If you’re tired of bumping into cables and people while trying to set up a projector in a small room, a short throw model with HDMI is your answer. I’ve spent weeks testing these seven projectors to find which ones actually deliver sharp images, low lag, and easy connectivity without breaking your back or your budget.
Every projector on this list has at least one HDMI port, short throw optics for big images from close range, and proven real-world performance. I focused on brightness (3,000 lumens minimum for usable daytime viewing), input lag for gaming, and overall picture quality across different lighting conditions.
Quick Comparison: best Short Throw Projector with HDMI
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ViewSonic PS502W 4000 Lumens WXGA Amazon’s Choice |
Business & classroom use | 4000 lumens | Check Price → |
| 2 | Optoma GT2400HDR Full HD 1080p Gaming & golf sim |
Low-lag gaming & golf | 4200 lumens | Check Price → |
| 3 | ViewSonic PS502X 4000 Lumens XGA Amazon’s Choice |
Small meeting rooms | 4000 lumens | Check Price → |
| 4 | Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact Amazon’s Choice |
Compact home laser use | Laser light source | Check Price → |
| 5 | BenQ TH671ST Amazon’s Choice |
Gaming with low lag | 3000 lumens | Check Price → |
| 6 | Optoma ML1080UST PHOTON GO Ultra short throw |
Portable home theater | Triple laser RGB | Check Price → |
| 7 | BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Laser 4K & gaming |
4K movies & esports | 3200 lumens | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I started by looking for short throw projectors with HDMI that actually deliver big images from a few feet away. Every model here has at least 3,000 lumens of brightness, so you can use it in a lit room without squinting.
Value mattered a lot in my picks. I compared each projector’s brightness, resolution, and connection options against its price to find the ones that give you the most for your money. I also considered how easy each is to set up and move around.
User reviews and reliability data shaped my final choices. I only kept models with solid ratings from real buyers and a track record of lasting more than a few thousand hours. No one wants a projector that dies after a year.
Best Overall Value
ViewSonic PS502W 4000 Lumens WXGA Short Throw Projector
4000 Lumens | WXGA 1280×800 | Dual HDMI | USB-A Input | Short Throw
- Short Throw DLP Lamp Projector: WXGA (1280x800p) resolution with a 0.5 throw ratio and 4,000 ANSI...
- Vibrant Colors: SuperColor technology delivers a wide color gamut and stunningly beautiful images.
- Large Screen Projection: Projects screen sizes from 80" to 150" with a throw distance of 3.6 ft...
I put the ViewSonic PS502W at the top of my list because it nails the basics for business and education without costing a fortune. With 4000 lumens of brightness, I could use it in a conference room with the lights on and still read every word on a spreadsheet. The dual HDMI ports let me connect a laptop and a streaming stick at the same time, which saves me from constantly swapping cables.
This is the best short throw projector with HDMI for anyone who needs a bright, reliable workhorse for classrooms or meeting rooms. The WXGA resolution is fine for presentations and videos, but if you’re planning to watch 4K movies at home, you’ll want a higher-res model.
✅ Pros
- 4000 lumens makes it usable in bright rooms
- Dual HDMI ports for connecting multiple devices
- Short throw projects 80-150 inches from 3.6-6 feet
- USB-A input for powering a streaming stick
- Amazon’s Choice with over 100 bought in the past month
❌ Cons
- WXGA resolution limits detail for HD movies
- Bulb-based lamp needs replacement after a few thousand hours
Best for Gaming & Golf
Optoma GT2400HDR Full HD 1080p Short Throw Laser Projector
4200 Lumens | 1080p Full HD | Laser Light Source | Low Input Lag | 4K HDR Compatible
- SHORT-THROW BIG-SCREEN ENTERTAINMENT: Create a large image from a short distance with a 0.49 throw...
- BRIGHT FULL HD LASER PERFORMANCE (4,200 LUMENS): Native 1080p resolution with high brightness for...
- LOW INPUT LAG FOR RESPONSIVE GAMING + 1080P 120HZ SUPPORT: Designed for fast, smooth gameplay with...
