Top-Rated Projectors for Short Throw Gaming

Gaming has evolved dramatically over the years, with advancements in graphics, gameplay, and technology creating immersive experiences that transport players to new worlds. However, one aspect of gaming that still makes a huge difference in how enjoyable the experience is---whether for casual play or competitive gaming---is the display technology. Traditional TVs and projectors often struggle with space constraints, input lag, or poor image quality, especially when used for gaming. But there's a solution for those with limited space but a desire for a big-screen experience: short throw projectors.

Short throw projectors are specifically designed to project large images from a short distance. These projectors are ideal for gamers who want to create an immersive, cinematic gaming environment without worrying about space limitations. In this actionable guide, we'll discuss the best projectors for short throw gaming, the key features to consider when selecting one, and how to make the most of these powerful tools to enhance your gaming experience.

Why Choose a Short Throw Projector for Gaming?

Short throw projectors have become increasingly popular in gaming setups due to their unique advantages, particularly when space is limited. Here are some reasons why short throw projectors are a great choice for gaming:

1. Space Efficiency

   Traditional projectors need to be placed far from the screen to achieve a large image. Short throw projectors can create large images from just a few feet away, making them perfect for smaller rooms, apartments, or gaming spaces where you don't have room to move the projector far back.

2. Immersive Experience

   A short throw projector offers the ability to project massive images---often up to 100 inches or more---allowing gamers to fully immerse themselves in their game. The large display enhances the visual impact of the game and brings the details to life, just like a cinematic experience.

3. Reduced Shadows

   With traditional projectors, if you are too close to the screen, your body or other objects can cast distracting shadows. Short throw projectors are designed to minimize this by projecting from a closer distance, which helps keep the area between the projector and the screen clear of obstructions.

4. Low Input Lag

   Input lag is a critical factor in gaming, especially for fast-paced or competitive games where every millisecond counts. Many modern short throw projectors come with low latency and gaming-specific modes that help reduce input lag, ensuring smooth gameplay with minimal delay.

5. Versatility

   Short throw projectors can also double as movie projectors, providing great versatility. You can use the same projector for a big-screen experience in both gaming and movie-watching, making it an excellent all-around entertainment tool.

Key Features to Look for in Short Throw Projectors for Gaming

When selecting a short throw projector for gaming, several factors should be considered to ensure the best experience possible. These include:

1. Resolution

Resolution plays a crucial role in the overall image clarity and gaming experience. For modern gaming, a resolution of 1080p (Full HD) is generally considered the minimum standard. However, for more detailed visuals, a 4K resolution projector would provide even sharper and more vibrant images, particularly for next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

• 1080p (Full HD): Adequate for most gaming setups.
• 4K: Ideal for high-end gaming systems and those who want the sharpest image.

2. Brightness (Lumens)

Brightness, measured in lumens, is important for ensuring clear images, especially in rooms with ambient light. A projector with higher brightness will allow you to game in well-lit rooms without sacrificing picture quality. For gaming, you'll typically want a projector with a minimum of 2,500 lumens . If your gaming area has a lot of natural light, look for a projector with higher brightness levels, such as 3,000 lumens or more.

• 2,500+ lumens: Suitable for gaming in darker rooms.
• 3,000+ lumens: Ideal for rooms with some ambient light.

3. Throw Ratio

The throw ratio of a projector indicates the distance needed between the projector and the screen to achieve a specific image size. Short throw projectors have a throw ratio of 0.4:1 to 1.0:1 , meaning they can project large images even when placed just a few feet from the screen. The lower the throw ratio, the closer you can place the projector to the screen while still achieving a large image.

• 0.4:1 - 1.0:1 : Ideal for short throw gaming projectors.

4. Input Lag

For gaming, input lag is a critical factor. This is the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the result on the screen. For competitive gamers, a high input lag can be detrimental, particularly in fast-paced games. A good short throw projector for gaming should have an input lag of less than 30ms . Some projectors also come with specific gaming modes that help further reduce input lag.

• Less than 30ms: Ideal for most gaming scenarios.
• 10-20ms: Preferred for competitive gaming.

