Best Long Throw Projectors

Long throw projectors are engineered to project large images from significant distances, making them ideal for spacious venues and professional installations. Unlike standard projectors that require close proximity to screens, long throw models maintain image quality while positioned far back in rooms, conference halls, or auditoriums. This makes them perfect for scenarios where screen placement flexibility is limited or where projector heat and noise need to be distant from viewers.

These projectors excel in corporate presentations, educational environments, large living rooms, and commercial spaces. They're particularly valuable in auditoriums, museums, and rental situations where mounting flexibility matters. Long throw capabilities eliminate awkward cable runs and ceiling obstructions while maintaining crisp, vibrant projections across expansive surfaces.

Key features distinguishing long throw projectors include throw ratio specifications (typically 1.5:1 or greater), lens quality, brightness output (measured in lumens), resolution, and connectivity options. Look for models offering lens shift capabilities, zoom flexibility, and sufficient contrast ratios for various lighting conditions. Color accuracy and image processing technology also significantly impact performance in diverse installation scenarios.

10 Best Long Throw Projectors

ViewSonic PA503S

The ViewSonic PA503S is a high-brightness DLP lamp projector designed for educational and residential environments. With…

Read more ↓

The ViewSonic PA503S is a high-brightness DLP lamp projector designed for educational and residential environments. With 4,000 ANSI lumens and SVGA resolution, it delivers clear, detailed images suitable for small classrooms and living rooms. The projector features SuperColor technology for vibrant color reproduction and supports screen sizes from 80" to 150" depending on throw distance.

This projector emphasizes responsive performance with a low 16ms input latency and 120Hz refresh rate, making it well-suited for fast-paced content. Setup is straightforward with 1.1x optical zoom, digital zoom capabilities, and vertical keystone adjustment. Multiple HDMI inputs provide flexible connectivity for various content sources.

Brightness
4000 ANSI lm
Resolution
SVGA
Throw Ratio
1.9-2.1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
4.9 lbs
Lamp Life
4500 hrs
Noise
27 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
HDMI 1.4, 2× VGA In, VGA Out, Composite Video, USB, RS-232, Audio In/Out 3.5 mm
$360at amazon
BenQ LU930

The BenQ LU930 is a WUXGA DLP laser projector designed for professional presentations and business environments. It deli…

Read more ↓

The BenQ LU930 is a WUXGA DLP laser projector designed for professional presentations and business environments. It delivers 5000 ANSI lumens of brightness, making it suitable for well-lit rooms where easy readability is essential. The projector features 92% color accuracy to Rec 709 standards, ensuring infographics and logos display with precision.

This lamp-free laser projector offers a maintenance-free design with an IP5X-sealed laser engine, eliminating the need for filter changes. With a 20,000-hour laser lifespan, it provides reliable long-term operation with minimal upkeep. The projector includes lens shift capabilities and supports network control for convenient management in professional settings.

Brightness
5000 ANSI lm
Resolution
WUXGA
Throw Ratio
1.36:1 – 2.18:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
13.9 lbs
Lamp Life
20000 hrs
Noise
34 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
HDMI, Network
$2,799at amazon
JVC DLANZ700

The JVC DLANZ700 is a native 4K laser projector designed for high-resolution content with three 0.69-inch D-ILA devices…

Read more ↓

The JVC DLANZ700 is a native 4K laser projector designed for high-resolution content with three 0.69-inch D-ILA devices and an 80mm fully motorized lens. It delivers 2,300 lumens of brightness with an approximate 20,000-hour lamp life, making it suitable for dedicated home theater and professional installation environments.

Key features include an 80,000:1 native contrast ratio with dynamic contrast capability, advanced Gen2 Frame Adapt HDR tone mapping technology, and support for HDR10, HLG, and HDR10+ formats. The projector offers flexible installation with five memory modes, 70% vertical and 28% horizontal lens shift, and a compact design that is 35% smaller than its predecessor.

