Have you been considering buying a high-resolution TV lately? Here, we will compare two of the best options in the market: short-throw projector and laser TVs.
Their differences include throw ratio, the light source they use, and even the space you need at home for their setup.
Let’s break them both down in detail to give you the full picture (no pun intended!) on which device is best for you.
Short-Throw Projector vs. Laser TV: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Short-Throw Projector | Laser TV | |
|---|---|---|
| Description | Projector type, usually lamp-based | A type of short-throw projector backed by a laser light source |
| Throw Ratio | 3 to 8 feet | 0 to 4 feet |
| Resolution | HD or UHD (4K) | HD or UHD (4K) |
| Light Source | Lamp-based / LED | Laser |
| Image Projection | Up to 100” image | Up to 150” image |
| Advisable Use | Entertainment, gaming | Entertainment, gaming |
| Location | Small living rooms or bedrooms | Bright rooms, big or small |
| Price Range | Around $1,000 but can go up | $1,500-4,000 |
- 720p resolution
- 1080p resolution input
- Up to 300 inches
- Indoor/outdoor use
- About 3 hours of viewing time every day
- Ambient Light-Rejecting (ALR) Screen included
- 120 inches
- 3840 x 2160p resolution
- Built-in 40W Dolby Atmos sound
Short-Throw Projectors vs. Laser TVs: What’s the Difference?
In case these terms are new to you, let’s clarify that a projector’s throw distance is the distance between the projector and screen; that is to say, the distance that the image is “thrown.”
Below, we will describe these two products with their main differences.
Location for Setup
Short-throw projectors are set three to eight feet from the projection area and produce a large image. As a result, they are the ideal option for tiny living rooms or bedrooms because they provide a large picture size without taking up much physical space.
On the other hand, ultra-short throw projectors (UST) can be placed a few inches away from the wall. They can produce up to a 120” image. They are suitable for any type of room. This type of projector lights up on the screen, reflecting what you wish to watch into the viewing area. Thanks to this design, nobody can walk in the light beam as they might with a traditional projector!
Apart from the projector’s location, there are other differences to consider when buying a high-quality TV.
How Do They Work?
Laser TVs consist of an ultra-short throw projector and a special screen. You may be wondering, what is then the difference between a laser TV and an ultra-short throw projector? The answer is not too much. “Laser” only refers to the light source the projector uses.
Ultra-short throw projectors use a laser or LED light. Therefore, they last significantly longer than short-throw projectors, which are usually lamp-based. This means they can overheat when they need cleaning, maintenance, or better air circulation. However, there are some short-throw projectors that are lamp-free as they use LED instead.
Cost
Despite the benefits a UST projector may offer, you need to consider their high prices. Many laser TVs double the cost of short-throw projectors.
©Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock.com
Other Components
A direct projection from a laser TV onto a flat, white wall is possible. However, it is strongly advised to use a special screen for regular daytime use. These screens are made to be projected on during the day in well-lit rooms. We recommend an ambient light-rejecting (ALR) screen for a better experience.
These specific screens have a surface that has been treated to reduce the impact of light pollution on the image and enhance contrast. They are often fixed screens, which is the only way to obtain a fully flat projection surface.
Unfortunately, short-throw projectors are not compatible with ALR materials.
- Indoor/outdoor use
- 58" W x 116" H
- Display dimensions: 116" × 58"
- Anti-wrinkle
Short-Throw Projector vs. Laser TV: 6 Must-Know Facts
- All laser TVs are ultra-short throw projectors.
- Laser TVs last longer than short-throw projectors.
- Laser TVs do not need much space between the wall and the projector.
- Laser TVs are much more expensive than short-throw projectors.
- Short-throw projectors are also available in their LED version.
- You can use an ambient light-rejecting (ALR) screen only with Ultra-short throw projectors.
- 720p resolution
- 1080p resolution input
- Up to 300 inches
- Indoor/outdoor use
- About 3 hours of viewing time every day
- Ambient Light-Rejecting (ALR) Screen included
- 120 inches
- 3840 x 2160p resolution
- Built-in 40W Dolby Atmos sound
Short-Throw Projector vs. Laser TV: Which One is Better for You?
Which one is best for you truly depends on your living space, your budget, and your preferred visual quality.
The ultra-short throw will likely be the best choice for individuals who seek the greatest picture regardless of the price. However, a short-throw projector is currently the best option if you don’t want to spend much. You don’t need a particular screen, and it is significantly more affordable while still being able to produce an amazing picture with 4K graphics on a large screen.
Short-Throw Projectors and Laser TVs in the News
Depending on what you’re looking for in a viewing experience, the short-throw projector and a laser television have a variety of pros and cons. As of 2023, many short-throw projectors are hitting the shelves with built-in features like streaming apps and Wi-Fi connectivity. Laser TVs have also been making leaps and strides when it comes to brightness, screen size, and vibrancy.
Looking Forward
OLED technology continues to evolve in laser TVs and it seems like every tech company in the market continues to outdo itself with innovative features and graphics. As recently as 2023, LG announced a whole new line of OLED televisions that will hit the market sometime next year. Short-throw projectors continue to evolve with new features that make it simpler and easier to make the switch from regular laser televisions.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©fotoslaz/Shutterstock.com.
