Ultra Short Throw vs. Big TV: Which Is Best for Your Home Cinema?

1. Understanding Ultra Short Throw Projectors

1.1 What Is a UST Projector?

A Ultra Short Throw projector uses specialised optics to produce a large, cinema-like image from a very short distance—sometimes less than a foot away from the screen or wall. Unlike traditional projectors that need several feet (or even metres) of throw distance, UST models can sit on a cabinet just below the screen, reducing both the required space and the risk of shadows on the image.

1.2 Key Advantages of UST Technology

1. Space-Saving Setup: Positioning the projector near the wall or screen means you don’t have to mount it on the ceiling or run lengthy cables across the room.
2. Immersive Screen Size: Even modest living rooms can host 100-inch or larger diagonal images for a real “cinematic” effect. Can go upto 150" screen size.
3. Reduced Glare and Reflection: Because the projector is close to the screen, you’re less likely to experience glare caused by stray light bouncing off furniture or décor. Additionally when UST projector is combined with an ambient light rejections screen, the glare and reflection issues from ambient light coming through the windows or downlights will be further reduced.
4. Versatile Placement: In multi-purpose rooms, you can move the projector out of the way or use a retractable screen, leaving the space free for other activities.
5. Ease of Installation/Upgrade: UST Projectors are often easier to install than wall mounting a 100-inch TV which may require at least 3 strong people and fair effort. Also it is easier to upgrade to a bigger screen in the future, as you only have to replace the projector screen.
6. Easy on the eyes: UST projectors tend to be less fatiguing especially during long viewing sessions, the light coming from a projector screen is reflected light as compared to a TV where we are receiveing direct light which causes eye fatigue and may affect sleep.

1.3 Potential Drawbacks

• Ambient Light Sensitivity: For the best experience, a UST projector generally needs a dedicated ambient light rejecting (ALR) screen or a room with some light control.
• Initial Cost: While prices have come down in recent years, high-quality laser UST projectors (particularly 4K models) can still be a considerable investment compared to cheaper 98" TV's. But you can install a much larger screen upto 150" in size as compared to a constant size TV.
• Limited Brightness (Compared to TV): Although modern laser-based UST units can be impressively bright, achieving the same brightness as top-tier TVs may require optimal conditions or specialized screens.

2. All About Big TVs

2.1 How Big Is “Big”?

Today’s market is awash with 70-inch, 85-inch, and even 100-inch+ TVs. These behemoth displays promise a striking picture with high brightness and consistent image quality—often without the need for a dark environment.

2.2 Advantages of Large TVs

1. High Brightness and Contrast: LED and OLED TVs excel in bright rooms, and newer technologies (like mini-LED) continue to push the envelope on black levels and colour fidelity.
2. Ease of Use: Turn it on, select a channel or streaming service, and go—no calibration or special screen required.
3. Compact Footprint: A TV will still need enough wall or stand space, but you won’t have to factor in throw distances or special mounts for projection equipment.
4. Better for Daytime Viewing: If your household loves to watch sports or daytime TV without dimming the lights, a large TV can deliver a reliably vivid image at any hour.

2.3 Downsides to Consider

• Screen Size Limitations: Although big TVs now exceed 85 inches, UST projectors can jump to 100+ inches much more affordably and easily.
• Potential Glare Issues: In bright rooms with windows or reflective surfaces, large screens can suffer from glare if not properly positioned or if anti-reflective coatings are insufficient.
• Higher Cost for Monster Sizes: As you go beyond 98 inches, the price of a high-quality TV can escalate quickly—sometimes surpassing that of a UST projector and screen combo. Any TV size larger than 98" would have to be a modular micro-led display technology which may cost atleast 4-8 times the cost of a UST projector and screen.
• Eye Fatigue: Although modern TV's are getting brighter than ever before, the bright LED's from the TV shining light directly to your eyes can cause severe eye fatigue during extended hours of watching content. If you are someone who works looking at a computer screen all day, coming back home for more on-screen time may not be well suited for health.

3. Installation Flexibility and Room Layout

3.1 UST Projectors and Screen Options

• Cabinet/Stand Placement: The most common placement for USTs is on a low cabinet or shelf just below the projection surface.
• Dedicated Screen: Many UST owners pair their projector with an Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screen, which significantly enhances contrast and brightness in non-darkened rooms.
• Multi-Purpose Rooms: For a living room that doubles as a family entertainment space, the UST’s minimal throw distance means there’s more open floor area, and you can retract or hide the screen when not in use.

3.2 Large TVs and Mounting

• Wall Mounting: A sleek wall mount can turn a big TV into an attractive centrepiece, but you’ll need to ensure the wall can support the weight.
• Media Stand: Some prefer a simpler stand-based setup for easy access to ports and cables.
• Room Design: Large TVs can dominate the wall, so consider how it impacts the aesthetics if the space isn’t exclusively for watching movies.

4. Overall Viewing Experience

4.1 Immersion Factor

• UST Projectors: A massive projection can easily recreate a cinema-like scale, especially if you aim for screen sizes of 100 inches or more.
• Big TVs: Even at 85 inches or beyond, you might find the screen a step down in sheer scale compared to a projector setup—though it typically delivers more consistent brightness and contrast.

4.2 Day vs. Night Viewing

• Daytime: Large TVs win for brightly lit rooms or casual daytime viewing without blackout curtains.
• Night/Dimmed Lighting: UST setups shine in low-light environments, offering that theatrical atmosphere many cinema enthusiasts crave.

5. Making Your Decision

Choosing between a UST projector and a large TV depends on your priorities:

• Love the Biggest Screen Possible? Go with a projector-based system.
• Need Bright, Everyday Viewing? A high-end TV may suit your lifestyle better.
• Limited Space? A UST projector’s short throw distance might be the ultimate space-saver.
• Aesthetics Important? Large TVs can be streamlined with wall mounts, while UST projectors can hide under a cabinet—each approach can be integrated tastefully with good planning.

Conclusion

The choice between Ultra Short Throw projectors and large TVs is rooted in how you envision your home entertainment. If you’re after that big-screen, cinema-like immersion—especially in a dimly lit room—a UST projector can be transformative. But if your home’s entertainment hub is a sunny lounge, or if convenience and brightness are top priorities, a large TV might suit you perfectly.

Either way, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your viewing experience thanks to advancements in projection and display technologies. Still on the fence? That’s where professional guidance can make all the difference.

How BMC Audio Visual Can Help

For a tailored solution that aligns with your space, budget, and aesthetic preferences, BMC Audio Visual offers custom services to design and integrate the perfect home cinema setup. Whether you decide on a UST projector and screen combination or a top-of-the-line large TV, our team ensures a seamless experience—from product selection and calibration to elegant, functional installation. Contact BMC Audio Visual today and let us help you bring your dream cinema vision to life or shop online for a UST Projector on our website.