The need for projectors has increased very rapidly in the last couple of years. Especially if you’re a gamer or wanna enjoy a movie on a big screen then you need the best short-throw projector under 500.
The market of home theater projectors is also flooded with a variety of products; as everybody likes to play games or watch movies on a big-size TV up to 300-inches without even hampering their budget.
As you can see today’s home theater projectors are full of remarkable features. Such as quality image, in-built, easy portability, vibrant picture, and integrated Wifi.
However, if you have a ceiling-mounted projector then you might have to make some effort to run power to it – before using these features.
Moreover, you could also stream your favorite content from Netflix, and YouTube by using these exceptional features of your projector.
At the same time under 500$, it’s very important that you know why you need a projector and for what purpose to make a better deal.
Also, Check out: How to bypass the Miroir projector activation code
Buying guide for best short-throw projector under 500
Today it’s very much easier to have the best short-throw projector under 500 especially if you have enough information about projectors. So you could get the best one for yourself by collecting the info about its benefits, specs and several other general information.
However, if you don’t have enough information to make a decision then don’t worry. Because in this section Projectors Rating will share everything that you need to know.
Projector Application
First of all, decide the purpose for which you need a projector so badly. Do you need it for home theatre, gaming, or meeting purposes? Just pick any one of them that fits your needs.
Projector Type
There are two different types of projectors currently available in the market. One is the LCD-type projector while the others are DLP-type projectors — both offer the best picture quality.
However, unlike the LCD projectors, the DLP projectors required few maintainers whereas LCD projectors need special attention and a bit of maintenance there.
Resolution
It’s and very important part of any projector and could directly impact the picture quality as well.
Generally, the resolution you’re going to need will depend upon the intent to use it. But keep in mind you need to choose the best 1080 pixels short-throw projector with full HD that offers long-term usability to the users.
Image Size
Before even making a purchase you need to determine this factor as well. For instance, if you want a projector for indoor or outdoor use then considering a wide projector size would be best.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio is responsible to showcase the difference between the darkest part and the brightness of a picture. So higher the contrast ratio higher will be the image detailing you’ll get throughout the projection.
However, an ideal range of contrast ratio that you could look for in any short-throw projector starts from 10,000:1. Plus the contrast ratio is also important in terms of whether you want a home theatre or cinematic projectors.
Lamp Life
This is the most concerning feature that you should look for in the best short-throw projector. Here you must give preference to the project having a lamp lifespan of 10,000 hours.
Top 5 best short-throw projectors under 500
Projectors are proved to be an ideal companion for different tasks whether you want to use them for gaming, watching movies, or even presentations. You could select the short-throw projectors from the list to perform any of these tasks.
# | Product | Rating | Price |
1 | BenQ MX819ST Editor's choice | ||
2 | ViewSonic PA503W WXGA 3,600 | ||
3 | YABER Y30 | ||
4 | Optoma LV130 | ||
5 | LG Electronics PH30N Projector |
1. BenQ MX819ST (Best Short-Throw Projector Under 500)
The best part about the projector is its projection with awesome image detailing. Moreover, the design of the projector makes it the most reliable device among users.
Features
| Native Resolution | XGA(1024 x 768) |
| Zoom Ratio | Fixed |
| Compatibility | HDTV Compatibility:480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p Video Compatibility:NTSC, PAL, SECAM 3D Compatibility: Frame Sequential: Up to 480i Frame Packing: Up to 24 Hz 1080p Side by Side: Up to 60Hz 1080i Top Bottom: Up to 24Hz 1080p |
| Brightness | 3,000 lumens |
| Contrast Ratio | 13,000:1 |
| Aspect Ratio | Native 4:3 (5 aspect ratio selectable) |
| Lamp life | 4,500/6,000/6,500/10,000 hours |
Structure
Unlike other projectors, it offers a throw ratio of 0.60:1 more than enough to minimize any interruptions during the projection. While the native resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels @ 3,000 ANSI lumens allows you to have an efficient display with premium image quality.
On the other hand, the dimension of 11.31 x 9.15 x 4.5 inches and weight of 8.1 pounds make it very much portable and easy to carry.
Furthermore, the long lamp life ensures frequent dynamic and reliable visual performance. Plus a 3D projector like this one also allows you to view a large range of 3D movies and other content.
