Once You See These Short-Throw Projectors, You'll Never Want to Look at a TV Again

The Mi Laser short-throw projector offers just as many features as more expensive models, but at a much more obtainable price point. Although this projector tops out at a 1080p resolution, it's brighter and more vibrant than other projectors that cost twice as much, while still creating a gorgeous 150-inch screen that remains sharp even in a well-lit room.

It runs Android TV, so you can download your favorite streaming apps, cast videos from your phone, or ask the Google Assistant to pause your show — all with just the sound of your voice. Plus, it has four built-in speakers that sound almost as loud as a sound bar. Connectivity options include with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optical audio out. It gets bonus points for its ease of setup, with its three HDMI jacks for plugging in streaming devices or game consoles.

The projector sports an elegant, but simplistic design reminiscent of EVE from Disney/Pixar's WALL-E, which will look good on any entertainment stand. Our only complaint is it doesn't run Netflix at the moment. 

With some projectors reaching prices as high as $25,000, it's easy to see why several buyers instead opt for a big screen TV. BenQ's short-throw projector is a lot more obtainable than others on the market. It still has excellent picture and sound quality, but at a much lower price point.

Wirecutter recommends the HT2150ST for those who "don't have the space for a standard projector" since it projects an image of up to 100-inches from just 5.5 feet away. Although this pick produces a very large, bright picture, it isn't in 4K resolution. Regardless, it's an affordable option that'll be perfect for apartment dwellers.

The Hisense short-throw projector nearly has it all: a modern design, a built-in speaker system from Harman Kardon, a wireless subwoofer, a built-in TV tuner, Alexa-support, streaming apps, and more. But all that comes at a hefty price: It'll cost you more than $7,000 after tax.

If you're looking for a huge 100-inch 4K screen, incredible picture quality (day and night), a sleek design, and an easy install — it's almost the best money can buy. The only reason it isn't our top pick is because it lacks HDR compatibility. 

Fortunately, the newest model, the Hisense 100L7T, supports HDR10 (today's leading HDR content standards), but that laser projector won't be available until later this year.

The biggest annoyance of switching from a TV to a projector is that images become less saturated, dimmer, and harder to see. If you watch TV or movies in a bright room, you probably should go with an LCD TV. But, if you insist on getting a projector, we think the Epson LS100 is the best one for daytime viewing.

It has a whopping 6,000 lumens (the higher the lumens, the brighter the projector for cutting through ambient light.) Given its plastic design, clunky remote control, loud fan, and lack of smart features, we think better options are available. This one, however, is the brightest short-throw that money can buy, making it the best option for bright rooms.

For those in search of a short-throw projector to take your gaming to the next level, consider the Optoma GT5600. It has a lower input lag than 4K projectors and produces smooth images. 

Although this option doesn't have HDR or an ultra high-definition picture, it offers two HDMI ports for multiple game consoles and 16-watt speakers for crisp audio. 

Another highlight: The GT5600 produces 1080p resolution images up to 100 inches from just inches away from the screen.

If you're looking to upgrade that dusty old projector in your office's conference room, look no further than this new option from Dell. It can be placed just inches away from your screen to project up to 124 inches of gorgeous 4K content.

It features three HDMI inputs for connecting laptops, video players, or streaming devices. Plus, it's packed with dual 6-watt speakers, supports Bluetooth, and can be mounted to the wall. If it's out of reach for your office's budget, there's a 1080p Full HD model as well!