Ultra-short throw (UST) projectors are gaining popularity as an alternative to large TVs thanks to their ability to project a huge picture from just inches away. But to unlock an UST projector‘s full potential, you need a screen specially designed for its steep projection angle.
In this guide, I‘ll explain what makes an ultra-short throw screen different and review the 5 best models for every situation – whether you prize image quality over everything or need to fit a screen in a tight space.
You‘ll learn key factors in choosing a UST screen, see how leading options compare, and get actionable advice tailored to your needs. Let‘s dive in!
What Is an Ultra-Short Throw Projector Screen?
Ultra-short throw projectors utilize wide-angle lenses to throw an image upwards from very close range. They can create massive 100-150” pictures while sitting just 1-2 feet from the wall or screen.
But with this extreme projection angle, an ordinary white screen won’t cut it.
UST screens use special optical coatings to reflect light precisely back towards the viewer. This prevents washout from ambient light. Many also absorb light from above to optimize picture quality in daytime or lit rooms.
These ambient light rejecting (ALR) screens feature precisely angled microscopic ridges. Light from the steep-angle projector reflects forwards while overhead light scatters away.
This technology unlocks UST projectors’ potential for ultra-vivid images rivaling flat panel displays. But ALR performance does vary screen-to-screen.
Now let’s examine the 5 best UST screens available and what makes each one ideal.
The 5 Best Ultra Short Throw Screens
Best Overall: Elite Screens Aeon CLR
Key Features
- 90% ceiling light rejection
- 0.8 gain evenly distributes UST light
- 170° wide viewing angle
- Tab tensioned surface stays flat
- Available up to 123” diagonal
For most homes, the Elite Screens Aeon CLR strikes the ideal balance of performance, simplicity and affordability.
This ALR screen uses a multi-layer optical film structure to absorb up to 90% of light from above while evenly bouncing projector light off towards viewers. The 0.8 gain rating prevents hotspotting.
Five layer Cinematic Color Accuracy technology and 4K/8K support ensure colors look natural from a wide 170° viewing angle.
The Aeon CLR uses an aluminum frame with tab-tensioning to keep the screen surface taut and wrinkle-free. Edge-free construction stretches images edge-to-edge.
Reviewers praise this screen’s easy assembly, leveling brackets for centered mounting and notable improvements to contrast and black levels in ambient light. Just note that fully realizing an UST projector‘s picture quality requires controlling remaining light sources.
If you want excellent results for mixed use without breaking the bank, the Elite Screens Aeon CLR series stands out as the best overall ambient light rejecting screen for your ultra short throw projector.
Best Budget: WEMAX ALR Screen
Key Features
- 0.6 gain with 160° viewing angle
- Wall-mountable fixed frame
- 4K/8K support with 3D capabilities
- Low cost for size – 16:9 120” model available
The WEMAX ALR UST Screen gives you superb picture quality in bright rooms at very wallet-friendly pricing.
This 0.6 gain grey screen uses ambient light rejecting optical layers with a wide 160° viewing angle. Black backing prevents light penetration for 2.5X higher contrast in daylight than white screens.
Durable matte PET material resists wrinkles and damage over long-term use. The fixed frame installs in minutes with included hardware.
With support for 4K and even 8K sources, this screen keeps up with the latest projectors. It‘s also 3D ready for immersive gaming and movies.
If you want great daylight and overhead lighting resistance on a tight budget, the WEMAX ALR screen line offers incredible value. Their 100”, 120” and 150” 16:9 models work beautifully with short throw projectors.
Best Retractable: Elite Screens Cinegrey 5D
Key Specs
- Electric roller drop-down screen
- 1.5 gain maintains brightness
- Ceiling+ambient light rejection
- Up to 180” 16:9 diagonal
- Tab-tensioned surface, even rollout
The Elite Screens Cinegrey 5D retractable UST ALR screen beautifully solves any space constraint issues.
As an electric ceiling-recessed screen, the Cinegrey 5D disappears out of sight when not in use. One-touch operation unrolls a 165” diagonal surface in seconds using quiet internal motors.
Proprietary 5-layer optical film structure maintains 1.5 gain while removing 75% of incoming ambient light for sharp contrast. This makes the Cinegrey 5D ideal for mixed-use spaces seeing daytime and night viewing.
The screen‘s durable matte texture diffuses hotspotting while maintaining wide viewing angles. Tab-tensioning keeps the surface perfectly flat as it drops down then retracts.
With support for 4K, 8K and 3D content up to 180 inches, this screen pairs perfectly with the latest UST laser projectors. While pricey, its performance, seamless integration and motorized operation make it our top retractable ambient light rejecting screen pick.
How To Choose The Best UST Screen
With the right screen, an ultra-short throw projector can deliver jaw-dropping 100-150” images perfect for dedicated home theaters and media rooms. Follow these tips when selecting a screen to match your projector, room and needs:
Size
Consider your seating layout, room dimensions and projector‘s image size abilities when selecting a screen. Measure wall space to ensure your desired size will fit. Keep screen margins in mind too.
Ambient Light Rejection
ALR screens significantly boost contrast and brightness for UST projectors while allowing some room lighting. Check the screen‘s overhead and ambient light rejection specs. Higher is better.
Gain
A "gain" between 0.6 to 1.0 is ideal, preventing hotspots while maintaining brightness. Lower gains around 0.5 work for darker/controlled rooms.
Viewing Angle
Wider viewing angles allow more seats to enjoy an optimal picture. 170°+ coverage is great for UST screens.
Surface Texture
Matte grey surfaces like the Elite Cinegrey diffuse light evenly over a wide angle. Glossier white can boost brightness for dark theaters at the cost of viewing angle.
Fixed vs Retractable
Fixed frame screens offer simpler installation while drops downs stow away to save space when not viewing. Manual or electric retraction both work.
Leveling & Mounting Options
Tilting/hanging brackets that allow precise leveling adjustment help achieve a crease/wrinkle-free surface essential for UST projection.
Price
UST screens are available from around $250 up to $2,000+ for extra large electric models. In general, more premium screens offer better housing, materials and optical performance.
The Verdict
While UST projectors enable huge cinematic images from just inches away, you need an equally capable screen to unlock their full potential in real-world spaces.
Purpose-built ambient light rejecting screens maintain picture quality in daytime/lit environments while preventing washout. This guide explored the 5 best available – from well-rounded fixed frames to retractables.
Optimized projection screens let ultra-short throw projectors showcase their strengths. We hope this breakdown gave you the information needed to choose the right model!
Now enjoy projector visuals that pop in any lighting alongside surprising placement flexibility. Please share your questions below!