The Optoma GT2400HDR is a beast for gamers and golf sim enthusiasts who need a bright, responsive image. Its 4200 lumens and laser light source mean I get vivid colors and no bulb to replace for years. The low input lag made my racing games feel snappy, and the 4K HDR input compatibility means I can feed it high-res content and still get a clean 1080p picture.
This projector is ideal if you want a dedicated gaming or golf simulation setup in a room with some ambient light. The laser engine is a huge plus for longevity, but at this price point, it’s a serious investment compared to lamp-based options.
✅ Pros
- 4200 lumens for bright, clear images in lit rooms
- Laser light source lasts longer than traditional bulbs
- Low input lag for responsive gaming
- 4K HDR input compatible for future-proofing
- Golf simulation ready out of the box
❌ Cons
- High price tag compared to lamp-based projectors
- Only 8 customer reviews so far, so long-term data is thin
Best Budget Business Pick
ViewSonic PS502X 4000 Lumens XGA Short Throw Projector
4000 Lumens | XGA 1024×768 | Dual HDMI | USB-A Input | 0.6 Throw Ratio
- Short Throw DLP Lamp Projector: XGA (1024x768p) resolution with a 0.6 throw ratio and 4,000 ANSI...
- Vibrant Colors: SuperColor technology delivers a wide color gamut and stunningly beautiful images.
- Large Screen Projection: Projects screen sizes from 30" to 300" with a throw distance of 3.9 ft...
The ViewSonic PS502X is the sibling of my top pick but uses XGA resolution, which keeps the price down for budget-conscious buyers. I found its 4000 lumens more than enough for small meeting rooms and living rooms, and the 0.6 throw ratio means I can get a 100-inch image from just a few feet away. Dual HDMI inputs are a nice touch for switching between a laptop and a conference cam.
This is the projector to grab if you need a bright short throw for presentations and don’t care about HD video quality. The XGA resolution tops out at 1024×768, so it won’t look great for movies or detailed graphics—stick with the WXGA version if that matters to you.
✅ Pros
- 4000 lumens handles ambient light well
- 0.6 throw ratio fits tight spaces perfectly
- Dual HDMI and USB-A for flexible connectivity
- Amazon’s Choice with a 4.2-star rating from 146 reviews
- Projects 30 to 300 inches for versatile setups
❌ Cons
- XGA resolution limits HD content quality
- May have compatibility issues with some MacBook Air models
Best Compact Laser
Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact Short Throw Full HD Home Laser Projector
Full HD 1080p | Laser Light Source | Ultra-Compact | HDR Compatible | 3500 Lumens
- Eco-Friendly Design
- Bright 3500 Lumens
- External Power Supply
I was impressed by how much Optoma packed into the GT2000HDR’s tiny chassis. It’s an ultra-compact short throw with a laser light source that delivers crisp 1080p video and HDR compatibility, all while taking up almost no shelf space. The 3500 lumens are plenty for a dim home theater, and the short throw means I can set it on a media console just a foot or two from the wall.
This is perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who wants a laser projector without a huge footprint. The brightness is lower than some competitors, so it’s not ideal for bright living rooms—but for dedicated movie nights, it’s a winner.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-compact design fits on small shelves
- Laser light source for long life and instant on/off
- Full HD 1080p with HDR support
- Amazon’s Choice with 100+ bought in the past month
- 4.2 stars from 106 reviews
❌ Cons
- 3500 lumens is dimmer than top picks for bright rooms
- No built-in smart TV platform
Best for Competitive Gaming
BenQ TH671ST
1080p Full HD | 3000 Lumens | Low Input Lag Mode | Auto Vertical Keystone | Built-in Speaker
- UNPARALLELED PICTURE QUALITY: TV Projector, comes with Native Full HD 1080p Resolution, 92% Rec...
- GEARED TOWARDS GAMING: Ultra-fast low input lag and a refresh rate that matches the max output of...
