s easily portable for gaming sessions wherever you go.

Best For: Gamers looking for a compact and high-performance projector that offers vibrant visuals and low latency for an immersive gaming experience.

Pros:

• Bright 3800 ANSI Lumens for clear images in various lighting conditions.
• Low input lag of 16ms ensures smooth gameplay.
• Short throw capability allows for large projections in small spaces.

Cons:

• Limited to 1080p resolution, which may not satisfy those seeking 4K quality.
• Weighs 7.65 pounds, which could be heavier than some prefer for portability.
• May require careful placement for optimal image quality due to short throw distance.

Optoma UHD35STX 4K UHD Short Throw Gaming and Home Entertainment Projector

The Optoma UHD35STX 4K UHD Short Throw Gaming and Home Entertainment Projector stands out as an excellent choice for those who crave immersive gaming experiences without the hassle of complicated setups. With an impressive input lag of just 4.2ms and a refresh rate of 240Hz, it guarantees smooth gameplay. Its short throw lens allows you to place it only a few feet away while still projecting a stunning 100-inch image. Weighing 10.25 pounds and measuring 12.4 x 10.63 x 4.53 inches, it’s portable and easy to set up. Enjoy vibrant 4K UHD visuals for gaming, live sports, and TV shows.

Best For: Gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, short throw projector that delivers vibrant 4K UHD visuals with minimal setup hassle.

Pros:

• Low input lag of 4.2ms ensures a responsive gaming experience.
• High refresh rate of 240Hz allows for smooth and fluid motion during fast-paced action.
• Short throw lens enables placement just a few feet away for a large 100-inch image.

Cons:

• Weight of 10.25 pounds may be less portable for some users.
• Customer ratings of 3.8 out of 5 stars indicate mixed feedback from users.
• Limited warranty details may require reaching out to customer service for clarification.

BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Short Throw Projector

For those seeking an immersive gaming experience, the BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Short Throw Projector stands out with its impressive 240Hz refresh rate and ultra-low 4ms response time. With a bright 3200 ANSI lumens laser light source, it delivers stunning visuals at 4K resolution and 95% Rec.709 color coverage. You can enjoy ideal gaming performance at 1080p@240Hz, minimizing latency for a seamless playtime. Plus, it features Google-Certified Android TV, giving you access to streaming options like Netflix and AirPlay. Weighing just 8.8 pounds, it’s an all-in-one entertainment hub perfect for family fun and gaming.

Best For: Gamers and families seeking an all-in-one entertainment solution with high-quality visuals and low latency.

Pros:

• Bright 3200 ANSI lumens laser light source ensures vivid images even in well-lit environments.
• Ultra-low 4ms response time and 240Hz refresh rate provide an optimal gaming experience with minimal latency.
• Google-Certified Android TV integration allows easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix and AirPlay.

Cons:

• Weight of 8.8 pounds may make it less portable compared to other projectors.
• Best performance is at 1080p@240Hz, which may not fully utilize 4K capabilities for all content.
• Limited customer ratings (4.3 out of 5 stars) suggest there may be some concerns among users.

BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR Short Throw Projector

Looking for a projector that delivers stunning visuals and a responsive gaming experience? The BenQ TK700ST is your ideal choice with its 4K HDR resolution, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp details. With a brightness of 3000 ANSI lumens, you’ll enjoy clear images even in well-lit rooms. It features a rapid 4ms response time and a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p, perfect for fast-paced gaming. The projector supports HDR10 and HLG, enhancing your gameplay. Weighing only 8.82 pounds and compact in size, it’s easy to set up. Plus, with Dolby Atmos support, your audio experience is equally immersive.

Best For: Gamers and movie enthusiasts looking for a compact projector that offers stunning 4K visuals and low latency for an immersive experience.

Pros:

• Stunning 4K resolution with vibrant colors and sharp details for an exceptional viewing experience.
• Fast response time of 4ms and a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p, ideal for fast-paced gaming.
• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to set up and transport.

Cons:

• Limited to a short throw distance, which may not suit larger rooms or specific setups.
• Only 2 customer ratings available, suggesting limited user feedback on performance.
• Availability set for January 1, 2025, which may delay potential buyers from acquiring the product immediately.

Optoma GT1080HDR Short Throw Gaming Projector

Gamers seeking a high-performance projector will find the Optoma GT1080HDR an excellent choice with its impressive 120Hz refresh rate and minimal 8.4ms input lag. This Full HD 1080p projector boasts 3,800 lumens brightness and a 50,000:1 contrast ratio, ensuring vibrant and sharp images. It supports both Xbox Series X/S and PS5, making it perfect for your gaming setup. With HDR10 technology and a 6-segment color wheel, you’ll enjoy stunning color accuracy. The short throw lens allows for large projections from just 4 feet away, making setup a breeze. Plus, its long lamp life means less maintenance for you!

Best For: Gamers looking for a high-performance projector that delivers vibrant images and fast response times for an immersive gaming experience.

Pros:

• Enhanced Gaming Mode with a 120Hz refresh rate and 8.4ms input lag for smooth gameplay.
• High Brightness of 3,800 lumens and a 50,000:1 contrast ratio for clear and vibrant visuals.
• Easy Setup with a short throw lens allowing large projections from just 4 feet away.

