Ultra Short Throw Projectors

Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors have steadily increased in performance while also massively decreasing in price. My first UST experience was a Sony model at CES several years ago selling for $20,000. Today you can get a UST projector with 4K HDR resolution and a laser-light engine rated for a 20,000-hour lifespan that is capable of producing 2500+ lumens for under $2500!

- JOHN SCIACCA

While there are certainly big name players in the UST space like Hisense, Samsung, LG, Sony, BenQ, Epson, and Optoma, there are also many names you might not be familiar with like AWOL Vision, Formovie, Leica, Vava, ViewSonic, Wemax, and Xgimi.

While I've yet to sell/install a UST projector at my Cl firm which maybe speaks a bit to their popularity in the "real world" - I have had opportunity to see many of them in person, and live with one in my own home. So this month I'm going to discuss some things you need to keep in mind if you're considering going the UST route for your system.

TV/Not TV

Unlike traditional projectors which do nothing but project an image-most UST projectors are full-fledged systems like TVs, incorporating a built-in sound system and streaming support. (However, home theater users will definitely want to add a separate surround system.)

And rather than the typical, dedicated, light-controlled movie room where you typically see projectors installed, UST models combined with special screens are often touted as "TV replacements", meant to be put in more typical open, multi-use spaces like family rooms. In fact, in nearly all of the advertising, you'll see them sitting out in a brightly lit room.

However, in every demo I've personally seen as well as with the unit in my own living room-I'd say this is an unrealistic expectation. While a UST projector can definitely produce a vibrant image when paired with the right screen they never deliver the pop and brightness of a direct view display, nor do they fully compete with ambient room lighting or deliver the same black levels.