When using a standard-throw projector, the presenter often stands in front of the projection surface. The problem with this is that the presenter may cast a shadow on the screen, making the content hard to see. Moreover, the presenter may be bothered by glare from the projector light source. Companies such as Epson and Hisense also offer complete packages that pair their UST projectors with a matching ambient-light-rejecting screen, usually in a 100- or 120-inch size.
Add in the Android streaming interface and you’ll see why we call it an all-in-one entertainment package. Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500When you buy the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500 you get more than just a projector. It comes with a high-contrast ALR screen included, as well as the hardware you need to mount it. Since these screens sell for upwards of $1,000 on their own, that’s a massive value add compared to other projectors on this list. Split-screen two-player games are easier to play when you have a screen this large, and the vivid, colorful graphics of most games look great.
This type is also specifically geared toward UST or ultra short throw projectors. The alr projector screen is superior to traditional white or gray materials in its ability to maintain a sharp, bright image regardless of ambient light. The angular reflective or retro reflective material incorporates a diffusion layer over a highly reflective surface. This causes direct light from the projector to reflect squarely into the viewer's field of vision while the outer contrast layer enhances image quality while absorbing indirect ambient light.
Any model whose throw ratio is under 1 is considered a short throw projector. Short throw projectors can produce a 100” picture at only 4-5 feet away, as opposed to the 7-9 feet of distance most projectors would require to get the same screen size. With an ultra-short throw projector, that distance often drops to mere inches. It sports a triple laser light source with an impressive 114% REC.2020, and super bright 2400 ANSI lumens. With a 4K ultra-high definition pixel-shifting resolution, the JMGO U2 produces an extremely bright, color-accurate image. In our testing, we enjoyed the JMGO Best Ultra Short Throw Projector U2’s outstanding picture quality, punchy and lifelike image, plus powerful speakers.
There is an option to turn the Aura’s laser projection unit off which allows it to spring back to life instantaneously. But fan noise and excessive power draw makes this an option I use sparingly. Let’s first take a step back for those of you not familiar with Xgimi. The Chinese company got its start in 2014 before debuting in Western markets in 2016. It’s built a loyal fanbase around nice looking all-in-one portable projectors that are reasonably specced yet still inexpensive. These include the Z4 Aurora and Horizon Pro 4K which The Verge reviewed previously.
PCMag.com is a leading authority on technology, delivering Labs-based, independent reviews of the latest products and services. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. David's 40-plus years of writing about science and technology include a longtime concentration on PC hardware and software.
That said, this is less of a problem when viewing in ambient light, which tends to wash out dark blacks anyway, than when viewing in a dark room. So whether you consider this a problem or not will depend on whether you plan to watch in the dark, as well as how demanding you are about image quality. Xgimi says the Aura's lens can throw a 150-inch diagonal image without distortion at just 17.3 inches from the screen.