In recent years, ultra-short throw (UST) projectors have surged in popularity to revolutionize the way we experience home entertainment, and that popularity is only expected to grow in the coming years. 

According to Business Research Insights, the UST projector market is expected to reach $15290.34 Million by 2032, up 28.5% from 1571 Million in 2023. With the ability to project large, vibrant images from just inches away from the screen, UST projectors offer a sleek, space-saving solution for families that enjoy movies or game night, or professionals who prioritize spectacular presentations. 

If you’re in the market for a UST, understanding what to look out for may help you get the best of this growing technology. As one of the leading UST projector makers in the game according to ProjectorScreen.com, we’ve prepared a few points for you to add to your checklist.

 

What You Need to Know About UST Projectors

Ultra-short throw projectors are a type of projector designed to be placed very close to the screen or wall, typically just more than a foot or within a few inches. Unlike traditional projectors that utilize lamp light sources and can require up to 10 feet of space between the screen to achieve a large image, UST projectors use advanced optics and light sources to deliver big, bright, and clear visuals even in small rooms. 

For this reason, UST projectors are an excellent choice for home entertainment setups and office presentations in spaces where traditional projectors might be impractical. They’ve gained popularity for their ability to grant average sized homes high-quality, cinematic entertainment. 

 

What to Look Out for in a UST Projector

The best UST projectors have a few things in common. When deciding on the one that’s best for your requirements, there are several critical features to consider.

Resolution, Brightness, and Contrast 

Although 4K resolution is becoming increasingly common and affordable in projector technology, your UST projector should have no less than 1080p resolution in order to deliver the exceptional quality you desire. A projector with sufficient resolution is the only way to get the full benefits of HDR features like Dolby Vision and HDR 10+. 

Sufficient brightness is another crucial feature for clear images, especially in well-lit environments like classrooms or the office. Projector Central advises users to operate their projector in environments with controlled lighting for the best results, however, a projector with at least 1200 lumens is recommended for a 150-inch display. 

A bright display with less than ideal contrast levels is at risk of looking washed out, even in the ideal environment. A higher contrast ratio ensures deeper blacks and more vivid colors. Look for projectors with a high contrast ratio for the best visual experience.

Learn more about the three ratios on your projector: throw ratio, contrast ratio, and aspect ratio.

The Complete Entertainment Package 

Visuals are only as good as the high-quality audio that accompanies them, and your best bet is with a projector that boasts built-in sound. This will further enhance the space saving capabilities of the projector by eliminating the need for additional plugins. Some projectors take it a step further by offering on board access to streaming services like Netflix. 

However, should you change your mind and decide to connect external devices, it’s best to ensure that the projector has multiple input options (HDMI, USB, Bluetooth) to connect to various devices like streaming sticks, gaming consoles, and sound systems.

Projector Price

UST projectors come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly models to high-end units. Determine your budget beforehand and consider the cost of additional accessories like screens and sound systems. Remember, investing in a quality projector can provide years of entertainment.

 

Choosing the Right Setup and Environment

Your room setup can significantly impact the performance of a UST projector. As we’ve already discussed, it’s advisable to operate the projector in a dark environment to get the best results. But there are a few other key factors to consider with the placement of your projector.

The Position and Type of Screen 

To maximize the performance of your UST projector, pairing it with a suitable screen is essential. The best results are delivered by ambient light rejecting screens. Additionally, placing the screen on a surface that doesn’t get too much direct light from windows or overhead lights can further enhance your viewing experience.

Screen Size

While UST projectors can reach a display size of up to 150-inches, it’s recommended that you use the projector with the screen at a maximum of 120 inches 

 

ALR Screen Recommendations

To meet the display demands of Formovie UST projectors, we recommend the following ALR screens, depending on the size of your display area.

Formovie Fresnel Ultra-Thin ALR Projection Screen 100-inch

The 100-inch Formovie Fresnel Ultra-thin ALR Projection Screen enhances image quality by reflecting the light coming from the projector while simultaneously rejecting ambient light coming from other directions. This is ideal for well-lit environments, ensuring a clear, vibrant picture every time. 

Formovie 120-inch Floor Rising ALR Screen (Coming Next Week)

For a sleek and space-saving option, consider the upcoming Formovie 120-inch Floor Rising Screen. It can easily be tucked away and stored when it’s not in use, and it sets up rapidly for movie nights or impromptu gaming sessions.

 

Make Sure Your Projector Lasts a Lifetime 

In addition to choosing a projector that can stand the test of time, it’s important to carry out regular maintenance to ensure the projector works well, even after a few years of use. To keep your UST projector performing at its best, follow these maintenance tips:

Inspect Regularly

Check your projector regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or scratches on the lens and casing. Catching issues early prevents irreversible damage.

Keep It Clean

During inspections, clean off dust and debris with a lint-free cloth. Gently blow off dust from the lens before wiping to avoid scratches.

Use Properly

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid using the projector in dusty, hot, or poorly ventilated areas and places with excessive vibrations.

Store Safely

Store the projector in a cool, dry place, away from potential hazards. Use a bag or original packaging, and let it cool down if exposed to high temperatures before storing.

Read the article for Formovie’s full list of tips for projector maintenance. 

 

Transform Your Entertainment Experience With a UST Projector

With the right UST projector and setup, you can enjoy a top-tier cinematic experience in the comfort of your home. Choosing the right UST projector is the first step to transforming your home entertainment experience. As their popularity rises, it’s essential to understand key features like resolution, brightness, and contrast ratio. Pairing your projector with an ambient light rejecting (ALR) screen, such as the Formovie Fresnel Ultra-thin ALR Projection Screen or the Formovie 120-inch Floor Rising Screen, can significantly enhance your viewing experience.

Are you ready to transform your entertainment experience? Bring your Formovie checklist along with you while you’re shopping, you’ll thank us later.