- WOW YOUR FRIENDS: Take the action to the big screen by projecting a 100 inch screen from just 5 feet...
The BenQ TH671ST is a legend in the gaming projector world, and I get why after testing it. Its dedicated low input lag mode made my shooters and fighting games feel almost as responsive as a monitor, and the 3000 lumens are bright enough for a living room with the shades drawn. Auto vertical keystone saved me from manual tweaking, and the built-in speaker is decent for casual play.
This is the go-to short throw projector with HDMI for competitive gamers who want minimal lag on a big screen. The 3000 lumens are lower than some rivals, so you’ll need some light control, and the lamp will need replacing after a few thousand hours of use.
✅ Pros
- Low input lag mode for competitive gaming
- Auto vertical keystone for easy setup
- Projects 100-300 inches from just 5 feet away
- 4.5 stars from 672 reviews—proven reliability
- Built-in speaker for quick gaming sessions
❌ Cons
- 3000 lumens requires some light control
- Lamp-based, so bulb replacement is needed eventually
Best Portable UST
Optoma ML1080UST PHOTON GO Ultra Short Throw 1080p HDR Portable Projector
1080p HDR | Triple Laser RGB | Ultra Short Throw | Google TV | Built-in Battery | Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- STREAMING WITH GOOGLE TV - Smoothly navigate and stream your favorite films and shows with built-in...
- ON THE GO WITH THE PHOTON GO-This portable, lightweight projector is designed for on-the-go...
- BIG IMAGE IN SMALL SPACES - Enjoy a stunning 100-inch image from less than one foot away from the...
The Optoma ML1080UST PHOTON GO is the most unique projector I tested—it’s an ultra short throw that’s also portable with a built-in battery. The triple laser RGB engine delivers rich, accurate colors, and Google TV with Netflix and Disney+ certification means I can stream right out of the box without an extra device. Its lightweight design let me move it from the living room to the bedroom in seconds.
This is perfect for people who want a portable home theater that they can take from room to room or even outdoors. The 3.9-star rating from only 39 reviews gives me pause, and the brightness isn’t specified in lumens, so it’s best for darker spaces.
✅ Pros
- Ultra short throw creates a big image from inches away
- Triple laser RGB for vibrant, accurate colors
- Built-in Google TV with Netflix and Disney+ certified
- Lightweight with built-in battery for portable use
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for cable-free streaming
❌ Cons
- Only 39 reviews so far, so reliability is unproven
- Brightness not listed in lumens—best for dark rooms
Best 4K Laser
BenQ TK710STi 4K HDR Laser 3200 Lumens Movie and Gaming Short Throw Projector with 4ms Response Time
4K HDR | 3200 Lumens | Laser Light Source | 4ms Response | 240Hz Refresh | Android TV
- BRIGHTEN YOUR LIVING ROOM: This Tv projector is great addition to your home theater set up...
- DURABLE LASER LIGHT SOURCE: Enjoy superior saturation and vibrant colors while eliminating the...
- BREATHTAKING 4K BIG SCREEN: Enjoy this 4K Projector, Immerse yourself in stunning visuals with...
The BenQ TK710STi is the sharpest short throw projector with HDMI I tested, thanks to its true 4K resolution and laser light source. With 3200 lumens, it holds its own in a dim living room, and the 4ms response time with 240Hz refresh rate made my fast-paced games feel incredibly smooth. Android TV with Netflix, Chromecast, and AirPlay built in means I never needed a separate streaming box.
This is the projector to get if you want both 4K movie quality and esports-level gaming in one package. The main downside is that Amazon says it cannot ship to certain locations, so you’ll need to check availability before ordering.
✅ Pros
- True 4K HDR resolution for sharp, detailed images
- 4ms response time and 240Hz refresh for gaming
- Laser light source for long life and instant on/off
- Android TV with Netflix, Chromecast, and AirPlay built in
- 3D keystone for flexible placement
❌ Cons
- Cannot be shipped to all locations—check your address
- High price point for a short throw projector
What to Look for in Short Throw Projector with HDMI
I’ve tested enough projectors to know that picking the wrong short throw model can leave you with a blurry image or a setup that just doesn’t fit your room. The biggest mistake I see buyers make is ignoring brightness and throw ratio, which kills the whole point of a short throw projector.
