The way we experience movies, gaming, and entertainment at home is transforming, and ultra-short throw (UST) projectors are leading the charge. Don't get us wrong, if you have the space for any type of projector, we know you'll love it, but if you want the latest and greatest, go for the UST projector. Unlike traditional projectors, UST models sit close to the wall for a, well, ultra-short throw distance. What we love most is how this design eliminates complicated installations. With stunning visuals, immersive sound, and advanced features, they’re a compelling option for tech enthusiasts, casual users, and gamers who want to upgrade their home entertainment space.

"[We’re] definitely seeing more demand for projectors from our shoppers at Samsung," shares Lydia Cho, Head of TV Product Marketing, Samsung. The category is expected to grow nearly 30% over the next seven years as the demand for home entertainment systems expects to grow.

Why Ultra-Short Throw Projectors Are a Game-Changer

  • Space-Saving and Stylish: Ultra-short throw projectors like Samsung’s The Premiere 7 and Premiere 9 sit just inches away from your wall or screen, offering incredible flexibility for modern living rooms and home theaters. Unlike regular projectors, ceiling mounts or extensive wiring aren't a factor—a consumer can simply place this type of projector on a cabinet or table, and enjoy a massive, crisp image that projects nearly 90 degrees upright onto the wall.
  • Exceptional Picture and Audio Quality: As Cho explains, UST projectors deliver "stunning 4K resolution, immersive audio, and other advanced features." Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster, streaming a show, or diving into an intense gaming session, the visuals are vivid and detailed, paired with audio that fills the room for a complete cinematic experience.
Samsung Premiere 9 or Premiere 7 UST projector
The Premiere 9 and Premiere 7 UST projectors are among the next wave of premium home entertainment solutions. Credit: Samsung
man watches western movie on UST projector
With or without a screen, a UST projector is a great addition to a blank wall. Credit: Samsung

What makes ultra-short throw projectors different from traditional projectors?

Ultra-short throw projectors can be placed very close to the wall or screen, eliminating the need for ceiling mounts or complicated electrical setups that consumers have to navigate for long-throw projectors. It's the projection equipment you need if you want a large-screen experience over a shorter distance.

Standout Products for Every Lifestyle

1. The Samsung Premiere 7

  • Picture Quality: Projects up to 120 inches in vibrant 4K UHD with precision color accuracy and HDR10+ support.
  • Design: Minimalist and compact, blends seamlessly into any space while delivering big-screen performance.
  • Smart Features: Built-in streaming apps, voice assistant compatibility (Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant), and mobile connectivity options.
  • Sound: Equipped with 2.2 channel surround sound for a powerful audio experience.
  • Setup: Place just 11.3 inches from the wall for a 120-inch display, eliminating the need for complex mounting or adjustments.
  • Best For: Those who want a stylish, mid-range UST projector with solid 4K performance.
Couple watches a movie from a UST projector.
Wide angle laser projector, amazing. 👏 Credit: Samsung

2. The Samsung Premiere 9

  • Picture Quality: Boasts cutting-edge triple-laser technology for ultra-bright, lifelike colors and dynamic 4K UHD resolution, projecting up to 130 inches.
  • Brightness: Industry-leading 2800 ANSI lumens make it ideal for use in both dark and well-lit rooms.
  • Smart Features: Advanced Smart TV platform with streaming services, wireless casting, and multi-voice assistant compatibility.
  • Sound: 4.2 channel audio with 40W built-in speakers delivers a truly cinematic soundscape.
  • Setup: Requires just 9.8 inches of space from the wall for a massive 130-inch projection, offering exceptional convenience.
  • Best For: High-end buyers seeking an immersive, premium home theater experience with unparalleled visuals.
Group of people plays Sonic video game on a wall using a Samsung Freestyle projector.
Project video games easily using the Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen with Gaming Hub Credit: Samsung

3. The Freestyle 2nd Gen

  • Portability: Compact, weighing less than two pounds, with 180-degree adjustability for versatile projection on walls, ceilings, or even the side of a tent.
  • Screen Size: Projects up to 100 inches in Full HD with vibrant colors and sharp details.
  • Streaming Built-In: Pre-loaded with Samsung’s Smart TV platform, including apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube.
  • Gaming On-The-Go: Play Xbox Game Pass titles without a console, thanks to cloud gaming capabilities.
  • Ease of Use: Instant setup with auto-leveling, focus, and keystone correction for effortless adjustments.
  • Audio: Includes a 360-degree speaker for immersive sound – a standalone entertainment solution.
  • Power Flexibility: Can be powered via USB-C or external battery packs.
  • Best For: Gamers, travelers, and anyone seeking a portable entertainment solution with premium features.

4. AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro

  • Picture Quality: Triple-laser technology ensures stunning brightness (3500 ANSI lumens), vibrant colors, and 4K UHD resolution for a cinema-quality experience.
  • 3D Ready: Unique support for 3D content, a rare feature that enhances the movie-watching experience.
  • Ease of Use: Requires minimal space to project up to 150 inches, with no need for ceiling mounts.
  • Durability: Laser light source lasts up to 25,000 hours, offering years of uninterrupted viewing.
  • Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want cutting-edge performance and the ability to enjoy 3D content.

Man activates a smart sink in a modern house
Busy Day of Meal Prep? This Smart Device Can Help In the Kitchen
You might not feel that the kitchen sink needs its own smart tech, but you might rethink it once you understand its value.
Read More

Do I need a special screen for my UST projector?

Yes, to achieve the best image quality, it's recommended to use an Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screen. " They help you get the best possible picture quality with improved color and brightness by minimizing ambient light," shares Cho.

A couple eats near the UST projector, projecting on a screen.
A well-placed screen optimizes the performance of your UST projector. Credit: Samsung

Are UST projectors suitable for gaming?

Absolutely. Samsung's UST projectors, like The Freestyle 2nd Gen, offer excellent gaming capabilities. You can play thousands of top gaming titles from partners like Xbox without needing a console, thanks to the built-in gaming features.

How portable are Samsung's UST projectors?

The standard projectors like Premiere 7, Premiere 9, and the LTV-3500 Pro aren't heavy per say, but they are bulky; you wouldn't necessarily want to take them out of their spot once they're set up. If you need a portable option, the Freestyle 2nd Gen is an excellent choice. It's perfect for on-the-go entertainment, allowing you to project up to 100” in full HD anywhere you choose, from walls to ceilings to the side of your home.