The idea of using an ultra-short-throw projector as a replacement for a regular TV has been around for a few years, but there's no denying the explosion of recent interest as numerous projector manufacturers have jumped into the fray. You can blame it on a number of factors including the dropping cost of bright lasers that eliminate the usual lamp replacements associated with projectors, the development of high-tech screens that let you effectively watch projections with the lights on, and the lack of availability and still relatively high cost associated with panel TVs at sizes above 110 inches—though the dropping cost of 100-inch panels admittedly makes them a viable alternative at that size. Whatever the reason, what was once a curiosity has become a bonafide product category, with quite a few models to choose from at different price and performance levels.

The projectors listed below (in alphabetical order) all use a solid-state light source—typically laser—that eliminates costly lamp replacements and provides essentially stable brightness for at least 20,000 hours of use. That's more than nine years of watching six hours of TV every single day. Some include on-board streaming platforms for receiving services like Netflix and Amazon, a built-in off-air TV tuner, or an integrated soundbar. Likewise, some are shipped as a complete solution with an ambient-light-rejection screen designed for use with UST projectors, though this has become rarer and more often than not an ALR screen, if it's offered, is an option. In our guide below, we've called out these and other features, and included a link to our review where applicable and to each product's page in our ProjectorCentral database. From there, you can see more specifications, download a product sheet and user manual for more information, or visit our Projector Throw Calculator for that model. You can also directly compare prices and specs on up to six different models by hitting the blue "+ Add to Compare List" button at the top of every spec page. Clicking on the price for any projector in the guide will provide a link to our affiliated online resellers. As always, follow the links through to the retailer to check for the latest discounts.

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