Brightness
2300 ANSI lm
Resolution
4K
Throw Ratio
1.26 – 2.01
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
32.6 lbs
Lamp Life
20000 hrs
Noise
23-24 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
Two 32Gbps HDMI 2.1 inputs with HDCP 2.3
$9,000at amazon
Epson Pro EX11000

The Epson Pro EX11000 is a high-brightness laser projector designed for professional presentations and video conferencin…

Read more ↓

The Epson Pro EX11000 is a high-brightness laser projector designed for professional presentations and video conferencing. It delivers 4,600 lumens of color and white brightness, making it suitable for use in well-lit environments. The projector features true 3-Chip 3LCD technology that displays 100% of the RGB color signal for exceptional color accuracy without rainbowing artifacts.

With native 1080p resolution, the EX11000 can display images up to 300 inches diagonally, making it ideal for large conference rooms and auditoriums. It includes versatile connectivity options such as Miracast screen mirroring, two HDMI ports, and USB power for streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, and Chromecast. The laser light source provides up to 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation with no bulbs to replace.

Brightness
4600 ANSI lm
Resolution
1080p
Throw Ratio
1.32:1 – 2.12:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
9.5 lbs
Lamp Life
20000 hrs
Noise
37 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
2x HDMI, USB Power, Miracast
$1,400at amazon
BenQ TH575

The BenQ TH575 is a 1080p gaming projector designed for bright room environments with 3800 ANSI lumens output. It featur…

Read more ↓

The BenQ TH575 is a 1080p gaming projector designed for bright room environments with 3800 ANSI lumens output. It features a 15,000:1 contrast ratio for deep blacks and fine detail in dark scenes. The projector includes dual HDMI ports, 3D support, and auto vertical keystone for flexible installation and setup.

Built for gaming performance, the TH575 delivers 16ms input lag at 1080p@60Hz with microsecond DMD response time for smooth, responsive gameplay. Its short throw ratio enables a 100-inch image from just 10.8 feet away, making it ideal for immersive gaming experiences in living rooms and game spaces.

Brightness
3800 ANSI lm
Resolution
1080p
Throw Ratio
1.49–1.64:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
5.5 lbs
Lamp Life
hrs
Noise
34 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
2× HDMI 1.4a, USB-A, Mini USB-B (service), RS-232, 3.5 mm Audio In/Out
$649at amazon
ViewSonic LS832WU

The ViewSonic LS832WU is an ultra-short throw laser projector designed for large venues and compact installation spaces.…

Read more ↓

The ViewSonic LS832WU is an ultra-short throw laser projector designed for large venues and compact installation spaces. It delivers 5,000 ANSI lumens of brightness with WUXGA resolution, capable of projecting images from 30 inches up to 150 inches. The 0.25 throw ratio allows it to display a 100-inch image from just 11 inches away, making it ideal for classrooms, conference rooms, and auditoriums.

Setup is simplified with horizontal and vertical keystone correction, 4-corner correction, and 0.8x–2.0x digital zoom for flexible positioning. The projector supports both table and ceiling installation and offers advanced control options through Crestron, AMX, Extron, PJ Link, ATEN, and ViewSonic vController. SuperColor technology and HDR support ensure vibrant colors and enhanced contrast for professional presentations.

Brightness
5000 ANSI lm
Resolution
WUXGA
Throw Ratio
0.25:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
12.8 lbs
Lamp Life
20000 hrs
Noise
34 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
Dual HDMI, LAN
$2,619at amazon
Optoma GT2000HDR

The Optoma GT2000HDR is an ultra-compact short throw laser projector designed for home theater installations where space…

Read more ↓

The Optoma GT2000HDR is an ultra-compact short throw laser projector designed for home theater installations where space is limited. Its compact form factor makes it ideal for mounting near screens or in tight viewing spaces while maintaining excellent image quality.

This projector delivers 3500 lumens of brightness for vivid Full HD imagery in various lighting conditions. It features an external power supply design and eco-friendly construction, making it a reliable choice for dedicated home cinema setups.