Features
At the same time, it has a lot to offer in terms of features. Such as an extremely high contrast ratio of 13000:1 against the high brightness for better and sharp images. While the lamp lifespan could be extended up to 10,000 hours — Thanks to its eco-lamp technology.
Therefore you could use the projector for up to 10 years with an unauthorized brightness, 80% lamp power savings, and exquisite image quality. Plus the short-throw permits an 80o diagonal image at 39-inches.
On the other hand, the automatic switching to the eco-blank mode for more than three minutes without even any display source eliminates redundant energy loss. This ultimately prolongs the lifetime of the projector lamp as well.
Power
Unlike other projectors it minimizes the power consumption, extends the life of the lamp, and reduces the energy costs; as the MX819ST complies with the 2013 EU standards using less than 0.5 W on standby.
Connectivity
While using the projector you’ll come across a wide range of connectivity options. Such as VGA in (D-sub 15pin) x2 (Share with comp); Monitor out (D-sub 15pin) x; Composite in RCA x1.
Moreover, the S-Video in mini-DIN 4pin; HDMI x; Audio in (Mini Jack) x2; Audio out mini-jack x1; Audio L/R in RCA x1; USB type mini B x1; RS232 (DB-9pin) x1; RJ45x1 indeed proved it to be a premium projector.
Final Thoughts!
If you’re looking for a projector capable to do multiple tasks whether it’s gaming, watching movies, or office presentations. In that case, you would like to give a try this best short-throw projector under 500 equipped with the new DLP technology that supports 3D practicality as well.
2. ViewSonic PA503W WXGA 3,600 (Best Durable Short-Throw Projector)
ViewSonic has also made an impression in the projector market by putting a continuous effort into improving both the design and durability of their products.
Features
| Native Chip Resolution | 1280 x 800 (WXGA) |
| Maximum Brightness | 3600 lumens |
| Dynamic Contrast Ratio | 22,000:1 |
| Support Resolution | Minimum: VGA – 640 x 480Maximum: Full HD 1080p – 1920 x 1080 |
| Aspect Ratio | Native: 16:10 |
| Throw Distance | 3.248 – 36.024′ / 0.99 – 10.98 m |
| Throw Ratio | 1.55 to 1.7:1 |
Structure
Unlike other projectors, it offers a sleek white chassis that includes a high brightness of 3600 lumens more than enough for mid-sized meeting rooms or lecture rooms.
But the best part is just begun; as it offers a longer lamp life of 15,000 hours. While the lightweight of 4.89 lbs with dimensions of 11.57 x 4.33 x 8.58 inches makes it exceptionally transportable.
Features
Thanks to its high brightness of 3600 lumens @ a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels you could easily benefit from it both outdoor and indoors.
Moreover, it could also be settled for video signals up to Full HD (1080p) for higher resolution sources.
However the projector options a 1.55 to 1.7:1 throws magnitude relation allowing you to place it close to the rear of the area in several installations.
Power
Furthermore, it operates on a 260W Power Consumption with a Voltage of 100-240V +/- 100%, 50/60 Hz AC and 2 AAA batteries needed. At the same time, the power-saving Super Eco mode could reduce energy consumption by up to 70%. It’ll extend the lamp lifespan up to 10,000 hours without compromising on picture quality.
Connectivity
The projector also offers a wide range of connectivity options. Such as HDMI, VGA, HDTV, and many more options to make it compatible with almost every device.
Final Thoughts!
In case you can’t go for the projector top on the list then it won’t be a bad deal as well. As you can see while using this short-throw projector you’ll be able to connect to more devices than you usually do.
3. YABAR Y30 (Best Multi-Use Short Throw Projector)
This projector has a unique place in the market and gamers along with the big screen lovers are very much crazy about it. All because of its catchy image quality and exceptional portability.
Features
| Brightness | 8000 lumens |
| Projection distance | 5 – 18ft (1,5 – 5,5 m) |
| Zoom function | 100% – 50% |
| Aspect ratio | 16:9 / 4:3 |
| Fan noise | low |
| Built-in Speakers | 3W dual stereo Hi-Fi with SRS |
| Lamp life | 70,000 hours |
Structure
Unlike other projectors, it offers a native resolution of 1080p and is very much portable due to its lightweight of 6 pounds with a straightforward dimension of 10.6 x 11.2 x 4.3 inches.
Moreover, the zoom features make it an ideal companion that comes from out of this world just for you.
At the same time, it also has a vertical and horizontal keystone correction capable enough to present you with a smart image on a big screen. While the SmartEco technology increases the lamp lifespan by minimizing the power consumption.
