Ultra-short throw projectors are capable of throwing a very large image onto a screen from a very short distance.
This has a few benefits. Firstly, it is great for rooms with limited space, because very little distance is needed between the projector and screen.
Secondly, the short distance means that ambient light does not get in the way of the image, so there is no need to sit in darkness to see the projection.
The Epson EB-680 is one of our most popular ultra-short-throw projectors because it covers all the essentials with a quality image. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at it.
Epson EB-680 Specs
- Brightness: 3,500 lumens
- Native resolution: 1,024 x 768
- Aspect ratio: 4:3
- Technology: 3LCD
- Lamp life: 5,000hrs (approx.)
- Remote control: Yes
- Lens: Optical
- Connectivity: USB 2.0 Type A, USB 2.0 Type B, RS-232C, Wired Network, Wireless LAN IEEE 802.11b/g/n (optional), VGA in (2x), VGA out, HDMI in (3x), Composite in, RGB in (2x), RGB out, MHL, Stereo mini jack audio out, Stereo mini jack audio in (3x), Microphone input.
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Epson EB-680 Review
The Epson EB-680 Ultra Short Throw Lamp Projector is an excellent mid-range projector for educational institutions and businesses.
It can be mounted to a ceiling or wall or it can be installed freestanding to suit your setup. It’s bright and displays a high-quality image.
The resolution is 1,024 x 768 which translates to an aspect ratio of 4:3. The most desirable aspect of this projector, however, is the throw distance, with the EB-680 needing only 40cm (0.4m) to display a full image on a 56” screen. If you have a 90” projector screen, the throw distance is an extremely short 60cm (0.6m).
To help you make the most of content, there ARE 7 colour modes (Blackboard, Dynamic, Presentation, Sports, sRGB, Theatre, Whiteboard). These are easily toggled using the remote control, with further picture settings available.
Connectivity-wise, you get USB 2.0 Type A and B and wireless and wired internet, as well as x3 HDMI ports and RGB in and out.
There’s plenty of security too, including a Kensington Lock, control panel lock, padlock, security cable hole and wireless lock.
From turning it on, the Epson EB-680 takes 3 seconds to boot up and it takes 4 seconds to power down. Like all projectors it gets warm, but there’s an in-built fan and this whirs away quietly, bringing no distraction to presentations.
Overall
It doesn’t have the highest native resolution, but the EB-680’s throw distance of 40cm on a 56” screen or 60cm on a 90” screen is great. Overall, the Epson EB-680 makes a fine addition to classrooms and boardrooms. Buy yours here.