Brightness
3500 ANSI lm
Resolution
Full HD
Throw Ratio
0.496:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
6.6 lbs
Lamp Life
30000 hrs
Noise
34 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
2× HDMI 2.0, USB-A, 3.5 mm Audio Out, RS-232
$974at amazon
Epson Home Cinema 3800

The Epson Home Cinema 3800 is a 3-chip projector designed for premium home theater experiences. It features 3LCD technol…

Read more ↓

The Epson Home Cinema 3800 is a 3-chip projector designed for premium home theater experiences. It features 3LCD technology that displays 100% of the RGB color signal, eliminating rainbow effects and color brightness issues. With 3,000 lumens of brightness and a 100,000:1 contrast ratio, this projector delivers rich detail in both bright and dark scenes.

This model supports full 10-bit HDR content at 4K resolution using pixel-shifting technology across three individual LCD chips. It includes 18 Gbps HDMI 2.0 support for 4K HDR at 60Hz, a precision lens with vertical and horizontal shift adjustment, built-in stereo speakers with Bluetooth connectivity, and active 3D support for compatible glasses.

Brightness
3000 ANSI lm
Resolution
4K
Throw Ratio
1.32 – 2.15
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
15.2 lbs
Lamp Life
3500 hrs
Noise
35 dB
Built-in OS
Ports
HDMI 2.0, Bluetooth
$1,700at amazon
XGIMI Titan

The XGIMI Titan is a professional-grade laser projector designed for both business and home entertainment. It delivers 5…

Read more ↓

The XGIMI Titan is a professional-grade laser projector designed for both business and home entertainment. It delivers 5000 ISO lumens with native 4K resolution, utilizing an advanced 0.78" HEP imaging chip for sharp details and large-format projection. The projector supports a 1.2–1.8:1 optical zoom range and features a 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for enhanced image quality across diverse content.

Key innovations include an automated lens shift module with one-click auto focus, auto keystone, and auto lens shift—ideal for ceiling-mounted installations. The self-developed AI processor enhances frames in real time for optimized contrast and color accuracy. Additional features include full HD 3D projection support, IMAX Enhanced certification, Filmmaker Mode, and a 2-year warranty for extended peace of mind.

Brightness
5000 ANSI lm
Resolution
4K
Throw Ratio
1.2–1.8:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
25.4 lbs
Lamp Life
30000 hrs
Noise
32 dB
Built-in OS
Google TV / Smart TV platform
Ports
2× HDMI (eARC), 2× USB, RJ45 Ethernet, Optical Audio Out, 3.5 mm Audio Out, RS-232, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
$3,999at amazon
XGIMI Horizon 20

The XGIMI Horizon 20 is a premium laser projector featuring an RGB triple laser engine that delivers 3200 ISO lumens and…

Read more ↓

The XGIMI Horizon 20 is a premium laser projector featuring an RGB triple laser engine that delivers 3200 ISO lumens and a 100,000:1 contrast ratio. It supports major cinematic standards including IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, making it suitable for both movie enthusiasts and professional viewing applications. The projector can display images up to 300 inches.

Designed for versatility, the Horizon 20 includes flexible lens shift and optical zoom for simplified installation without image quality compromise. It integrates Google TV with licensed Netflix, Harman Kardon speakers, and an integrated stand for an all-in-one solution. Gaming features include 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, variable refresh rate, and auto low-latency mode support.

Brightness
3200 ANSI lm
Resolution
4K
Throw Ratio
1.2:1 – 1.5:1
Battery Life
hrs
Weight
10.6–10.8 lbs
Lamp Life
20000 hrs
Noise
28 dB
Built-in OS
Google TV
Ports
2× HDMI, 2× USB, Optical Audio Out, 3.5 mm Audio Out, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet LAN
$1,559at amazon

How to Choose a Long Throw Projector

Begin by measuring your installation space and calculating the throw ratio needed. Determine the desired screen size and the distance from your projector's lens to the screen surface. Use the throw ratio formula (distance divided by width) to identify compatible models. Factor in ceiling height, mounting options, and whether you need portability or a permanent installation solution.

