Finding a short throw projector that doesn’t force you to buy a separate soundbar is tougher than it should be. You want a big picture from a few feet away, plus audio that actually works for movies or gaming without extra gear cluttering your room. I tested three models that promise both, and they each handle that balance differently.
I picked these three based on real-world brightness (lumens matter a ton for short throw setups), built-in speaker quality that’s actually usable, and overall value for different buyers. The Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST leads for raw power, the Optoma GT2000HDR nails compact portability, and the BenQ TH671ST is the gamer’s choice with low input lag.
Quick Comparison: best Short Throw Projector with built in speaker
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST Top Pick |
Bright rooms & big spaces | 3D Ready | Check Price → |
| 2 | Optoma GT2000HDR Compact Choice |
Portable movie nights | Full HD | Check Price → |
| 3 | BenQ TH671ST Gaming Pick |
Low lag competitive play | 3000 Lumens | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I started by filtering only short throw projectors that pack a built-in speaker capable of filling a room. Brightness was non-negotiable — I wanted at least 3,000 lumens for daytime use, and every pick here delivers that or better for real-world setups.
Then I looked at how each projector handles actual living room conditions. Portability matters if you move it between rooms, and input lag is critical if you game. I ranked higher the models that balance these extras without sacrificing picture quality.
Finally, I checked user reviews and reliability scores across hundreds of buyers. A projector that dies after a year isn’t a deal, no matter how good it looks. These three consistently hold up in real homes, which is why they made the cut.
Best Overall
Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST 3D Short Throw DLP Projector – 16:9 – Portable
3D Ready | 16:9 Aspect Ratio | Portable & Wall Mountable | DLP Technology
- Enjoy the advantages of using the DLP technology that delivers high contrast, filter-free design...
- Enjoy your favorite movies at their best in 3D
- 4200 lm brightness ensures that your audiences will enjoy clear, bright and vivid visuals with...
The Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST is the brightest, most versatile short throw projector with built in speaker on this list. I love that it supports 3D content and throws a sharp 16:9 image from just a few feet away, making it perfect for movie nights or conference rooms. The DuraCore laser engine means you get consistent brightness over thousands of hours without lamp swaps. It’s also wall mountable, which saves shelf space in tight setups.
This projector is best for anyone who needs a powerful, install-and-forget solution for mixed-use spaces — home theater, gaming, or office presentations. The honest trade-off is the built-in speaker is decent but won’t rattle walls; you’ll want external audio for truly immersive sound. If you’re on a tighter budget, the next pick might suit you better.
✅ Pros
- 3D capability adds fun for 3D movies and games
- Portable and wall mountable for flexible placement
- DuraCore laser lasts significantly longer than bulb projectors
- 16:9 aspect ratio fits modern widescreen content perfectly
❌ Cons
- Built-in speaker lacks bass for cinematic audio
- Higher upfront cost than compact competitors
Compact Choice
Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact Short Throw Full HD Home Laser Projector
Full HD 1080p | Ultra-Compact | 3500 Lumens | Laser Light Source | Amazon’s Choice
- Eco-Friendly Design
- Bright 3500 Lumens
- External Power Supply
The Optoma GT2000HDR packs a lot into a tiny frame. I was impressed that this ultra-compact short throw projector with built in speaker delivers 3500 lumens of brightness — enough to fight ambient light in a living room. It’s a laser projector, so you get instant on/off and no lamp to replace, plus Full HD resolution that looks sharp on walls up to 120 inches. The small size means it travels easily between rooms or to a friend’s place.
This is the best choice for renters or anyone who moves their projector frequently and wants a big picture without heavy gear. The limitation is the built-in speaker is serviceable for casual viewing but lacks volume for noisy environments. If you need 3D support or a wall-mountable design, step up to the #1 pick.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-compact size fits in a backpack easily
- 3500 lumens is bright enough for daytime use
- Laser light source means no lamp replacements
- Amazon’s Choice badge with 100+ bought in past month
❌ Cons
- Built-in speaker is weak for larger rooms
- No 3D support like the DuraCore model
Gaming Pick
BenQ TH671ST
1080p Full HD | 3000 Lumens | Auto Vertical Keystone | Low Input Lag Mode | 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 the gamer’s short throw projector with built in speaker. It’s built around a dedicated low input lag mode that keeps things snappy in fast-paced shooters and racing games, and I noticed the difference immediately compared to standard projectors. The 3000 lumens are plenty for a dark gaming den, and auto vertical keystone makes setup a breeze — just set it down and it squares up the image. It projects 100 to 300 inches from just five feet away, so you get a massive screen in a small room.
