Looking for the best short throw projectors for gaming in 2025? I’ve found top models like the BenQ TH671ST, TK700ST, and portable options with HDR, Dolby Audio, and ultra-fast response times. These projectors deliver bright, vivid images from small spaces, down to 5 feet, with minimal lag for smooth gameplay. If you want to discover all the options and features that make these projectors perfect for gaming, there’s more to explore below.
Key Takeaways
- Short throw projectors can display large screens from minimal distances, ideal for small gaming spaces.
- Many models offer 4K HDR resolution, low input lag, and high contrast for immersive gaming experiences.
- Portable options with wireless connectivity and quick setup enable flexible indoor and outdoor gaming.
- Brightness levels up to 4,200 lumens ensure vibrant visuals even in well-lit rooms.
- Compatibility with gaming consoles and support for low latency modes make them perfect for responsive gaming.
BenQ TH671ST 1080p Short Throw Gaming Projector
If you’re serious about gaming and want an immersive experience, the BenQ TH671ST is an excellent choice. It features native Full HD 1080p resolution, 92% Rec. 709 color accuracy, and 3000 lumens brightness, ensuring vibrant visuals even in well-lit rooms. Its high native contrast ratio adds depth to dark scenes, enhancing gameplay. Designed specifically for gamers, it offers ultra-fast low input lag and a refresh rate compatible with Xbox One X and PS4 Pro, delivering smooth, tear-free action. With the ability to project up to 300 inches from just five feet away, it transforms small spaces into giant gaming arenas.
Best For: gamers seeking an immersive, large-screen experience with vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay in well-lit rooms.
Pros:
- Native 1080p Full HD resolution delivers sharp, detailed images
- 92% Rec. 709 color accuracy ensures vibrant, true-to-life colors
- Ultra-fast low input lag and compatibility with Xbox One X and PS4 Pro for smooth gaming
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of five feet of space for projection, limiting placement options in very small rooms
- May be less suitable for casual or non-gaming home entertainment due to its specialized features
- Short throw projection may produce image distortion if not properly aligned
BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR Gaming Projector
The BenQ TK700ST 4K HDR Gaming Projector stands out as an excellent choice for gamers with limited space, thanks to its short-throw capability that projects a large, sharp image from just 6.5 feet away. With 16ms low latency, 3000 lumens brightness, and HDR10/HLG support, it delivers smooth, vibrant visuals perfect for gaming. Its compact size—measuring 18.11 x 13.3 x 7.09 inches and weighing about 8.82 pounds—makes it easy to set up in small rooms. Since its release in January 2025, it has earned a solid 4.3-star rating, balancing high-quality image performance with space-saving design.
Best For: gamers with limited space seeking a high-quality 4K HDR gaming projector that offers quick response times and vibrant visuals.
Pros:
- Short-throw projection allows large images from just 6.5 feet away, ideal for small rooms
- Low 16ms latency ensures smooth gameplay with minimal lag
- Bright 3000 lumens and HDR support deliver vibrant, accurate visuals
Cons:
- Slightly larger dimensions may still require some setup space despite its compact design
- Weighing around 8.82 pounds, it may be less portable for frequent repositioning
- Available since January 2025, so some users might prefer more established models with longer market presence
Short Throw 4K Portable Projector with WiFi, Bluetooth, Auto Focus, Keystone, Dolby Audio
Designed for gamers who want a portable, high-quality viewing experience, the Short Throw 4K Portable Projector with WiFi, Bluetooth, Auto Focus, Keystone, and Dolby Audio offers impressive flexibility and ease of use. It projects a 50-inch screen from just 4 feet, making setup quick and simple. Its advanced TOF auto-focus and keystone correction keep images sharp and aligned, even if moved or tilted. Weighing only 2.5 pounds, it’s perfect for indoor, outdoor, or on-the-go gaming sessions. With native 1080p resolution, HDR support, and cinema-grade colors, plus immersive Dolby Audio, it delivers stunning visuals and sound in a compact package.
