There are many things to consider while purchasing a new projector. Things to consider include the brightness, resolution, and mounting efficiency of the projector. Another thing to look at is a different type of projector to choose the right one. The types include short throw, long throw, and standard throw. Differentiating between a short throw projector vs. a standard throw projector can help you choose the right one. Let’s read more about these projectors:
Throw Distance
Throw-away is the key difference between the projectors. This distance is the distance light travels from the projector lens to the screen’s surface. The throw distance of the standard, short and ultra-short projectors are different. From about 10 feet of throw distance standard throw projectors or long throw, projectors can create a 100” image. The short throw projector distance for creating the same 100″ image is less than half of the standard throw distance. Ultra short throw projectors difference in the distance in only some inches.
Short Throw vs. Long Throw Projector
The lens used in the projector also makes a difference in the projector’s throw distance. Standard or long throw projectors are common and are cheaper to build. There is a need for the greatest amount of distance to make an image at least six feet. A six-foot distance is necessary for the projector from the projector screen. Creating a 100″ (16:9) image, typically require about 8-10 feet throw distance. They are versatile and are both for home and office use. The long-throw distance makes the benefits limited because it requires more space for the image. It’s only for large rooms, large halls, and business presentations.
Short throw projectors are mainly for presenters to work more closely from the projector screen. Without having the projector’s glare in their eyes, they can work closely with the projection screen. It was the main reason behind building short throw projectors. There was another reason that relates to classrooms and training facilities as they don’t allow enough throw distance for a projector. Short projectors have more applications in professional or commercial areas. There is just a need of 3-4 feet throw distance to create a 100″ (16:9) image. It shows the benefits short throw distance can provide. One can use it in a small area of house, schools. The price of short throw projects may be higher than long-throw ones because of the quality of the picture.
Common Uses for Short Throw Lenses
Not every situation can be suitable with a short throw projector. Some situations might require another one like standard or long-throw projectors. There are some situations in which short throw projectors can be a perfect solution or can be good. These situations and places include:
- Conference rooms to share detailed documents
- Small learning spaces in schools, public engagement spaces, and others.
- Trade show booths that require big images to get big attention.
Short Throw Projector
Short throw projectors do have many advantages over longer throw projectors but they have some disadvantages too. Let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of short throw projectors:
Pros
- These are handy and good for business and education use.
- The presenter can block the projection from less distance while presenting.
- There is no need to place a projector far back among the audience.
- They can be advantageous for small rooms requiring large images.
- During the presentation, light doesn’t glare or shine in the presenter’s eyes
- They Create less obstruction of the image and distracting shadows
- From a lower lumen projector, they can achieve a brighter large image
Cons
- Most short throw projectors don’t feature zoom.
- You need to be careful while installing the unit as if you get off by a few centimeters it can affect the image.
- A short throw projector doesn’t provide quite a good focus uniformity that means sometimes there may be a less sharp image in the opposite corner or middle.
- They require a very flat surface for the projection as roll or fold screens can appear a little wavy.
- Short throw projectors can cost you a little more than standard/long throw projector.
- There will be no shadow puppets in the short throw projector.
- In small places, short throw projectors fans can be noisier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There are different situations in which Short throw projectors can be a good choice. Even buying a short throw projector you should consider many factors like resolution and brightness. Long-throw projectors have their use according to the situations. Short throw projectors can be a good choice for small places. If you have more space and the installation distance is not an issue, you should go for a standard/long throw projector. Go for a short throw one if the installation distance can be an issue. It depends on your situation and requirements. Get the one that suits you the most.
Thomas is a leading contributor and loves anything to do with tech! After attending college for Computer Programming, he continued his interest in the digital world and then went on to start a now 10-year-old retail tech/gadget shop. When he isn’t working in his technology shop he is reviewing and learning more in-depth through his youtube channel.