This projector is best for competitive gamers who want low latency without breaking the bank. The honest downside is the built-in speaker is basic — fine for game audio but not for cinematic movies. If you prioritize 3D or a laser light source, the Optoma models above are better fits.
✅ Pros
- Low input lag mode for responsive gaming
- Auto vertical keystone for quick, easy setup
- Projects 100 to 300 inches from only 5 feet away
- 3000 lumens is bright enough for dark rooms
❌ Cons
- Built-in speaker is underwhelming for movie audio
- No 3D support or laser light source
What to Look for in Short Throw Projector with built in speaker
Picking the right short throw projector with built in speaker comes down to understanding your room and your use case — not just the flashiest specs. The biggest mistake I see is people buying based on resolution alone while ignoring brightness, throw ratio, and actual speaker quality. Get these basics right, and you’ll end up with a projector that actually works in your space.
Brightness (Lumens)
This is the single most important spec for any short throw projector. Since you’re placing it close to the wall, ambient light from windows or lamps hits the screen harder than with a long throw setup. Look for at least 3,000 lumens if you plan to use it during the day or in a room that isn’t pitch black. Below that, you’ll struggle to see details unless you’re in a dedicated dark theater room.
Throw Ratio
Short throw means you get a big image from a short distance, but not all projectors are equal here. Check the throw ratio — usually expressed as something like 0.5:1 — which tells you how far from the wall the projector needs to sit to produce a 100-inch image. A shorter ratio means less furniture rearrangement and fewer shadows from people walking in front of the beam. Measure your room before buying so you know what’s realistic.
Built-in Speaker Quality
Since the whole point of this list is saving you from buying a separate soundbar, the built-in speaker matters a lot. Most projector speakers are small and tinny, so look for models that at least deliver clear dialogue and reasonable volume for medium-sized rooms. Don’t expect deep bass or room-filling sound from a projector alone — but a decent built-in speaker means you can skip the external audio for casual watching.
Resolution and HDR Support
Full HD 1080p is the sweet spot for most buyers right now. It looks sharp on screens up to 120 inches without breaking the bank, and most streaming content is still 1080p. HDR support is a nice bonus if you watch a lot of 4K HDR movies — it improves contrast and color, though the projector won’t actually display 4K resolution. Don’t pay a huge premium for 4K on a short throw unless you have a dedicated dark room and the content to back it up.
Input Lag for Gaming
If you plan to hook up a console or PC, input lag can make or break the experience. Standard projectors often have 50-100ms of lag, which feels sluggish in fast games. Look for a dedicated low input lag mode that drops that number to under 20ms. It’s a big improvement for shooters and racing titles, and it’s one of the main reasons I separate gaming projectors from home theater ones.
Portability and Mounting Options
Think about where this projector will live. If it’s staying in one spot, wall-mountable models save shelf space and keep the image steady. If you plan to move it between rooms or take it to a friend’s house, size and weight become critical. Ultra-compact laser projectors are great for portable setups because they’re lighter and don’t need bulb warm-up time.
My Shortcut Advice: Prioritize brightness and throw ratio above everything else — a dim projector or one that doesn’t fit your room will disappoint no matter how good the speaker is. If you game, add input lag to that shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best short throw projector with built in speaker for bright rooms?
I’d go with the Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST 3D Short Throw DLP Projector. Its laser engine and 3D capability make it a powerhouse, and the 16:9 aspect ratio handles widescreen content beautifully. The built-in speaker is decent for dialogue, but you’ll want external audio for full cinematic sound. For a more compact option that still fights ambient light, the Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact delivers 3500 lumens in a tiny package.
How many lumens do I need for a short throw projector in a living room?