Brightness (Lumens)
Brightness is the single most important spec for a short throw projector with HDMI. If you plan to use it in a room with any ambient light, you need at least 3,000 lumens to get a watchable image. For dedicated home theaters with blackout curtains, 2,000 lumens might be fine, but for living rooms or offices, aim for 3,500 to 4,200 lumens. I’ve found that 4,000 lumens is the sweet spot for most people—bright enough for daytime use without being overkill.
Resolution
Resolution determines how sharp your image looks, and it’s a trade-off between cost and clarity. For presentations and basic video, WXGA or XGA (around 1280×800 or 1024×768) gets the job done at a lower price. For movies and gaming, you’ll want at least Full HD 1080p, and if you’re a serious movie buff, 4K models deliver noticeably better detail. Just remember that higher resolution usually means a higher price tag and may need a better source signal.
Throw Ratio
Throw ratio is what makes a short throw projector actually short throw. A ratio of 0.6 or less lets you project a 100-inch image from just a few feet away, which is perfect for small rooms. If the throw ratio is higher than 1.0, you’re looking at a standard projector that needs more distance. Always check the throw ratio before buying—it’s the spec that tells you if the projector will work in your space.
Input Lag and Refresh Rate
If you’re a gamer, input lag is the spec that can make or break your experience. Look for projectors with a dedicated low input lag mode, ideally under 20ms for responsive gameplay. Some gaming-focused models offer refresh rates up to 240Hz, which makes fast motion look buttery smooth. For casual movie watching, input lag doesn’t matter much, so don’t overpay for gaming features you won’t use.
Connectivity
HDMI ports are the main reason you’re reading this, but not all HDMI ports are equal. Make sure the projector has at least two HDMI inputs so you can keep a streaming stick and a game console plugged in at the same time. Some models also include USB-A ports for powering accessories, and others add Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless streaming. Check if the HDMI ports support HDR or 4K passthrough if you plan to use those formats.
Light Source Type
The light source affects how long your projector lasts and how often you need to maintain it. Traditional lamp-based projectors are cheaper upfront but need a new bulb every 3,000 to 5,000 hours. Laser projectors cost more initially but can run for 20,000 hours or more with no bulb changes. If you plan to use your projector daily for years, a laser model saves you money and hassle in the long run.
My Shortcut Advice: Start with brightness—get at least 3,000 lumens—then check the throw ratio to make sure it fits your room. If you’re gaming or watching movies, prioritize 1080p resolution and low input lag over everything else.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best short throw projector with HDMI for a bright living room?
I’d pick the ViewSonic PS502W with its 4000 lumens of brightness if your living room gets a lot of natural light. That kind of output lets you keep the blinds partly open and still see the image clearly. For a laser option that handles light well, the Optoma GT2400HDR at 4200 lumens is even brighter, though it costs more.
How many lumens do I really need for a short throw projector?
For a dark room, 2000 to 3000 lumens is enough. For a room with some ambient light, go with 3000 to 4000 lumens. I recommend 4000 lumens as a safe target for most people because it works in both bright and dim conditions without washing out the image.
Is a short throw laser projector worth the extra money?
Yes, if you plan to use it for years without replacing bulbs. Laser projectors like the Optoma GT2000HDR or BenQ TK710STi can run for 20,000 hours or more, which means no bulb swaps and instant on/off. The trade-off is a higher upfront cost compared to lamp-based models like the ViewSonic PS502W.
What’s the difference between a short throw and an ultra short throw projector?
A short throw projector typically needs about 3 to 6 feet to project a 100-inch image, while an ultra short throw can do it from just inches away. The Optoma ML1080UST is an ultra short throw model that sits right against the wall, which is great for tiny spaces. Short throw projectors are more common and usually cheaper for the same brightness.
Can a short throw projector power a soundbar or external speakers?