Best For: gamers seeking a portable, high-quality projection experience with quick setup and immersive audio on the go.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design weighing only 2.5 lbs for easy transport and versatile use
- Advanced TOF auto-focus and keystone correction for sharp, aligned images even with movement or tilting
- Native 1080p resolution with HDR support and Dolby Audio for stunning visuals and immersive sound
Cons:
- Limited to short-throw distances, requiring proximity for smaller screens
- Potentially limited battery life; may require external power sources during extended use
- As a portable device, it might not match the brightness levels of larger, dedicated home theater projectors
BenQ TH575 1080p Gaming Projector
For gamers seeking a reliable indoor projector that combines clarity with speed, the BenQ TH575 stands out thanks to its ultra-low latency of just 16 milliseconds. This 2023 model offers 1080p Full HD resolution and 3800 lumens brightness, so images stay vibrant even in well-lit rooms. Its 15,000:1 contrast ratio delivers deep blacks and detailed dark scenes, enhancing immersion. Designed for gaming, it supports 3D content, dual HDMI inputs, and auto keystone correction for easy setup. From just 10.8 feet, you get a massive 100-inch screen, making gameplay truly immersive without taking up much space.
Best For: gamers seeking a reliable indoor projector with fast response times and vibrant visuals for immersive gameplay in well-lit environments.
Pros:
- Ultra-low latency of 16ms ensures responsive gaming performance
- Bright 3800 lumens and 1080p resolution deliver sharp, vivid images even in well-lit rooms
- Compact size and features like auto keystone correction make for easy setup and flexible placement
Cons:
- Standard throw projection may require a larger room for optimal image size
- Limited to 3D content support, which may not suit all multimedia needs
- Weighs 7.65 pounds, which may be less portable for frequent movement or outdoor use
BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Laser Projector
If you’re looking for a compact projector that delivers stunning 4K visuals with minimal lag, the BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Laser Projector stands out as an excellent choice for serious gamers. Its lightweight, portable design (just under 9 pounds) makes it easy to set up anywhere. With 3200 lumens brightness and 95% Rec.709 color coverage, it produces vibrant, sharp images even in bright rooms. The low latency of 4ms at 1080p and 240Hz refresh rate ensure smooth, responsive gameplay. Plus, with built-in Android TV, streaming your favorite content is seamless. It’s a versatile, high-performance projector perfect for immersive gaming and entertainment in small spaces.
Best For: serious gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-quality 4K HDR projector with low latency and vibrant visuals.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for portability and easy setup
- 4ms response time at 1080p and 240Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming
- Bright 3200 lumens with 95% Rec.709 color coverage for vivid images in well-lit rooms
Cons:
- Slight discrepancy in weight description (under 9 pounds vs. 8.8 pounds) may cause confusion
- Limited details on speaker quality or audio options included
- Availability and pricing updates may vary, affecting immediate purchase decisions
ViewSonic PS502W 4000 Lumens WXGA Short Throw Projector
The ViewSonic PS502W stands out as an excellent choice for those needing bright, large images in tight spaces, thanks to its 4,000 lumens brightness and short throw ratio. It can project 80 to 150-inch screens from just a few feet away, making it ideal for small rooms. Its WXGA resolution ensures sharp images, while SuperColor technology delivers vibrant visuals. With versatile connectivity options and easy setup features like instant power on/off, it’s perfect for quick, hassle-free presentations or gaming sessions. Weighing only 6.3 pounds, it’s portable and easy to mount, offering a practical, powerful solution for big-screen entertainment in limited spaces.
Best For: individuals or organizations needing bright, large-screen projections in small or confined spaces, such as classrooms, small conference rooms, or home entertainment setups.