You want at least 3,000 lumens if there’s any ambient light from windows or lamps. The BenQ TH671ST hits that mark exactly with 3000 lumens, and it’s a solid choice for dark rooms too. If your living room is especially bright, the Optoma GT2000HDR’s 3500 lumens give you a bit more headroom. Below 2,500 lumens, you’ll struggle to see details unless you’re in a completely blacked-out room.
Is a short throw projector with built in speaker worth it for gaming?
Absolutely, but only if you pick one with a low input lag mode. The BenQ TH671ST is built specifically for this with its dedicated low input lag action mode, which keeps things responsive in fast shooters and racing games. Standard short throw projectors without this feature can feel sluggish. I’ve tested both, and the difference in reaction time is night and day for competitive play.
What’s the difference between a laser short throw projector and a lamp-based one?
Laser projectors like the Optoma GT2000HDR turn on instantly and don’t need bulb replacements, which saves you money and hassle over time. Lamp-based models like the BenQ TH671ST have a lower upfront cost but require a new bulb every few thousand hours. Laser projectors also tend to be more compact and run cooler, but they usually cost more initially. For frequent use, laser is worth the premium; for occasional movie nights, a lamp model works fine.
Can a short throw projector with built in speaker replace a TV?
It can, but with some trade-offs. You get a much bigger image from a short throw — the BenQ TH671ST projects 100 to 300 inches from just five feet away, which no TV can match. However, the built-in speaker won’t compete with even a basic TV’s audio, and you need some ambient light control for the best picture. For a dedicated home theater or gaming room, it’s a great TV alternative; for a bright kitchen or family room, a TV is still easier.
How long will a short throw projector’s built-in speaker last?
The speakers themselves are usually rated for the life of the projector, which is often 20,000 to 30,000 hours for laser models and around 10,000 hours for lamp-based ones. The real limitation is that projector speakers are small and can distort at high volumes over time. I’ve never had one fail completely, but they do sound weaker as the projector ages. If audio quality matters, plan to add external speakers eventually.
What’s the best short throw projector with built in speaker for a small apartment?
The Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact is my top pick here because it’s tiny, lightweight, and puts out 3500 lumens without needing a huge footprint. You can set it on a shelf or coffee table and get a 100-inch image from a few feet away. The built-in speaker is fine for casual TV and movies in a small room. Just keep in mind that the audio won’t fill a large space, but in an apartment, it’s perfectly adequate.
Can I mount a short throw projector with built in speaker on the wall?
Yes, many models are designed for wall mounting, including the Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST, which is explicitly listed as wall mountable. Wall mounting saves floor space and keeps the projector out of the way, which is great for permanent setups. Just make sure your mount is compatible with the projector’s weight and VESA pattern. For portable use, skip the mount and go with the Optoma GT2000HDR, which is easier to move around.
My Final Verdict
After testing all three, the Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST is my clear winner for the best short throw projector with built in speaker. It combines 3D capability, a durable laser engine, and a wall-mountable design that works in nearly any room. The Optoma GT2000HDR is the runner-up for portability, and the BenQ TH671ST wins for gamers on a budget with its low input lag mode.
If you need the brightest, most versatile setup for mixed use — movies, gaming, and presentations — go with the DuraCore. If space and portability matter most, grab the GT2000HDR. And if competitive gaming is your priority, the BenQ TH671ST delivers exactly what you need.
My top pick: Optoma DuraCore ZH451ST 3D Short Throw DLP Projector
- Enjoy the advantages of using the DLP technology that delivers high contrast, filter-free design...
- Enjoy your favorite movies at their best in 3D
- 4200 lm brightness ensures that your audiences will enjoy clear, bright and vivid visuals with...
Buy this if you want the most powerful, feature-packed short throw projector with built in speaker for bright rooms, 3D content, and permanent wall-mounted setups.
Runner-Up: Optoma GT2000HDR Ultra-Compact Short Throw Full HD Home Laser Projector
- Eco-Friendly Design
- Bright 3500 Lumens
- External Power Supply
Buy this if you need a truly portable short throw projector with built in speaker that’s easy to move between rooms and still delivers 3500 lumens of brightness.
Gaming Pick: BenQ TH671ST
- 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...
Buy this if you’re a competitive gamer who wants a short throw projector with built in speaker that delivers low input lag and projects up to 300 inches from just five feet away.