Cons:

• No native 4K output, as it only accepts 4K UHD signals and outputs at 1080p HDR.
• Limited portability due to its weight of 6.61 pounds, making it less convenient for frequent transport.
• Reliance on flat surfaces for optimal image alignment, which may pose challenges in certain installation scenarios.

BenQ MW632ST Business Projector

The BenQ MW632ST Business Projector stands out with its impressive short throw lens design, making it an ideal choice for those who want a big-screen gaming experience in smaller spaces. With a WXGA resolution of 1280×800 and 3200 ANSI lumens brightness, you’ll enjoy vibrant visuals and clear images up to 300 inches. Its 1.2X zoom and auto keystone adjustment guarantee easy setup. Weighing just 2.6 kg, it’s portable too. Plus, with a lamp life of up to 10,000 hours, you won’t have to worry about replacements often. Connect seamlessly through multiple HDMI and other ports for versatile gaming options.

Best For: Those seeking a portable business projector that delivers vibrant visuals and easy setup in small spaces.

Pros:

• Short throw lens design allows for large images in tight environments.
• High brightness of 3200 ANSI lumens ensures clear visuals even in well-lit rooms.
• Extended lamp life of up to 10,000 hours reduces the frequency of replacements.

Cons:

• Limited to WXGA resolution may not meet the needs of users requiring higher resolutions.
• Acoustic noise of 33 dBA may be noticeable in quiet settings.
• Weight of 2.6 kg might be less ideal for frequent travel compared to lighter models.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Short Throw Projectors for Gaming

When choosing a short throw projector for gaming, you’ll want to take into account several key factors. Image resolution, input lag, and brightness levels can greatly impact your gaming experience. Additionally, think about the connectivity options and the size and portability of the projector to make sure it fits your setup.

Image Resolution Importance

Choosing the right image resolution for your short throw projector can greatly impact your gaming experience. A resolution of 1080p is the standard for high-definition gaming, offering clarity and detail that enhances your play. If you’re diving into visually rich games, consider a 4K projector for even sharper images and enhanced detail. This higher resolution allows you to enjoy intricate textures and graphics that lower resolutions can’t match. Supporting HDR (High Dynamic Range) content alongside higher resolutions brings greater color depth and contrast, further elevating your visuals. Remember, a projector with low input lag and high resolution guarantees a smooth gaming experience, minimizing delays between your actions and what you see on the screen, especially in fast-paced scenarios.

Input Lag Performance

While enjoying an intense gaming session, you’ll quickly realize that input lag can make or break your experience. To keep your gameplay responsive, aim for projectors with input lag under 20ms. Some gaming projectors even offer specialized game modes, achieving as low as 4.2ms at 1080p 240Hz. This is critical for fast-paced titles where every millisecond counts. Additionally, look for short throw projectors with a refresh rate of 120Hz or higher, as they help maintain smooth motion and reduce blurriness. Remember, a combination of low input lag and high refresh rates greatly enhances your competitive edge. Prioritize these features to elevate your gaming adventures and immerse yourself fully in your favorite titles.

Brightness Levels Consideration

Brightness levels play an essential role in your gaming experience, especially with short throw projectors. Measured in ANSI lumens, gaming projectors usually range from 3000 to 4000 ANSI lumens, ensuring clear visuals in well-lit rooms. If you’re gaming in a bright environment, aim for higher brightness levels, like 3500 lumens, to enhance your experience without sacrificing image quality. For darker settings, a projector with around 3000 ANSI lumens can still deliver vibrant colors and sharp details. Remember, larger projected images need higher brightness to maintain clarity and avoid washed-out visuals. Additionally, consider the contrast ratio, as a higher ratio improves the differentiation between dark and light scenes, enhancing your overall gaming visuals.

Connectivity Options Available

When you’re setting up a gaming space with a short throw projector, connectivity options can make a world of difference. You’ll want to look for projectors with multiple HDMI ports to easily connect various gaming consoles and devices, enhancing your setup’s versatility. Make certain the projector supports HDMI 2.0 or higher, as this is vital for 4K content and higher refresh rates, giving you the best gaming experience possible. USB ports are also handy for connecting external devices or powering wireless HDMI dongles, reducing cable clutter. Finally, check for compatibility with video formats like HDR10 to guarantee your projector displays visuals accurately. Low input lag and fast response times are essential for competitive gaming, providing a smoother experience.

Size and Portability Factors

Choosing the right size and portability factors for short throw projectors can greatly enhance your gaming experience, especially in smaller spaces. With throw ratios between 0.5 and 0.83, these projectors can create large images from just a few feet away, perfect for tight areas. Weighing between 2.5 to 10.25 pounds, many models are easy to transport, letting you enjoy gaming sessions at home or outdoors. Their compact dimensions, usually around 10 to 12 inches long and 4 to 5 inches high, allow for convenient placement on shelves or tables. Plus, advanced optical technologies guarantee bright images with excellent color accuracy, while long lamp lives—some exceeding 15,000 hours—mean you won’t sacrifice performance for portability.