What's The Difference Between Standard, Short Throw and Ultra Short Throw Projectors?

Over the last few years, the use of projectors in home theatre systems and offices is getting increasingly popular. Despite its increasing popularity, many users still have their doubts about the type of projectors. At Ooberpad, many of our customers often tell us that they know very little about the different types of Projectors. We thoughts it would be a great idea to create a ready reckoner to help you understand the difference between standard, short throw and ultra short throw projectors. 

What is Throw Distance?

Before we go ahead, let’s discuss throw distance since it is what sets these 3-projectors apart. Throw distance is the measured expanse that the light must travel from the projector lens to the screen’s surface. Standard throw projectors can typically create a 100” (16:9) image from about 10 feet of throw distance. Short throw projectors can create the same sized image from less than half that distance (roughly 4 feet). Ultra Short Throw projectors will put up the same sized image in a matter of inches.

Standard or Long Throw Projector:

Standard Throw or “Long Throw” Projectors are the most common type. They require the greatest amount of distance to make an image. In order to create a 100” (16:9) image, it will typically require about 8-10 feet (244-305 cm) of throw distance. They are versatile and cost-effective and can be used for both home and office use. Main challenges while using long throw projectors are the amount of space it takes up and the creation of shadows when people pass/walk in the space between the projector and the screen.

Short-Throw Projector:

Short throw projectors were developed namely for presenters to work more closely with the projection screen without having the projector’s glare in their eyes. Another reason is that the close confines of many classrooms and training facilities don’t permit enough throw distance for a standard projector. Needless to say, most short-throw projectors are used for professional or commercial applications. In order to create a 100” (16:9) image, Short-Throw Projectors typically require about 3-4 feet (90-120cm) of throw distance. They can deliver a big picture even in close confines.

Ultra Short-Throw Projectors:

Ultra Short-Throw projectors are one of the newer concepts in projection technologies. They are designed to be positioned flush with the screen and still create a huge image. They typically have a reflector lens to spread out its light signal over a minimal distance. In order to create a 100” image, Ultra Short-Throw projectors will typically require about 3-20 inches (8-50cm) of throw distance. There is no possibility of foot traffic passing between the projector and screen which takes away all possibilities of shadow creation. They are already popular with businesses and educational institutions. However, they are gaining popularity in residential applications with manufacturers introducing cost-effective projector models.

We hope this blog-cum-guide helps you understand the Difference Between Standard, Short Throw and Ultra Short Throw projectors. Use the comment section below to share your thoughts, ideas or feedback.