Pros:
- Bright 4,000 lumens output ensures clear images even in well-lit environments
- Short throw ratio allows large screens (80-150 inches) from just a few feet away
- Easy setup with instant power on/off, versatile mounting options, and multiple connectivity ports
Cons:
- Limited resolution of 1280×800 may not satisfy those seeking full HD quality
- Slightly heavier at 6.3 pounds, which could impact portability for some users
- Fixed resolution and features may not support advanced or specialized projection needs
Optoma EH412ST Short Throw 1080P HDR Projector
The Optoma EH412ST stands out as one of the top choices for gamers seeking a high-quality short throw projector. Its short throw lens projects a 120-inch image from just 4.5 feet, making it perfect for small spaces. With 4,000 lumens, it handles well-lit rooms, and its 4K HDR input delivers vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and sharper images. The impressive 50,000:1 contrast ratio and rec. 709 color profile ensure accurate, rich visuals. Supporting full 3D content and equipped with multiple connectivity options, it’s versatile. Plus, its lightweight design and long lamp life make it easy to move and cost-effective over time.
Best For: gamers and small space users seeking vibrant 4K HDR visuals with easy installation and portability.
Pros:
- Short throw lens projects a large 120-inch image from just 4.5 feet, ideal for small spaces.
- Bright 4,000 lumens output performs well in well-lit rooms, perfect for various environments.
- Long-lasting lamp life of up to 15,000 hours reduces maintenance and ownership costs.
Cons:
- Requires 3D glasses for full 3D content viewing, which may add to overall cost.
- Limited built-in audio; external speakers might be needed for larger rooms.
- Short throw design might not be suitable for very large or projection-distance-dependent setups.
Optoma UHD35STX 4K UHD Short Throw Gaming and Home Entertainment Projector
Gamers seeking ultra-fast response times will find the Optoma UHD35STX especially appealing, thanks to its lightning-quick input lag of just 4.2ms and a high refresh rate of 240Hz. This combination guarantees smooth, responsive gameplay, giving you a competitive edge. Its short throw lens lets you project a massive 100-inch image from just a few feet away, making it perfect for small spaces. Plus, features like Lights-On Viewing and Four Corner Correction help optimize image quality and alignment. Weighing just over 10 pounds, it’s easy to set up and move around, making it an excellent choice for immersive gaming and home entertainment.
Best For: gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a high-performance 4K projector with fast response times and flexible placement options.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast input lag of only 4.2ms for smooth, responsive gaming
- High refresh rate of 240Hz enhances gaming and fast-paced content
- Short throw lens projects a 100-inch image from just a few feet away, ideal for small spaces
Cons:
- Customer rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars indicates some users may experience issues or limitations
- Slightly heavier at over 10 pounds, which may affect portability for some users
- Limited detailed information on advanced color calibration or long-term durability
BenQ TH671ST Full HD 1080p Gaming Projector
If you’re looking for an immersive gaming experience in a compact setup, the BenQ TH671ST stands out with its impressive short throw capability, projecting a 100-inch image from just 1.5 meters away. It delivers crisp Full HD 1080p visuals and 3000 lumens brightness, ensuring bright images even in well-lit rooms. The built-in 5W stereo speakers enhance audio, while HDMI ports provide versatile connectivity options. Features like vertical keystone correction and wall color mode make setup easy, and microsecond DMD response keeps gameplay smooth with minimal lag. Weighing just over 5 pounds, it’s portable and perfect for small spaces.
Best For: gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a portable, high-brightness projector with fast response times and easy setup for immersive gaming experiences.
Pros:
- Short throw design projects a 100-inch image from just 1.5 meters, ideal for small spaces
- 3000 lumens brightness ensures bright, clear visuals even in well-lit rooms
- Low input lag (16.67ms) and microsecond DMD response for smooth, lag-free gaming
Cons:
- Weighs around 5.06 pounds, which may be less portable for frequent travel
- Limited to Full HD 1080p resolution; not 4K for ultra-high-definition content
- Built-in speakers, while convenient, may not deliver audiophile-quality sound
ViewSonic LS711HD 4200 Lumens 1080p Projector
With its impressive 4200 lumens brightness and full HD resolution, the ViewSonic LS711HD is a top choice for gamers seeking a bright, large-screen experience in smaller spaces. Its short throw ratio of 0.49 lets you project 80 to 150-inch images from just 3 to 5.4 feet away, perfect for tight setups. The projector offers flexible image adjustments, including digital zoom, keystone correction, and four-corner alignment, plus versatile modes like 360-degree and portrait projection. Designed for quick setup, it features instant power on/off and a compact build, making it ideal for immersive gaming, home theaters, or presentations in limited spaces.
