What’s the difference? Is one better quality than the other? Does one require different installation to the other? Here’s how to choose between a Short Throw laser projector and an Ultra Short Throw laser projector.

Short Throw

Short Throw lamp-free projectors are great at delivering a big picture in small spaces. In order to create a 100-inch image, only 3-4 feet of throw distance is required. They’re cheaper than Ultra Short Throw alternatives, but there’s a reason for the price difference. Short Throw projectors struggle to work with anything other than a perfectly flat projection surface – and they aren’t compatible with any type of ALR (Ambient Light Rejecting) materials.

Ultra Short Throw

Ultra Short Throw projectors are even more ideal for providing big experiences in small areas – requiring only 3-20 inches of throw distance to create 100-inch images. Their flush design eliminates shadowing too, allowing them to deliver more immersive learning sessions. However, Ultra Short Throw projectors also rely on flat projection surfaces – and while CLR (Ceiling Light Rejecting) materials are available, their sizing is somewhat limited. 

What’s the difference? Is one better quality than the other? Does one require different installation to the other? Here’s how to choose between a Short Throw laser projector and an Ultra Short Throw laser projector.

Which to choose?

Short Throw Ultra Short Throw
Big pictures in small spaces Big pictures in really tight spaces
3-4 feet throw distance to create a 100-inch image 3-20 inch throw distance to create a 100-inch image
Cheaper to purchase More expensive to buy
Not compatible with ALR materials CLR materials available
Requires flat projection surface Requires flat projection surface
High quality image High quality image with even less glare and shadow

Not surprisingly, Ultra Short Throw projectors are priced at a premium when compared with Short Throw projectors. A properly adjusted Ultra Short Throw projector delivers a better picture than a direct projection Short Throw with a wide lens. It also offers less glare, less shadows and less space for installation.

So, ultimately the choice between the two models comes down to three main aspects. Firstly, consider how important image quality is to you – for what purposes will you use the projector and are you looking to create a fully immersive experience? Secondly, work out how much space you’ve got to play with – will a Short Throw projector work with the space, or will an Ultra Short Throw be more suitable? Thirdly, decide what your budget is and stick to it – but remember the long term value as well as the short term outlay.

See Casio’s choice of Short Throw
and Ultra Short Throw projectors

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