Features
The best part about the projector is that it’s equipped with a five-layer glazed lens. While its zoom ring prevents any undue scratches while moving the projector.
Furthermore, the lens could also project a very catchy image projection @ 1920 x 1080 pixels fully HD up to 4K radical HD resolution.
At the same time, it doesn’t only offers HIFI stereo sound and the latest advanced cooling system. But also an intrinsically 3W twin stereo speaker supported by an SRS system having a relatively good audio sense-impression as compared to the external speakers.
Power
The best part about the projector is that it has a 100V-240V-50/60Hz power provided which isn’t very often among most short-throw projectors.
Connectivity
Moreover, its also equipped with 2 USB ports, 2 HDMI ports, 1 AV port, and a VGA port. So you could easily connect to multiple devices such as TV Box, Chromecast, and several other devices.
Final Thoughts!
If you’re looking for a projector that could offer a lot more functionalities at such a reasonable price then it has everything for you. Moreover, due to its unlimited features, you could comprehensibly use it for gaming, watching movies, and several other tasks.
4. Optoma LV130 (Best Business Presentation Short Throw Projector)
It’s a tiny device that possesses some remarkable features. So it could be used for different tasks whether it’s watching movies or business presentations.
Features
| Display Type | LED |
| Lamp life | 30,000 hours |
| Instant power on/off | available |
| Battery capacity | 6700 mAh |
| MHL connectivity | available |
Structure
The design of this short-throw projector is quite stunning; as it offers a resolution of 800 x 480 which is fairly normal for any short-throw projector to display a crisp image. While it’s lightweight of 400 grams with dimensions of 126 x 108 x 36-mm makes it an exceptionally portable device.
Plus its built-in battery with a lifespan of 4.5 hours gives you the freedom to use it for business presentations or movies for up to several hours.
Features
Moreover, it also offers a contrast ratio of 100,000:1 with high brightness through its high-quality LED lighting technology. While the lamp lifespan of this LED projector could sustain 30,000 hours maximum which is 7 times longer than any conventional lamp.
Power
Unlike other projectors, it offers a power supply from AC 100-240 V AC (50-60Hz) to DC 19V / 2.1 A adapter (40W). At the same time, its intrinsic battery of 6,700 mAh could sustain up to 4.5 hours.
Connectivity
The best part of the projector is that it offers several connectivity options. Such as a 3.5mm socket for headphones, an HDMI socket, a USB port, and a 1A connection.
Final Thoughts!
The projector is very much portable and could be taken anywhere in the world. However, the resolution and brightness of the projector are relatively low for performing any task except business presentations.
5. LG Electronics PH30N Projector (Branded Business Presentation Projector)
It could prove to be the best short-throw projector under 500, especially for users who are brand conscious. Plus it’s also the best choice for the users looking for short throw projectors at a reasonable price.
Features
| Display Type | LED |
| Screen Size | Up to 100-inches |
| Built-in Battery | available |
| Brightness | 250 lumens |
| Wireless Connection | available |
Structure
The thing that separates the projector from others is its LED lamp technology which could last for several years and offers fair brightness and contrast ratio.
Features
Unlike other projectors, it offers a fair brightness of 450 lumens through LED display technology. At the same time, it also has an inbuilt battery that could last up to 2.5 hours.
Connectivity
As compared to other projectors it comes with a wide range of connectivity options making it compatible with Bluetooth connections. It’ll allow you to connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth and stream the audio.
Final Thoughts!
It isn’t a bad choice for the users looking for branded short-throw projectors – especially for business presentations. However, the resolution and brightness of the projector are relatively low for performing any task except business presentations.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
Are Short Throw Projectors Better?
The best part about the short throw projectors is that they could project large images at such a short distance. So this could be very helpful for the users having small places to keep their projector in such as schools and houses.
What’s the range of distance on which a short-throw projector could work?
To project images using the short throw projectors you need to keep them 3 to 8 feet away from the projector screen.
Conclusion
After going through the whole article you could see that BenQ MX819ST has everything you’ve ever wanted from any best short-throw projector under 500. However, if you couldn’t get hold of your hands on this sparking bad then ViewSonic PA503W WXGA 3,600 won’t be a bad deal as well.
Although if you need a short-throw projector for multiple uses then you better give it a try YABAR Y30 is known for its all-around and exceptional features.