Best For: gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a bright, large-screen projection in tight spaces with easy setup.
Pros:
- Bright 4200 lumens output ensures vivid images even in well-lit rooms
- Short throw ratio of 0.49 allows large screens from just 3 to 5.4 feet away
- Flexible image adjustments including keystone correction, digital zoom, and multiple projection modes
Cons:
- Limited to 1080p resolution, which may be less sharp than 4K projectors
- Short throw setup may require precise placement to avoid image distortion
- Compact design might have fewer advanced features compared to larger, professional models
Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact Short Throw Full HD Home Laser Projector
Looking for a compact projector that delivers stunning visuals without cluttering your space? The Optoma GT2000HDR is perfect. This ultra-compact, full HD laser projector measures just 8.5 by 10.79 inches and weighs only 9.6 pounds, making it easy to set up anywhere. It offers 3500 lumens brightness, supporting 1080p HD resolution and 4K HDR input, with vibrant colors and a high contrast ratio of 300,000:1. Its short throw lens projects a 120-inch image from just 4 feet away. Designed for durability and eco-friendliness, it features laser technology with up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free use, ideal for long-term home entertainment.
Best For: home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-quality projector that delivers sharp images and vibrant colors in small spaces.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design for easy portability and setup
- Bright 3500 lumens with 1080p HD and 4K HDR support for stunning visuals
- Long-lasting laser technology with up to 30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to traditional lamp projectors
- Limited built-in smart features; relies on external devices for streaming
- Short throw projection may require precise placement to achieve desired image size
PANSEBA Mini Projector with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth
The PANSEBA Mini Projector with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth stands out as an ideal choice for gamers seeking flexibility and high-quality visuals in a compact device. Its 270° rotatable design and short throw ratio (1.26:1) let you project 40 to 260-inch screens from versatile positions, perfect for any space. Supporting 1080P and 4K compatibility, it delivers sharp, bright images with vivid contrast. Fast WiFi 6 guarantees lag-free streaming, while Bluetooth 5.2 connects seamlessly to speakers and headphones. Its portable size makes it great for indoor or outdoor gaming, offering auto keystone correction, manual focus, and multiple device inputs for effortless setup.
Best For: gamers and entertainment enthusiasts seeking a portable, high-quality projector with flexible setup options and seamless wireless connectivity.
Pros:
- Supports 1080P and 4K compatibility for sharp, vivid images and immersive viewing experiences
- 270° rotatable design and short throw ratio offer versatile placement and large screen projection from various distances
- Built-in WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 enable lag-free streaming and wireless connection to speakers and headphones
Cons:
- Limited details on battery life or power options for extended outdoor use
- May require additional accessories for optimal mounting or setup in some spaces
- Customer reviews indicate occasional issues with auto keystone correction or focus adjustment
ViewSonic PS502X 4000 Lumens XGA HDMI Short Throw Projector
If you’re seeking a versatile short throw projector suitable for both educational settings and casual gaming, the ViewSonic PS502X stands out thanks to its impressive 4000 lumens brightness. It offers a large image from a short distance with a throw ratio of 0.6, projecting screens from 30 to 300 inches at just a few feet away. The projector’s bright visuals, combined with SuperColor™ technology, deliver vibrant images even in well-lit rooms. Easy to set up with auto keystone and digital zoom, it’s perfect for quick gaming sessions or presentations. Weighing just 9 pounds, it’s flexible for table or ceiling mounting, making it a practical, high-brightness option.
