Cover Image for Do you want an ultra-short throw portable projector? Optoma has the solution with the Photon Go.
Fri Feb 21 2025

Do you want an ultra-short throw portable projector? Optoma has the solution with the Photon Go.

The Optoma Photon Go appears to be the smallest and most portable ultra-short throw projector we've found.

Optoma has introduced its new portable ultra-short throw projector, known as the Optoma Photon Go, marking the beginning of its Photon series. This projector features a triple-laser design, similar to the AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro. Unlike projectors that utilize a blue laser or LED, the Photon Go uses separate red, green, and blue lasers, eliminating the need for a color wheel or yellow phosphors. As a result, this model is expected to offer a wide color spectrum and more accurate reproduction right from the first use.

One of the standout features of the Photon Go is its built-in battery, allowing it to be used without needing to be close to a power outlet, although the battery life has not yet been specified. It also includes 10-watt stereo speakers with Bluetooth, minimizing the need for additional sound systems, although their use is recommended for a better experience. The projector will run on the Google TV operating system, providing access to streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube. Additionally, it features automatic keystone adjustment and focus, making installation easier.

Although the exact dimensions of the device are still unknown, it appears more compact and portable compared to other available ultra-short throw projectors. The Photon Go will debut at the Bristol exhibition, where more details are expected to be revealed. One aspect to note is that this projector has a resolution of 1080p, as opposed to other 4K models, although it has not been clarified whether it can receive 4K signals and downscale them to a lower resolution. The price is set at £899 or €999, with a planned release in April 2025; the price and release date for the United States have not yet been defined.

In another realm, LG has launched its UHD CineBeam laser projector HU915QE, which stands out with its brightness of 3,700 lumens and the ability to be placed just 2.2 inches from a wall, creating a 90-inch image. If positioned 7.2 inches away, the image size increases to 120 inches. Although it is expected to be available for order by the end of June 2022, its price has not yet been revealed. This model is part of the growing trend of ultra-short throw projectors, ideal for those who want large images without the inconvenience of having a projector in the middle of the room.