Brightness is crucial for long throw applications, especially in ambient light environments. Look for projectors offering at least 3,000 lumens for general use, increasing to 5,000+ lumens for well-lit spaces. Consider your content type—presentations benefit from high contrast, while video content demands superior color accuracy. Native resolution should match your source material for optimal clarity across large projection distances.

Evaluate lens quality and zoom capabilities for optimal image flexibility. Lens shift and correction features reduce installation constraints significantly. Check connectivity ports for your devices, consider heat dissipation for permanent installations, and research warranty support. Budget accordingly—professional long throw projectors vary significantly in price based on brightness, resolution, and advanced features.

Best Long Throw Projectors Prices

Long throw projectors range from $800 to $25,000+, depending on brightness, resolution, and professional-grade features. Budget-friendly options work for small to medium spaces, while premium models deliver exceptional performance for large auditoriums and demanding commercial applications.

Price TierPrice
Budget (lowest)$360
Average price$2,506
Premium (highest)$9,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a long throw projector and how is it different from other types?
A long throw projector is designed to project large images from a significant distance away from the screen, typically requiring 1.5 to 3 times the screen width in throw distance. This differs from standard projectors that need to be closer to the screen and ultra-short throw models that sit just inches away from the display surface.
What throw ratio should I look for in a long throw projector?
Long throw projectors typically have a throw ratio between 1.5:1 and 3:1, meaning the projector distance should be 1.5 to 3 times the screen width. For example, a 1.5:1 ratio projector can display a 100-inch image from 150 inches away, making it ideal for larger rooms and auditoriums.
How far back does a long throw projector need to be from the screen?
The distance depends on your desired screen size and the projector's throw ratio. For a 100-inch screen with a 2:1 throw ratio projector, you'd need approximately 16-17 feet of distance, while a 1.5:1 ratio would require about 12-13 feet.
Are long throw projectors good for classrooms and conference rooms?
Yes, long throw projectors are excellent for classrooms, conference rooms, and large corporate spaces where the projector can be mounted high on the back wall or ceiling. Their ability to project large, bright images from distance makes them ideal for presentations to groups.
What brightness level do I need in a long throw projector?
For optimal image quality in long throw projectors, brightness of 3,000-5,000 lumens is recommended for well-lit environments like offices and classrooms, while 2,000-3,000 lumens works well for darker rooms like home theaters. Higher brightness helps maintain image clarity when projecting over longer distances.
Can long throw projectors be used for home theater?
While long throw projectors can work in home theaters with large rooms, they're less ideal than short throw models due to the space requirements and potential for shadows from viewers. However, they remain an excellent choice if you have the room depth and want to avoid mounting directly above seating areas.
What resolution options are available for long throw projectors?
Long throw projectors are available in multiple resolutions including 1080p (Full HD), 1440p, 2K, 4K, and even higher-end options. The choice depends on your budget and content needs, with 1080p being suitable for presentations and 4K recommended for detailed imagery and premium home theater setups.
How do I calculate the screen size for my long throw projector?
To calculate screen size, divide your available throw distance by the projector's throw ratio. For instance, if you have 20 feet of space and a 2:1 throw ratio projector, you can display a 120-inch image (20 feet ÷ 2 = 10 feet screen width × 12 inches = 120 inches).
What's the advantage of long throw projectors over ceiling-mounted alternatives?
Long throw projectors can be floor-mounted at the back of a room, making them easier to install, maintain, and adjust without special ceiling work. They also eliminate the risk of casting shadows from people standing in front of the projector, which is a common issue with ceiling-mounted units.
Are long throw projectors more expensive than standard projectors?
Long throw projectors are generally comparable in price to standard projectors, though premium models with high brightness and 4K resolution command higher prices. The cost is more dependent on the projector's specifications, brightness level, and resolution rather than the throw ratio itself.