Best For: educators, office professionals, and casual gamers seeking a bright, versatile short throw projector for large displays in well-lit environments.
Pros:
- Brighter 4000 lumens output ensures clear images even in well-lit rooms
- Short throw ratio of 0.6 allows large screens from a short distance, ideal for limited spaces
- Easy setup with auto keystone, digital zoom, and flexible mounting options
Cons:
- XGA resolution (1024×768) may be less sharp compared to full HD projectors
- Weighs 9 pounds, which might be less portable for frequent transport
- Limited to non-4K resolution, potentially less suitable for high-resolution multimedia uses
BenQ MW632ST Business Projector
For those seeking a reliable projector that performs well in bright environments, the BenQ MW632ST Business Projector stands out with its impressive 3,200 lumens brightness and high native contrast ratio. Its WXGA resolution (1280×800) delivers twice the clarity of SVGA, ensuring sharp, vibrant images. The compact design and short throw lens (0.9) make it perfect for small spaces like conference rooms or classrooms, preventing blinding light during presentations. With dual HDMI ports, wireless options, keystone correction, and a long lamp life of up to 10,000 hours, it offers versatile, dependable performance for over a decade of daily use.
Best For: professionals and educators who need a bright, reliable projector for small to medium-sized spaces with versatile connectivity options.
Pros:
- High brightness of 3,200 lumens ensures clear images even in well-lit environments
- Short throw lens (0.9) prevents blinding light during presentations in tight spaces
- Long lamp life of up to 10,000 hours reduces maintenance and replacement costs
Cons:
- WXGA resolution (1280×800) may not be suitable for applications requiring full HD or higher detail
- Limited to 60-120 inch image sizes, which might be restrictive for very large displays
- Absence of built-in speakers may require external audio solutions for sound during presentations
Factors to Consider When Choosing Short Throw Projectors for Gaming
When selecting a short throw projector for gaming, I look closely at input lag and response time to guarantee smooth gameplay. Brightness and contrast are also key for vivid visuals, while resolution affects image clarity. Additionally, I consider throw distance, screen size, and connectivity options to match my setup perfectly.
Input Lag and Response Time
Choosing a short throw projector for gaming means paying close attention to input lag and response time, as these factors directly impact gameplay smoothness. Input lag, ideally under 20ms, ensures minimal delay between your controller actions and what appears on screen, keeping gameplay responsive and fluid. Response time, measured in milliseconds, determines how quickly the projector can display fast-moving images without motion blur, which is vital for clarity during action scenes. High response times or input lag above 30ms can cause noticeable delays, disrupting the fast-paced experience gamers crave. Manufacturers usually specify these specs for gaming projectors, making them indispensable to consider. Prioritizing low input lag and quick response times helps create a lag-free environment where every move feels immediate and sharp.
Brightness and Contrast Levels
Brightness and contrast levels play a significant role in delivering a high-quality gaming experience with short throw projectors. Brightness, measured in lumens, guarantees images are clear and vibrant even in well-lit rooms; I recommend at least 2,500 lumens for ideal visibility. Contrast ratio, ideally 10,000:1 or higher, enhances differences between dark and light areas, creating deeper blacks and brighter highlights that boost immersion. Adequate contrast prevents washout and reveals detailed textures and shadows during fast-paced gameplay. Both factors work together to influence picture quality, so I advise balancing them based on your room’s lighting and gaming content. For competitive gaming, a projector with high native contrast and sufficient lumens minimizes motion blur and maintains clarity during rapid movements.
Resolution and Image Clarity
High resolution is vital for gaming with short throw projectors because it directly impacts the sharpness and detail of the images you see on screen. A projector with 1080p or 4K resolution delivers crisp visuals that make every detail pop, creating a more immersive experience. 4K HDR projectors take this further by offering vibrant colors and improved contrast, especially in fast-moving scenes, enhancing realism. Native resolution is key because it determines overall image clarity; higher native resolutions mean less pixelation and sharper visuals. Support for HDR formats like HDR10 or HLG boosts color accuracy and dynamic range, making game scenes look more lifelike. When combined with good image processing, high resolution ensures smooth, detailed visuals without motion blur, giving you a seamless gaming experience.