5. Connectivity

Short throw projectors for gaming should offer a variety of connection options to accommodate gaming consoles, PCs, or streaming devices. HDMI is the most common and reliable port, especially for 4K gaming. You may also want to look for USB, Bluetooth, or wireless options for easy connectivity to gaming devices or audio systems.

• HDMI 2.0: Necessary for high-quality video and 4K support.
• USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi: Good for streaming or connecting with other devices wirelessly.

6. Speakers and Audio Output

While many short throw projectors come with built-in speakers, the audio quality may not be sufficient for a true gaming experience. Consider whether you need external speakers, especially for immersive sound. Many projectors also offer Bluetooth or audio-out options to connect external sound systems.

• Built-in speakers (5W - 10W): Good for casual gaming.
• External audio: Recommended for serious gamers who want high-quality sound.

Top-Rated Short Throw Projectors for Gaming

Now that we know the essential features to look for, here are some of the top-rated short throw projectors for gaming that provide excellent performance, image quality, and minimal input lag.

1. BenQ TH671ST

Overview

The BenQ TH671ST is a top choice for gamers looking for a short throw projector. With solid image quality, low input lag, and excellent brightness, this model delivers an immersive gaming experience. It's designed to offer great performance even in rooms with ambient light.

Key Features:

• Resolution: 1080p Full HD
• Brightness: 3,000 lumens
• Throw Ratio: 0.69:1
• Input Lag: 16ms
• Connectivity: 2x HDMI, USB, Audio-out
• Audio: 5W built-in speakers

Best For:

Casual to mid-range gamers who want an affordable yet high-performance short throw projector.

2. Epson Home Cinema 3800

Overview

The Epson Home Cinema 3800 is a highly rated 4K-capable short throw projector. It combines advanced image processing with excellent brightness and input lag performance, making it perfect for competitive and casual gaming alike. This model provides stunning visuals, high brightness, and a sleek design.

Key Features:

• Resolution: 4K UHD (3840x2160)
• Brightness: 3,000 lumens
• Throw Ratio: 1.33:1
• Input Lag: 20ms
• Connectivity: 2x HDMI, USB, Audio-out, Wi-Fi
• Audio: 10W built-in speakers

Best For:

Gamers who demand high-quality 4K visuals and smooth performance for both casual and competitive gaming.

3. Optoma GT1090HDR

Overview

The Optoma GT1090HDR is an ultra-short throw projector that excels in both performance and versatility. With HDR support, vivid colors, and ultra-low input lag, this model is ideal for a cinematic gaming experience in a small space.

Key Features:

• Resolution: 1080p Full HD
• Brightness: 4,400 lumens
• Throw Ratio: 0.50:1
• Input Lag: 8.4ms
• Connectivity: 2x HDMI, USB, Audio-out, Bluetooth
• Audio: 10W built-in speakers

Best For:

Gamers who need ultra-short throw technology for a large image in tight spaces and require low input lag for competitive gaming.

4. LG HU85LA

Overview

The LG HU85LA is a premium ultra-short throw 4K projector that delivers an outstanding visual experience with excellent color accuracy and incredible sharpness. With its built-in smart features, it's perfect for gamers who want both a high-quality gaming and entertainment projector.

Key Features:

• Resolution: 4K UHD (3840x2160)
• Brightness: 2,700 lumens
• Throw Ratio: 0.19:1
• Input Lag: 10ms
• Connectivity: HDMI 2.1, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Audio: 5W built-in speakers

Best For:

Gamers who want an ultra-premium gaming setup with 4K visuals and minimal input lag.

Conclusion

A short throw projector can greatly enhance your gaming setup, providing a massive screen in limited space with sharp visuals and low input lag. When shopping for a short throw projector, ensure that you look for features like high resolution, sufficient brightness, low input lag, and good connectivity options. Models like the BenQ TH671ST, Epson Home Cinema 3800, and Optoma GT1090HDR offer excellent performance and value for money.

By carefully selecting the right projector for your gaming needs, you can enjoy an immersive and lag-free gaming experience from the comfort of your own home, even in a small room.