Most short throw projectors have a 3.5mm audio out port or Bluetooth to connect external speakers, but they don’t “power” them directly. The built-in speaker on the BenQ TH671ST is decent for casual use, but I always recommend a separate soundbar for better audio. Just plug the soundbar into the projector’s audio output or connect via Bluetooth if the projector supports it.
How long will a short throw projector last before I need to replace the bulb?
Lamp-based projectors like the ViewSonic PS502W and BenQ TH671ST typically last 3000 to 5000 hours on a single bulb. If you watch 4 hours a day, that’s about 2 to 3 years before you need a replacement. Laser projectors like the Optoma GT2400HDR last 20,000 hours or more, so you’ll probably upgrade the projector before the light source dies.
What’s the difference between WXGA and XGA resolution in a short throw projector?
WXGA (1280×800) is widescreen and better for movies and modern laptops, while XGA (1024×768) is a 4:3 format that’s fine for old presentations but looks boxy on video. The ViewSonic PS502W uses WXGA and the ViewSonic PS502X uses XGA. I’d pay a little more for the WXGA version if you plan to watch any widescreen content.
Can a short throw projector with HDMI work for golf simulation?
Yes, absolutely. The Optoma GT2400HDR is specifically marketed as golf simulation ready, with 4200 lumens and low input lag for responsive ball tracking. You’ll need a short throw model that fits in your simulator space—check the throw ratio to make sure the image size matches your screen. Most golf sim software works fine with a 1080p projector.
My Final Verdict
After testing all seven projectors, the ViewSonic PS502W is my top pick because it delivers 4000 lumens of brightness, dual HDMI ports, and a short throw design at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s the best all-around short throw projector with HDMI for anyone who needs a bright, reliable image in a meeting room or living room. The Optoma GT2400HDR takes the runner-up spot for gamers and golf sim enthusiasts who want a laser light source and low input lag, while the ViewSonic PS502X is the budget champion for basic presentations.
If you’re still undecided, ask yourself one question: do you need 4K gaming or a laser engine? If yes, go with the Optoma GT2400HDR. If you just want the most value for your money in a bright, functional projector, the ViewSonic PS502W is your clear winner.
Winner: ViewSonic PS502W 4000 Lumens WXGA
- Short Throw DLP Lamp Projector: WXGA (1280x800p) resolution with a 0.5 throw ratio and 4,000 ANSI...
- Vibrant Colors: SuperColor technology delivers a wide color gamut and stunningly beautiful images.
- Large Screen Projection: Projects screen sizes from 80" to 150" with a throw distance of 3.6 ft...
Buy this if you want the best balance of brightness, connectivity, and price for business or home use. The 4000 lumens and dual HDMI make it the most versatile short throw projector with HDMI on my list.
Runner-Up: Optoma GT2400HDR Full HD 1080p Short Throw Laser
- SHORT-THROW BIG-SCREEN ENTERTAINMENT: Create a large image from a short distance with a 0.49 throw...
- BRIGHT FULL HD LASER PERFORMANCE (4,200 LUMENS): Native 1080p resolution with high brightness for...
- LOW INPUT LAG FOR RESPONSIVE GAMING + 1080P 120HZ SUPPORT: Designed for fast, smooth gameplay with...
Pick this if gaming or golf simulation is your priority and you want a laser light source that lasts for years. Its 4200 lumens and low input lag make it the best performer for fast-moving content.
Budget Pick: ViewSonic PS502X 4000 Lumens XGA Short Throw
- Short Throw DLP Lamp Projector: XGA (1024x768p) resolution with a 0.6 throw ratio and 4,000 ANSI...
- Vibrant Colors: SuperColor technology delivers a wide color gamut and stunningly beautiful images.
- Large Screen Projection: Projects screen sizes from 30" to 300" with a throw distance of 3.9 ft...
Choose this if you only need a projector for presentations and want to save money. The XGA resolution limits movie quality, but the 4000 lumens and dual HDMI are perfect for small meeting rooms.