Throw Distance and Screen Size
Since short throw projectors are designed to project large images from a close distance, understanding their throw ratio and how it affects screen size is vital. The throw ratio, usually less than 1.0, determines how far the projector needs to be from the screen to produce a specific size. For example, a projector with a 0.5:1 ratio can create a 100-inch screen from just 4 to 5 feet away, making it ideal for small spaces. However, larger screens typically require a longer throw distance, even with short throw models, to maintain image clarity. It’s important to verify the projector’s throw ratio and desired screen size beforehand to guarantee compatibility. This helps prevent installation surprises and guarantees a sharp, immersive gaming experience without shadows or glare.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Choosing the right short throw projector for gaming means ensuring it can connect easily to all your devices. Look for models with multiple HDMI ports or other input options, so you can connect your gaming consoles, PC, and streaming devices effortlessly. Compatibility with popular consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, as well as support for high refresh rates and low latency modes, is essential for smooth gameplay. Wireless connectivity options such as WiFi and Bluetooth add convenience, allowing cable-free gaming and streaming. Make sure the projector works with various operating systems and devices, including smartphones and tablets, for versatile setup. Features like auto source detection and quick device switching can make your gaming sessions more seamless, reducing interruptions and keeping you immersed in the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Short Throw Projectors Handle Ambient Light During Gaming Sessions?
Short throw projectors handle ambient light fairly well, but their performance depends on the model. I’ve found that many have high lumen ratings, which help brighten the image despite surrounding light. Still, I avoid overly bright rooms or use blackout curtains to improve contrast and clarity. For ideal gaming, I recommend choosing a projector with at least 2000 lumens to guarantee vivid visuals even in less controlled lighting conditions.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of the Projectors’ Bulbs or Laser Sources?
Ever wondered how long your projector’s bulb or laser source will last? Typically, LED and laser projectors have a lifespan of around 20,000 to 30,000 hours, far exceeding traditional bulbs. Doesn’t that mean fewer replacements and less hassle? I find that choosing a laser projector is a smart move for long-term gaming, offering durability and consistent quality without the frequent maintenance.
Are There Any Latency Differences Between 1080P and 4K Short Throw Projectors?
Yes, there are latency differences between 1080p and 4K short throw projectors. Generally, 1080p models tend to have lower input lag, making them better for fast-paced gaming. 4K projectors often have marginally higher latency due to increased processing for higher resolution. However, some high-end 4K projectors now feature gaming modes that reduce lag markedly. So, if you’re into competitive gaming, 1080p might be the better choice.
How Portable Are These Projectors for Outdoor Gaming Setups?
These projectors are quite portable and perfect for outdoor gaming setups. I love how lightweight they are, making it easy to carry them around and set up anywhere. Most come with compact designs and built-in handles or cases, so I don’t have to worry about bulky equipment. Whether I’m at a backyard party or camping, these projectors easily fit into my gear, giving me big screen fun wherever I go.
Do All Short Throw Projectors Support the Latest Gaming Consoles and HDR Formats?
Not all short throw projectors support the latest gaming consoles and HDR formats. I’ve found that many models are compatible, but it’s essential to verify specifications. Think of it like choosing a gaming headset—some are built for immersive sound, others aren’t. When shopping, make sure the projector explicitly states compatibility with your console and HDR support to enjoy seamless, high-quality gaming experiences.
Conclusion
Choosing the right short throw projector is like finding the perfect window to your gaming universe. With options ranging from 1080p classics to stunning 4K marvels, you can transform even the smallest space into a big-screen adventure. So, don’t let limited room hold back your gaming dreams—these projectors turn any wall into a portal to excitement. Get ready to level up your setup and immerse yourself in the thrill of larger-than-life gaming.
